Top Ten Festive Favourites

Clockwise from top right: The Snowman (1982), It's a Wonderful Life (1946), Love Actually (2003), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), Mean Girls (2004), Elf (2003), Meet Me in St Louis (1944) and centre The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

It's official! Less than one week until Christmas Day and it is finally time to watch all of our favourite festive films.

There may be lots of Christmas movies that we love, but what about those festive scenes and songs in other films that we sometimes forget about?

So with that, here are my Top Ten Festive Favourite films, scenes and songs which you will want to revisit or watch for the very first time.

Festive Films:

1. The Muppets Christmas Carol (1992)

Out of all the Muppet films, this has to be the best. It is a hilarious retelling of the classic Dickens novel with all the Muppet characters we know and love stringed together with plenty of catchy songs. Michael Caine also stars as the grumpy Scrooge. A great festive family favourite.

2. It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

This film has become a Christmas classic and an all time must-see (featuring at number 27 on IMDB's Top 250). The black and white American movie stars James Stewart, as George, who comes to learn the true value of life with the help of a guardian angel named Clarence. There has been talk of a sequel which I am certainly not happy about. When you have a cherished classic, leave the sequels alone. This movie is too precious to ruin for myself and cinema audiences.

3. Love Actually (2003)

Love Christmas? Love Richard Curtis rom-coms? Well you'll love Love Actually, actually. Starring many famous faces including: Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley, Martin Freeman, Rowan Atkinson, Liam Neeson...the list goes on. And, of course, Hugh Grant stars as the PM. 

I cannot believe this film came out ten years ago!

4. Elf (2003)

Another film that came out a decade ago is Elf. This is a laugh-out-loud comedy with Anchorman's Will Ferrell taking the lead role of Buddy - a human elf who comes to New York to find his true family and identity during the festive period. Zooey Deschanel and Game of Thrones actor Peter Dinklage also star in the movie which is guaranteed to have you giggling. 

5. The Snowman (1982)

A nostalgic film from my childhood for number 5. The Snowman is an animated story about a boy who makes a snowman which comes to life on Christmas Eve. The Snowman takes the boy on a great journey through the sky. The whole 26 minute film is on YouTube for your enjoyment and features the atmospheric song Walking in the Air.

Festive Scenes:

6. Mean Girls (2004)

Two Christmassy scenes which you may have forgotten about from one of the best teen movies of all time. The first, and very short scene, involves some candy canes and a chap named Glen Coco:

The second is at the high school talent show, where Cady joins 'The Plastics' for their annual version of Jingle Bell Rock:

7. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

If you read my blog regularly, you know I love When Harry Met Sally. So naturally, I had to include this moment of seeing New York all covered in snow and Christmas lights. The clip also includes Harry and Sally celebrating New Year and having their first 'moment' together.

Festive Songs:

8. What's This? The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Jack Skellington has managed to leave Halloweentown and enter Christmastown. What's This? is the song he sings as he discovers this new land of snow, presents and merriment.

9. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, Meet Me in St Louis (1944)

This song is played every year in December, but did you know the song debuted in Meet Me in St Louis? Judy Garland sings the classic Christmas tune in the MGM musical film.

10. Auld Lang Syne, Sex and the City (2008)

I know the movie isn't great, but I really like the version of this song. Auld Lang Syne plays over a montage with all the characters celebrating New Year's in different places, whilst Carrie runs to Miranda so she isn't alone when it hits midnight. Can I just ask how she runs in the snow in heels? HEELS? One of the many flaws in Sex and the City but I will ignore this for the fantastic version of the song.

Do you agree with my choices? Or did I miss any?

What will you be watching this season? 

Tweet your favourites @TicketStubBlog or comment below

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Trailer Tuesday: Frozen (2013)

Image: freefever.com

With the lead up to Christmas in its final week, Ticket Stub has gone all festive to celebrate. So wrap up warm, grab those mince pies, get a glass of mulled wine and enjoy all of Ticket Stub's recommended holiday films.

