INTERVIEW: Meet MOLOTOV JUKEBOX, along with fans - Claire and Eleanor

With the hype of the new and FINAL Harry Potter film gracing our screens this week, I thought it'd be nice to see what some of the stars are doing outside of the cinema hit. Natalia Tena (aka. Tonks) has had her band for a while and a few Harry Potter fans are crying out to hear them in their respective countries. So it's time to meet: Eleanor and Claire.

Get to know these lovely girls as well as Molotov Jukebox...

First of all, let’s introduce you guys to my readers. Tell us THREE interesting things about yourselves.

Claire: 1- As well as a massive Potterhead, I am also quite the Whovian (Doctor Who Fan.) My favourite Doctor Who character is River Song. 2- I like to cook too, especially desserts and sweet stuff. And I decorate cakes. 3- I have a huge phobia of onions, which leads back into my early years.

Eleanor: Well, my name is Eleanor and I am a huge Harry Potter fan. I have a highly irrational fear of the Velociraptors in Jurassic Park and I love watching musical theatre.

Obviously you guys are big fans of Harry Potter Series (the books and the films) – but what is it about the series that you guys love so much?

Claire: I find that I can escape from the world into what JK Rowling has created. The series is so different to many books these days (cough-Twilight-cough) which don’t address world issues. Like, with the Wizarding Wars, there was the issue of genocide (Muggle borns/muggles/blood traitors against the blood purists), as well as some issues as they grew. I believe this is what has made the series special.

Eleanor: Harry Potter is a lot more than a story; it's about real struggles that real people deal with. The characters fight a war against hate and discrimination, which is something we are constantly battling in our world. They fight for love, something you can never fight for enough. The characters are also incredibly easy to relate to and real.

If there was one person from the cast you guys could spend a whole day with, it would definitely be Natalia Tena. Tell us a little bit of your appreciation for her – what is it about her that you love the most?

Claire: Well, Eleanor has had the pleasure of meeting her, and I unfortunately haven’t. But it is on my bucket list to meet her!

I find that Nat is very independent. She wears all these weird and wacky outfits, colours her hair, acts crazy. I admire people who don’t want to fit in, much like myself. Also, she is fairly musical as well, much like myself.

Eleanor: Well first off, she's insanely talented. Her Harry Potter character is Tonks, and she's been my favourite character for almost 10 years, and I've always loved her portrayal of her. She has an amazing voice and I honestly could listen to her sing all day. I love how real she is, she isn't a diva and she doesn't place herself on a pedestal. She's so humble and easy going, it's incredibly easy to love her.

The reason for this interview is to get Molotov Jukebox to be a household name. So tell us a bit about them. Who’s in the band and what do they play? Do you prefer one particular member of the band or is it pretty even?

Claire: They are a six piece band, with vocals, accordion, violin, drums, acoustic guitar, bass and trumpet. They don’t have a precise genre, however, on iTunes they are classified as Alternative. The members are Natalia Tena, who sings lead vocals and plays the accordion, Sam Apley, who does vocals too as well as play the violin, Adam Burke plays the acoustic guitar, Tom Wilson plays the bass, Angus Moncrieff plays the trumpet and Max Burnett-Wain plays the drums.

I like them all, but we talk to Tom quite often on Twitter, as he sometimes manages their account.

Eleanor: At the moment, I have the new edition of the song Double Dare on repeat, so I'm in love with Angus and his trumpet. But they really are all insanely talented.

By now you have favourites to recommend to others, what are TWO song’s you would recommend buying on iTunes?

Claire: My favourites currently, both from the new single, are Voodoo and Soldieress’s Lament. Both are very catchy and I recommend them.

Eleanor: Well of course you should buy their recently released EP Double Dare and also their single Laid to Rest. But my current favourites are Double Dare, off their new EP and Before I go.

Give us FIVE reasons why we have to listen to them.

Claire:

1- Different musical style to the modern style hitting the charts currently (no synthesisers)

2- You will LOVE them if you have a very broad taste of music.

3- The lyrics have a sense of realness to them; Trying is one of my favourites because it relates to me.

4- Very catchy rhythms and beats will get you up and dancing in no time!

5- Nat’s singing is beautiful!

Eleanor:

1-Each song is different; they don't repeat the same thing.

2-They don't sound like anything else on the radio.

