Lucy (opens Aug 21)
If it’s a Luc Besson production, you already know what to expect. A sexy female protagonist out for vengeance, with an uncanny ability to kick-ass without receiving a scratch. Scarlet Johansson takes the lead this time, playing a woman who receives enhanced physical and mental powers after being drugged. She then proceeds to annihilate her captors and seek the means to control her newfound abilities.
The Giver (opens Aug 21)
Dystopian films have skyrocketed in popularity the past few years – it appears movie-goers love watching teens slaughter one another or try to escape death traps in a diabolical maze. This time the plot centres on a young man (Brenton Thwaites) living an eerily drab life of contentment. His world is shaken when he meets the sole keeper of all the community’s memories (Jeff Bridges). Expect to hear terrified screams from any 10 year olds who happen to be in the audience.
One Minute More (Opens Aug 21)
Based on a Japanese best-selling novel, this one’s a definite tear-jerker (but then again, so is every movie featuring adorable animals). A couple’s life is transformed when they bring home a golden retriever, especially when they find out that their beloved canine is diagnosed with cancer. The female lead then has to choose between her burgeoning career or caring for man’s best friend. If you cried buckets after Marly and Me, we suspect you won’t be able to hold back with this one.
National Theatre Live: Frankenstein (24 Aug, 7pm)
This is one we’re really excited about, since it combines two of our favourite Sherlock Holmes actors in one production. Benedict Cumberbatch and Johnny Miller take turns to star as Frankenstein and his monster. Whilst watching a theater performance on screen isn’t quite the same as the real thing, we’ve heard rave reviews about National Theatre Live, so don’t miss out just because you don’t get to see these dashing dudes up close.
The Princess Bride (Aug 24, 8:30pm)
This evergreen romantic adventure showing at The Screening Room tells the tale of Buttercup, a beautiful princess (Robin Wright) who is kidnapped and has to be rescued by her one true love (Cary Elwes). We know it seems rather bland, but this film has surprisingly turned into a cult classic and has been listed as one greatest film love stories of all time. It also gets plus points for having the ever-reliable Mandy Patinkin as a sword-fighting Spaniard.
Nefarious: Merchant of Souls (23 Aug, 7:30pm)
Screening at The Arts House is this harrowing documentary about sex slavery. Using footage shot in over nineteen countries, Nefarious explores this troubling trend as seen through the eyes of both victims and traffickers. Despite the ever-present sense of oppression, the movie also offers hope by featuring triumphant testimonies of survivors who have been to hell and come back alive.
