Every South African knows of the legend that is Leon Schuster. He is our original prankster, made famous by his uniquely South African candid camera work. Although he may have departed from his original film tactics in recent productions such as Mr. Bones and Mama Jack, Schuks Tshabalala’s Survival Guide to South Africa sees Schuster return to his comedic roots.

Schuks Tshabalala’s Survival Guide to South Africa is pure Schuster. If you have enjoyed any of his previous candid camera focused movies, you will no doubt enjoy his latest foray into slapstick South African comedy.

The film attempts to weave each candid camera scenario into a larger background story, in this case a Mr Schuks Tshabalala offers a tour of South Africa to a group of poorly acted ‘foreigners’. However, all these slapstick interludes serve to do is annoyingly retract from the real comedic elements. Even though some of the lyrics to a few of the Highschool Musical inspired interludes were brilliantly tongue-in-cheek, they felt somewhat disconnected from the story as a whole. I would equate it to like watching a reality show on MTV which is split by music videos.

Although there were quite a few gems in terms of the candid camera work, the Helen Zille and Seapoint squatter camp scenario’s being among them, Schuster has not attempted to push the proverbial envelope in any way. Instead, each candid camera scenario is simply a rehash of something we have seen from him before: Golf Club scene? Check. Fooling rookie cops? Check. Scaring taxi drivers and occupants? Check, and so on and so forth. This is by no means a bad thing, after all, as the adage goes, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Even so, it feels like a missed opportunity for Schuster to push the boundaries in the same way he did in the 80s with You Must Be Joking.

Nevertheless, if you enjoy South African slapstick humour then Schuks Tshabalala’s Survival Guide to South Africa is not to be missed.

Verdict: 6/10.

The film opens nation wide on Friday the 28th of May 2010.

As is always the case with any Sterkinekor event, there were many delicious snacks and ample refreshments for all red carpet guests as well as numerous paparazzi. I have got to give it to Sterkinekor , they always make you feel like a star when visiting their ‘happy place’ during premiere events.

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

America’s sweetheart, Sandra Bullock, won the Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy in "The Blind Side" at the 82nd Annual Academy Awards.

“The Blind Side" depicts the story of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American youngster from a broken home, taken in by the Touhys, a well-to-do white family who help him fulfill his potential. At the same time, Oher’s presence in the Touhys’ lives leads them to some insightful self-discoveries of their own. Living in his new environment, the teen faces a completely different set of challenges to overcome. As a football player and student, Oher works hard and, with the help of his coaches and adopted family, becomes an All-American offensive left tackle.    (IMDB, 2010)

The question is… did she deserve it?

The movie is exactly as it appears to be. A rags to riches tale about how an affluent family takes in a less fortunate individual and helps to raise said individual to new heights, both academically and professionally. Where this movie differs to the conventional mold, is in terms of the acting and uninhibited, yet accurate, portrayal of often taboo themes and simply because it is based on a true story.

One of the aspects I found most refreshing about the movie, was how real and relatable it was. Personally, I know what it is like to take someone into your home, a veritable stranger, and to give them all they need to progress and further themselves in life. My family and I have done this, on more than one occasion. Additionally, I also know what it is like to, for example, venture through an ‘unsafe’ area, associated with a high crime rate, and to fear for my life… all for the greater good!

Other than relating to the main scenarios, I could also relate to how, as an affluent Westerner, we take things for granted. When I noticed the Touhy family all sit around the television for supper, I actually laughed with a familiar irony. At that moment, I was actually sitting in my lounge and having supper. When issues of race were broached, they were done so with a level of candor and honesty not found in most other films. In truth, these are the kinds of thoughts and concerns that people still have, even in the ‘new’ South Africa. So to watch a movie in which a family put the individual first, over colour, was inspiring and touching. A lot can be learnt from a movie such as this.

Where the movie shines most though, is with Sandra Bullock’s character Leigh Anne Tuohy. I must be honest, Bullock did a sensational job as the brash, honest, philanthropic and loving Mrs. Tuohy. She is instantly likeable and exudes a tenacity that captures the viewer, so much so that you cannot help but be in awe of this woman’s love and good will. For example, when Bullock gives Michael Oher (Quinton Aaron) his room and he remarks that he has never had a bed before, Bullock’s reaction is gut wrenchingly perfect. As the viewer, you actually feel her heart break for this unfortunate kid. This is no easy feat, creating a legitimate connection between the viewer and character, and is indicative of why Bullock was awarded the Oscar for Best Actress. The movie is inundated with emotionally touching scenes like the one I just described, all of which alone are worth the price of admission.

Verdict: 7/10.

Releasing nationwide: Friday 19th March 2010.

Not only did Sandra Bullock win an Oscar for Best Actress but she also won a Razzie for Worst actress for her role in ‘All About Steve’. Bullock is the first actor to have won both an Academy Award and a Razzie in the same year. To make matters even better, Bullock actually attended the Razzie ceremony and accepted her award with a lot of tongue-in-cheek humour, to much delight and applause.

For those who have yet to see it, here is Sandra Bullock’s Oscar acceptance speech. Hands down one of the best speeches by an Oscar winner! Congratulations Sandra, you deserve it!

