Rise of the Guardians *****

Since the publication of his first book in 1976, New York-born writer James Patterson has become a literary sensation.

Marcus Nispel's silly, violent fantasy epic Conan the Barbarian is Hollywood's second attempt at building a franchise based on pulp author Robert E. Howard's signature character.

The British actress Sienna Miller formed such a close bond with her ‘G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra’ co-star Rachel Nichols the pair chose to mark Valentine's day by spending time alone in bed - away from the male-dominated film set.

Set during one evening, this frightener could have been so much better - but is let down by poor characterisation, weak plotting and all-round indifference.