The first feature this week is Trailer Tuesday. Although this film has been out since the 6^th December, I wanted to pick a wonderfully wintery movie to get us all in the mood for Christmas. 

Therefore, the Trailer Tuesday choice is Frozen.

The new Disney movie, tells the story of princess sisters Elsa and Anna. After their parents die, Elsa becomes queen yet her frosty magical powers hold her back from bonding with her sister and interacting with the people in the kingdom. As Elsa accidentally sparks an eternal freeze across the kingdom, Anna has to persuade her sister to stop the bitter winter so Elsa can return as queen. With help from a hilarious snowman, Olaf, an adventerous hero named Kristoff and his trusty reindeer, Sven, Anna has a big quest on her hands.

I saw the film just over a week ago and loved it. The songs are brilliant, particularly the comical In Summer and Let It Go – which has been nominated for a Golden Globe. The film stars one of my favourite musical theatre actresses, Idina Menzel – who you may also recognise from Disney’s 2009 film Enchanted. Kristen Bell voices Elsa and Glee's Jonathan Groff also stars. 

Another thing I loved is the portrayal of the two sisters. They are both quirky and awkward which I certainly related to and it reminded me of my relationship with my siblings – particularly with the song Do You Want To Build a Snowman? However, I do wish there was at least some variation in the appearance of the recent Disney princesses. Both have a very similar aesthetic to Rapunzel in Tangled (2010). A recent article in the Guardian also picked up on this issue and mentions a marketing campaign after Brave's release which had an illustration of Merida conforming to the typical Disney princess look: big eyes and thin as a stick figure.

This is only one set back. I was thoroughly entertained and I liked the way in which Disney mocks itself.

Not only is the film magical, but the short film beforehand is a treat in itself with a 1920s Mickey and his friends bursting through the cinema screen.

Frozen is out NOW.

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Top Ten Animals in Film

Clockwise from top: Babe (1995), Free Willy (1993), Bambi (1942), Jaws (1975), War Horse (2011), Life of Pi (2012), Finding Nemo (2003) & 101 Dalmatians (1996) 

Animals in film often provide comedy and comfort but also danger and destruction to characters and cinema audiences. With the epic trailer for the new Godzilla (2014) featured as this week's Trailer Thursday, I want to ask: who stands out as your favourite on screen animal?

From sweet little Bambi to the terrifying Jaws, there are tonnes that I have missed out in my Top Ten (including some in the picture above) so tweet me your favourites @TicketStubBlog and YOU could be featured in my next post. 

1. Baloo in The Jungle Book (1967)

Baloo is the lovable bear who becomes Mowgli's guide and adoptive parent through the depths of the jungle as Mowgli returns to the man-village.

Best Moment? Baloo singing Bare Necessities

2. King Kong in King Kong (1933)

From a lovable bear to a frightening giant gorilla: King Kong. The stop animation and effects in this film are remarkable for 1933 and King Kong is still rather scary - made even more so by Fay Wray's shrill scream in the scene above.

Did You Know? Kong's roar was in fact a lion and a tiger's roar combined together and run backwards at a low speed.

3. Dory in Finding Nemo (2003)

The forgetful fish, Dory, who helps Marlin try and find his son Nemo is one of the most comical animal characters on screen. The adorably optimistic regal blue tang fish, voiced by the hilarious Ellen DeGeneres, will return in Pixar's 2016 sequel: Finding Dory.

Best Dory Quote? "Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming. What do we do? We swim, swim!"

4. The Birds in The Birds (1963)

Another scary choice, this time a collective mass of birds. The Hitchcock film sees the birds descend on Bodega Bay and attack all those who live there. The other day, a mass of black birds gathered, as they do in the scene above, when I left for work. Needless to say, I was quite on edge!

The birds gather outside my house!

