Reviews (4,763)

I recently watched the Canadian film 🇨🇦 Into the Forest (2015) on Tubi. The story takes place in a world where a mysterious outbreak has wiped out much of the population, leaving behind only scavengers and survivalists. Two sisters navigate this bleak landscape together-one clings to hope and love, dreaming of a safer society, while the other remains grounded in the harsh realities they face. It's a grim world, especially for two young women trying to survive on their own.

Directed by Patricia Rozema (Mansfield Park), the film stars Elliot Page (Juno), Evan Rachel Wood (Thirteen), Max Minghella (The Handmaid's Tale), and Callum Keith Rennie (The Umbrella Academy).

While the premise is familiar, it's handled with authenticity. The world feels believable, the circumstances are grounded, and the performances-especially from Page and Wood-are strong and emotionally resonant. Their dynamic as sisters feels lived-in and compelling. That said, I was a bit taken aback by a brief topless scene involving Page, and while the rape scene was disturbing, it was portrayed with a sense of realism and weight that fit the film's tone.

Despite a solid setup and some strong moments, I kept waiting for the story to go deeper or land with more emotional impact. The ending, in particular, didn't quite deliver the payoff I was hoping for.

In conclusion, Into the Forest has strong acting and a convincing setup, but it didn't fully live up to its potential. I'd give it a 5/10 and only recommend it if you've run out of better options.

We went as a family last night to see LILO & Stitch (2025) in theaters. The storyline follows an alien-created experiment that escapes to Earth, disguising itself as a pet. The alien scientist who created it, along with an Earth expert, are sent to retrieve the rogue creature. Meanwhile, two sisters-who have lost their parents and are struggling to make ends meet-discover and adopt the experiment, unknowingly setting in motion a chain of events that changes their lives forever... but is it for better or worse?

Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On), the film stars Sydney Agudong (At Her Feet), Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover), Courtney B. Vance (Dangerous Minds), Maia Kealoha, and Tia Carrere (Wayne's World).

This movie far exceeded my expectations. While about 90% of the storyline mirrors the original animated film, there are several unique twists that help it stand on its own. The depiction of Hawaiian culture and lifestyle is even more authentic and vivid here than in the cartoon. The bond between the sisters is as moving as ever-not just because of their relationship, but because of how it captures the everyday struggle of life. Their connection and emotional journey are brilliantly portrayed and deeply affecting.

The performances are outstanding, with strong chemistry among the cast. My only casting complaints are Courtney B. Vance as Bubbles-I'm not sure he was the right fit; someone with the physical presence of Ving Rhames might have been more fitting-and David's casting didn't quite land for me either. That said, the sisters absolutely shine in their roles; both performances are authentic and heartfelt.

The CGI is top-tier, and the alien designs are incredibly well executed-they feel tangible and alive. I also really enjoyed Zach Galifianakis as the villain, and the warp gun scenes were a lot of fun. While it doesn't quite surpass the charm of the original animated film, there's still a lot to enjoy here.

In conclusion, LILO & Stitch is a fun, heartfelt, and well-crafted addition to Disney's live-action collection. I'd give it an 8/10 and recommend seeing it at least once.

I recently watched Hot Sex in Bangkok (1976) on a random streaming service. The storyline follows a group of friends who travel to Bangkok in search of sex and fun. However, they soon realize that finding willing partners isn't as easy as they expected-and one of them might just stumble into love along the way.

Written and directed by Erwin C. Dietrich (Caged Women), the film stars Michel Jacot (Disco Fever), Claude Martin (Bed Hostesses), Heinz Kopitz (Teenage Intimacies), and Beate Hasenau (Gorilla Gang).

This is one of those softcore films that clearly isn't meant to be taken seriously. It features plenty of fully nude, beautiful women, but beyond that, there's not much to praise. The dialogue is cringe-worthy, and the acting feels like a group of friends awkwardly making a movie over a long weekend. The sex scenes are clumsy at best-especially anything involving the big, muscular guy. That said, the soundtrack is oddly fun, the bathtub scenes are unintentionally hilarious, and there's one cigar scene you definitely won't forget...

In conclusion, Hot Sex in Bangkok is a typical 1970s softcore film that exists solely to showcase nudity. I'd give it a 3/10 and recommend skipping it.