3-They've invented their own genre called GypStep (Gypsy & Dubstep).

4-They care about their music and their fans.

5-They make you want to dance crazy and touch people inappropriately.

If Molotov Jukebox could come to Australia, where would they play and why?

Claire: I would love it if they came to play in my city, Adelaide, because nothing happens here! Plus, it is so expensive to fly and stay around Australia, because everything isn’t close together like in other countries. I would've loved to have gone to one of the Harry Potter conventions in Melbourne or Sydney in March, but due to the geographical issues of Australia, it is a bit of a pain in the bottom.

Eleanor: Sydney and Melbourne of course, as well as hopefully several other cities in New South Wales. Australia is big, but it would be ideal if they went to Western and South Australia too.

How much would it mean to you if they came and played a gig here in Australia?

Claire: It would be brilliant. Ever since their trip to Brazil, we have been asking for a trip here. (Other countries also followed us) Plus they have been to European countries too, recently Italy, so why should Australia miss out on the fun?!

Eleanor: So much! I've already had the immense pleasure of meeting Natalia, but to spend time with them all would be phenomenal. They are the first band that I've ever really connected with and developed a big love for, so it would be amazing to see them live.

How can people contact you if they want to sign the petition you’ve been sending around? Or get in contact with you if they knew a place you could have them play at?

Claire: The petition link is : http://www.gopetition.com/petition/41617.html - Our contact details are within the description as well.

Eleanor: They can contact me at my twitter (http://twitter.com/#!/eleanorclark) or tumblr (http://wotcher-remus.tumblr.com/). I also run the Molotov Jukebox fansite (http://fuckyeahmolotovjukebox.tumblr.com/). Claire runs a Natalia Tena fansite too (http://fyeahnataliatena.tumblr.com/). We help each other out with those.

Are you guys going to gear up for the premier of the FINAL Harry Potter movie?

Claire: If it was in my city, I would, however I will be attending a fundraiser one the day after release on the 14th. And I’m going as a Quidditch player for my house, Slytherin!

Eleanor: YES! I have my complete Ravenclaw uniform ready to go!

Coming up on sL: NEW EMPIRE LIVE in Sydney

FILM: To Save A Life

Jake was your typical jock - captain of the basketball team, cheerleader girlfriend, king of the parties - but as a series of events lead to his childhood best-friend taking his own life, Jake begins to question the worth of living. Driven to find the answers, Jake meets Chris, a youth pastor in the local area who seems to have promising answers.

But as one world begins to take shape, the other begins to crumble. Just as his new way of life seems to be working out, his past begins to catchup with him. Suddenly, Jake finds himself in a place where he does not know whether his new life is worth the cost of his past - maybe the answers he was looking for aren't worth finding.

The Story

This movie is a sea of themes that teenagers go through in the world today - drugs and alcohol, teen-pregnancy, popularity and belief. Many people today would not admit that through their teen years they struggled with the concept of God and the after life, this film delves into the search for meaning and the frailty of life. Engulfing issues in a delicate, yet powerful way, audiences are taken on a journey where you're faced to make your own calls as Jake makes his.

There are times where you scream at the characters and cry with them. This is a powerful testimony to what it means to live life to the full and why Christians believe what we believe. This film grasps the reality of the church we have today - that not everyone who goes are perfect and believers of the faith. It deals with the realities that contemporary churches need to acknowledge, no matter the size of the church.

Overall thoughts...

The reason I'm not going to talk about the cast or anything is because everything was top-notch and that the message of this film is clear. To Save A Life you must first know what to live for.

sL Star Rating: 5 Stars

Next on sL: Meet MOLOTOV-JUKEBOX fans: Claire and Eleanor!

BLOG: Apologies!!!

Hey guys!

Sorry for not being active - it has just been a bit hectic in my personal life and I haven't been able to go out and watch anything! Good news is I do have tickets to the up coming NEW EMPIRE!!! concert here in Sydney at The Metro Theatre. And I can't wait!!! I've also been trying to finish reading David Mitchell's Cloud Atlas and I'm almost done, but I just can't find the time to just sit and read!

I really am sorry. To make it up to you I will share the new video launch of New Empire's new song - Give Me The World.