Did You Know? When audiences left the premiere at Leicester Square's Odeon cinema, they were scared even further by the sound of screeching and flapping birds from loudspeakers hidden in the trees.


5. Dug in Up (2009)

You wouldn't expect a golden retriever in the tropical landscape of South America. And I guess you wouldn't expect to hear its thoughts either. Well, this is what happens in Pixar's Up. Though he may not be the most intelligent dog, and is often distracted by squirrels, Dug has a big heart and is a comforting pet to Russell and eventually Carl.

Want to Know More? I wrote a blog post on ZooScope about all the animals in the film and how they are represented. If you fancy reading, just click here.

6. Jack the Dog in The Artist (2011)

The Artist is a modern take on the silent black and white films of the 1920s. Jack the Dog provides great visual comedy, particularly in the scene with Oscar winner Jean Dujardin at the breakfast table.

Did You Know? Jack the Dog was played by three Jack Russell Terriers: Uggie, Dash and Dude

7. Richard Parker in Life of Pi (2012)

An unlikely environment for a tiger - on a lifeboat in the middle of the ocean with a boy named Pi. The ferocious tiger is beautifully digitally animated and a real tiger was used in some scenes. However, recent stories have emerged that the tiger 'nearly drowned' on set.

Did you know? The film won for Best Director, Visual Effects, Score and Best Cinematography at last year's Oscars and is adapted from the best selling novel by Yann Martel.

8. Mr. Fox in Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

George Clooney plays the title role in Wes Anderson's adaptation of Roald Dahl's book. The sly and wild yet urbane fox steals food from three farmers every night. Fed up with Mr. Fox, the farmers seek revenge in destroying the fox's home. Mr. Fox leads the escape for his family and woodland creature friends.

Did you know? It took seven months to complete the very first Mr. Fox puppet

9. Kermit the Frog in The Muppets (2011)

He may be made of felt but he is still an animal - clue is in the name Kermit the Frog. The TV and film star will return in the sequel Muppets Most Wanted (2014) which was featured as a Trailer Tuesday last month.

Did You Know? Kermit the Frog has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

10. Timon and Pumbaa in The Lion King (1994)

I cannot pick one - they come as a pair! Timon, the clever meerkat, and his smelly warthog friend, Pumbaa, take care of Simba as he grows up in the jungle after Scar tells the lion cub to 'run away and never return'. The two animals even had their own TV series.

Best Timon and Pumbaa Quote? 
Timon: Gee, he looks blue
Pumbaa: I'd say brownish-gold
Timon: No, no, no. I mean he's depressed
Pumbaa: Oh.


Who is your favourite animal in film?

Comment below or tweet your suggestions to
 @TicketStubBlog

Trailer Thursday: Godzilla (2014)

Image: godzilla.wikia.com

Trailer Thursday is here with a brand new trailer for the 2014 Godzilla film which was released yesterday. I had to share it earlier than usual, as it fits in perfectly with my Animals in Film week on Ticket Stub.

When clicking on the trailer, I thought 'I bet this is going to be awful. One of those stupidly over expensive summer blockbusters which I will never want to see'. How I was wrong...

Directed by Gareth Edwards, Godzilla is an epic reboot of the infamous giant dinosaur-monster who takes on destroying the city. After seeing the disappointing 1998 version with Matthew Broderick when I was younger, I have never been hugely interested or engrossed in this kind of action movie. Yet, this teaser trailer is one of the best in a long time and Godzilla is now on my list of must-see films for 2014. 

I did not see that coming.

The movie stars the great Bryan Cranston, of Breaking Bad fame (2008-2013), and Nowhere Boy (2009) and Kick-Ass (2010) actor, Aaron Taylor-Johnson. French actress Juliette Binoche, Sally Hawkins, who starred in Blue Jasmine (2013) earlier this year, and Elizabeth Olsen also feature in the sci-fi monster blockbuster.

It is only a teaser trailer, but I urge you to watch it. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

Godzilla is released in the UK on May 14th 2014.

