“Lovely, Dark, and Deep” (2024) is a psychological horror film directed by Teresa Sutherland in her feature-length debut. The story follows Lennon, a new back-country ranger, who takes on a job in Arvores National Park, a place haunted by the mysterious disappearances of fellow rangers and visitors. Lennon is driven by a personal tragedy from her childhood when her younger sister, Jenny, vanished in the woods. As Lennon starts her new role, she keeps track of the missing people in her ranger cabin. During a hike, she becomes lost, and her handheld transceiver’s batteries die. Despite this, she hears distorted sounds and messages over the device. She is eventually found by fellow ranger Jackson, who guides her back and questions her reasons for joining the park rangers. Lennon evades the question, but soon after, another hiker, Sarah Greenberg, goes missing. Ignoring orders to stay at base camp, Lennon ventures into the woods to search for Sarah. Determined to uncover the truth, Lennon hikes through the park, experiencing disturbing visions and hearing Jackson’s voice over the transceiver, even though the batteries are dead. Lennon’s journey becomes increasingly surreal as she encounters visions of her sister Jenny. The film builds tension and suspense, exploring themes of loss, guilt, and the supernatural. With its eerie atmosphere and strong performances, “Lovely, Dark, and Deep” offers a chilling and thought-provoking experience for horror fans. (more…)
“A Working Man” (2025) is a gripping action thriller directed by David Ayer, starring Jason Statham as Levon Cade, a former Royal Marine Commando turned construction worker living a quiet life until his world is turned upside down when his boss’s daughter, Jenny, is kidnapped by a brutal Russian trafficking ring. Levon, compelled by his sense of justice and loyalty, is forced to reawaken his lethal skills to track down the captors and bring Jenny home. As he delves deeper into the underworld, Levon discovers the true extent of the trafficking network, facing off against the Bratva, led by the ruthless Symon Kharchenko, while exposing a web of corruption that extends into powerful circles. Along the way, Levon confronts his own demons, driven by a desire to protect the innocent while grappling with the violence and loss that his mission entails. With intense action sequences, sharp storytelling, and raw emotional depth, the film explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and the lengths one is willing to go for those they care about. “A Working Man” masterfully balances pulse-pounding thrills with a compelling narrative, as Statham delivers a powerful performance that captures the essence of a man driven to confront his past and seek justice in a dangerous and unforgiving world. (more…)
“Captain America: Brave New World” (2025) follows Sam Wilson as he takes on the mantle of Captain America in a world fraught with division and uncertainty following the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. The story kicks off with Sam meeting the newly elected President of the United States, Thaddeus Ross, portrayed by Harrison Ford, who introduces him to a looming international crisis that threatens global security. The conspiracy is led by Samuel Sterns, also known as The Leader, played by Tim Blake Nelson, whose sinister plans unravel in a web of political and scientific intrigue, along with the emergence of additional threats from Red Hulk, portrayed in a dual role by Harrison Ford, and Sidewinder, played by Giancarlo Esposito, complicating matters further. Sam enlists the help of Joaquin Torres, the new Falcon and together they work to uncover the truth behind the plot, facing formidable adversaries and grappling with the responsibility that comes with being Captain America. The film explores themes of legacy, leadership, and the moral weight of decision-making in a turbulent and divided global landscape, highlighting Sam’s struggle to uphold justice and inspire hope while proving himself worthy of the shield. Packed with intense action sequences, layered characters, and thought-provoking narrative depth, “Captain America: Brave New World” promises a thrilling addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, continuing the legacy of one of its most iconic superheroes. (more…)
Monster High: The Movie (2022) is a musical fantasy film that follows Clawdeen Wolf, a half-human, half-werewolf girl, who receives an acceptance letter to study at Monster High on her 15th birthday. Despite her father’s reluctance, she attends the school under the condition that she hides her human side, as humans are not allowed at Monster High. At Monster High, Clawdeen befriends Frankie Stein and Draculaura, and falls in love with Deuce Gorgon. She also meets other characters like Cleo de Nile, Lagoona Blue, and Ghoulia Yelps. The school’s Headmistress Bloodgood invites Clawdeen to represent the students at a Monster High Council on the upcoming Founder’s Day. Clawdeen discovers that she temporarily transforms into a human when feeling strong emotions, especially around Deuce. She learns about a former student, Edward “Eddy” Hyde, who was expelled for being half-human and created a formula to become a full-blooded monster. The film is filled with themes of self-acceptance and friendship, as Clawdeen navigates her dual identity and the challenges that come with it. (more…)
“Trap” (2024) is a psychological thriller directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The film stars Josh Hartnett as Cooper, a father who takes his teenage daughter, Riley, to see the beloved pop artist Lady Raven perform live. However, Cooper soon realizes that the concert is actually a trap set by the FBI to catch him. Cooper, who is secretly a notorious murderer known as “The Butcher,” must navigate this dangerous situation while trying to protect his daughter. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Cooper’s past is catching up with him, and he must use all his cunning and resourcefulness to evade law enforcement and keep Riley safe. The tension heightens as Cooper’s dual life is revealed, showing the stark contrast between his role as a caring father and his identity as a cold-blooded killer. The film explores themes of deception, trust, and the lengths a parent will go to protect their child. The dynamic between Cooper and Riley adds emotional depth to the high-stakes thriller, as Riley remains oblivious to her father’s dark past while he struggles to maintain his facade. With its blend of action, mystery, and drama, “Trap” (2024) promises to be an exciting and thought-provoking thriller that will keep audiences guessing until the very end. The film’s intense atmosphere, combined with strong performances and unexpected plot twists, ensures a gripping cinematic experience. (more…)
