Films Out This Week

Sep 28 2008 Mickey Mcmonagle

THE FOOT FIST WAY (15) *****

Danny McBride is the latest comedy sensation sweeping Hollywood - and it's all thanks to this low-budget indie debut. McBride stars as a geeky martial arts expert who has no idea what a moron he really is. Think David Brent running a dojo rather than a paper company and you're just about there.

The film was a massive hit at the Sundance Film Festival and since then has become a cult sensation in the States thanks to support from Will Ferrell.

McBride is Fred Simmons, a Tae Kwon Do expert whose wife cheats on him as his Ferrari-driving image falls apart before his disbelieving eyes.

Some scenes are uncomfortable, such as the one where he beats up a seven-year-old as he takes out his bottled-up anger on his students.

Of course there's a traditional kung fu movie ending where he meets his idol but the journey towards the predictable climax is so much fun you won't mind.

TAKEN (18) ****

Many critics disagree but I love this vicious action movie which is a cheeky mix of Ransom and Man On Fire - leaning much more towards the violence of the latter than the emotion of the former.

Liam Neeson is great as the retired agent slowly getting to know his daughter. She is promptly kidnapped, sparking a vendetta from the wronged dad.

Produced by Luc Besson, the film looks great with well-choreographed action sequences galore. But be warned - if you don't like bloodthirsty violence, avoid this movie like the plague.

There is not much on offer other than torture and murder - but I loved it.

DEATH RACE (18) ***

OK, so this is silly, over-the-top action with a ludicrous plot but this cars and guns romp is all about fun - and it delivers that in spades.

Jason Statham stars as a top NASCAR driver who is framed for murder by a nasty old prison warden (Joan Allen) because her star driver for the forthcoming Death Race is out injured.

The battle sees cons go head to head in a crazy race in cars loaded with weapons - so look out for lots of insanely gory deaths as drivers are torn apart at high speed.

Nothing too heavy or deep, just a good old-fashioned action thriller which male viewers will adore.

Think Top Gear-meets-80s-Arnie and you'll know what to expect - a lot of fun.