Michael Burn’s Peaks and Valleys is a wonderful character study of two people who find each other at the right time. With memorable performances in a gorgeous setting, this is a drama that captivates you from beginning to end.
Tag: movie review
Threshold – ★★★
Powell Robinson & Robert-Patrick Young’s Threshold works best when it focuses on its two siblings simply trying to reconnect. Despite the painfully rushed ending, it shows moments of beauty and allows the viewer to enjoy the overall journey
We Still Say Grace – ★★★★
Brad Helmink and John Rauschelbach’s film is a tremendously effective thriller that does everything possibly right. A slow-burner that reels you in, this is a must-watch film that deserves to find as wide an audience as possible.
The Darkness – ★★
With an overbearing score and a script that simply cannot get to grips with what supernatural influence it wants to take from, The Darkness never gets going. Resulting in a flawed, disjointed film that fails its audience in almost every way possible.
Fried Barry – ★★★
There will be very little between Fried Barry; you will either love this film or hate it. A non-stop ride that takes no prisoners and does even less to explain itself. Jarring and intelligible, this is one for those who love chaos in their sci-fi.
Keep Rolling – ★★★★ 1/2
A wonderful documentary about the auteur Ann Hui. Keep Rolling is an exploration into her storied career that links in perfectly with her personal life. For those unfamiliar with Hui, this remains an open & appealing introduction to the filmmaker.
Truman and Tennessee: An Intimate Conversation – ★★★
An interesting & satisfying documentary that doesn’t quite delve into our subjects as much as you would want it to. Yet, you are invested to the piece thanks to some wonderful visual choices from Vreeland.
The Virtuoso – ★★ 1/2
The Virtuoso is held back by an uninspiring script that hampers itself from the start; a premise that could have had legs is wasted to become a standard assassin thriller. Given only a time, a location, and a cryptic clue, the methodical hitman (Anson Mount) must identify his mysterious foe
Clapboard Jungle ★★★★ 1/2, Arrow Player
Justin McConnell’s engrossing documentary is a treasure trove of valuable information that anyone wanting to break into the film industry must watch.
Beast Beast – ★★★★
Danny Madden’s fantastic feature debut Beast Beast is bold with its perfectly built tension and a final act that hits you like a train, becoming an unmissable and urgent film for young adults in a modern world.
Raw- Second Sight Blu-Ray – ★★★★
Second Sight has made a package that shows the true joy of physical media with their new release of Julia Ducournau’s 2016 film Raw. A special edition release that is worthy of the film that it accompanies.
Here Are The Young Men – ★★★
Eoin C. Macken’s solid picture Here Are The Young Men shines a light on toxic masculinity without ever giving itself the chance to go fully in-depth as its characters deserve.
Lucky Grandma – ★★★ 1/2
With two fabulous performances from Tsai Chin and Hsiao-Yuan Ha, Lucky Grandma weaves a delightful tale that delivers the laughs and knows when to pull at your emotions to bring us a charming film that showcases the value of family.
Tokyo Ghoul S – ★★★
An enjoyable romp that knows not to take itself overly seriously, though it wouldn’t hurt itself to do so to make it a stronger film. A very watchable live-action sequel that keeps true to its anime roots.
Sheep Without A Shepherd – ★★★ 1/2
An intricately written film, Sam Quah’s Sheep Without A Shepherd is a rewarding movie that expertly ramps up the emotional tension in a memorable cat and mouse thriller.
Black Bear – ★★★★
Writer-Director Lawrence Michael Levine’s Black Bear mesmerises with its three devastatingly good leads. This film is full of ambiguity that keeps you engrossed and unable to look away as these characters destroy themselves.
Laddie: The Man Behind The Movies – ★★★ 1/2
A touching tribute to an outstanding producer, Laddie: The Man Behind The Movies is a documentary that should be appreciated by all film fans. While it is far too short, it remains an enjoyable journey. Laddie: The Man Behind the Movies is the story of Alan Ladd Jr., the Oscar-winning producer and
The Oak Room – ★★★
As The Oak Room begins, you never expect it to be as thoroughly engaging as it eventually becomes. Cody Calahan’s film is assumedly effective in a lo-fi movie that strikes you with its simple premise and striking visuals.
The Banishing – ★★★
The Banishing – ★★★
A solid ghost story, with some great performances, Christopher Smith’s The Banishing gets so close to being a tremendous, however it fizzles out all too soon before the end credits.