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Trailer Tuesday: The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Image: hollywoodreporter.com

Martin Scorsese is back with a new film starring Leonardo DiCaprio: The Wolf of Wall Street. 

The film tells the story of wealthy stockbroker, Jordan Belfort, from his rise to riches to his fall with fraud and corruption. Based on the true memoir of Belfort himself, the film has been described as a biographical black comedy. 

Other cast members alongside DiCaprio include Jonah Hill and Matthew McConaughey. I'm also pleased to see a cameo by Rob Reiner, director of When Harry Met Sally (1989), Princess Bride (1987) and starred in Sleepless in Seattle (1993). 

It looks to be a thrilling film and, with it being the fifth collaboration between DiCaprio and Scorsese, I'm hoping it will live up to my expectations. 

The Wolf of Wall Street is released on 17th January 2014

Quote of the Day #5

"I think people should mate for life, like pigeons or Catholics"

Manhattan (1979)

Image: boymeetsgirlproject.blogspot.com

Happy Birthday to Woody Allen, who is 78 years old today.

 What is your favourite Allen film?

Soundtrack Saturday: Mary Poppins (1964)

Image: sun.co.uk

With yesterday's release of Saving Mr. Banks, I thought it would be appropriate to listen back to the wonderful Mary Poppins soundtrack.

If you do not know the story, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN? Go watch it now! 

But if you are otherwise engaged, Mary Poppins is about the magical nanny who ends up working for the Banks family, looking after the children Jane and Michael. Combining live action and animation, Mary (Julie Andrews) opens the eyes of the Banks family and brings them closer together. Chimney sweep, Bert (Dick Van Dyke), adds plenty of comedy, least because of Van Dyke's infamous 'cockney' accent but we will ignore this! 

How can you not love these songs? Listening to the orchestral overture immediately captures the charm and magic of the film. If you grew up watching Mary Poppins, a grand wave of nostalgia comes with listening to this soundtrack. 

Remember these tunes?

A Spoonful of Sugar

Jolly Holiday

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

And what about these musical gems?

Stay Awake

Chim Chim Cher-Ee

Let's Go Fly a Kite

There are so many highlights, nearly every song is a treat. The Step In Time sequence has been featured several times on Ticket Stub - for the dance sequence and for the fireworks effects. However, my personal favourite song has to be Feed the Birds:

The Sherman Brothers certainly created one of the best loved motion picture soundtracks. I urge you to listen again to truly appreciate their genius. 

It is practically perfect in every way! 

Best Track? How could I possibly pick? Let's go for the Overture - it captures every favourite tune.

 (See below)

Available on Spotify? Yes

What's your Soundtrack Saturday? 

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Trailer Tuesday: Muppets Most Wanted (2014)

Image: nerdpride.com.br

The fuzz and felt is back! Today's Trailer Tuesday is Muppets Most Wanted.

After the success of The Muppets (2011), Kermit and the whole gang are back in what looks to be a thrilling and hilarious sequel. The film sees the gang touring across Europe to sell out audiences until they run into a spot of bother. A jewel-heist and the world's number one criminal, who just so happens to uncannily resemble Kermit, cause mayhem and chaos - and subsequently lots of laughs.

As well as the classic faces such as Fozzie Bear and Miss Piggy, the film stars Ricky Gervais, Tina Fey and Tom Hiddleston. Other cameos include Lady Gaga, Celine Dion and Christoph Waltz. The genius music of Bret McKenzie will also return. He won an Oscar for his compositions back at the awards in 2012.

Hopefully, this film will have us laughing out loud and singing along to even more cleverly witty and catchy songs.

Muppets Most Wanted is out in UK on the 28th March 2014

When Harry Met Annie

Earlier this month, I recommended Annie Hall as Ticket Stub's Sunday Classic. In the post, I mentioned the films that have been heavily influenced by Woody Allen's classic. So I thought we would look at this a little more closely...

