The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

A full week this time round in Cairo Cinemas. Two veterans are back at it, with Al Pacino starring in Hangman, and Bruce Willis starring in Death Wish; while young stars are also up and at it, with Margot Robbie starring in I, Tonya. Meanwhile popular stars, Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams, share the spotlight in the film Game Night. 

 

Game Night

What’s it about? The movie is about a group of friends who decide, on one of their game nights, to take things to the next level. While the game is about solving a murder mystery, they find themselves struggling between fictitious game, and hard reality. 

The good: If you are familiar with any of the cast members’ previous works, you know they’re hilarious. A crucial thing about a movie of that style is the on-screen chemistry among its cast members, and we can see how good they work together just from the trailer. The movie’s plot is interesting. We can see this feature being quite an enjoyable ride

The bad: A lot of movies seem to have great potential, but fail to deliver upon execution. 

 

Hangman

What’s it about? Al Pacino plays a homicide detective who joins forces with a criminal profiler (Karl Urban) in search of the Hangman; a serial killer who draws inspiration from the children’s game.

The good: Al Pacino. Any fan of film knows just how good that guy is; his sheer class and mastery of acting can drive any movie forward. Starring next to him is prolific actor Karl Urban, and rising star, Brittany Snow. 

The bad: While the plot may have a lot  of potential as a dark thriller, it also seems a bit childish and effortless, in a bad way. The Director, Johnny Martin, doesn’t have many good films to boast. Perhaps the most notable of his films is Vengeance: A Love Story, an average movie for the deteriorating Nicolas Cage. A bad omen, maybe?

 

I, Tonya

What’s it about? A true story about Tonya Harding, a competitive ice skater who fought her way through, while enduring her tough mother and difficult upbringing. The film also sheds light on the scandal that rocked the figure skating world, around 20 years ago.

The good: Craig Gillespie, the director, is known for his unique take on stories, and this one was no exception. The cast, including Margot Robbie as Tonya and Allison Janney as her mother, is exceptional; their raw talent was elevated by good writing and good directing, making this movie a compelling biopic.

The bad: Movies about true stories always run the risk of offending people. Not to mention that biopics are not hugely popular as a genre of film. As such, this movie may not be for everyone.

 

Death Wish

What’s it about? Bruce Willis plays an experienced trauma surgeon, who faces a trauma of his own, after criminals attack his home. While his daughter manages to escape, his wife is left for dead. Frustrated by the fruitless efforts of the local police, he decides to take matters in his own hands. 

The good: Famous for movies such as Inglorious Bastards, Eli Roth seems to be just what this movie needs. The plot, while not offering novelty, offers enough for Bruce Willis to showcase his talent in action movies, despite his growing age.

The bad: Being a remake of the 1974 Charles Bronson movie, it seems destined for mediocrity: a fate that the cast cannot change. Because it doesn’t offer anything new, the film may seem a bit dated.