I Blame Society – ★★★ 3/4
Gillian Wallace Horvat’s wonderfully uncomfortable yet sharp debut feature I Blame Society, is a film that gets under your skin and once it gets going takes zero prisoners. We have a film that is as fantastic as it is creative.
The Head Hunter – ★★★★
Jordan Downey’s atmospheric The Head Hunter is a beautifully shot piece that does so much right with so little that you are left begging for more. A thriller that knows what its intentions are and executes them perfectly.
The Reckoning – ★★
The high hopes of Neil Marshalls The Reckoning is quickly dissipated by a run of the mill story with woeful dialogue and one of the most overpowering scores in recent times. This is one that sadly needs to be avoided. Set against the Great Plague’s backdrop and subsequent witch-hunts against women, Grace
What’s Eating Gilbert Grape – ★★★★
With a powerful and relatable storyline, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape is a look at small-town America that gives it all the respect it deserves, allowing the film to keep its heart. Gilbert Grape (Johnny Depp) feels trapped – with no father present and an eccentric family to care for, he
Siberia – ★★ 1/2
Siberia is a film that will disappoint those wanting an intriguing thriller, but if you stick around for a doomed romance plot, then there is something worthwhile here. Sadly there isn’t much else to grasp onto.
Sequin in a Blue Room – ★★★★
Samuel Van Grinsven’s debut feature is a superb cautionary tale for young gay men, Sequin in a Blue Room is film at its best. This is an essential watch. Sequin (Conor Leach) explores his burgeoning sexuality through an obsession with anonymous, no-strings sexual encounters. That is until he finds his way into The
Portal (AKA Doors) – ★★★
Portal has high aspirations, and for that, it should be commended and ably brings the audience in with it. Sadly it never keeps up its end of the bargain, and those expectations that the audience had are never met.
For the Sake of Vicious – ★★★★
Welcome to your new favourite cult midnight movie. For the Sake of Vicious is a film that wears its bloody heart on its sleeve and, after a tense opening half, let’s loose in ways that will have you clapping away in glee.
Willy’s Wonderland – ★ 1/2
Willy’s Wonderland is a stupid film, not a fun horror. It is a pointless film trying to piggyback on a tired videogame. Utterly terrible and devoid of anything worthwhile. Toss into the forget immediately pile. I wish I could.
Red Rage – ★★
Red Rage throws everything at the wall, and in some cases, parts stick, but far too often, it slides down said wall as slowly as possible, and never bothers trying to clean up its own mess.
Mercenary For Justice – ★★
If you want to know the quality deep within Steven Seagals Mercenary For Justice, there is a line in the film that goes, “Yeah, that’s it for you poophole”, and in a weird sort of way, that sums up the film perfectly.
Torpedo: U-235 – ★★★ 1/2
Sven Huynrecht’s Torpedo U-235 is a contemporary submarine film that ticks all of the boxes you need. This is a film that will surprise you with just how good it is. This is a highly rewatchable flick.
Final Days – ★★★ 1/2
Johnny Martin’s Final Days take its time with its story but wisely uses that time to build up a great sense of desolation for the survivors as the action becomes more and more intense. While not reinventing the wheel, this is a surprisingly solid film.
The Black Windmill – ★★★ 1/2
Don Seigel and Michael Caines underseen film The Black Windmill was Taken before Taken could be a thing. This new release from 101 Films brings us a solid film that brings together great actors in an entertainingly gritty crime thriller.
Shortcut – ★ 1/2
We have a film that totally misreads what audience it should be targeting and by trying to go more mature, Shortcut never convinces its audience enough. This is a film that needs to be aimed at younger audiences to be more effective.
He Dreams Of Giants – ★★★★
An intimate, compelling documentary about Terry Gilliam’s battle to make his white whale. This fascinating glimpse is as sincere as a documentary about filmmaking can get.
BFI Flare Shorts – Into the Unknown
As we reach the end of BFI Flare, we highlight the absolutely fantastic shorts that the festival had on offer. Blurred lines of love & friendship between women are explored in these poignant and beautiful films.
BFI Flare Shorts – Beginnings and Endings
As we reach the end of BFI Flare, it is time to highlight the absolutely fantastic shorts that the festival had on offer. Throughout today we will be breaking down the seven categories and all of their films. First up is the Beginnings and Endings section. If you miss out
The Night – ★★★★
Kourosh Ahari’s The Night is a throwback of a horror that allows for its ample tension to build, coupled with a great script and two fantastic performances, this is a film that never lets you settle.