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

Well, on Wednesday night I was privileged enough to obtain an invitation, courtesy of Sterkinekor and Vision Mission, to celebrate AFDA’s Vision Mission commercial award winners as well as be privy to a ‘secret’ screening of a highly anticipated blockbuster film.

It was at this mystery laden awards event that I came to understand what the Vision Mission was all about and why, from now on, I will choose to donate that minimum R2.50 extra whenever I buy a Sterkinekor movie ticket.

The Vision Mission is a Sterkinekor initiative which focuses on achieving various objectives related to eyesight and eye care. What this basically means is that Sterkinekor is dedicated to helping the 700 000 underprivileged South African youth who are annually diagnosed with and suffer from degenerating eyesight. Anyone who has glasses, or who knows of someone with glasses, can understand how expensive proper eye care can be.

In addition to this worthy cause, Sterkinekor entertainment is also a firm supporter and contributor towards the South African film industry. As a result, a collaboration was forged between Sterkinekor and AFDA, to not only increase awareness of the Vision Mission campaign but also to help shape the future of South African cinema.

AFDA, for those like myself who did not know, stands for African Film and Dramatic Arts. It is one of the leading outcomes based film schools in the world and is listed by the South African Council on Higher Education as one of the top six private universities in South Africa.

In association with Sterkinekor, fourth year and honours AFDA students were briefed, as part of their practical film studies, to produce commercials for the Vision Mission campaign. Out of all of the entries, only four of the AFDA student produced commercials were selected as finalists. Each of the four commercials were screened at the event, with the commercial entitled ‘Flying Glasses’ being chosen as the winner. In all honesty, it was by far the best commercial of the event and was the one I had chosen to win. Considering how each group of students were given the same limited resources, I was surprised at what the winning group had created, when compared to the competition. Congratulations to the winners!

Michael Bender, the Sterkinekor Group Marketing Executive, has this to say:

“We are very excited about this collaboration between Ster-Kinekor Theatres, our CSI project Vision Mission and AFDA; we basically offered AFDA students a practical internship of sorts – to create a real commercial for a real client. Apart from accepting the winning commercial as our new PSA for Vision Mission and giving it a screening platform via our cinemas nationwide, we are also considering screening the three runners-up at a later stage. The plan is to extend this partnership with AFDA even further, with Ster-Kinekor offering support in developing, unearthing & showcasing new filmmaking talent on our big screens”

So remember, for only R2.50 extra when you buy your next movie ticket, you could help prevent a child from going blind or you could give another child the gift of clear sight. A small price to pay to help ensure another persons long term happiness.

After the mini prize giving ceremony, it was time to watch the ‘secret’ screening.

By this time we had already guessed what film was going to be shown, courtesy of the decor and delicious snacks.

The film was none other than the highly anticipated Disney and Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland (3D)!

As eventful as the evening had been, this was by far the highlight that almost everyone was really looking forward to!

From the moment the first trailer hit the Internet, I have been looking forward to watching this film.  Primarily because Tim Burton was at the helm, a perfect fit for Lewis Caroll’s psychedelic and masterful set pieces. Sadly, even with all of the excitement, I was pleasantly disappointed.

It goes without saying that the art and visual style of the movie are incredible. It is like a mash between the colour palette of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the real world exaggerated styling’s of Sleepy Hollow. From the sets, to the make-up, to the the wardrobe, the movie is a visual delight.

With that said, I am not sure where they were going with the overall look and feel of the film. I say this because of the inconsistent use of computer generated imagery (CGI) and 3D. For example, the scenery is spectacularly rendered and has been given an amazingly dreamlike quality. Yet, all non-human acted characters and other story elements are all blatantly CGI driven, not unlike watching a movie such as Shrek or Ice Age.

As a result, the human acted characters such as Alice Kingsley (Mia Wasikowska), The Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp), The Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter) and The White Queen (Anne Hathaway), all stick out like sore thumbs against the beautifully rendered backdrops and strangely rendered characters. In my opinion, the movie would have been better if it had been completely done in CGI. I mean, even the horses which the characters ride on are CGI driven, and badly at that. Although I thoroughly enjoyed The Red Queen’s large head, a fantastic stylistic choice which was done extremely well, I am still perplexed by the look of Stayne, the Knave of Hearts (played by Crispin Glover – the freaky guy from Charlie’s Angels who would steal their hair). I can understand that Burton may have wanted a Nightmare Before Christmas look to Stayne, but given that Glover is already a thin and lanky man; it just looked odd, very out of place and was poorly finished off. Stayne just looked so unnatural, not in terms of the length of the characters limbs, but the fact that his head never really looked ‘attached’ to his CGI body.

In terms of the 3D element, Alice in Wonderland has one of the best implementations of 3D in a film. Which is marred only by the occurrence of cheap parlour tricks made famous by movies such as Journey to the Centre of the Earth, where 3D is implemented for the sake of having something fly out at the audience. Gimmicky and annoying, but bearable.