God bless you all,

stricklyLeisure

FILM: X-Men First Class

Being different is a gift, many will tell you. But out of that many, some will also say that being different is wrong. Charles Xavier has always believed that differences weren’t just gifts, they are genetic mutations. Both a blessing and curse to those who possess the gene. But which side they fall upon is up to the beholder and the owner of the gene. Many try to hide it and some will use it for purposes to suit their own cause. But as the world becomes a place filled with wars and fears of wars, mutants must arise and choose a side.

The Story

We’ve all seen and loved the first four X-men films, and with X-men: Origins starting a whole new branch of MARVEL comic book to screen revolutions, X-men First Class takes you back to the beginning, when mutants are discovering themselves and each other. What I really loved about this film is the relationships within it. For those of you who have only seen the film adaptations and never read the comics or watched the cartoons, you will be amazed at the friendships within this film.

The X-men series have always mixed history and science into their films and this is no different. Touching on the Darwin’s theory of evolution and genetic modification, the film has the nostalgic elements of all superhero films, the element that divides them from us. That divide is made stronger by all the X-men films as they also take into account the personal attributes of each character within their own personal history. Resounding images from X-men, First Class revisits Erik Lehnserr’s (Michael Fassbender) past in the Jewish concentration camp. But to add flavour to the film, the writers show us how Erik becomes Magneto throughout his experience within those camps – adding their own story to the rumoured historical attributes of German experiments within the camps.

But history and science aside, this film takes you on the incredible journey that divides the X-men from The Brotherhood; from Charles and Erick to Professor X and Magneto; from friends to enemies; and from good to evil. But by the end of the film, you can’t help but think, there’s a sad lost on both sides.

Casting

It is a big cast, but I’ll focus on the main Mutants we all love and hate, methinks. So here we go…

James McAvoy If you don’t know who this actor is all I can say is, “Shame on you.” He’s from Becoming Jane, Atonement, Wanted and Gnomeo and Juliet. I was so excited to hear that McAvoy was to play Xavier for this film. (My minor crush set aside…) McAvoy is an incredible actor and played the role with great poise and care. Obviously playing the much younger Charles, McAvoy still retained the same calmly presence that Patrick Stewart does in playing Professor X. Understanding the soft comic attributes of the character as well as the wisdom behind the professor that we’ve all seen and loved, McAvoy never over plays or under plays the part. In doing so, he was able to allow the other cast members to perform to the best of their own abilities – and I will tell you, the acting in this movie is amazing!

Michael Fassbender A major television screen actor that you might know from Inglorious Bastards and 300 was a perfect fit for the roles of Erik/Magneto. With the composure of a man who can both be a potential threat or an ally, Fassbender takes the role in his stride. Acting alongside McAvoy, he is able to counter balance the goodness of Charles with the premeditated goals of Erik. What Fassbender was able to do was make you feel both sympathetic and angry towards Erik. There was never a time in which you didn’t feel just one or the other, your emotion hangs on the balance of, “I hate you but I understand you.”

Jennifer Lawrence A rising actress captures the role of shape-shifter Mystique. Understanding the reality of being both a female and a mutant, Lawrence takes into account the personal attributes of her character. Yes she is different, but unlike Charles, Raven’s appearance is what defines her, hence by changing herself, she hopes to define herself. Lawrence captures Raven’s insecurities well, but when time came for Raven to embrace her difference, it was great to see Lawrence go on that journey of acceptance with her character. She really made you believe that though she was always going to be hiding Raven with Charles, she wanted to be free-to-be Mystique with Erik.

Nicholas Hoult Best known for his role in Skins plays the young Hank McCoy a.k.a. Beast. Similar to Raven, Hank is unable to accept his beastly nature because he wants to fit in with society. Hoult does an excellent job in playing one of the most beloved characters in the comic book series. The ability to both be smart and powerful is incredible! But Hoult brings a human aspect into his character by understanding that even amongst the mutants he is casted out because he’s genetic mutation. Hoult’s body language and facial expressions is what wins audiences over even in the times when he opens his mouth and destroys his friendship with Raven.

Caleb Landry Jones Another rising actor plays the Ron Weasley-like role of Sean Cassidy, code name: Banshee. Sean is the friend who has the capability to do great things, if he only believes in himself. What Jones does is provide comic relief in a film that is heavily based on a serious plot against each other. He is able to give us a laugh after the scenes that have pulled a few heart strings. Jones’ lively character on screen allows audience to enjoy, even in the times when he does make a serious decision.