Charlie Says (2019) – ★★ 1/2
Charlie Says lacks the substance to keep itself moving and when the script has so little depth to it, the whole movie struggles and becomes a laboured piece. A disappointment that missed its chance to say something of note.
Escape Plan 3 (2019) ★★ 1/2
Sylvester Stallone returns for Escape Plan 3, which is far better than the sequel but still languishes from the original. This serviceable action jaunt isn’t the best film, but it never tries to pretend to be.
An Impossible Project – ★★★★
A heartwarming love letter to a more physical world, An Impossible Project is a wonderful documentary by Jens Meurer. A film that both digital and analogue lovers can enjoy and one that they will find hard not to smile throughout. For some, digital is all they know and has totally
The Eight Hundred – ★★★★
Hu Guan’s The Eight Hundred is a tour de force of a war film that showcases heroism at its finest. This brutal film, likes the soldiers in the Shang warehouse, gives no quarters. An awe-inspiring film.
Demon ★ 1/2
Demon is a film that, if given a 30-minute runtime, would be an exceptional look at racial bias and male mental health. Sadly it goes on for too long with too many terrible performances worsened by a plot that doesn’t do enough—a true shame.
Reunion – ★★★ 1/2
Jake Mahaffy’s Reunion utilises its slow-burn storytelling to compel its audience. This complex tale occasionally trips itself up, but with a killer finale, it makes it a film that is worth the build.
Tove ★★★ 1/2 – BFI Flare
Tove is an engaging glimpse into the bisexual life of Tove Jansson, known for the wonderful Moomins. Zaida Bergroth’s biopic is a personal take on Jansson and one that enchants you early on, thanks to Alma Pöysti’s careful performance.
P.S. Burn This Letter Please – ★★★★ 1/2 BFI Flare
Jennifer Tiexiera and Michael Seligman’s P.S. Burn This Letter Please is an astounding documentary that captures its audience early and never let’s go. Full of important stories and experiences, this is an essential watch.
Sweetheart ★★★ 1/2 – BFI Flare
Marley Morrison’s feature debut, Sweetheart, takes ahold of you with its striking charm and sharp dialogue. Coupled with strong performances, this is as entertaining as it is relatable.
Dramarama ★★★★ – BFI Flare
Dramarama gets everything right and becomes the coming of age story that others strive to be. A film that surprises with how strongly it connects causing you to reminisce to your younger days when you were on the cusp of university. A terrific film.
Firebird ★★★ – BFI Flare
While Firebird is a very earnest film, it never allows itself to go through the gears of creating something as emotional as it thinks it should be. By doing this, Peeter Rebane’s film comes across as underwritten and fails to have us fall for the characters on the screen.
Cowboys ★★★★ – BFI Flare
Anna Kerrigan’s Cowboys is a family drama full of emotion and nuance that stays true to itself. This intimate story is as honest as they come.
Cured ★★★★ – BFI Flare
Cured is a film that celebrates the struggle for LGBTQ rights in an era where a simple line in a book stole their freedom for decades. This film has a direct motive in highlighting and educating its audience, to which it does so tremendously.
My First Summer – ★★★★ 1/2 BFI Flare
My First Summer is such a delicate film full of tenderness and love that you can’t help but fall head over heels with it. From the absorbing script to the beautiful cinematography and the standout performances from its leads. Katie Found’s debut feature is one to cherish.
Sacrifice – ★★★
Sacrifice is a horror that forgets that it is trying to tell its audience a story and instead focuses on giving us beautiful shots and imagery. With an able cast who do their best, they are hindered by an underwritten script.
The Greenhouse ★★★★★ BFI Flare
The Greenhouse is a film that is ambitious, and you can see how much heart Wilson-White has given to it; this is a film that stays with you long after you have finished watching it. A hauntingly beautiful picture.
Jump, Darling – ★★★★ BFI Flare
Phil Connell unfurls a wonderful picture with Jump, Darling, showing a great deal of poetic beauty throughout, thanks to two fantastic performances from Thomas Duplessie and the late Cloris Leachman.