When Harry Met Sally is one of my all time favourite films and it definitely pays homage to Annie Hall. 

I'm going to run through a few examples, which I hadn't noticed until watching the films recently.

1. Opening Monologues

Annie Hall begins with Woody Allen's character Alvy, explaining his outlook on life and his relationships.

When Harry Met Sally is interspersed throughout with short monologues by couples, talking about where and when they first met. Like Annie Hall, the background colours are similar and the characters all look, more or less, straight down the lens addressing the audience. The couples are hilarious and charming. Here is an edited version of all their stories together:

2. Annie and Sally's Costume

Annie's costume became iconic in the 70s so it is no wonder that Sally takes a leaf out of her book here in the autumnal scene at Central Park. Notice the same hats, long trousers and masculine look of the two outfits.

Image: thebudgetfashionista.com

Image: thecitrusreport.com

3. Montage

A clear homage is paid here and it was one of the first examples I noticed. Both films have montages showing the course of each relationship, through happy, sad and hilarious moments - such as Sally's fake orgasm scene and Alvy sneezing from the cocaine.

Watch the first 47 seconds for When Harry Met Sally scene:

4. Location

Both are set in New York and use the city to its full capacity in filming. From the quirky diners and small bookshops to the impressive city skyline, you definitely know you're in NYC. The concrete jungle creates a stark contrast to the sunny superficial world of Los Angeles depicted in Annie Hall.

"Well, have a nice life"
Harry and Sally say goodbye after their first meeting by Washington Square Arch

Image: christianallaire.com

"I'll have what she's having"
The most famous scene from When Harry Met Sally, which takes place at the popular diner, Katz's Delicatessen  

Image: en.wikipedia.org

"I luff you"
Annie and Alvy awkwardly confess their love to each other with the romantic city skyline in the background

Image: thirteen.org

"Love fades...God, that's a depressing thought"
As the couple argue in the intense city streets, Alvy turns to New Yorkers to hear what they have to say about love...

5. Soundtrack

It Had to be You is sung in both films.
Annie's version however, is a disaster. She sings it beautifully in the New York bar but no-one appreciates it.

In Rob Reiner's film though, It Had To Be You is sung by the classic voice of Frank Sinatra. This is a far more romantic moment as Harry finally realises that he truly loves Sally.

6. Musings on Death

We all know that Woody Allen is obsessed with this theme and Alvy certainly thinks about death a lot.
He even gives Annie books on the subject:

Harry similarly obsesses over death - "I spend hours, I spend days".
Hear what he does every time he buys a new book...

7. Split Screens

Split screens in Annie Hall happen on two occasions: When Annie and Alvy's mothers exchange conversation while at the dinner table and during both the characters' therapy sessions.

When Harry Met Sally uses split screens for telephone calls. The best one being the four way split screen with Jesse and Marie picking up each of Harry and Sally's calls the morning after:

Both these instances create comedy and are very clever in terms of timing. Yet, it is interesting to notice that the split screens in Annie Hall are always dominated by Alvy's side and his point of view whilst Annie's screen is shoved to the left hand side. It further shows how dominant Alvy is on Annie and her way of life. However, with Harry and Sally the split is even. No dominant. They are both equals and friends, which visually indicates that their relationship is more balanced and solid compared to Annie and Alvy.

8. High Maintenance 

High maintenance or low maintenance? When Harry Met Sally explores this throughout, particularly with Sally's ridiculous food orders:

It is a very brief moment I noticed in Annie Hall but one none-the-less! A very quick instance shows this difference between Alvy and Annie as they order food at a diner. Just look at Alvy's face as Annie orders.

Although both these films have many similarities, it is the fate of both relationships and the outlook of the two that differ. Harry and Sally have their ups and downs but develop a strong friendship leading to their long lasting relationship together. Annie and Alvy seem like a great match but ultimately do not see eye to eye and, as we know from the very beginning of the film, they are not destined to be together.

