The GreAt Gatsby. the review

The biggest problem with Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of the F Scott Fitzgerald novel is it just tries too hard in the first act, becomes rather dull in the second, but at least features a satisfying ending.
Another key problem is the fact i didn't really care about any of the characters. Leo DiCaprio is superbly cast as the eponymous tycoon, Tobey MacGuire watchable as the money man drawn into his world and Carey Mulligan engaging as ever as Gatsby's soul mate.

It looks incredible, though at times like a video game cut scene, and some of the music is great - contemporary tracks done in a 20s era style.

The 3d wasn't bad, Joel Edgerton was annoying, and the over use of the phrase old sport was maddeningly annoying.

7/10

Shame

Michael Fassbender's most gripping performance to date is not for the easily shocked. A New York based sex addict so wrapped up in his obsession he can't connect with his troubled sister (Carey Mulligan).
Director Steve McQueen does a masterful job, especially in the opening scenes where our lusty protagonist seduces a subway commuter with his eyes. It's a brilliant scene because it's not hampered by corny dialogue.
Alas, as the film progresses, the addict's obsessions have nowhere to go. He seduces an office worker and when he fails to perform in the bedroom, goes off the rails.
When an inevitable tragedy occurs, our hero's redemption seems impossible.
The final scenes pay off nicely, but by then it seems Fassbender's alter ego is too far gone to care about. 4/5