Twelve (film, 2010) and Starter for Ten (novel, 2003)

Twelve (2010)

Twelve on IMDb

Freshly released. I'd heard good things about this, but not got to it at the cinema.

The plot is a drug dealer whose life falls apart with various events, like his friend getting arrested and his cousin being murdered. Chace Crawford plays an emotionless role, depending on whether you like that. The rest of the acting was basically the standard of a many-charactered film. The good members of the cast don't get much screentime, and the rest is bog-standard.

The film, I thought, was well-written. The plot is twisted and intriguing, and the ending is nicely original. However, it isn't particularly well executed, despite a good cast. For those who value the story over the film, this is good. A welcome lack of violence for a 'gritty, drug blah blah' type film.

Compared with films like 4.3.2.1, also starring Emma Roberts, or other films of the genre, this doesn't stand up particularly well. With some more flair, and focus, this film might've been very good. Unfortunately, it lurched rather than flowed, and while its interesting, it's not fascinating.

Watch if you like a story, and a a good cast. Not so good if you prize a work of art.

Starter for Ten (2003)

Author: David Nicholls

I really enjoyed this book. Based on a student who attends University, and joined the University Challenge team to try and get a girl, it's an amusing tale, which lurches from the absurd to the horribly familiar.

Nicholls' writing style is excellent, and works on the fact that a lot of what he writes is intensely relevant and recognisable. If you've ever thought 'I wonder if anyone else thinks this', you'll find it here. The characters are interesting and easy to relate to, which is often difficult to achieve in a book set in the past.

This is a must for anyone who's attended, or wants to attend, University since the 1970s. It'll be embarrassing, amusing, and familiar, but most of all good fun. Bring it all flooding back.

The Hangover (film, 2009) & A Long Way Down (novel, 2005)

The Hangover (2009)

The Hangover on IMDb

This film was pretty strange. The actual premise of the plot - some guys get wasted on night in Las Vegas, lose a friend and have to find him - is actually totally lost at certain points. The film is dominated by crude, but funny, humour. Many of the jokes would have been in poor taste, but they are perfectly weighted not to cause offence, cross the line, or do anything except make you laugh honestly.

The acting is good, the story is good, there's really nothing wrong with this as solid entertainment. It may lack a little substance for those who prefer a meaningful story, but it's nice to take time off every now and then. It reminded me of Bachelor Party (1984) starring Tom Hanks - not trying to be serious, just generally random joking which all turns out well in the end.

I'd recommend this as a comedy, definitely for those tired of 'edgy' humour. Reflects the spirit of the party in Vegas perfectly.

A Long Way Down (2005)

Another Nick Hornby novel, I'm not very imaginative. After ten years, Hornby's characters seem to have only improved - Jess especially was fantastically well written. Four characters all want to commit suicide, but decide not to, at least initially, after meeting one another. The story follows them as they try to work out what's the best course of action. Of course, if you stick four possible suicidal people together at random, there is going to be some almighty friction. Steer clear if you are afraid of a good argument.

The dark humour is evident, but not overly emphasised - nobody wants to go to bed wondering about suicide, but Hornby handles it superbly. There are sad moments, but equally hilarious ones, and the balance is about right. I would definitely recommend this book.

A Long Way Down is another excellent short read from Hornby, and is perfect for someone who hasn't read any of his work yet.