Lava (2019) – ★★★
Lava finds Buenos Aires in a state of chaos as giant snakes, cats and witches start taking out people one by one. This entertaining, albeit all too short feature, is a lighthearted adult animation that will bring the chuckles and you asking for more. Débora, a lonely tattoo artist, endeavours to
Silk Road (2021) – ★★★
Silk Road sees documentarian Tiller Russell venture into dramatic fare with a story that should be right up his alley. Yet by altering this true story, some of the emphasis is lost, hindering itself from the get-go.
The Columnist – ★★★★
Ivo van Aarts horror satire delights in asking questions about free speech, censorship and validation in an online world. This sharp film is an absolute must-watch.
Fukushima 50 – ★★★
While Fukushima 50 comes from a more fact-based background, it can pinpoint how close Japan was to total disaster and how a small group of plant workers became heroes. An emotionally rewarding film of heroism.
Last Moment of Clarity – ★★ 3/4
Last Moment of Clarity is a thriller in all but name only; we have a film with endless possibilities, but it never has a chance to breathe due to its truncating runtime.
The Ice Cream Truck (2017) – ★★ 3/4
Lost in what direction and story it wants to tell, a film that could have so much promise as a drama or a horror. Instead, this mishmash doesn’t go far enough with either subplot to make itself felt.
The Winter Lake – ★★★
Phil Sheerin’s bleak Irish drama is held together thanks to its four leads and some superb direction. The Winter Lake slightly lacks in its plot development; however, those wanting a low key mystery drama are in for a treat.
Come True – ★★★★
Anthony Scott Burns moody and lo-fi science fiction film has echoes of Cronenberg as it stylishly engrosses yet at the same time unsettles. A terrific movie that is a gem ready to be discovered by audiences.
The Stylist (Arrow) – ★★★★
Jill Gevargizian continues her upward trajectory as a filmmaker with her strong feature debut The Stylist. Led by the empathetic yet murderous Najarra Townsend, we are given a film that expands upon her 2016 short tremendously.
Butchers – ★★ 3/4
A decent homage to the well worn hill billy films. Butchers has the potential to be far more better than it ends up being floundering by being just too predictable with its story and plentiful clichés.
Gatecrash – ★★★★
Laurence Gough’s second feature is a film that you cannot predict, and from the tense and harrowing opening, the audience will not be able to peel their eyes away from the screen. A true gem of a picture.
Shogun’s Joy of Torture – ★★★★
Exploitation cinema has been around for a very long time; how long? Well, Shogun’s Joy of Torture was made in 1968, and it has been given the complete Arrow Video treatment in this wonderfully depraved Blu Ray release.
Wrong Turn 2021 – ★★★ 3/4
We have a film striving to take a big step away from its predecessors, and it is all the better for doing so. Wrong Turn is an intense, well-written horror that puts its solid stamp on the genre.
The Owners – ★★★
Never rob from someone you know. That is the lesson in Julius Berg’s The Owners. . Not a knockout, but it might knock your granny’s false teeth out.
The Curse of Dracula – ★★★ 1/4
A film that really comes from nowhere to become a surprising joy of a horror.
Skin Collector (aka Shiver) 2012 – ★★
Despite a strong performance from Danielle Harris, Skin Collector is held down by it’s laugh out loud bad script. With some great ideas, this should be far better than it eventually ended up being. Such a disappointment.
The Nightingale – ★★★★ Blu Ray
Jennifer Kent’s The Nightingale is an extraordinary bold film that is never afraid to go where others dare not. Coupled with performances that will live long in the memory, this is a film that needs to be seen.
Ashes in the Snow ★★★ – Digital Release
A heartbreaking tale of losing one’s innocence during Soviet occupation, by a regime that cares as little for you or its soldiers. It struggles to remain compelling despite some particularly strong performances.
Anti-Life (aka Breach) ★★
A film that has its moments, but is seriously held back by some of the disinterested cast and CGI effects that time forgot. Anti-Life could be so much better than it ends up being. A real shame.
Clementine (2019) ★★★ – Digital Release
Lara Jean Gallagher’s feature debut takes us on a slow journey filled with mystery and questions as it has the viewer sink into its interesting mood. Sadly it leads itself astray, but not enough to lose the audience.
Hurt By Paradise ★★★ – Digital Release
Greta Bellemacina’s Hurt By Paradise is a whimsically charming piece that floats through its running time by rarely giving its audience something to grab onto to fully embrace both of the leads.