Although the dialogue is funny and suited to ‘Wonderland’, there are times when you just cannot make out what some of the characters are saying. A fact that is not made any better by the script writers’ decision to embrace Lewis Caroll’s affliction for creating weird, fanciful and strange gibberish like words. Never the less, the diction is forgivable. However, my biggest complaint with the movie has to do with the story. Look, the best way for me to describe the way I felt after watching the film, is that it was like watching a bad book to movie conversion. I would attribute the experience to that of watching a movie such as Eragon – scenes come and go with no real interconnection, relevance or explanation of what is going on. In Alice in Wonderland you constantly get the impression that there is more to the story than meets the eye, yet you are never given any additional details. Thus, you end up leaving the film with a most unsatisfied feeling. At least that was my experience.

As much as I admire Tim Burton and his work, I am disappointed with his rendition of Alice in Wonderland. Despite the fanciful visuals, the film only gives you a taste of all that is Wonderland, by simply giving the viewer a rushed glance of what could have been. No more and no less.

Verdict: 6/10.

On Sunday I am attending the pre-Oscar screening of NINE. So tune in again soon for my impressions of that film and the star studded event!

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

Over the last several months, Sterkinekor Entertainment in association with MiMoney, have been teasing Twihard’s (fans of the Twilight saga movies and books) with the possibility of attending “the most exclusive party in 100 years”. Entering was easy. Simply watch New Moon and text your ticket number to a specified number. Each entry increased your chances of obtaining an invitation to the event.

Furthermore, upon entering the competition, fans would receive a text message notification with a specific code. This code could then be redeemed at the viral marketing inspired ‘Bite My Apple’ website; in order to unlock exclusive content from the movie in the form of wallpapers and screensavers.

After being psyched about the event for months, I was obviously excited to be able to attend. The anticipation factor was intoxicatingly high!

The party was held at the Taboo night club in Sandton. Impressively, the entire venue had been hired out for this “Twilight Saga: New Moon Exclusive VIP party”. The venue was an excellent choice. Having never been to Taboo before, I was immediately taken aback by the highly stylised decor, which I would describe as having a ‘gothic-chic’ feel to it. Unique and edgy, just the way I like it!

Freebies included posters from the movie, a free candy apple and, if you were a VIP guest (like yours truly), you would have been treated to your very own ‘exclusive’ area, detailed to look like the Volturi castle; including copious amounts of delicious snacks and a free bar tab until 10pm. In my opinion, VIP guests were very well looked after.

In addition to the VIP area, Taboo’s entrance hall was turned into a mock studio. Here all guests were given the option of obtaining a Team Edward or Team Jacob tattoo as well as the possibility of having professional photographs taken with a host of characters from the Twilight universe, courtesy of… wait for it… several ‘look-a-likes’. Yes… ‘look-a-likes’.

As much as I enjoyed the party and the many novel and nifty parlour tricks, I could not help but feel short changed by the experience. Look, I do not mean to appear ungrateful, because I truly do feel privileged to have been there; but as a fan, I was partially disappointed.

Truth be told, I bought into the hype. I was so excited to have cracked an invitation. The promise  of attending “the most exclusive party in 100 years”, a “once-in-a-lifetime” event so fanglorious that even the Volturi themselves would be in attendance. I simply could not wait! So why the mild disappointment? Honestly, I naively expected the cast of the movie to be there. As it so happens, I was not the only one who was under the exact same delusion.

Believe it or not, people flew in from all over the country to attend the event, all under the assumption that they would be able to meet the infamous Twilight Saga trio: the socially inept Robert Pattinson, the gorgeous Kristen Stewart and the beef caked Taylor Lautner. Even though I knew better than to expect the stars from the film to actually be at the party, I could not shake the possibility, no matter how minute, that they would actually be there to make an appearance. For this, I scornfully applaud the Sterkinekor marketing and hype machine, for they are truly talented, no matter how much propaganda was spewed in the process. However, the solemn fact remains: not once were we promised the possibility of the actual stars attending the party. This was pure conjecture created by a too eager and largely deluded fan base. After all, “when you ‘assume’, you’ll make an ass out of you and me”! In short, Sterkinekor did the best they could, given the logistical and costly nightmare of bringing A-list celebrities to our backwater country. Thus, Sterkinekor settled for second best, through the use of gifted ‘look-a-likes’.

Without a doubt, the highlight of the party was being able to mingle and take photographs with the various ‘look-a-likes’ from the Twilight Saga. On show were Edward, Bella, Jacob, Alice, Victoria and Laurent. Each ‘look-a-like’ appeared to embrace the character they were chosen to portray with absolute aplomb. ‘Bella’ frequently bounced back and forth between the lovelorn vampire and the heated shape shifter, whilst their enemies made light meals of discerning guests. In addition to the various photo opportunities, a director and film crew were on hand, shooting pivotal scenes from the movies, all the while guests partied the night away as mock ‘extras’. Too awesome!

In addition to the filmed sequences, we were notified that guests, with enough votes, could win a limited edition poster of his/her self and a twilight ‘look-a-like’, made in the vain of the New Moon film posters. How cool is that?! Apparently any professional photograph taken with the ‘Twilight Crew’, was eligible.

As it so happens two photographs, starring myself, made it into the running, out of hundreds of photographs that were taken. The photos are now available on the ‘Bite My Apple’ Facebook fan page and voting is now open. Needless to say, being the Twilight fan that I am, I would love one of my photos to be made into a poster. Consequently, I am turning to my readers for some added support.