I finally watched Fall (2022) on Tubi. The story follows two best friends who climb a towering, abandoned radio tower to overcome personal loss and rebuild their bond. But once they reach the top, the ladder breaks off, leaving them stranded with no way down. The question becomes: how can they find help and make it home?

Directed by Scott Mann (Heist), the film stars Grace Caroline Currey (Shazam), Virginia Gardner (Halloween, 2018), Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead), and Mason Gooding (Scream).

The setup is strong, with a believable chain of events that builds tension early on. I was impressed by the character development, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan's cameo-though unexpected-was well played. The acting overall hits the mark, and the cinematography, especially the use of camera angles and height, is very smart and anxiety-inducing.

That said, the story does become a bit bland and predictable at times from a survival-thriller standpoint. However, the twist ending was clever and well executed. One minor gripe: the use of vultures as a threat felt a bit unrealistic given the height they're at.

In conclusion, Fall has enough going for it to keep your attention, even if it could've been more creative and emotionally gripping. I'd score it a 6/10.

I recently watched Dragon Fist (1979) on Prime. The story follows a young man whose parents are murdered, leading to his adoption by another family. He grows up training in martial arts and sets out to avenge his parents' deaths. Meanwhile, a gang begins to take over his town, threatening to distract him from his mission.

The film is directed by Wei Lo (Fist of Fury) and stars Jackie Chan (Drunken Master), James Tien (The Big Boss), Nora Miao (Fist of Fury), Hsu Hsia (Drunken Master), and Shi-Kwan Yen (Once Upon a Time in China).

Dragon Fist is a fun and satisfying addition to the martial arts genre, featuring elite choreography, striking backdrops, and a strong dramatic tone throughout. The period sets and costumes really pull you into the era, and Jackie Chan is-as always-charming, skilled, and easy to root for. The plot follows a fairly traditional revenge arc with a few comedic touches that shift the tone in just the right places. There are moments where Chan channels Bruce Lee so closely-both in look and execution-that it's genuinely impressive. Plus, the facial expressions throughout are hilariously entertaining.

In conclusion, Dragon Fist is a classic-style, above-average martial arts film. I'd give it a 6/10 and strongly recommend it.

I recently rewatched Showtime (2002) on Tubi. The storyline follows an assertive, by-the-books detective and an awkward, overzealous patrol officer who dreams of becoming a detective. The two are unexpectedly paired for a reality TV show about cops. Their contrasting styles couldn't be more different-which makes every interaction feel like it should be must-see TV.

Directed by Tom Dey (Shanghai Noon), the film stars Robert De Niro (Cape Fear), Eddie Murphy (Coming to America), Rene Russo (Ransom), and Alex Borstein (Family Guy).

This is one of those buddy cop films that had all the ingredients but just didn't land. It probably needed to lean more into parody-something in the vein of The Naked Gun-and not take itself seriously at all. I will say I enjoyed the opening scene with Mos Def; that shootout was fun and had energy. But after that, the comedy feels forced, and the chemistry between De Niro and Murphy just isn't there. There's no spark, no rhythm. Most of the jokes fall flat, and their interactions come off as cliché and forgettable. There's just not much here.

In conclusion, Showtime is a frustrating watch because it occasionally hints at potential it never fulfills. I'd score this a 4/10.

I caught an advanced A24 screening this evening of the instant Australian classic 🇦🇺 Bring Her Back (2025). The story follows two children with a traumatic past who are orphaned after witnessing their father's death. They're adopted by an eccentric woman who's already raising an orphaned boy named Olie-but her motives may not be pure, and Olie may not be what he seems...

Directed by horror masterminds Danny and Michael Philippou (Talk to Me), the film stars Billy Barratt (Mary Poppins Returns), Sally Hawkins (The Shape of Water), Jonah Wren Phillips (Sweet Tooth), and Sora Wong.

This movie felt tailor-made for me. It's genuinely elite horror filmmaking. The camera work is masterful, capturing every moment with precision and purpose. The writing is original, layered, and deep-every subplot, from the trauma of youth to the emotional bonds between damaged people, is developed to perfection. The film explores how pain attracts pain, and the dangerous paths sorrow can lead us down, all without losing its horror core. Every performance shines, and the child acting in particular is phenomenal.

