Films Out This Week

Jun 22 2008 Mickey Mcmonagle

Mailmusic Reviews

THE ESCAPIST (18) *****

What more could you want from a Brit crime thriller than Scots star Brian Cox as an old convict trying to break out of jail?

This superb film captures brilliantly the feel of prison life - overcrowded, oppressive, horrible surroundings packed with vicious, dangerous men ready to lash out at each other at the slightest provocation.

With a crew of mates, Cox's Frank Perry concocts an elaborate plan to break through a series of barriers into a network of tunnels under London and make their escape.

Unusually - and very effectively - they are less scared of the barely visible prison authorities than of chief con Rizza (Damian Lewis). A superb film which is gripping throughout and deserves to be a huge hit.

ADULTHOOD (18) *****

This follow-up to the controversial teen drama Kidulthood was inevitable given the success and acclaim of the first film.

Sam (Noel Clarke) is released from prison after serving time for murder and returns to his old stomping ground. But a new gang have taken over and are out to get him.

As he battles to stay alive, he must also confront the victims of his previous crimes and deal with his own guilt. Intense and powerful, this is an accurate reflection of modern youth in Britain.

THE RUINS (18) *****

Silly, schlocky, B-movie horror at both its absolute best and worst. I loved this film's OTT thrills and chills.

The ludicrous premise is so bad it's brilliant, as four spoiled teens find themselves stuck atop a Mayan temple surrounded by man-eating plants.

Yep, you read that right - an ivy-like net of foliage which eats people. Cue lots of extremely gory, close-up dissections, plenty of screaming and some naked girls. It's the perfect cheap horror romp.

It's also instantly forgettable but enjoyable, which is really all that matters to me.

THE EDGE OF LOVE (15) *****

Even the strong British cast - including Keira Knightley, Sienna Miller and Matthew Rhys - cannot save this slightly stale film from an incredibly limp ending.

It's London during the Second World War and Welsh poet Dylan Thomas (Rhys) is in love with both his wife Caitlin (Miller) and his old pal Vera (Knightley). Unable to commit to either woman, his indecisiveness threatens to ruin the lives of them all.