Tammy and the T-Rex ★★1/2 – Blu Ray Review
Tammy and The T-Rex is a shamelessly fun B-Movie that has been given its rightful cut by 101 Films. An utter joy of a cult comedy horror.
In Search of Darkness II – ★★★★★
In Search of Darkness II – ★★★★★
A perfect, 260-minute sequel doc that enhances & expands on its original. An utter joy for not only a fan of the genre but a fan of cinema.
Available now from February 5 to February 14th 2021 at http://www.80sHorrorDoc.com.
Lost Girls and Love Hotels – ★★★
Director William Olssen’s Lost Girls and Love Hotels presents a bleak character study of a person trying to numb their senses to forget their past. A film about loneliness and yearning to forget.
Rams (2020) ★★★ 1/2 – Digital Release
Jeremy Sims’ brings us a warm-hearted jaunt in rural Western Australia that keeps the humour while never being afraid to bring the drama and a few tears.
A Ghost Waits – ★★★★ 1/2
A Ghost Waits is a pitch-perfect film. With faultless performances from its two leads, this is a wonderfully empathetic film that won’t be long forgotten. A brilliant must see gem.
I Am Toxic (2018) – ★★ 1/2
Pablo Pares I Am Toxic is a missed opportunity of a horror that goes for the easy plot points when the more complex narratives were staring it squarely in the face.
Crone Wood (2016) – ★★ 1/2
Mark Sheridan’s Irish horror has elements that work tremendously, leads Elva Trill & Ed Murphy are particularly strong. Sadly Crone Wood just fades away by trying to do too much in the short runtime it has.
White Lie – ★★★★ 1/2
White Lie is an intricate character study that racks up the tension as we follow a character getting further backed into a corner because of her actions. Kacey Rohl is breath-taking as the complex Katie.
The Furnace – ★★★
Writer/director Roderick MacKay brings his audience a compelling thriller in The Furnace, thanks to a stand out performance from Ahmed Malek and a landscape that shows the brutal Australia desert at its best.
The Queen of Black Magic ★★★ 1/2
Indonesian horror The Queen of Black Magic will surprise you by just how good it is. A visually appealing film with some great scares to set a solid benchmark for the genre for the rest of 2021.
Shark Attack 3: Megalodon ★ 1/2
Shark Attack 3: Megalodon is not a good movie, but it’s total lack of quality makes it unintentionally hilarious. With the final 20 minutes causing me to almost throw up from laughing. If that isn’t a reason to watch this film, I don’t know what is.
Tokyo Dragon Chef – ★★★
Yoshihiro Nishimura’s Tokyo Dragon Chef is a toned-down version of his previous bloody work, but this reined in style only enhances his joyful work. An utter joy for fans of his work and a handy introduction to those who haven’t seen his films.
Summer of ’72 ★★★1/2 – Digital Release
Summer of ’72 is a strong showing from feature debut writer-director Philip Harder. His film tries to balance two main themes at once. Just getting away with it thanks to some stunning visuals and stand out performances from Natalia Dyer and Marchánt Davis.
JSA – Joint Security Area ★★★★
Chan-Wook Parks intense thriller JSA – Joint Security Area is an engrossing thriller that that put his name at the end of everyone’s tongues.
Away ★★★★ 1/2 – Digital Release
Away is a beautiful and stunning piece of cinema that shows the glory of the medium when used creatively. For a one man show, this is a marvel. This is a stunning must see.
Schemers ★★
Schemers is a film, produced, written and directed by David McLean, about himself. This self-focus and vanity are what stops the film from being something more interesting.
The Exception ★★★ – Digital Release
The Exception discuss too many topics in its limited runtime, causing it to lose itself a tad. Despite this, we are still given a tense drama that is elevated by its four leads.
12 Hour Shift ★★★ – Digital Release
While lacking in development writer/director Brea Grant delivers a surprisingly entertaining flick that isn’t afraid to dip its toes into the absurd.
The Call ★★ 1/2 – DVD and Digital Release
Timothy Woodward Jr’s 80s centric horror jaunt The Call gives audiences a solid premise that is seemingly tossed away for no apparent reason by the time we reach the third act.
Daniel ★★★★ 1/2 – DVD & Digital Release
Filled with strong performances, Daniel is a harrowing reminder to what happened to captives held by ISIS. Bold and raw, this is a harrowing film, but one that is important to watch.