The cinematography is top-tier-on par with the best in the genre. The settings, practical effects, and horror elements are absolutely superb. The gore, corpses, and kills are among the most impressive you'll see. The film also features what may be the best depiction of biting, eating, and possession I've seen. Even the VHS 📼 aesthetic was a welcome and creative touch. The ending ties everything together flawlessly.

In conclusion, Bring Her Back will be the top horror film of 2025. I'd give it a 10/10-an unforgettable experience I strongly recommend.

I recently watched the Canadian film 🇨🇦 The Monster (2016) on Tubi. The story follows a single mother and her daughter, whose strained relationship has worsened following a recent divorce. While on their way to visit the father, they're involved in a car crash. As they search for help, they soon realize they're not alone in the woods...

Written and directed by Bryan Bertino (The Strangers), the film stars Zoe SwicKazan (Ruby Sparks), Ella Ballentine (The Dark and the Wicked), Aaron Douglas (Battlestar Galactica), and Christine Ebadi (Paper Year).

The setup feels a bit cliché-a car hits a wolf, and it turns out to be a werewolf-like creature. Unfortunately, the creature design and the way those scenes are shot (mostly in the dark) didn't do much for me. The early attack scenes are serviceable but not memorable. That said, the acting is strong across the board, the mother-daughter dynamic feels genuine, and the final attack sequence is excellent-so much so that it made me wish the entire film had been shot with the same energy and clarity.

In conclusion, The Monster is a very average entry in the werewolf genre. I'd give it a 5/10 and wouldn't recommend it.

I recently rewatched The 6th Day (2000) on Tubi. The story is set in a near future where cloning has become a widespread phenomenon. After the family dog dies, a man reluctantly agrees to clone it for his daughter. But when he returns home, he discovers that a clone of himself has taken his place-and now a secretive organization is out to silence him. Can he uncover the truth behind his replacement and the real motives of the cloning company?

Directed by Roger Spottiswoode (Terror Train) and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator), Michael Rapaport (True Romance), Michael Rooker (Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer), Tony Goldwyn (Ghost), and Terry Crews (The Expendables), this film had a lot of potential on paper.

Unfortunately, it feels like it's desperately trying to be another Total Recall-and falls flat in the attempt. Every time I revisit it, I find it more frustrating. The CGI is painfully outdated, and while the movie checks all the boxes for sci-fi, it never delivers a meaningful message or an engaging journey. I will admit that the creepy doll Schwarzenegger carries around is unsettling in a good way. As for the cast, Arnold does what Arnold does, but Michael Rapaport's hair is... confusing, and Tony Goldwyn doesn't make for a very compelling villain. The final showdown is weak and completely lacking in tension or creativity.

In conclusion, The 6th Day is a sci-fi misfire-a disappointment in the same vein as The Adventures of Pluto Nash. I'd give it a 4/10 and recommend skipping it.

I recently watched the Spanish film 🇪🇸 Assignment Terror (1970) on Tubi. The storyline follows a group of aliens attempting to take over Earth by resurrecting infamous monsters-including vampires, werewolves, mummies, and Frankenstein's monster. Can humanity stop them before it's too late?

Directed by Tulio Demicheli (To Love Ophelia), the film stars Michael Rennie (The Lost World), Karin Dor (You Only Live Twice), Craig Hill (All About Eve), and Paul Naschy (The Night of the Werewolf).

The story is a bit all over the place, and the opening song feels oddly mismatched with the film's tone. That said, the acting fits the mold of classic '70s horror, and Karin Dor is particularly striking on screen. While the costumes leave a lot to be desired, the monsters themselves are actually pretty cool and visually interesting. I do wish there had been more kills to raise the stakes, and the ending, while serviceable, doesn't leave a lasting impact.

In conclusion, Assignment Terror is an average entry in the classic monster horror genre. It's mostly worth watching for die-hard fans of vintage horror. I'd give it a 5/10.

I recently rewatched The Devil at 4 O'Clock (1961) on Tubi. The story follows a priest who cares for the native population on a remote Pacific island. To help with various tasks around the island, he arranges for prisoners to be brought in through a deal with local law enforcement. When a volcano 🌋 erupts, the priest and the prisoners head up the mountainside on a dangerous mission to rescue children trapped near the summit.

