Some movies are just made for each other. Whether they share the same theme, ideas or settings, some just go hand in hand for a pleasurable watch. As a passionate lover of film, I’ve decided to combine some of my favorites for your viewing pleasure.
Vampire’s Kiss/American Psycho (THE BREAKDOWN DOUBLE)
As the title suggests, this is indeed the perfect ‘Breakdown Double Bill.’ Both movies follow wealthy businessmen who begin to lose their grip on sanity in the concrete jungle of New York. Two brilliant performances by Nicolas Cage and Christian Bale, who lead their respective titles with extroverted madness. Whereas American Psycho was a breakthrough role for Christian Bale, Vampire’s kiss was a financial failure at the time of release, with many critics slating Nicolas Cage’s performance. The movie however went on to become a cult classic and has spawned countless internet memes since. Without a doubt, a must see.
The Running Man/Battle Royale (THE LAST MAN STANDING DOUBLE)
With The Hunger Games franchise dominating cinema screens in recent years it’s a crying shame that some audience members may not have heard about either of these two beauties. The Running Man is loosely adapted from the novel of the same name which written by Stephen King under the pseudonym Richard Bachman and stars Arnold Schwarzenegger in one of his most underrated films. The Running Man is a brilliant piece of satirical movie making where convicted criminals must escape death at the hands of professional killers. If you’re a fan of over-the-top action and you’ve yet to see this movie then you’ll be in for a treat.
Then there’s Battle Royale, a film that most movie buffs will have probably seen before, which is also adapted from the novel of the same name. The movie follows a bunch of highschool students who are forced by the government to fight to the death, with the sole survivor being allowed to live. Often referred as one of Japan’s most famous films and being a general favorite amongst many critics, Battle Royale has often been cited as the main pioneer for the teen death game genre. Both films may have similar concepts but they’re tonally completely different and absolutely awesome.
Timecrimes/Memento (THE PUZZLE DOUBLE)
The Puzzle Double is the perfect combination for those who like to think whilst watching a movie. Plenty of twists and turns are to be had, and some great moments are to be witnessed. The scripts are sharp, the performances are solid and you’ll be on the edge of your seat whilst you anxiously await the conclusion to both movies. Whereas Memento is pretty much well known amongst the general populace, Timecrimes is relatively unheard of. The 2007 Spanish science fiction film revolves around a time loop plot in which director Nacho Vigalondo credits 2000AD’s one-off Chronocops from #310 by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, as the biggest influence. A great double for the thinking individual.
It Follows/Halloween (THE STALKER DOUBLE)
If you fancy a horror night that’ll have you looking over your shoulder for the rest of the week then why not watch the The Stalker Double. Both movies consist of a bit of heavy stalking which is accompanied by a thumping soundtrack that’ll leave the hair standing on the back of your neck for days to come. With both movies featuring plenty of death to be witnessed in the idyllic suburbs of America, you’ll never look at the serene setting the same again. Strong heroines, interesting characters and a unique atmosphere that’ll capture anyone’s attention. The Stalker Double is every horror fans treat.
Filth/Trainspotting (THE IRVINE WELSH DOUBLE)
Well if you’ve not guessed, then yes, both movies are adaptations from the works of Irvine Welsh. With both movies set in Scotland, there’s plenty of dark humor, violence and chaos to be had as the protagonist’s in both movies are thrown into a whirlwind of drama. Colorful characters, drug use galore and a blood rush to the head of full blown insanity, this double bill will leave a lasting impact for days to come. Great performances matched by two fantastic directors on both feature films, everyone involved have truly been able to bring Irvine Welsh’s novels to life. James McAvoy puts in by far one of his best performances in Filth and Ewan Mcgregor’s breakthrough role in the iconic Trainspotting is so embedded in British culture, that even reading the title will instantly have us all singing Underworld’s – Born Slippy. Two great British films that every movie fan should see.
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