Film review: The Man From U.N.C.L.E

The Man from U.N.C.L.E cleverly captures the elements that made the 1960's series such a huge hit. Guy Richie combines the use of modern technology with retro 60's flair, adding a lot of humour and sexual themes, to create this extremely entertaining spy thriller.

In 1963, C.I.A agent Napoleon Solo and K.G.B operative Illya Kuryakin unite, along with Gaby Teller to prevent the completion of a nuclear bomb which is being built by wealthy Italian couple, Alexander and Victoria Vinciguerra. Their plan is to use Teller's father's intelligence to help them built the bomb.
Solo and Kuryakin team up in a bid to stop the couple from succeeding, with both ben secretly assigned to steal the weapon's systematics for their separate Governments.

The retro look to the film excellently portrays the 60's theme, from the highly-saturated editing to the brilliant makeup and costume, everything reflects the era that shone with style. The music used throughout the film and for the theme tune add more of a 60's vibe, but also with a modern edge to it.

The acting in the film was fantastic, with fun-loving but believable characters, and great scripting. Along with the fast-paced editing, the action scenes were not only gripping but also, absolutely hilarious. The script along with the direction added humour to the film, which made the action scenes a lot easier to watch.

It slightly resembles a James Bond style but this film is completely different; portraying the frailties of the Cold War brilliantly. This film will really take you in, the gripping story line and hilarious scripting combine excellently with the use of music, costume and breathtaking locations.
Guy Richie has definitely done himself proud with this one.

University tips

For most people, starting university is one of the biggest steps you'll ever take. From applying for university to your first day there, the whole procedure is stressful, challenging and exhausting.

But don't worry - it's completely worth it!

In a month's time, I'll be entering my second year of uni and really, I can't wait. Thinking back to last year and how apprehensive I was, I'm so glad I made the right decision and everything has fallen perfectly into place. 

So, for those of you heading off next month, here's my answers to some questions I have received and my tips on how to conquer those initial nerves:

Q: Can I still have a job and concentrate on my degree?

A: Yes, of course you can. Although, I waited about 4 months until I'd settled in until I got a job - make sure you can still control your work load. University sites and groups can also help you get a job with somewhere that is flexible with you, working as a student ambassador is a great way of making money while at uni.

Q: Is university a lot more difficult than school?

A: This is a tricky one - it all depends on your course and how 'difficult' you find work. Some courses are more difficult than others, some are more coursework based and some are exam heavy. It all depends on your style of learning and studying.

Q: I don't like going out and partying much, how will I make friends?

A: There's loads of ways to meet other people at uni, you don't have to go out all the time. You'll make friends on your course, in your flat and there's loads of different clubs and societies to join at every university. There really is something for everyone and it's a great way to make the most of your time at uni.

Q: I'm worried I won't like my course, who can I talk to?

A: Obviously before you start uni, you'll be nervous about everything. Make sure you give yourself enough time to try out your course and maybe, after a month, if you're still unsure then speak to a lecturer or your tutor and they'll go through all the options with you!

Q: I'm still going to be living at home and I'm worried I won't make any friends?

A: Exactly my thoughts last year! After going through clearing, I ended up at UoG where I am still living at home and honestly, I think it's worked out a lot better. I still have lots of friends at uni - just make sure you still attend at least a couple of freshers' events and get talking to people, but even if you can't, you'll make loads of friends on your course!

Q: I'm worried about moving out and living so far away.

A: You're definitely not alone on this one, it's probably the scariest thing about starting university. But don't worry - everyone is in the same position and thinking exactly the same as you. Try using Facebook to find someone in the same flat as you or on the same course as you. This way, you'll be friendly with someone on your first day and it will definitely prevent those nerves!

I hope this has helped all of you who asked and if there's something else you want to ask, feel free to email and I will answer your question in this post.

Good luck with starting uni and I'm sure you'll be absolutely fine!

Loving London

I love visiting London. Compared to the small town I live in, everything is exaggerated! The people, atmosphere, shopping, attractions and things to do leave you wanting more and more; it's never a boring trip.