Directed by Mervyn LeRoy (Big City Blues), the film stars Spencer Tracy (Father of the Bride), Frank Sinatra (High Society), Kerwin Mathews (The 7th Voyage of Sinbad), Barbara Luna (Ship of Fools), and Bernie Hamilton (Bucktown).

This movie is smarter than it gets credit for. It does a great job establishing its characters and their interdependence for survival. There's even a compelling love story tucked into the narrative that worked for me. The performances are solid across the board. The jungle adventure elements are engaging, the volcano sequences are surprisingly intense and well-executed, and the characters are easy to root for-making the story fun and meaningful to watch unfold.

In conclusion, The Devil at 4 O'Clock is a unique jungle adventure with a strong cast and a satisfying journey. I'd give it a solid 7/10.

I recently watched The Surrender (2025) on Shudder. The story centers on a mother and daughter caring for their dying husband and father. After his passing, the mother surprises her daughter with a resurrection ritual-one the daughter reluctantly agrees to participate in, only to quickly regret.

Written and directed by Julia Max in her directorial debut, the film stars Colby Minifie (The Boys), Katerina Burton (Big Trouble in Little China), Vaughn Armstrong (The Net), and Riley Rose Critchlow (The Jessica Cabin).

This one caught me off guard. It's the kind of film that feels draped in a dark, heavy atmosphere from start to finish. The setup-both in terms of relationships and mood-is pitch-perfect. Colby Minifie and Katerina Burton give standout performances, playing off each other with great tension and emotional weight. The horror elements are well executed, with impressive practical effects and makeup. There's also a memorable old-man-running scene that's fun. The film really takes off once the ritual begins, and the final stretch is intense and effective. I didn't love the very last 30 seconds, but the journey leading up to it made the film worth watching.

In conclusion, The Surrender is a flawed but compelling addition to the horror genre. I'd give it a 6.5/10.

I recently rewatched Black Caesar (1973) on Prime. The story follows a kid from the streets who rises to power, running his own territory in New York. As he gains influence, he finds himself in tense negotiations with the Italian mob while trying to fend off crooked cops, rival gangs, and personal drama with both family and women. Staying alive-and on top-won't come easy.

Written and directed by Larry Cohen (The Stuff), the film stars Fred Williamson (From Dusk Till Dawn), Art Lund (Bucktown), D'Urville Martin (Sheba, Baby), Julius Harris (Live and Let Die), and Gloria Hendry (Live and Let Die).

What always surprises me is how intricate the storyline is for this genre and era. The film does a strong job of developing its characters and exploring family dynamics. Reverend Rufus is wild, and D'Urville Martin-an icon in this genre-is a standout. It's a real shame he passed at just 45. The acting overall is solid, though the opening child performance falls flat. And yes, all the women in this film are absolutely stunning. The narrative goes deeper than expected, with some clever full-circle moments, a killer soundtrack, and an ending that still hits like a brick.

In conclusion, Black Caesar is an iconic entry in the blaxploitation genre. I'd rate it a solid 7/10 and strongly recommend it.

Fear Street: Prom Queen (2025) is a film I recently watched on Netflix. The story returns to Shadyside High School, where its dark and tragic past once again takes center stage. As prom approaches, tensions rise in the battle for prom queen. On one side, the popular "Wolfpack" girls; on the other, a quiet student with a haunting personal tragedy that still echoes through the school's halls. When prom night arrives, chaos erupts in an explosive night of bloodshed and horror.

Directed by Matt Palmer (Calibre), the film stars India Fowler (The Strangers: Chapter 1), Suzanna Son (Red Rocket), Fina Strazza (A Little Game), and Lili Taylor (The Conjuring).

While far from perfect, this is a fun and visually slick horror flick. It has a polished, Stranger Things-like vibe across the board-from the soundtrack and cinematography to the characters and tone. The world-building is strong, and the horror effects are top-tier. The kill scenes are standout moments: gory, great blood splatter, and consistently creative. One decapitation scene is particularly well-executed, and the final kill genuinely caught me off guard.

The acting and storyline are just okay-fairly predictable and straightforward-but the film more than makes up for that with its energy and memorable kills.

In conclusion, Fear Street: Prom Queen is a worthwhile addition to the franchise, packed with slick visuals, strong atmosphere, and some of the best kills in the series. I'd give it a solid 7/10 and strongly recommend checking it out.