It is fascinating to note that the original ending of When Harry Met Sally did not have the couple getting together. This ending didn't resonate with test audiences so was scrapped. The perfect Hollywood ending. So, although there is a clear respect and homage to Annie Hall, the conclusions of both the films are widely different.

Trailer Tuesday: 12 Years a Slave (2013)

Image: patheos.com

Ticket Stub's Trailer Tuesday this week is the widely anticipated, 12 Years a Slave.

12 Years a Slave is based on the true story of Solomon Northup. The well-educated man from Saratoga Springs, NY was born a free black man until he was kidnapped and sold into slavery in 1841. 

Directed by Steve McQueen, the film has achieved critical acclaim since its world premiere at the 40th Telluride Film Festival earlier this summer. Chiwetel Ejiofor, who plays Northup, has already been tipped for Oscar glory. Other cast members include Michael Fassbender, Brad Pitt and Benedict Cumberbatch whilst also debuting new performances by the likes of Lupita Nyong'o.

The film has been on a limited release across the US and is steadily notching up big figures at the box office. We still have a while to wait here though, as the film is not due out in the UK until January 24th 2014. But for now, enjoy the trailer. It looks to be a very moving story showing the struggles of holding on to humanity in a world of extreme cruelty and suffering. 

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Sunday Classics: Annie Hall (1977)

Image: cracked.com

Arguably Woody Allen's best film, Annie Hall is this week's Sunday Classic.

Annie Hall is a romantic comedy starring Allen as Alvy, a New York comedian who examines why his relationship with Annie, played by Diane Keaton, had to end. The film is often seen as autobiographical though Allen has been quick to dismiss this suggestion.

Allen's filming techniques and collaboration with cinematographer Gordon Willis was certainly groundbreaking. Particularly after his slapstick comedy films, such as Sleeper (1973) and Love and Death (1975), Annie Hall was and still is completely refreshing. 

Some of the best moments include a scene based on Snow White - where Annie becomes the evil queen...

 Or where both Alvy and Annie talk on the balcony, but the subtitles tell us what they are truly trying thinking... 

There are also many instances where Alvy breaks the fourth wall, talking to the audience directly:

All of these examples, and many more, show the beginnings of the filmmaker we all know Woody Allen to be today.

Keaton is adorable in this film and I love her wardrobe. In fact, nearly all of Annie's costumes are Keaton's own clothes. She won an Oscar for her performance along with the film's Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director and Best Screenplay. Also, keep an eye out for a wonderful cameo with Christopher Walken as Annie's psychotic brother.

Many films since have been heavily influenced by Annie Hall, especially romantic comedies. Most recently with Frances Ha (2012), (500) Days of Summer (2009) and When Harry Met Sally (1989). 

Later this week, I shall be looking at When Harry Met Sally and Annie Hall a little more closely. To keep updated on all future posts, follow @TicketStubBlog on Twitter.

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Top Ten Firework Scenes

Remember, remember the 5th of November...but what movie scenes can you remember with fireworks? 

I've picked my Top Ten but I'm sure there are plenty I've missed. 

Feel free to tell Ticket Stub your favourites by tweeting @TicketStubBlog and you could be featured in the next post!

1. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Merry and Pippin are the two cheeky chappies in this first film of the epic trilogy. They attempt to steal one of Gandalf's magical fireworks, however, the two hobbits get into a little spot of bother...

2. Toy Story (1995)

Buzz is strapped to a rocket and it's about to blow up in the sky. How will Woody and Buzz escape?

Woody: "Hey, Buzz you're flying!" 

Buzz: "This isn't flying. This is falling, with style!"

3. Manhattan (1979)

Woody Allen's black and white classic is one of the best ever film openings. Along with Allen and his character Isaac, we as the audience begin to romanticise New York "all out of proportion". With George Gershwin's masterpiece Rhapsody in Blue and the fireworks exploding over the Manhattan skyline, how could you not fall in love with this city?