Seized ★★★ – Digital Release
Seized is a low budget action thriller that ticks all the boxes for fans. Scott Adkins and Mario Van Peebles shine in a film that brings you in for the action, but makes you stay for the fantastically ridiculous dialogue.
Synchronic ★★★★ – Digital Release
Synchronic is a brilliant film that takes what could be a standard drama or thriller and evolves it to become a high concept sci-fi that easily surpasses films of its ilk with far greater budgets.
Alone ★★★★ – Digital Release
Alone, is a rare survival thriller that rises above the well-deserved hype and allows it’s cast to shine in a minimalist film that packs one hell of a punch.
Let’s Scare Julie ★★★ 1/2 – Digital release
Let’s Scare Julie is a bold one-take horror that is rife with tension thanks to its excellent young cast, it just doesn’t provide us with enough scares.
Blind ★★ – Digital Review
Blind has the story and a lead that could have it be quite an interesting horror film. Yet it flounders in areas that it most certainly should not. A stylish looking film that offers nothing else.
Here Awhile ★★★ 1/2 – Digital release
Here Awhile is a sensitively written and directed piece that is enhanced by two fantastic turns by the Anna Camp and Steven Strait. A careful and thoughtful film.
Safe Spaces ★★★ 1/2 – Digital Review
Safe Spaces is a touching and emotionally effective comedy-drama that details the challenges of acceptance and taking responsibility for events that happen in one’s life.
McLintock! (1963) ★★★ 1/2 – John Wayne series
In memory of my dad who passed away in December, we take a look at some films of his favourite actor. John Wayne. First up is 1963’s McLintock!
Lost at Christmas – ★★1/2
Ryan Hendrick’s Lost at Christmas is a charming Christmas rom-com that allows Natalie Clark to shine with a wonderful performance set in the beautiful Highlands.
A Christmas Carol – ★★★ 1/2
Despite seeing so many versions of A Christmas Carol on our screens, there will be as few as charming as this one that fully sweeps you away. A joy of a film.
Chronicle: 2067 ★★ 1/2
Chronicle: 2067 is a visually appealing sci-fi jaunt that world builds tremendously before becoming all too generic and cookie-cutter for its good.
Scenes of A Sexual Nature ★★★ – Digital Review
Everyone loves to have a sneaky listen in to their fellow humans’ conversations in a park and this is where Ed Blum’s Scenes of a Sexual Nature free-flowingly takes us.
Game of Death ★★★ – Digital Review
Game of Death is a great entertaining modern B-movie. Our seven young adults quickly decide whether it is better to kill or to await a gruesome death.
Fall of a Kingdom ★★★
Fall of a Kingdom that others decent action and is beautifully shot. The overly long first act drags but soon picks up to reach a satisfying conclusion.
Valhalla: Legend of Thor ★★★ 1/2 – Digital Review
Jump straight into Valhalla: Legend of Thor as blind as possible. this is an absolute treat of a film that grounds our Nordic Gods in ways that we have not seen in quite some time. This is a film that is very much worth your time.
Top End Wedding ★★★★ – Digital Review
Top End Wedding is another breath of fresh air into the romantic comedy genre. Wayne Blair integrates the theme of cultural identity with this love story.
Endless ★★1/2 – Digital Review
Alexandra Shipp and Famke Janssen are the shining lights in an otherwise bland YA Ghost remake. “Endless” and its stars performance deserved better.
Skyfire (天·火) ★★★ – DVD/Blu-Ray review
Skyfire (天·火) harks back to a simpler time when disaster movies ran the summer market. This flawed but entertaining Chinese film has a lot of charm with some great action set pieces. Skyfire (天·火) is the epitome of a summer popcorn flick.
Death of Me ★★★ – Digital review
Darren Lynn Bousman brings an unnerving and inventive concept with Death of Me. Maggie Q shines in a film that doesn’t takes the easy option too often.
Concrete Plans ★★★1/2 – Digital Review
William Jewells presents a strong thriller in his feature debut Concrete Plans. An ensemble piece that expertly ramps up the tension to a brutal final act.
Ropes ★★★★ – Digital Release
José Luis Montesinos presents a claustrophobic feature debut in Ropes with Paula del Río giving a tremendous performance. Ropes is a brilliantly executed film.
Death of a Gunfighter ★★★- The Films of Alan Smithee
We look at the films of “director” Alan Smithee, the renowned pseudonym when a director has left the project mid film. His first was Death of a Gunfighter.