The voting process is simple and works like this: 1 vote = 1 like. So all you have to do is ‘like’ the two photographs on Facebook in which I appear. You may vote for any other photo that is available too; some of them are actually pretty funky. If you would like to vote and help me obtain an exclusive poster, please do the following:

1. Become a fan of ‘Bite My Apple’ here: [http://bit.ly/BMAza] (Unfortunately you need to be a fan in order to ‘like’ any of their photographs)
2. Once you are a ‘fan’, please click on these links [http://bit.ly/bR55NB] and [http://bit.ly/9xyZBK]; and simply ‘like’ each photograph.
3. That’s it! You are all done! Thank you!

Although diehard fans may have expected a bit more, there is no denying that the party itself was an extravagant affair and a night many of us will never forget. Thank you to Sterkinekor and MiMoney for an experience like no other. An experience I am whole heartedly looking forward to repeating for Eclipse and Breaking Dawn, should further Twilight Saga inspired events be pursued.

Please do have a look at some of the photographs that I took while at the event:

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Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

This entry is focussed on stop-motion Lego filmography. A hobby which no doubt exists for people who really have nothing better to do with their time. Regardless, it really is very cool, especially when done properly.

Alex Kobbs is one of these stop-motion Lego fanatics. He has spent the last six years creating a Halo themed 25-minute short, based on Halo’s Zanzibar map, completely out of Lego. How awesomely insane is that?!

The short film is called The Battle of the Brick and features ‘Red’ and ‘Blue’ battling it out *Halo fan high five*. The completed video is expected to hit the Web in early 2010, but for now you can have a look at the tantalising trailer:

If  Lego stop-motion filmography is your thing, you can follow the progress of Kobbs’ work at the Kooberz Studio Blog.

That’s not all folks. I have one more fantastic piece of Lego filmography to share with you.

Every gamer and geek who has watched The Matrix will agree that it is one of the best science fiction and action movies of all time. However, you have not seen anything until you see The Matrix lovingly created in Lego stop-motion!

In honour of the 10th anniversary of The Matrix, a group of fans recreated nearly 900 frames of the film. The entire sequence is animated without any additional effects. What this means, is that the short was filmed ‘in camera’ without the aid of wire removal, Photoshop or any additional special effects; other than what can be created with the Lego blocks themselves. Very impressive stuff! The entire project is said to have taken around 440 hours to complete. For more information and additional videos detailing the projects immensity, check out www.LegoMatrix.com.

How cool would a Lego Matrix game be?! *Waits patiently for Travellers Tales to scoop the rights to create the game*

Until the next ‘blocky’ post “Milieunairs”!

I found out that not only were the Aussies releasing the movie a full week before South Africa (18th November vs. 27th November), with midnight premiere and all, but I would also have the opportunity to share the experience with my cousin Terrence (who is currently studying in Melbourne via Monash University’s Study Abroad Program). In essence, everything worked out as planned.

As you may have guessed, I am a self confessed fan of Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight Saga. I firmly believe that this ‘saga’ offers a long overdue reintroduction to the classic kind of love story made popular by Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliette. Granted it does have a supernatural element to it, but that is what gives the story such a fantastic 21st century spin. Not to mention the fact that the story has action, Vampires and Werewolves in it, thus allowing for guys, like myself, to pick up the books without too much ridicule.

I could attempt to offer an unbiased review of the film, but considering how much I enjoyed the books and the first movie, an unbiased opinion is not impossible, but it is highly unlikely. Consequently, I will merely offer a few thoughts on the film as a whole and focus this post more on my overall experience of the event.

I watched the film at the Hoyts cinema complex in Chadstone – which is apparently the biggest shopping centre in the southern hemisphere. To say that the complex was packed, is a gross understatement. There were so many people that one could be forgiven for thinking that the event took place on a blockbuster making Friday or Saturday night. Not on a Wednesday evening after 23:00 (11 pm).

Our $40 (R280) ticket included access to the movie, a free’ Girlfriend’ Magazine *yawn*, a large bucket of popcorn, a large soft drink of your choice and a plastic foil laced collectors edition drinking flask – which is actually pretty cool. If you were lucky enough to obtain an $80 (R560!) ‘La Premiere’ ticket (which, as crazy as the price was, I tried getting but they were sold out), not only were you given access to the ‘La Premiere’ seating and ‘in-cinema’ food menu, along with everything else, but you would have also scored yourself a New Moon T-shirt valued at $20 (R140).

On a quick side note, it is worth mentioning that the Aussie girls are very ‘friendly’ and know what they want. Which my cousin can more than corroborate, often jesting how the Aussie girls often “rape” guys if they are not careful. Suffice to say, while I was waiting in the queue to enter the cinema, I managed to strike up several ‘enlightening’ conversations with the girls around me. Five minutes more and I am pretty sure that we would have both been ravaged by the Vampire hungry Bella’s! Ha ha! Seriously though, Melbournians are very welcoming and open people. You could talk to anyone and feel as if you have known them for years. A great quality!

The movie is actually quite good. It is not a perfect rendition of the story, but book to movie translations seldom are. With that said, despite a few ‘what the heck’ moments, the movie is reasonably close to the original story outlined in the novel. Thus fans of the books will know what to expect from the film. Ultimately though, if you enjoyed the first movie, you will undoubtedly enjoy the second. However, it is worth noting, for those not familiar with the story,  that the second film is more of a dramatic love story than the first. With more of an emphasis on the main characters and the love triangle which begins to emerge between them. Contrary to what the trailer would have you believe.