Monster High 2 (2023) continues the adventures of Clawdeen Wolf, Draculaura, and Frankie Stein as they enter their sophomore year at Monster High. This year, they face new students, new powers, and an even bigger threat that could not only tear their friendship apart but also change the world forever. The arrival of a new ghoul, Toralei Stripe, adds to the excitement and challenges. The trio must navigate these changes while dealing with evolving friendships and the lurking dangers that threaten their world. The film stars Miia Harris as Clawdeen Wolf, Ceci Balagot as Frankie Stein, and Nayah Damasen as Draculaura, with supporting roles from Case Walker, Marci T. House, Jy Prishkulnik, Lina Lecompte, Justin Derickson, and Lilah Fitzgerald. (more…)
“Halloween II” (1981) picks up right where the first film left off. Directed by Rick Rosenthal and written by John Carpenter and Debra Hill, the sequel follows Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, as she is taken to Haddonfield Memorial Hospital after surviving the attacks of Michael Myers. Meanwhile, Dr. Sam Loomis, portrayed by Donald Pleasence, continues his relentless pursuit of Michael, convinced that he is still alive and poses a significant threat. As Michael makes his way to the hospital, he begins to eliminate anyone who stands in his way. The hospital, now a place of supposed safety for Laurie, turns into a nightmarish battleground as Michael relentlessly hunts her down. The film delves deeper into Michael Myers’ origins. The atmosphere remains tense and suspenseful, with the hospital’s dark corridors creating an eerie backdrop for the horror. The film retains the minimalist approach and chilling score of the original, while ramping up the intensity and body count. “Halloween II” expands on the mythology of Michael Myers, solidifying his status as an unstoppable force of evil and continuing the legacy of one of horror’s most iconic franchises. (more…)
“Halloween” (1978) is a classic slasher horror film directed by John Carpenter. The story follows Michael Myers, who, at the age of six, brutally murders his teenage sister on Halloween night in 1963. He is institutionalized for 15 years, but escapes on October 30, 1978, and returns to his hometown of Haddonfield, Illinois. Michael stalks teenager Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, and her friends while being pursued by his psychiatrist, Dr. Sam Loomis, played by Donald Pleasence. The film builds tension through its eerie atmosphere, suspenseful music, and the relentless nature of Michael Myers. As the night progresses, Laurie must survive the terrifying encounter with Michael, who dons a white mask and wields a knife. The film’s minimalist approach, combined with Carpenter’s masterful direction and iconic score, creates a suspenseful and chilling experience that has resonated with audiences for decades. Michael Myers’ silent and emotionless demeanor adds to the horror, making him one of the most iconic villains in cinema history. “Halloween” establishes many tropes of the slasher genre, such as the final girl, the ominous holiday setting, and the unstoppable killer. The film’s success spawned numerous sequels, remakes, and a lasting legacy in the horror genre. Its influence can be seen in countless horror films that followed, solidifying its status as a quintessential Halloween movie that continues to thrill and terrify viewers. (more…)
“Novocaine” (2025) is a thrilling action comedy directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, starring Jack Quaid as Nathan Caine, a mild-mannered bank employee in San Diego who suffers from congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis, a rare condition that renders him incapable of feeling physical pain. Nathan’s condition makes his life uniquely challenging, impacting his relationships and his budding romance with co-worker Sherry Margrave, played by Amber Midthunder. On Christmas Eve, chaos ensues when a gang of robbers disguised as Santa Claus, led by Simon Greenly, storms the bank, killing Nathan’s boss and taking Sherry hostage. Fueled by love and desperation, Nathan embarks on a high-stakes mission to rescue her, cleverly using his rare condition as a surprising advantage against the violent robbers. The film showcases intense confrontations, dangerous traps, and physical challenges as Nathan takes on the gang while uncovering secrets behind their sinister operation. Packed with dark humor, high-octane action, and emotional moments, the story explores themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the strength of the human spirit. With Jack Quaid’s standout performance and a mix of suspense and wit, “Novocaine” promises an engaging and unforgettable cinematic experience, blending heart-pounding excitement with a unique and compelling narrative. (more…)
Good One (2024) is a heartfelt drama directed by India Donaldson that explores the complexities of familial and interpersonal relationships. The film follows 17-year-old Sam during a weekend backpacking trip in the Catskills with her father, John, and his oldest friend, David. As they trek through the rugged wilderness, the serene surroundings contrast sharply with the rising tensions among the trio. John and David, both strong-willed and egocentric, clash over past grievances and unspoken conflicts. Their heated exchanges and differing approaches to the hike place Sam in a difficult position. Torn between her loyalty to her father and her respect for David, she tries to mediate the escalating disputes while grappling with her own journey of self-discovery. Amidst the physical exertion and emotional turmoil, Sam begins to reflect on her relationships, her emerging sense of identity, and her aspirations for the future. The film captures the raw emotions and transformative experiences that come with navigating the cusp of adulthood. Through authentic performances and poignant storytelling, Good One explores themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and the enduring bonds of friendship and family. (more…)