Lucas Till Coming a long way from the Hannah Montana Movie, Till has managed to score the role of beloved hero, Havok (Alex Summers). Till’s down to earth nature allows audiences tosee that even superheroes have jerky moments. Always picking on Hank, Alex seems to be the typical high school jock of the small pack. But what Till does really well is support his fellow actors. He, Jones and Edi Gathegi (Darwin) work together as the team’s three amigos.

Kevin Bacon plays the role Sabastian Shaw, who unfortunately does not have an epic Super Villain name. Nevertheless, Bacon delivers his best as he plays the super villain in this film. Being the major cause to who Erik has become, Bacon plays the multilingual ex-Nazi German doctor well. You really do hate him in this film and he plays the character really fantastically, not to mention hold every single accent and language that his character has been given to speak! Bacon matches Fassbender’s poise as they battle the screen to see which one of them will have the seat of super villain king forever.

Rose Byrne Another Aussie on the screen is brilliant, as we only get a small glimpse of Hugh Jackman in this film. She plays a CIA agent who is part of the whole revolution of the X-men. Byrne never overplays her character, she is a true friend to all the mutants throughout the entire film and when times for her to be questioned, she doesn’t overplay the confusion over the events. She did well in playing a character that comes along side the X-men, even if she didn’t have super powers.

The Special Effects

Tops to Marvel this time around! They disappointed me with Thor, but they’ve never disappointed me when it comes to the X-men. When it comes to Magneto you know you’re dealing with amazing SE’s. Submarines, missiles and military weapons at the hands of a person who doesn’t even need to touch the items – man that’s really awesome stuff! I don’t want to give too much away, but I am telling you the SE’s are flawless. You can’t have a film about superheroes and not have someone flying. Banshee serves this expectation well with his sonar flight and you can’t even see a fault in their string work. The coolest SE I would have to say is Shaw’s absorbing methods. Yes the energy and the bullets are all absorbed by him, but when he releases the energy – BOOOOOOM!!!! I don’t want to give too much awesomeness away by awful description so I’ll just let you watch it for yourself.

Overall thoughts…

The reason I’m not talking about costumes is simply because they don’t have any new ones that we haven’t seen before. So apologies if you wanted me to talk about them, but the suits are still the same, just a bit of yellow, and yes, Magneto still has his helmet. Anyways…

I loved this film for its story and the development of its characters. I’ve never fully understood X-men until now and for those of you who have ever felt the same (or have never seen the other X-men films) start with this film, then X-men Origins and then X-men 1-3. I have never wanted to sit through an entire superhero series until now. I have a feeling that the X-men DVD box set will be on my Christmas wish list this year – it’ll be on your too after you see this film!

Star Rating: 5 Stars

Next! On sL: TBA

FILM: Soul Surfer

When you’re living in Hawaii and are raised by two ex-pro surfers the only thing on your mind is the ocean and your surfboard. Bethany Hamilton (Anna Sophie Robb) was an ordinary teenager with a dream – to follow in her parent’s footsteps and become a pro-surfer. The ocean is her home and her surfboard is her best friend. But when an ordinary day changes her life forever, suddenly the ocean becomes a distant memory and her surfboard is just a piece of furniture. But determined to beat the odds, Bethany realises that circumstance in life don’t stop your dreams, they’re part of the journey.

The Story

Based on the true story of Bethany Hamilton, Soul Surfer, lives up to its title. Taking on the critical moments before and after the ordeal within Hamilton’s autobiography, Soul Surfer endeavours to take viewers into the journey that made Bethany into the woman she is today. A life driven by the power of the ocean and the opportunities given by God, the film takes you through the high points and the low points that Bethany went through in her endeavour to live her life just as it was before she lost her arm. Not too dramatised, the film takes the viewer into a place where you can empathise with Bethany and her family, as well as rejoice as she overcomes all odds.

Casting

Anna Sophie Robb is fantastic at playing Bethany. Her lively screen presence as well as her great grasp at the authenticity of the character she portrayed made her lovable and believable on the screen. I was struck by the ease of her portrayal and was easily swayed by her performance as she led every single person in the cinema into an empathetic journey from happiness to utter joy.

Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt were magnificent in their depiction of Tom and Cheri Hamilton. Their chemistry on screen as they played the husband and wife was not over played and unbelievable, but rather perfect in their display of love for their daughter, for each other, their family and strive through personal troubles that came from the ordeal.

Lorrain Nicholson who played Alana Blanchard, Bethany’s best friend, did an incredible job supporting Robb. She and Robb were believable as best friends and she beautifully played the role as she never overshadowed or underplayed her own character’s authenticity.

Carrie Underwood who plays, Sarah Hill – Bethany’s youth leader, did an incredible job as she portrayed the role of a person who gave Bethany another opportunity when life got hard. Underwood’s representation of a very significant person in Bethany’s was brilliant and resounded to those who have had mentors of their own.

Overall thoughts…

This is a simple movie with a simple message, hence the short review. Nevertheless it is a film with a great message, great cast and a feel-good atmosphere throughout the entire film. The only thing that nagged me was those over-the-top earrings that the wardrobe department made Carrie Underwood wear throughout the film – definitely out of place if you’re going on a missions trip. But I encourage you to see this film. Bethany Hamilton lives her life in the service and to the glory of the Kingdom of God and her faith is evident throughout this film, but believe me when I say, you don’t have to believe in God to appreciate this film. It’s a breath of fresh air from a lot of the other films being released today. If ever you have any doubts on what film to watch, purchase a ticket for Soul Surfer and believe me, it’ll be worth the mystery.

NEXT: X-MEN First Class

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT: Mary Poppins The Musical

A classic Disney film that enchanted the hearts of many has come to town, only this time, the magical tale is centre stage. Many will debate that the theatre has lost its place in society, lost in the hype of cinema and television; it’s hard to say where the stage fits. Nevertheless, the Sydney Capitol Theatre has housed many acclaimed musicals and performances since its opening in 1866. Shows such as: Miss Saigon (1996), My Fair Lady (1997), Midsummer Night’s Dream (1997), West Side Story (1997), Chicago (1999), Swan Lake (2002), Lion King (2003), Billy Elliot (2008), Wicked (2009) and in 2011…

The warm hearted Nanny sent from heaven, joins the list. Mary Poppins graced the big screens in 1964 with fresh faced Julie Andrews, where Disney took audiences on another magical journey of the imagination. In a time of change, Mary Poppins dared viewers to dream and created a ‘Wonderland’ where there was wonder throughout the land.

Mary Poppins brought tunes like, “A Spoon Full of Sugar”, “Chim, Chim Cher-ee” and of course, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” into the bank of Disney classics. Now, 47 years after it brought magic on the screen, Mary Poppins takes to stage in order to show people the value of theatre once more.

The Story

This nostalgic stage adaptation co-created by Cameron Mackintosh (Australian production directed by, Richard Eyre), brings to life the ‘Practically Perfect’ Nanny in order to make the Banks home a better place. Mary Poppins (Verity Hunt-Ballard) has been summoned by Jane (Lexie Duncan) and Michael Banks (Alex Chorley) after running away from yet another Nanny. As George (Philip Quast) and Winifred (Marina Prior) Banks endeavour to write an advertisement, Mary appears in their living room and takes the job without being asked. Narrated through and through with delightful songs sung by tradesman, Bert (Matt Lee), Mary Poppins takes you on the same journey it took many back in 1964 – Cherry Tree Lane.

What was really special about the story is the fact that it retains much of the magical moments of the film. The beautiful thing about this stage adaptation are the new scenes that are either replace scenes in the film or have been added in order to have another degree of flavour to the story. There are great parallels with the film, but all in all, I would say that Mary Poppins – The Musical is almost a whole new story on its own. By almost I mean, the characters, songs and initial basis of Mary’s entrance is the same, but it focuses much more on the family dynamics than the film did. Nevertheless, it’s still ‘a jolly holiday with Mary.’

The Cast

As a whole, the cast were all spectacular in their choreography, singing and acting. I will say that Mary Poppins has one of the best ensembles I have ever seen – but I’ll get to that when I talk about choreography! What I can say now is I was delighted to have seen the show with the main cast, with the exception of Debra Byrne (Bird Lady), but I thought Natalie Alexopoulos was very moving anyway.