The Twilight Saga: New Moon receives a fanglorious 8/10.

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I think that around 80 percent of the audience were female. How do I know? Easy. Courtesy of the deafening screams and ooh’s and ah’s which prevailed the first time Edward and Jacob made their on screen appearances *rolls eyes*. Not to mention the scenes in which they each take off their shirts for the first time (thought I was going to go deaf from the screaming). I have got to give it to Taylor Lautner though, that kid has an amazing body for someone so young *self-consciously sucks in boep a little more*. Usually I find audience participation within a cinema to be off putting. However, this time around it merely contributed to the overall experience and ‘buzz’ of the event. All in all a fantastic time was had.

*Spoiler: Do not continue reading if you have not read or watched past New Moon*
Before I end this post, I just want to share something that I finally realised after watching New Moon for the second time. I finally ‘clicked’, that Bella wanting to become a Vampire is essentially a metaphor for losing her virginity. However, the metaphor does not end there. It is extended through to when Edward insists that he will only ‘turn’ Bella once they are married. Thus enforcing the notion of ‘no sex before/until marriage’. An arguably good, yet partially unrealistic, message to be sending out to the youth of today:

“Save yourself, for everlasting love”!

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

Agan Harahap, a photographer and illustrator from Jakarta, Indonesia, has taken the concept of Superheroes and brought them into a pseudo-reality. By incorporating infamous characters into iconic World War II photographs, Harahap  has managed to blur the lines between fiction and truth. In so doing, he has managed to merge the fantastically impossible with our past physical existence, in order to create  a Superhero adorned alternate reality.

Harahap’s latest collection, aptly titled ‘Super Hero’, consists of memorable political and wartime scenes from the mid-20th century, but with one difference: the inclusion of notable Superheroes (or Villains?). This extraordinary combination is a true juxtaposition in effect.

With respect to the current global economic crisis, Harahap’s work could not come at a more fortuitous time. Coincidentally, the advent of the Superhero, according to Douglas Hyde (2009), was largely spurred on by the Great Depression and the start of World War II. As a result, comic books and superheroes were said to offer an ‘escapist form of entertainment’, where people could “go into a fantasy world where all the ills of the world were righted by these larger-than-life heroes” (Erin Clancy, 2009).

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Subsequently, audiences at large are once again returning to the warm embrace of costumed Superheroes, with movies based on comic books generally becoming box office leaders. This trend, the resurgence of the popularity of Superheroes, may be a reflection of the current global economic crises. Clancy would agree citing “the comic book superhero came out of a context in which the political, social and economic realties were a little tough and we can certainly relate to those realities now in our own day” (2009).

Superheroes are back people and they are stronger than ever!

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

Yes, that is right folks. Everybody’s favourite mouse will soon become the new granddaddy of some of the biggest and most well known Superheroes of all time (check out the illustration to the right, courtesy of Pseudonym via Kotaku)!

The deal will reportedly cost Disney $4 billion (R32 billion) and will be a cash and stock transaction that values each share of Marvel at $50. Disney said it will pay $30 in cash plus about three-quarters (0.745) of a Disney share for each share of Marvel. Seems like a bargain to me, considering that Disney paid $7 billion for Pixar Animation Studios.

However, I do think that the biggest concern at the moment, is whether or not the ‘PG’ loving Disney will adversely effect any of Marvel’s unique brands. Well, according to Joey Pangilinan, the acquisition has been likened to when Disney acquired Pixar, that “although they will own Marvel, the publisher is still very much its own entity” (Examiner.com, 2009)

That is certainly good news for fans of both camps. Personally, I think that the addition of Marvel into Disney’s fold can only mean good things for the future of both companies.

Robert Iger, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, had the following to say regarding the acquisition:

“This transaction combines Marvel’s strong global brand and world-renowned library of characters including Iron Man, Spider-Man, X-Men, Captain America, Fantastic Four and Thor with Disney’s creative skills, unparalleled global portfolio of entertainment properties, and a business structure that maximizes the value of creative properties across multiple platforms and territories… Ike Perlmutter and his team have done an impressive job of nurturing these properties and have created significant value. We are pleased to bring this talent and these great assets to Disney”.

Also in the official press release is Marvels Chief Executive Officer Ike Perlmutter’s take on the ‘merger’:

“Disney is the perfect home for Marvel’s fantastic library of characters given its proven ability to expand content creation and licensing businesses. This is an unparalleled opportunity for Marvel to build upon its vibrant brand and character properties by accessing Disney’s tremendous global organization and infrastructure around the world”.

Can you imagine the kind of awesomely ‘legitimate’ mash-ups that could emerge from this union? Although I do not think that Disney would approve of say, for example, an adamantium infused Donald Duck with a supersonic quack, the coalition will undoubtedly open proverbial doors in terms of cross media relationships (for example, think of a Mickey Mouse figurine dressed in a Wolverine costume, given out at MacDonald’s, to promote a new Wolverine movie). Look out Warner Brothers (who own DC Comics), there is a new contender in town.

