Things to look forward to in the coming year.

Mental is an oddball comedy with meaningful things to say about the proliferation of psychiatric diagnoses in today’s society. It maintains an interesting narrative on the latent craziness that exists in all of us, and when the comedy is derived from this rapport with the audience it is exceedingly satisfying to watch. On the other hand, the majority of the film is utter, utter wank. Mental is as stable as a schizophrenic, but ultimately you’ll be the one lobotomised.

This week we’re celebrating a man whose mere presence in a film adds an extra star to the rating, as written in BFF’s many by-laws. Starring alongside Toni Collette in this week’s Mental, Liev Schreiber proves himself as reliable as ever, being the best thing about a film that isn’t likely to inspire many ‘the best thing about that…’ conversations. He can do no wrong even when all around him brings new definition to the word. It’s a rare effect to have on films, and we wait with bated breath for the day he finally appears in something genuinely brilliant. For now, cast an eye back and remember why Scream 3 was any good.

Splinters?

Seann William Scott is disarmingly loveable in this blood-spattered sports comedy written by Jay Baruchel and Evan Goldberg. Goon might initially strike you as brainless Lad fare, but don’t let appearances deceive you. It’s warm, funny and actually has something (vaguely) serious to say about a culture which encourages, and even downright applauds, violence – as long as it’s safely in the confines of a sports venue, of course.

The premiere of Angelina Jolie’s latest film Salt took place at the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood last night.