Mary Poppins – It was ‘a jolly good holiday with’ Verity Hunt-Ballard. It’s not easy to play a role that was not just portrayed by Hollywood’s most beloved star, but one of Disney’s most beloved characters as well. With big (and light-footed) shoes to fill, Hunt-Ballard gives a fantastic performance. She was believable (as believable as a ‘Practically Perfect’ person can be), humorous and had an amazing voice. Though her singing was absolutely brilliant, I thought her speaking at times became rather high-pitched – but it wasn’t often enough for me to really be annoyed by it.

Bert – Can I just say, I knew Matt Lee could dance, but I never knew he could sing!!! Shock aside, I was delighted to have a familiar face performing in front of me (as you might have guessed from the multitude of film reviews I do, I’m not much of theatre goer). I was really impressed by his grasp of tradesman’s accent; he didn’t falter once! Bert was another beloved character that balanced Mary, he in many ways, was a character that was seemingly ‘practically perfect in every way’ as well – though, most people would not agree. Nevertheless, Lee made Bert super-sweet, endearing and almost childish – everyone has an inner child, Bert is a man who views the world with a child’s eyes – he sees the good in people and situations.

Jane and Michael Banks – Lexie Duncan and Alex Chorley are 2 of 10 (5 Janes and 5 Michaels) to play the Banks children. As a pair, Duncan and Chorley had a fantastic dynamic; they really made me believe that they were brother and sister. Their voices complemented each other well and they worked well together as a team. Duncan was a perfect older sister that was adamant in defying all her Nannies, while Chorley played the younger sibling who was both naughty and sensitive to all people.

George and Winifred Banks – I have always admired Marina Prior, and as she embodies Winifred Banks, she gave and outstanding performance – again I was happy to see another familiar face! Philip Quast was just as dazzling and believable as Prior in his portrayal of a head-of-the-house man who is held together by the right choices he makes outside the home. Together Quast and Prior bring forth a loving and realistic couple; their voices were fantastic and well in tuned to one another. I will say, I missed Mrs. Banks’ vouch for women’s suffrages from the film, but was glad to see it re-asserted to suit a different kind of women’s liberation (don’t worry I won’t spoil it for you!).

Music, Ensemble and Choreography

You cannot have a musical and not talk about the choreography. Each musical number was brilliantly choreographed and each ensemble within the choreography was tight and precise. Although most people will say ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ was one of the best numbers, my favourite was ‘Step In Time’. It was my favourite number in the film and it was my favourite number on the stage – but telling you why would spoil it (clue: it’s to do with the effects available on stage)! But in all honesty, the entire show as a whole had great energy and were all ‘in time’ with one another. Kudos Matthew Bourne, Stephen Mear and George Stiles!!!

The orchestra, under the direction of Michael Tyack, beautifully played Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman’s music and lyrics. Every single song was as bold as every note played by every instrument – it helped the senses really get into the music and leave audiences singing all the way home!

Costumes, Props, Set and Lighting Design

Costumes and Props – You cannot talk about Mary Poppins without her iconic coat, bag, hat and (of course) her magical umbrella. What I really liked about this production is that each coat that she wore in each scene matched a particular set design: black for 17 Cherry Tree Lane; red for the park or the roof top; and purple for the moments that need a little extra magic. Though the majority of the characters were not as eclectic, I loved the ‘Jolly Holiday’ number where everyone had a livelier colour pallet to suit the words of the song. Nevertheless, much of the costuming was reminiscent of the film as well as the early 20^th century that the film was set in.

I was very impressed by many of the small props that aided the characters on stage, like the fake dog and canary. Even though I knew they were fake, I enjoyed their robotic elements and sound effects that went along with them to make them seem realistic. I was especially delighted by one of the paintings that Bert paints for Mary of flowers and he pulls them straight from the canvas and hands them to her – how charming.

Set – My goodness! 17 Cherry Tree Lane is a magical place without Mary! The way that the set pops out from the projected scenery is absolutely breath taking! I was amazed by how much room was in that one set alone! It rotated, opened and closed – not to mention had a front and back! The roof set, as a separate set from the main home structure was a little less impressive, but was beautifully animated in a new song entitled, ‘Playing The Game’. But it was most enchanting in ‘Jolly Holiday’ when the sets became part of the ensemble and ensemble became the sets. Bravo to the entire set design team!