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

“Why did van der Merwe keep a pair of scissors in his racing car?
So he could cut the corners!”

For the last several months, ever since first viewing the initial teaser trailer, there has only been one movie to have successfully garnered my obsessive anxiety.

Not Slumdog Millionaire. Not Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. Not even the infallible Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. No, this exclusive obsession could not be for any ordinary movie or typical Hollywood cash cow.

Instead, my focus has continuously been drawn to a movie which is set, surprisingly, in the very city within which I live.

That movie has been none other than this years science fiction sleeper hit, District 9.

As a gamer and general technology enthusiast, I have been aware of Neill Blomkamp for quite some time. Without a doubt, Blomkamp’s most notable breakthrough was way back in 2005, for his short film entitled Alive in Joburg. However, what many people may not realise, is that Alive in Joburg actually served as the premise for District 9.

It was this short film which allowed Blomkamp to garner the attention of the ring baring Peter Jackson. At the time, Jackson’s company, WETA Digital, was recruited by Microsoft, in association with Bungie Game Studios, to help produce a series of live action short films to promote the latest game in the Halo franchise, Halo 3. As it so happened, Jackson liked Blomkamp’s work in Alive in Joburg so much that he chartered the South African to be the director for the Halo: Arms Race live action short film.

The Halo: Arms Race short film was so well received that Microsoft decided to green light a Halo movie with Blomkamp as the director, courtesy of Peter Jackson. Unfortunately, the Halo film project was shelved, due to “internal disagreements between Fox, Universal and Microsoft” (Boucher, 2009). However, because Halo was supposed to be Blomkamp’s foray into the world of feature filmmaking, Peter Jackson and those involved felt obligated to give Blomkamp financial support and a chance to direct another film.  Consequently, it was decided that the short film Alive in Joburg could be expanded into a feature. Ultimately, and according to Jackson, District 9 was born “the day Halo [the film] died” (Boucher, 2009). On a side note, the Halo film appears to be back on track with Stephen Spielberg at the helm.

So, in a cruel twist of fate, if it was not for the initial demise of a Halo film, we would most likely not have the film District 9.

On Wednesday 12th August 2009, I was notified by Sterkinekor entertainment of the South African premiere of District 9. To say that I was excited, is a complete and utterly profound understatement. I actually squealed in delight – not a good sign, what with Swine Flu (H1N1) rampant in our parts these days. Subsequently, rather than waiting for a press invitation, I immediately went out and secured my own tickets to the event – eight in total: for myself (Hans), Athena, Dillon, Cleo, Terence, Charissa, Gideon and Tiffany.

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There are nights and then there are ‘NIGHTS’ in Johannesburg! Yesterday evening, Wednesday 19th August 2009, was certainly one of those ‘NIGHTS’. It appeared that the whole of Johannesburg had pitched up for the premiere, well over 1000 people. Everyone was there, from the A, B and C list’s all the way to the ultra exclusive mainstream folk, such as yours truly.

Upon arriving at The Zone, in Rosebank, we were greeted with a preliminary red carpet; bursting at the seems with guests and stretching over a good 50 metres from the entrance all the way to a series of brightly lit and coloured ‘shacks’. Acting like born and bred celebrities, we completely bypassed the burgeoning queue of astonished guests and made our way toward the ‘nouveau chic’  inspired construction (I already had our tickets, the perks of forward thinking). It was there that we were hounded by the paparazzi, who gracefully led us into the shanty town structures for our mandatory photographic session.

After intimately exploring the District 9 drop zone, and after a thorough security check by Multi  National United (MNU) guards, we were tagged and relocated to The Red Carpet. The paparazzi had a field day. We narrowly managed to evade the press and made our way to the celebrity friendly Non-Human safe zone. It was there that we joined the celebrity ranks and socialised with fellow artisans such as Heinz Winckler, DJ Fresh (who is rather arrogant), Prime Circle, Miss Earth, Cindy Nel (PDA alert – get a room next time) and the cast of Egoli, among many other notables.

After a brief reprieve, made bearable by a multitude of delicious buffet styled snacks and copious amounts of champagne and wine, an MNU agent announced that the District 9 premiere was about to begin and that we should all take our places in the cinemas for launch. Most impressively, everything had been very well thought through and catered for; with  freshly produced condiments awaiting our consumption in each and every available seat.

Without giving too much away, the story focuses on an  extraterrestrial race, hatefully known as ”Prawns” by locals, who are forced to live in ‘squalid’ conditions, near the city of Johannesburg in South Africa, who suddenly find a kindred spirit in a government agent, who is unexpectedly exposed to their biotechnology whilst being tasked with the responsibility of relocating the aliens to a new “District 10″ camp. With family drama, corporate politics, inter-species sexual relations and some rather bad Nigerian ‘muti-loving’ gangsters, lest not forget steroid raging marines and a verbose use of gore, what more could science fiction critics want?