I recently rewatched Justice League: Throne of Atlantis (2015) on MAX. The story picks up in Atlantis shortly after the death of its king. With the true heir missing somewhere on Earth, his ruthless brother blames the surface world and launches a war-forcing the Justice League to intervene. Can the rightful king rise and restore balance to the underwater kingdom?

Directed by Ethan Spaulding (Son of Batman), the film features voice work by Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings), Rosario Dawson (Rent), Nathan Fillion (Castle), and Jerry O'Connell (Stand by Me).

The animation is excellent, especially in its depiction of character powers and action sequences. The opening ship attack sets the tone perfectly, and the underwater kingdom of Atlantis is brought to life with vivid detail. The classic origin story of Aquaman is handled well, and Cyborg's subplot adds emotional and narrative depth. I also appreciated the inclusion of actual kill scenes-Black Manta is a formidable villain, and the film doesn't hold back. The final battle delivers on every level.

In conclusion, Justice League: Throne of Atlantis is another strong entry in the DC animated universe. I'd rate it a solid 7.5 to 8 out of 10.

I recently rewatched Den of Thieves (2018) on Netflix. The storyline follows a rogue detective who doesn't play by the rules-either on the job or in his personal life-which often makes things more complicated than they need to be. Meanwhile, he's determined to stop a major heist in the works, while the crew behind the robbery works just as hard to stay one step ahead.

This film is directed by Christian Gudegast (Den of Thieves 2), in his directorial debut, and stars Gerard Butler (300), O'Shea Jackson Jr. (Straight Outta Compton), Pablo Schreiber (Orange Is the New Black), and 50 Cent (Power).

This is an uneven crime drama that clearly aims to be the next Heat-but falls short. The opening bank robbery stats in Los Angeles are wild. That said, Jackson and Butler give strong performances and there are some solid cat-and-mouse sequences, where you're never quite sure who's chasing whom. Unfortunately, most of 50 Cent's scenes feel inauthentic, cheesy, and cliché. The action scenes are solid, and the film builds tension steadily, but the actual robbery and shootout climax feel like a less effective version of Heat-complete with a twist ending you'll likely see coming a mile away.

In conclusion, Den of Thieves is a serviceable but overrated addition to the action-crime genre. I'd score it a 5.5/10 and only recommend it with the right expectations.

I recently watched Blue Steel (1934) on Tubi. The story follows a U. S. Marshal who witnesses a robbery and tries to work with the local sheriff to bring the criminals to justice. The twist? The sheriff suspects the Marshal might be the culprit. Meanwhile, a hidden plot involving a wealthy local slowly comes to light.

This film was written and directed by Robert N. Bradbury (West of the Divide) and stars John Wayne (True Grit), Eleanor Hunt (Yellow Cargo), and George "Gabby" Hayes (Randy Rides Alone).

This is a very average Western. I watched a colorized version, though it was clearly originally shot in black and white. It has all the hallmarks of a classic Western from the era-cheesy dialogue, exaggerated mannerisms, and action sequences that are often sped up for dramatic effect. The pacing is clumsy at times, and the plot is fairly unimaginative. That said, John Wayne brings a solid presence as the hero, and the acting overall is decent for what it is. The settings, props, and costumes do a good job of delivering an authentic period feel.

In conclusion, Blue Steel is a passable Western that's best suited for die-hard fans of the genre. I'd score it a 5/10.

I recently watched Until Dawn (2025) in theaters. The story follows a group of friends searching for one of their missing sisters on a rainy night. Their search leads them to a house-possibly the right one to uncover what happened, but definitely the wrong one to survive, as the house has no intention of letting them leave.

Directed by David F. Sandberg (Shazam!), the film stars Ella Rubin (Anora), Michael Cimino (Never Have I Ever), Odessa A'zion (Hellraiser), Ji-young Yoo (Smoking Tigers), and Maia Mitchell (After the Dark).

I definitely enjoyed this more than I expected. As a PlayStation production, it's shot with a polished, clean style. It reminded me a bit of V/H/S with its layered storytelling-different plots and scenarios folded into an overarching narrative. From an entertainment perspective, it also gave off House of Wax vibes: original kills, satisfying gore, and a straightforward storyline that somehow works despite occasional rough patches in the acting.