Blood Harvest ★★★1/2 – Digital Review
Thomas Robert Lee’s sophomore picture Blood Harvest shows growing confidence in his ability as a storyteller coupled with strong performances from his cast.
Nuclear (2019) ★★★ – Digital Review
Despite Catherine Linstrum’s feature debut Nuclear struggles with a frustrating story despite an excellent performance from Emilia Jones.
Akira (1988) ★★★★★ – 50 Mondays of Sci-Fi
We return to our 50 Mondays of Sci-Fi series with the anime of the 80s Katsuhiro Otomo’s astounding and influential Akira (1988)
The Cabinet of Dr Caligari (1920) – ★★★★ 1/2 Silent Sundays
The Cabinet of Dr Caligari is a visually astounding picture that was as influential as they come to the future of the horror genre and cinema itself.
FOMO: Fear of Missing Out ★★★1/2 – Raindance
Attila Hartungs debut feature FOMO is a scathing look at over the top masculinity and the lasting effects of abusive use of social media. Teenage friends Gergö (Yorgosz Goletsas), Patrik, Bandi and Ábris are into three things: partying, sex and their online following. One night, at a drunken house party,
Hellraiser: Hellworld – ★★1/2
We reach the tail end of our Hellraiser series with number 8 in the franchise Hellraiser: Hellworld. Released an unthinkable and almost impressive 92 DAYS after Hellraiser: Deader was released. Honestly, I can imagine people renting out Deader and then three months later going back to Blockbuster (we had an
Force of Habit ★★★★1/2 – Raindance
Nothing will quite prepare you for the awkwardness and pain you will have for these characters and for women overall after viewing Force of Habit. Filmed by seven directors (Kirsikka Saari, Mila Tervo, Elli Toivoniemi, Jenni Toivoniemi, Reetta Aalto, Anna Paavilainen and Alli Haapasalo. We follow a multitude of characters
In Search of Darkness (2019) – ★★★★★
As In Search of Darkness states, the 80s was a booming time in the horror genre. There is a very good reason why the last 20 years has been rife with remakes from that period. Due to political frustrations at the time and a myriad of other fears of things
Hellraiser: Deader (2005) ★★
We are in the back end of our Hellraiser series and it sure as hell isn’t getting better. This time out we effectively return to the plot of Hellraiser: Hell on Earth. Being creative isn’t for everyone it seems. Welcome to Hellraiser: Deader Remember how we are left with Kirsty
A Dim Valley – Raindance 2020 ★★★★
A Dim Valley is a wonderfully dreamy exploration in what can only be described as a slow mythic folk drama. A film with many more layers than you would imagine. That’s boosted by the final two acts wasting no time in its intentions. Professor Clarence (Robert Longstreet) and his two
The Mortuary Collection ★★★ 1/2
The Mortuary Collection is a wonderful horror anthology series from writer/director Ryan Spindell. This is an anthology that will entertain you thoroughly, with something for everyone inside. Sam (Caitlin Brown) answers the help wanted sign outside the mysterious funeral home of Montgomery Dark (Clancy Brown). During Sam’s interview. She queries
Hellraiser: Hellseeker (2002) ★
A criminally stupid film, Hellraiser: Hellseeker is the first truly unforgiveable addition to the franchise that should be forgotten from your mind as soon as you finish watching it. Spoiler, there will be a lot of the film given away here, but it might be better to know this stuff
The Blair Witch Project (1999) ★★★★★
Do you know what is a great horror film? The Blair Witch Project. I am a little tired of people saying that it isn’t a good film. To what standards is it not a good film? Is it due to it not have the stereotypical jump scares that people are
The Trial of The Chicago 7 – ★★★★
Alan Sorkin has conjured up a bonafide crowd-pleaser with The Trial of The Chicago 7. While it skirts around with the facts at times has its heart firmly in the right place. A must watch a film. Peaceful anti-Vietnam War protests during the Democratic Parties National Convention in 1968 had
Hellraiser: Bloodline (1996) ★★
This will always be a hard film to review because it was not the version that was originally intended. There is a script out there for what Clive Barker and Peter Atkins envisioned for Hellraiser: Bloodline that seemed quite interesting. Though studio executive has got to meddle and we get
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm ★★★★