In essence the movie is a politically driven science fiction drama with a documentary styled focus, which offers no illusions to the fact that the movie is heavily based on South Africa’s ‘apartheid era’. After all, the title District 9 is a homage to District Six, a former inner-city residential area in Cape Town, South Africa, which was declared a “whites only” area by the apartheid government and whose population of 60,000 inhabitants were forcibly relocated to the Cape Flats – a zone 25 kilometres away from the Cape Town city centre. Consequently, the film is not shy about exploring hushed notions of stereotyping, xenophobia, inhumanity and blatant racism; a story not so far off from South African reality. Even with the underlying social commentary, which I think viewers may be unable to ignore, the movie itself is fascinating.

One of the best aspects of the film, in my opinion, has to do with the humour.   Written by Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell, the film is inundated with all sorts of local South African “in-jokes”, references and symbolism. For example, anyone who does not chuckle at the fact the the protagonist is a ‘Van Der Merwe’ or, better still, that the main expert on the case hails from ‘Kempton Park University’, cannot truly consider themselves true ‘Joburgers’, let alone South African.

I have written about casting veritable unknowns as leads within feature films before. As always, it is often quite a risky endeavour. However, in this case, every one of the characters was an ‘unknown’. Even so, the outcome proved to be worth the risk. Of particular mention is Sharlto Copley, who plays the anti-hero Wikus van der Merwe. I can honestly say, that Copley is excellent as the bumbling, mild mannered, Clark-Kent-esque MNU agent. He pulls off the role with absolute aplomb and I think they would have been hard pressed to find anyone else who could have done it as well as he did.

“I hope people will be inspired to see an Afrikaans character played with a redemptive quality. Afrikaaners have just held this guilt for apartheid – fair enough in some instances, but it’s also remarkable what they actually did in the end, giving over the power that they had”.

Sharlto Copley on his character ‘Wikus van der Merwe’ (Jackie May, 2009)

Visually, the movie is sclera drying and amazingly crafted! Considering the budget, a mere $30 million, they did an astounding job. One would not be labelled a fool for thinking the movie to have a budget of over $100 million! It just goes to show that one does not need the exorbitant amounts often thrown around Hollywood to create a sublime and visually intensive movie (Michael Bay, I am looking at you)! The alien creature visuals effects were created by Image Engine in Vancouver, Canada, while additional visual effects were created by The Embassy Visual Effects, Zoic Studios and Peter Jackson’s firm, Weta Digital. The film also makes use of a unique cinematographic style. Think of it as a mix between the Blair Witch Project, Carte Blanche and Men In Black. Surprisingly, Blomkamp handles the varied mix amazingly well.

According to Chris Lee (Los Angeles Times, 2009), over the course of District 9’s opening weekend in American theatres, the science fiction thriller earned $37 million at the box office, surpassing all commercial expectations and, moreover, hauling in $7 million more than the “scrappy quasi-documentary cost to produce”. As of Tuesday night, the film had pulled in an additional $10 million, earning a total $47.1 million! The film is, no doubt, on it’s way to being the unofficial surprise hit of the season! “Jislike”!

District 9 has the scope of Independence Day, the visual cinematographic style of Cloverfield, the suspenseful thrill of the original Aliens and a gripping well written story like that of Primer.

Verdict: 9/10.

After being completely mesmerised by the absolute brilliance of District 9, we were all greeted by an inability to prevent ourselves from clapping in admiration and pride at a job well done. District 9 is proof, more than ever, that one can truly be proud to be a South African.

Everybody knows that when there is a premiere there is bound to be some kind of SWAG (Stuff We All Get). Bear in mind, this is not Hollywood, so we were not expecting items like District 9 emblazoned mobile phones or anything *hint, nudge, hint*. Thankfully, Sterkinekor did not disappoint. Upon exiting the theatre, each guest was handed a flower made out of the cans that soft drinks are sold in. This may not seem like much, and you may be thinking ‘what the hell’?, but until you have actually watched District 9, you cannot really appreciate this unexpected, yet extremely welcomed, gift. Guests were also given free posters and several sets of printed photographs from the ‘shack’ photo shoot that I alluded to earlier.

Of course, before we decided to leave, we made time to schmooze with the actors and actresses from the movie. All of them were incredibly modest and were more than happy to have their pictures taken with us (you hear that DJ Fresh? The ‘now’ international stars are ‘modest’! Go look it up). A majority of whom we inadvertently snubbed before watching the film, since we really had no idea who they were. I had actually asked an ‘alleged’ celebrity to take a photograph of my posse and myself after the movie. The look on his face was one of utter confusion when I placed the camera in his hands. He obviously thought I was going to ask him if I could have a photograph with him and his ‘entourage’. Good times!

Before we made our graceful exit, we were covertly approached by this inconspicuous little lady, who offered an exclusive invitation to the District 9 after party. Just when we thought the evening could not get any better, it did! We vehemently accepted and agreed to let her show us the way. After a short nipple freezing walk, in the middle of Joburg, we entered the Circle Bar at the Rosebank Hotel. One word came to mind: “Bliksem”!

The place was buzzing with the most incredible vibe. There were celebrities left, right and centre. The paparazzi were in full force, taking photographs at every opportunity. Interviews were being conducted right under our noses. Whilst the rest of the generally beautiful populace continued to mingle and converse. All the while being serenaded by a talented saxophonist whose melodically twanged notes were beautifully complimented by the resident DJ’s mastery of uplifting lounge grooves. We. Had. Arrived!

