REVIEWS: When the Wind Blows, Shooting Stars and Rowetta

WHEN THE WIND BLOWS
PG, 81mins (Channel 4 DVD, DVD)

Based on the illustrated novel by Raymond Briggs, author of The Snowman, comes a tale far more disturbing than the festive favourite.
First released in 1986, when the threat of nuclear war was great, it tells the tale of an elderly couple who endure a nuclear attack.
Although the animation reminds us how far we have come cinematically in twenty years, the subject is almost still as relevant today.
It’s refreshing to watch a film that’s making a social point, but don’t watch this if you’re looking for a comforting film.***LB

Produced for Buzz


SHOOTING STARS: DRUGS, HOLLYWOOD AND THE MOVIES
Harry Shapiro
(Serpent’s Tail, £9.99)

In Shooting Stars, Shapiro poignantly highlights the differences and ironies between the reality of the drug world and its silver screen representation. He particularly focuses on the substance abuse that takes place behind the closed doors of the LA hills.
Using startling evidence and citing frightening statistics, Shapiro produces a startling book that is sure to interest fans of Trainspotting and of the Howard Marks biographies.
***



ROWETTA
Rowetta (Gut Records)

It seems that Rowetta was so excited about being able to record a solo album that she just sang her favourite songs, regardless of whether or not that would make for a good album. There are only three originals on this 16 track album.
Some good versions are delivered though, with her rendition of Oasis Stop Crying Your Heart Out being a particular success. As with many covers it allows the true brilliance of the song writing to stand out.
She’d be good in a cabaret but is not going to storm the album charts.
**

Produced for Big Issue Cymru