Lighting – Brilliant! It wasn’t the typical focus-on-this-character-and-this-character type of lighting, it was a sensational prompter. Every scene was heightened by the brightness and darkness of the stage. On particular scene I loved and moved me the most was the ‘Feed The Birds’ scene. Beautifully enhanced by a bare stage and a merely projected setting, this scene was just a delicate balance of low flood lights and snow-like rays of light; beautiful and moving.

Working with Strings

Alright, cat’s out of the bag. The secret to this performance hangs on – you guessed it – string work. We all know people can’t really fly and kites need the wind for it to be up in the air, but what’s really great about this production is, the strings are not obvious. Though there were times I could tell they were taking harnesses off Mary and sometimes the light would reveal the odd string or two, it never really took you away from the spectacle in front of you.

Overall thoughts…

Simply, I want to see it again. I really do. That’s it. I missed out on Wicked and the last time I was at the Capitol Theatre was 7 years ago for Lion King. So, I’m telling you, it is worth going to this production. Take your kids! The family next to me had a blast with their two daughters and this is not just for the young, elderly people all around me enjoyed the show too. We were all singing, ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ (I love how Word knows that that’s a word!) as we left the theatre. Go see it!

sL Star Rating: 5 stars

Next on sL: TBA

FILM: Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2 - Rodrick Rules

Last weekend a bunch of my church-mates and I decided that we should go and see the new Diary of a Wimpy Kid Movie, little did I know that I would play 'Mum'. Anyway, all that paid off as the movie was completely hilarious - even if I had to walk out towards the end of the movie to take one of my 'children' to the toilet.

Pre-warning, this review isn't that long, because I don't want to give too much away. :D

The Story

Greg Heffley (Zachary Gordon) is back, this time, he's got a bigger problem then his self image - it's his family. For the first time in his life, his mother (Rachael Harris) has decided to take matters in her own hands when it comes to how Greg and his older brother, Rodrick (Devon Bostick) treat each other. But the whole idea behind her 'Mom-bucks' doesn't exactly work when all they're concerned about is themselves. But after an incident with a 'D-O-R-E' (door) spins their rivalry into camaraderie, Greg actual realises that maybe having a big brother is not so bad after all.

***

Ok, if my siblings and I though the first movie was hilarious, this movie steps the hilarity up a notch for those of you who ever grew up with siblings! Gabe Sachs and Jeff Judah take Jeff Kinney's book series and translate it well to screen by staying close to the book. David Bower's incorporation of Kinney's illustrations just added a delightful touch for those who have read the books. Greg is less unlikable in this movie and the addition of a love interest, Holly Hills (Peyton List) just makes him that much more human with his feelings.

What I love about the story is the evolution of the relationship between the two brothers, they go from enemies to comrades to enemies to...well, it's a cycle really - if you've experience 'siblinghood' in real life you'll know how the cycle works. For those of you who are an only child, then you've probably seen it when you've been with friends and their siblings.

Casting

The reason I'm not talking about that cast in detail is because this is a sequel and the standard has not changed. What has changed is which actors you see more often. Rachael Harris and Devon Bostick are two people that are more focused on in this film and Robert Capron (Rowley) Grayson Russell (Fregley) step back to let Greg's mother and brother shine. Steve Zahn, who plays Frank Heffley, is not as centred as Harris, but supported the family whole very well. New addition, Peyton Hills (27 Dresses - Young Jane), carries her small part well as she graces the screen as Greg's middle-school siren with her perky smile and good-girl act. Karan Brar, who plays Chirag Gupta, is another actor who is seen much more in this film with his quirky insight on the way of things in middle school life.

Overall, they all did a great job and I have to say "Lodid Diper" (prenounced, "Loaded Diaper") are pretty good!

Overall thought...

Definitely a family movie that can be seen by anyone. Seriously guys, I have never laughed so hard in my life. This movie is so relatable and must be shared with your friends and family. It may be going out of cinemas soon, so if you miss it, be sure to hire it out in your local video store. You won't regret it! Settle down with popcorn and have the laugh of your life, because Zachary Gordon is a brilliant protagonist with great supporters.

Best Call: Kid sings, "Exploding Diaper!!!" right after Rodrick's band finished playing.

sL SR: 5 stars

Next on sL: Mary Poppins The MUSICAL