We mingled. We feigned knowing people we did not actually know (Cleo, you are a total ‘machete’). We gorged ourselves on the abundantly divine starters that were making the rounds. We spilled our drinks. We took photographs. Photographs were taken of us. We made friends with the cast of the locally produced Afrikaans movie, ‘Bak Gat’. We sang. We ‘whooped’. We danced. We changed the setting of our ‘inner’ electronic circle (Circle Bar FTW). We laughed. We laughed until we cried tears of insurmountable joy!

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I would like to publicly send a shout out to Sterkinekor entertainment and all those who made the District 9 premiere a possibility. From the decor, red carpet, free condiments and buffet styled starters, all the way to the great SWAG, copious photographic opportunities, celebrity appearances and ultra chic after party; I do not think it could have been done any better! Thank you for creating such an amazing event. One that will be imbedded in our memories for many years to come. You have shown that South Africa is just as capable as any other country to hold a first class event.

I can honestly say that this was one of the most memorable nights I have ever had. It was truly a spectacular event and one that will surely be hard to beat. However, I do not think the experience would have been as ‘mindblowing’ as it was, without the amazing group of family and friends who attended the District 9 premiere with me. You are all, without a doubt, a phenomenal clique of people, who share perfect chemistry. Thank you all so much!

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!

Since that time, I have been kept up to date and privy to the latest in South African box office records, figures and events. Often incorporating the information into my posts whenever I deem the data to be informative, applicable and or appropriate. To my surprise, it appears that the fruits of my labour have begun to ripen.

Last week, I unexpectedly received an official invitation to an actual ‘press screening’ of an as yet unreleased film. It goes without saying that I was incredibly taken aback and immensely excited. After all, it was the first time that I had been invited to an event as a ‘recognised’ member of the press.

The invitation was to the screening of ‘The Human Contract’, which serves as Jada Pinkett Smiths debut as both a writer and director.

The Human Contract focuses on charming, self-made marketing entrepreneur Julian Wright (Jason Clarke), who is constantly tormented by a viciously disturbing secret that he has harboured from childhood. With his personal life in shambles and physical pain his only means of solace, Julian becomes entrapped in an open styled love affair with a gorgeously elusive stranger, Michael Reed (Paz Vega), who tempts him from the rigid confines of corporate life to try and explore a bohemian laden lifestyle. A decision that will not only dramatically affect his life, but also the lives of his co-workers, friends and family.

The movie, in the simplest sense, is a standard erotic thriller in the vein of Basic Instinct and Fatal Attraction. Consequently, if you have seen previous entries in this genre, then you will have a good idea of what this movie is about and what to expect in terms of the story. That said, with a handful of obligatorily gratuitous sex scenes and a few token scenes of violence thrown in for good measure, lest not forget the infused debilitating psychological baggage which, at the crux of the movie, causes the unravelling of one characters hidden secrets to intensify another characters irrational and violent impulses; the story, unfortunately, does not try anything new. So even though I felt immersed in the intertwining lives of Julian and Michael for most of the film, there were times when predictability overcame lustful suspense. I presume this was Smith’s attempt at following the adage “better safe than sorry” for her directorial debut, which is a shame because the story is by no means bad, but it can feel somewhat incomplete and tawdry at times. To be fair, the plot is relatively solid and entertaining enough to sustain itself. Furthermore, it appears that Smith does indeed have a good ear for dialogue, with writing that is sharp, coherent, amusing and, most importantly, believable.

Casting unknown actors, for leads in any movie, is quite a risky endeavour. However, in this case, the outcome proved to be worth the risk, since both Jason Clarke and Paz Vega handle almost all of their lines with absolute aplomb. Jason Clarke  plays his part with just the right amount of sly arrogance and contemptuous sincerity, with a hint of an underlying and menacing streak, which helps to keep the viewer guessing at the truth of what lies beneath his emotionless facade. Similarly, Paz Vega (who looks and sounds remarkably like Penelope Cruz – really, they could be sisters, if not twins) proves that not only is she more than able to play the curious seductress, whose lustfully carnal agendas result in her teetering on the edge of precariously dangerous scenarios, but she is also able to handle the subtle nuances of a character who is burdened by a history of physical and emotional abuse. Ultimately though, the two leads do a magnificent job of carrying the film, even when more absurd content is dealt with.

Lastly, where the The Human Contract excels, is in the department of visual style and flair. For a majority of the time, Smith proves her worth as a director. Allowing for a level of moody cinematography that lends an intoxicatingly charged, rhythmically sexual overlay, to scenes involving Julian’s embrace of Michael’s offer of an unconventional lifestyle. This juxtaposes very well with the sleek, urban, glass and steel corporate sterility of the business environment where Julian is employed. This juxtaposition, although subtle, is tantamount to the progression of the story and the development of both Julian and Michael’s characters. As a result, I was extremely pleased with the visual appeal of the film.

The Human Contract – Trailer

The film may not be without its problems, but for a directorial debut, the film is good. Although The Human Contract may not be the most original film it does do an adequate job of filling another slot in the erotic thriller genre. I personally look forward to see what else Jada Pinkett Smith will do in the near future.

Verdict: 6/10.

On a side note: this movie actually inspired the previous Music Monday post.

Until the next time “Milieunairs”!