I especially loved the kill scenes. There's a great mix of practical effects and CGI. The old lady character was creepy and well executed. There's body detonation and deterioration scenes that are brilliantly done, a nasty throat slash, and an excellent possession scene that stands out. Each villain brought something fresh, and the video sequence toward the end was a highlight. There's a lot happening in this film, and most of it works really well-even if the ending dips into cheesy territory.

In conclusion, Until Dawn feels a bit underrated and is a solid addition to the horror genre. I'd recommend giving it a watch and score it a 6.5-7/10.

I recently rewatched Quicksilver (1986) on Tubi. The story follows a successful stockbroker who loses everything and decides to start over as a bicycle messenger. Just as he begins to adjust to his new life, the chaos of the stock market-and his old world-start creeping back in.

Written and directed by Thomas Michael Donnelly (The Garden of Redemption) in his directorial debut, the film stars Kevin Bacon (Friday the 13th), Jami Gertz (Twister), Paul Rodriguez (DC Cab), and Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix).

This film is packed with classic '80s elements: over-the-top circumstances, lighthearted yet relatable characters, a training montage, and a climactic all-or-nothing finale. The cast is stacked with '80s icons, and the family dynamics are nicely portrayed. That New York apartment? Absolutely bomb. The bike ride/dance routine inside the apartment veers into cheesy territory, but it's part of the film's charm. The final bar scene is a strong, satisfying conclusion, and the soundtrack is a standout-it oozes that irresistible '80s vibe.

In conclusion, Quicksilver is a lighthearted ride full of charm, likable characters, and nostalgic '80s energy. I'd give it a 6.5/10.

I watched The Ruse (2024) in theaters last night. The story follows a woman desperate for work who lands a recently vacated caretaker position. She soon discovers that the woman she's caring for is far more than she bargained for-and may be connected to the mysterious disappearance of the previous caretaker.

The film is written and directed by Stevan Mena (Malevolence) and stars Veronica Cartwright (Alien), Michael Steger (90210), Madelyn Dundon (Lucky Louie), and Drew Moerlein (Bloodline Killer).

This is a movie that feels uneven in just about every way. Veronica Cartwright delivers a fantastic performance, keeping the film intense, unpredictable, and charged with uncertainty. Her dialogue, mannerisms, and delivery are consistently strong. Unfortunately, Madelyn Dundon's performance is noticeably stiff, often coming across as inauthentic. Her facial expressions and body language frequently don't align with what's happening in the scene, though it's hard to say how much of that stems from her acting versus the writing.

I did enjoy the cinematography-there are some clever uses of black-and-white visuals and well-chosen camera angles that effectively build tension. However, the kill scenes rely on cutaways, which I always find frustrating. That said, the ending is pretty fun and left me wishing the rest of the film had taken more kills along the way.

In conclusion, The Ruse has enough worthwhile elements to hold your attention, but not enough to stand out in the genre. I'd give it a 5.5-6/10 and recommend seeing it once.

I recently watched the UK film 🇬🇧 Piglet (2025) on Tubi. The story follows a man who escapes captivity and takes refuge in the woods, leaving behind a pattern of disturbing acts. When a 21-year-old woman decides that a birthday camping trip with her friend is just what she needs, she soon realizes she's chosen the wrong woods to celebrate in...

Directed by Andrea M. Catinella (Mouseboat Massacre), the film stars Alexander Butler (All Roads Lead Home), Alina Desmond (Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2), and Shayli Reagan (Mouseboat Massacre).

At first, Piglet seems like it might turn out okay. The setup is solid, and the villain is decently conceived. The kill scenes feature some effective gore and blood splatter, and the film includes some visually appealing sequences, along with nudity and random girl-on-girl action typical of this niche horror trend.

Unfortunately, things go downhill quickly. As the story unfolds, the plot deteriorates, and the addition of Piglet's human sidekick only makes things worse. By the time the final showdown arrives, it feels flat, awkward, and ultimately disappointing.

In conclusion, Piglet is the weakest entry yet in this growing subgenre of twisted fairy tale horror. I'd score it a 3/10.

I recently watched Crime Zone (1988) on Tubi. The story takes place in an apocalyptic future where crime has been eradicated and society is ruled by a dictatorship. When someone attempts to steal top-secret information, they cross paths with a rebellious Bonnie & Clyde-style couple who are more than ready to stir up chaos-and become the perfect distraction. Together, they launch a coordinated crime spree.