Borat Subsequent Moviefilm, may have not had the same level of surprise as the first film. But it is still nonetheless wholly effective in its message and enhanced greatly with the inclusion of Maria Bakalova. In Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once
Hellraiser III : Hell on Earth (1992) ★★ 1/2
Hellraiser III: Hell on Earth, spelt the end of the franchise as we knew it. Away from its compelling origin and into the standard slasher fare that studios knew how to market. Trying to continue from where we left off, Pinhead is still in his sexy torture pillar. Or known
New Order ★★★ – LFF 2020
Michel Franco’s New Order is punishing film. Unflinching and unforgiving this is a cautionary tale for societies. Marianne’s (Naian Gonzaléz Norvind) wedding at the spectacular family home is besieged by several unexpected incidents: the registrar is late; social disturbances delay guests en route, and former employee Rolando turns up seeking
Rebecca (2020) – ★★ 1/2
Right off the bat, I have to state that I am not going to bother talking about the Alfred Hitchcock 1941 version of Rebecca. I have seen comparisons left, right and centre. This iteration deserves to be viewed instead on its own merits. With comparisons made only to Daphne du
Hellraiser (1987) ★★★★1/2
We start our Hellraiser series with the first of the franchise, the rest of the reviews will be split into two or so films at a time. But the first (and best) Hellraiser deserves its own singular review. Clive Barker created an unrelentingly dark film in Hellraiser and one that
One Man and His Shoes ★★★★ – LFF 2020
Yemi Bamiro explores the rise of Nikes Air Jordan’s and the effects of having a chokehold on supply vs demand in the fascinatingly balanced One Man and His Shoes. A sportsman with once-in-a-generation talent, Michael Jordan was held up as a symbol of Black progress; he had his own phenomenally
Wolfwalkers ★★★★1/2 – LFF 2020
Cartoon Saloon has created another mesmerising picture with Wolfwalkers that proves that hand-drawn animation is not in the past. It’s the mid-17th century and the Irish city of Kilkenny is occupied by Cromwell’s forces. Robyn (Honor Kneafsey) and her father Bill (Sean Bean) arrive from England. His job is to
Siberia ★★★★ – LFF 2020
Abel Ferrara and frequent collaborator Willem Dafoe join forces in Siberia, a film that explores experimental cinema to its fullest. Clint (Willem Dafoe) lives in a snowed-in wooded area of Siberia. Tending to his small desolate bar. Isolated from the rest of mankind until they visit him he gets by
Lovers Rock ★★★★ – LFF 2020
Lovers Rock is the second part of Steve McQueen’s Small Axes series following on from Mangrove. Boy do we have a completely different film this time out. It’s a Saturday sometime in the 80s. Samson preps his sound system for Blues dance while Martha (Amarah-Jae St.Aubyn) shimmies down her drainpipe.
Ammonite ★★★ – LFF 2020
Ammonite succeeds solely by the sheer force of its leads performances and brilliant cinematography, despite an underwhelming script and direction from director Francis Lee. Mary Anning (Kate Winslet) is a self-taught paleontologist who also runs a shop selling what she finds on the nearby beach in Lyme Regis. Her work
After Love ★★★★ – LFF 2020
After Love takes us on a touching journey of loss, with a career turning performance from Joanna Scanlan. A feature debut from Aleem Khan that shows us a talented filmmaker who will be one to watch. When Ahmed Hussain passes away suddenly in his Dover home, his loyal wife Mary
Notturno ★★★1/2 – LFF 2020
Gianfranco Rosi sends us to the borders of Middle Eastern countries where conflict, trauma and rehabilitation are now the norm, in his poignant and important documentary Notturno. A young couple smoke together whilst overlooking the city at night; fragile plastic tents in muddy refugee camps bellow in the wind. Female
The Human Voice ★★★★ – LFF 2020
Pedro Almodóvar’s English language debut allows for Tilda Swinton to own the screen in the gorgeous The Human Voice. Madness and melancholy intersect to thrilling effect as Almodóvar reimagines Jean Cocteau’s short play The Human Voice for an era in which isolation has become a way of life. Laws of
Shirley ★★★ – LFF 2020
Elisabeth Moss is spellbinding in Josephine Decker’s chaotic drama Shirley that has a story that isn’t on the same level as the performances and style. When we first meet Shirley (Elisabeth Moss), soon to become America’s queen of horror fiction. She seems to be a sad, drunken shut-in, married to