Before I went on holiday, I went to London for the day with Ollie and his family. We headed off really early so I slept most of the way down but we decided to park at Westfields and walk into town. I'd never been to Westfields shopping centre and didn't know what to expect but it's great; probably the same size as the bullring with loads of variety of shops and tens of restaurants to choose from.

Walking into town was fun. It was such a warm day which was lovely as we strolled through Kensington and Hyde Park - ending up at Harrods. I could really spend all day in Harrods, I love everything and if I had enough money, would absolutely love to walk in and buy a couple of really nice items. There's just so much choice and everything is amazing!

Once we'd finished browsing, we walked from Harrods to Piccadilly Circus and from there to Trafalgar Square. We wish we'd have had a look around Carnaby Street now but at the time, it was nice to just walk around, taking it all in. Neither of us bought anything but we go shopping so much that being somewhere different, it really didn't make a difference to us! Ollie's family had gone to look at the Audrey Hepburn exhibition which sounded fascinating so we met up with everyone else just before our restaurant reservation, so we could talk about it all there.

Finishing off the day with a huge meal at Planet Hollywood, we were too tired (and full!) for the walk back, so grabbed a taxi back to the car and headed home! It was a brilliant day and I can't wait to go back again at Christmas time - making sure we don't forget that bit of extra shopping time!!

Film review: Southpaw

'The more you get hit, the harder you fight, I get it.' One of the most powerful lines in the whole film describes the determination of Billy Hope (Jake Gyllenhaal), as his whole life is completely turned upside down.

Southpaw is a gripping story of a boxer who fights his way through absolutely everything in order to get back what he loves. When Billy's wife Maureen (Rachel McAdams) is tragically killed, he throws everything into fighting for his daughter Leila (Oona Laurence). 

The phrase 'you don't know what you've got until it's gone' springs to mind; with Billy not realising how much his wife really did for him. He slowly sees his whole life crumbling around him; losing his daughter, house, manager and having to do everything in his power to get it all back. Working alongside a new, demanding trainer, he slowly begins to piece together the skills and mindset he needs in order to gain back trust from those he loves most.

Jake Gyllenhaal's performance throughout the film is incredible. Training twice a day in preparation for the film, Gyllenhaal's biggest concern was not looking like a boxer. He trained as a boxer would for a solid 8 months before filming, in order to gain not only the 15lbs of muscle and look of a boxer, but the determinative mindset of a boxer. Covered in tattoos, with a shaved head and scarring on his face, Gyllenhaal is almost unrecognisable in his most grilling role yet.

The final, championship fight will literally have you on the edge of your seat. Everything riding on one performance; winning the money, becoming stable enough to get his daughter back, showing that  his training has been worthwhile, his struggle coming to an end. The quick-cut, close-up editing gives a fast paced but detailed look at his final fight and the same editing and emotional performances will have you rooting for Billy from the first scene.

From the very start, the brutality and determination is evident, leaving you wanting everything for Gyllenhaal and his daughter. But behind the dark, lonely character lies a story of complete passion and love; one that I definitely won't be forgetting soon.

Holiday destination: Lesbos

I've just returned from my annual family holiday and this year, we tried somewhere a bit different. I'd heard of Lesvos and absolutely love exploring Greece and the Greek islands, but still didn't know exactly what to expect.

It was one of the most relaxing holidays I have ever been on. The intense heat left me wanting to just sit by the pool, sip cocktails and enjoy walks along the calm beach, which was directly in front of the hotel. As holiday destinations go, this is also one of the quietest I have ever been to. The tiny village of Skala Kalloni was just a two minute walk from our hotel and had around 15 tavernas, a couple of shops and a small boating harbour. Perfect to get away from it all.

At night was when you could see the popularity of the small holiday spot. The tavernas bustling, a brilliant atmosphere crept upon the village square. A lot of Greek destinations find themselves swamped in British, German and French tourists but I didn't find that here. Greek families filled the restaurants, beach and bars, creating a friendly, traditional set-up.

My favourite restaurants were definitely Caprice and Ambrosia, where we were spoilt with food, drink and a LOT of watermelon! Ambrosia's was more traditional; serving the best moussaka and kleftiko I have ever had. Caprice was a more modern restaurant, with pasta and fish dishes to die for - along with their passion fruit martini's!

A fantastic place for a totally relaxed, traditional holiday.