Directed by Luis Llosa (Anaconda), the film stars David Carradine (Death Race 2000), Sherilyn Fenn (Wild at Heart), Don Manor, and Peter Nelson (Die Hard 2).

This is one of those movies with cheap sets, props, and costumes-but somehow it still manages to pull you into its universe. It has a "poor man's Cherry 2000" vibe in many ways. While the plot includes a few twists and turns, they don't land as effectively as intended. The shootouts are average, and the ending is as cliché as they come. The women are striking, but the acting across the board is mediocre at best.

In conclusion, Crime Zone is a below-average post-apocalyptic film that's ultimately not worth your time. I'd score it a 4/10 and recommend skipping it.

I recently watched the Italian film 🇮🇹 Dampyr (2022) on Netflix. The story follows a young man who makes a living pretending to be a vampire hunter-only to discover that he's actually part vampire himself. When a remote civilization is attacked by real vampires and calls on him for help, he must decide whether to embrace his true nature and rise to the challenge... or die trying.

Directed by Riccardo Chemello in his feature debut, the film stars Wade Briggs (Spirit of the Game), Stuart Martin (Army of Thieves), Frida Gustavsson (Vikings: Valhalla), and Sebastian Croft (Heartstopper).

This felt like an attempt at an Italian Underworld, but it falls short. There's an overreliance on CGI, and the vampire designs weren't particularly compelling. That said, the cinematography is sleek, the backdrops and props are visually strong, and the makeup and prosthetics work is solid. The acting ranges from passable to unconvincing, and the storyline always seems like it's missing a key element-it never quite clicks.

In conclusion, Dampyr has a lot of potential but suffers from weak execution and a lack of cohesion. I'd score it a 4.5/10 and recommend skipping it.

I recently watched The Final Terror (1983) on Shudder. The story follows a group of campers bussed deep into the forest for a weekend getaway-unaware that a killer is lurking in the woods, ready to add to their body count.

Directed by Andrew Davis (The Fugitive), the film stars Adrian Zmed (Bachelor Party), Daryl Hannah (Kill Bill), Lewis Smith (Southern Comfort), Joe Pantoliano (Memento), and Mark Metcalf (Animal House).

This is a quintessential '80s summer camp slasher, complete with familiar character types, teen drama, and a well-worn formula. It captures the era's atmosphere perfectly, and the acting is surprisingly solid-especially given the genre. The cast is impressive, and it's fun spotting a young Daryl Hannah in the mix.

The horror elements are hit-or-miss, though a few standout moments-particularly the "bus" and "spring" scenes-deliver genuine thrills. The practical effects are minimal, mostly relying on the old-school approach of a weapon swing followed by a bloody corpse. Classic cutaway slasher technique. I also enjoyed the campfire horror stories and the film's overall vibe.

In conclusion, The Final Terror is a fairly average entry in the '80s summer camp slasher canon, but it's a must-see for fans of the genre. I'd score it a 5-5.5/10 and recommend it to horror enthusiasts looking for a nostalgic fix.

I recently finished watching the 38-episode series The Bear (2022) on Hulu. The story follows an aspiring chef who returns to his hometown of Chicago after the death of his brother, who leaves him the family restaurant. As he tries to implement fine-dining practices in a chaotic kitchen, he also wrestles with old ghosts and deep-seated family tensions.

Created by Christopher Storer (Ramy), the series stars Jeremy Allen White (Shameless), Ayo Edebiri (Bottoms), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (The Punisher), Oliver Platt (Lake Placid), and Jamie Lee Curtis (Halloween).

The Bear is absolutely phenomenal. The depth with which each character is written and performed is impressive-smart, authentic, and deeply human. You can't help but root for everyone as their self-doubt, ambition, and personal struggles unfold onscreen. The family dynamic is heartbreaking yet familiar, pulling you in and making you crave more from each character's arc.

The restaurant and food aspects are portrayed with the intensity and precision of a documentary. The attention to detail is staggering-you can practically taste the dishes, even as you marvel at the complex, chaotic minds that created them. It's a stunning look at what it really takes to be a chef.

In conclusion, The Bear is an elite series-rich with character, conflict, and craft. I'd give it a 10/10 and strongly recommend it.