4. Mary Poppins (1964)

The fireworks during Step In Time cause all the chimney sweeps to rush down Mr Banks' chimney and take over proceedings in his town house. The effects are rather impressive for the time too.

5. Mulan (1998)

Fighting Shan Yu on the rooftops of China's Imperial City, Mulan is running out of ideas...cue the little dragon, Mushu, who fires a huge firework rocket on Mulan's command which instantly kills the villain, but also sets off a great display!

6. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

There is no video available on YouTube, but I have inserted a picture here. This scene shows Ennis (Heath Ledger) beating up two guys who insult him with homophobic remarks during the July 4th celebrations. 

Image: theatlantic.com

7. The Little Mermaid (1989)

This is where Ariel first sees Prince Eric. His world is made even more mesmerizing by the fireworks display from the ship. Ariel just has to see more, much to the dismay of Sebastian. 

"Jumping jellyfish!"

8. To Catch a Thief (1955)

Fireworks and sparks fly between Grace Kelly and Cary Grant as they look across at the display on the French Riviera. And we all know what those flashes of fireworks symbolise, Mr Hitchcock...

9. Titanic (1997)

(Again, there is no video on YouTube - I will get the actual screen-grab soon.) For me, this has always been a memorable scene. All alone out in the cold Atlantic, it is the extreme over-head wide shot of the ship releasing the firework that shows how fatally doomed the Titanic and its passengers truly are. 

Image: thetruthaboutguns.com

10. A Bug's Life (1998)

You can always count on Pixar to be clever - here the "harvester salute" sees the harvested plants collide together in the air to create the insects' very own fireworks display as the 'warrior' bugs return to their home.

I hope you all have a wonderful Bonfire Night! Wrap up warm, enjoy the fireworks - and if you can't go to a display, be sure to take a look at these movies instead!

Quote of the Day #4

"Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."

The Princess Bride (1987)

Image: comicvine.com

Top Ten Halloween Horrors

Time to dig out the fancy dress, carve those Jack O'Lanterns and put on a classic scary movie. If you haven't guessed already, today is Halloween!

Although I am not the biggest fan of scary movies, I have picked out my Top Ten Halloween Horrors which you should definitely check out...

1. Psycho (1960)

Alfred Hitchcock at his best. Norman Bates is certainly creepy as hell and we all know about that infamous shower scene with Bernard Herrmann's piercing strings.

2. The Exorcist (1973) 

This film which sees a 12 year old girl possessed by the devil caused extreme reactions with audiences across the world. Reports of fainting and vomiting dominated news stories. Although we can laugh at the hype now, the film has become a classic. A great highlight is the soundtrack of the Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield.

3. Ghostbusters (1984)

A bit more light-hearted than the previous two, Ghostbusters is a comedy about three professors who go into business as ghost removers. The film stars Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Amis and Sigourney Weaver as the ghosts start to take over New York. Come on, you all know the song....

Who ya gonna call? 

4. 28 Days Later (2002)

Danny Boyle directs this zombie horror starring Cillian Murphy. One of the best scenes is as Murphy's character, Jim, walks through the empty streets of London after waking up from a coma. The whole city has been deserted due to an epidemic, and it is about to get a whole lot worse.

5. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

You may think I have picked the wrong holiday with Christmas being in the title. But the majority of the film takes place in Halloweentown - full of monsters, vampires and the king of Halloweentown, Jack Skellington. Check out the opening song 'This is Halloween':

6. The Wicker Man (1973)

Featured as Ticket Stub's Sunday Classic back in September, The Wicker Man is a British horror set on strange island of Summerisle. Follow the link to my post to find out more.

7. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

Let's do the Time Warp again! Rocky Horror has become cult classic since the seventies and you'll find many people dressing up as the characters at Halloween or at the sing-a-long nights they have in theatres in the UK. The film is a fantastic mix of musical comedy which tributes to the old low budget horror movies of the past.

