Woody Allen has dominated the film press this month, with his latest cinematic release Blue Jasmine tipped by some critics for an Oscar, and the media buzz kicking off for his next film Magic in the Moonlight, even though the title has only just been released! So in celebration of one of the greatest directors of all time, we thought this weekend you might fancy taking a look at some of the most iconic movies from Woody’s forty year career on Blu-ray.
Annie Hall
Woody became a household name after Annie Hall was released in 1977, winning two Oscars for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay. Described by Woody himself as “a major turning point” in his career, the film was the first time he felt he could take on comedy with a more serious edge. Woody stars in this movie as nervous self-conscious comedian Alvy, who is trying to come to terms with his breakup with girlfriend Annie Hall (Diane Keaton).
Midnight in Paris
Woody won Best Original Screenplay for bohemian fantastical comedy Midnight in Paris. Gil (Owen Wilson), a modern day young American screenwriter sets off on a business trip with his fiancée Inez (Rachel McAdams). Magically thrust into the bohemian 1920s Parisian literary scene during a midnight walk, Gil is set on a journey towards self-discovery which will make him reassess everything he values. The Blu-ray provides an insight into these characters, and features interviews with the cast and crew.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
One of Woody’s most acclaimed romantic comedies, Vicky Cristina Barcelona bagged Penelope Cruz her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. The film also features outstanding performances from Scarlett Johansson and Rebecca Hall, who take centre stage as Vicky and Christina, two American best friends looking for inspiration in Barcelona one summer. At first the pair act as total opposites; Vicky is secure and stable, Cristina is spontaneous, but when the girls encounter Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem) and his tempestuous ex-wife (Penelope Cruz), a much more complex web of personalities emerges.