8. The Corpse Bride (2005)

Another Halloween-esque Tim Burton creation, The Corpse Bride tells the story of Victor who, whilst practicing his wedding vows, accidentally becomes married to a zombie bride. Of course, being Tim Burton, the film stars Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.

9. Silence of the Lambs (1991)

We're coming to the last two films on the list, and the two I find most scary. The first is Silence of the Lambs starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins. A crime horror with one of the most tense climactic scenes ever. A must see for any horror fan.

10. The Shining (1980)

Jack Nicholson stars in the Stephen King adaptation, directed by Stanley Kubrick. A psychological horror, the film sees Jack Torrence take a job as a caretaker at a hotel during its off-season. His wife and son also take residence in the hotel but over time things develop and Jack becomes mad and murderous.

What are your favourite horror films?

Tweet @TicketStubBlog with your suggestions

Top Ten Scenes in the Rain

Clockwise from top left: Bambi (1942), The Notebook (2004), Forrest Gump (1994), Spiderman (2002) and centre, Singin' in the Rain (1952)

It is getting to that time of year again, where the leaves fall and the rain pours. Therefore, inspired by all the dreadful weather this week, I have chosen my Top Ten Scenes in the Rain.

Adding rain to a scene can immediately make a moment more dramatic, romantic or poignant.
So, here are my top picks...

1. Forrest Gump (1994)

Out in the Vietnam War, Forrest sees all kinds of rain...

2. Bambi (1942) 

A childhood favourite. Not only is the animation adorable but the orchestration and the sound of the choir creating the storm is remarkable.

3. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

This is as close as we get to seeing Matthew MacFadyen as Mr Darcy in a wet shirt...but the chemistry between Darcy and Lizzie is evident here, made all the more dramatic with the rumbles of thunder between their dialogue.

4. The Notebook (2004)

Everyone wants to be kissed in the rain. Especially if it is with Ryan Gosling looking splendid with a beard.

5. Garden State (2004)

Screaming into the infinite abyss in the pouring rain with Simon and Garfunkel on the soundtrack. How could  you not love this moment? If you like the sound of Garden State, check out the Saturday Soundtrack I did back in August.

6. Shawshank Redemption (1994)

The rain, thunder and lightning fits perfectly to show Andy's release of freedom and triumph. Surely one of the best scenes.

7. Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

Another wonderful kissing scene in the rain from the classic Breakfast at Tiffany's. There are indeed several kissing scenes in the rain on this list, which leads me onto number eight...

8. Spiderman (2002)

Although the film itself was rather unmemorable, the upside-down kiss in the pouring rain has become one of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history.

9. Sense and Sensibility (1995)

Poor Marianne. This scene truly shows her heartbreak after learning that the man she loves, Willoughby, is engaged to another woman.

10. Singin' in the Rain (1952)

No list could be without this scene. It made the Top Ten Dance Sequences in a Film list earlier this month, and it would be a crime not to include it here.You would never guess that Gene Kelly performed this scene with a 103°F fever!

What are your favourite scenes in the rain?

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Trailer Tuesday: The Monuments Men (2013)

Image: guardian.com

George Clooney is featuring for a second week on Ticket Stub's Trailer Tuesday, but hey, I am not complaining! This week's trailer is The Monuments Men.

Indeed, Clooney stars and directs this dramatic picture which sees a Second World War platoon go behind enemy lines to try and save beautiful pieces of art and cultural artifacts before they are destroyed by Hitler and Nazi Germany.

The Monuments Men has a stellar cast including: Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, the legendary Bill Murray, the lovable John Goodman, 2012 Oscar winner Jean Dujardin and Downton Abbey's Hugh Bonneville. Scenes were filmed in the UK too, particularly at the Imperial War Museum in Duxford (which is well worth the visit by the way!)

Check out the trailer below to see more. The Monuments Men will be released in the UK on January 9th 2013. 

Seen any trailers you think Ticket Stub should check out?

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