“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…)
“Blink Twice” (2024) is a psychological thriller directed by Zoë Kravitz in her directorial debut. The story follows Frida, a young waitress, who attends an exclusive event where she meets billionaire tech mogul Slater King, played by Tatum. King invites her and her friend Jess to his private island for a getaway. Once on the island, the guests are stripped of their phones and treated to lavish accommodations and potent hallucinogenic drugs. As the days pass, strange occurrences begin to unfold, and Jess mysteriously disappears. Frida, determined to uncover the truth, discovers unsettling secrets about the island and its inhabitants. The film is a slow-burn thriller that builds tension and mystery, leading to a shocking and satisfying conclusion. With its atmospheric setting and strong performances, “Blink Twice” explores themes of power, manipulation, and the lengths people go to uncover the truth. The film promises to be a standout thriller, offering a unique blend of mystery and psychological depth, anchored by Kravitz’s vision and the talented ensemble cast. “Blink Twice” provides a compelling exploration of human nature and the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface. (more…)
“My Old Ass” (2024) is a fresh coming-of-age story. The film stars Maisy Stella as Elliott, a free-spirited 18-year-old who, during a mushroom trip on her birthday, encounters her wisecracking 39-year-old self, played by Aubrey Plaza. This unexpected meeting forces Elliott to rethink her life choices and relationships. As her older self starts handing out warnings about what she should and shouldn’t do, Elliott realizes she has to reconsider everything about family, love, and her future. The film explores themes of self-discovery and the impact of our choices over time, blending humor and heartfelt moments. “My Old Ass” promises to be a transformative summer tale filled with laughter and introspection. As Elliott navigates the complexities of growing up, her interactions with her older self provide both comedic and poignant insights. The film’s narrative highlights the humorous yet meaningful journey of understanding one’s future self and the significance of the decisions made in youth. “My Old Ass” uniquely combines elements of fantasy and reality, making it a standout addition to coming-of-age cinema. With its engaging storyline and memorable performances, the film offers a fresh perspective on the timeless theme of self-discovery, ensuring it resonates with audiences of all ages. (more…)
“Challengers” (2024) is a romantic sports film. The story revolves around a love triangle involving Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, her husband Art Donaldson, a tennis champion on a losing streak, and her ex-boyfriend Patrick Zweig, a low-circuit tennis player. The film spans 13 years of their intertwined relationships. As past and present collide, tensions rise, and Tashi must confront the emotional and professional challenges of her life. The narrative explores themes of ambition, love, and the personal cost of competitive sports, painting a complex portrait of its characters’ struggles and desires. With its intense drama and deep emotional undertones, “Challengers” offers a captivating look into the world of professional tennis, highlighting the pressure and sacrifices made in pursuit of greatness. The film delves into the dynamics of mentorship and rivalry, providing a rich, character-driven story. As Tashi navigates her relationships and career, viewers are treated to a compelling exploration of passion, rivalry, and the quest for success, making “Challengers” a must-watch for fans of sports dramas and romantic tales alike. (more…)
“Strange Darling” (2023) is a psychological thriller. Set in rural Oregon, the film revolves around a one-night stand that escalates into a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse. The story is divided into nonlinear chapters, each unveiling more about a serial killer’s spree in the Western United States. The film follows a woman, “the Lady,” and a man, “the Demon,” who meet at a motel. Their encounter begins with hyperrealistic sadomasochistic roleplay, but things take a dark turn when the Lady drugs the Demon with ketamine and carves “the Electric Lady” into his chest. As they navigate their deadly game, they encounter eccentric characters, including doomsday preppers, adding layers to the narrative. The film delves into themes of deception, survival, and the blurred lines between predator and prey, creating an intense cinematic experience. With its twisted narrative and complex characters, “Strange Darling” keeps the audience on edge, questioning who the true monster is. The movie offers a thrilling look into the dark recesses of human nature and the extreme measures people take to survive. (more…)
“A Quiet Place: Day One” (2024) is a prequel to the popular horror film series. The story follows Sam, a terminally ill woman living in a hospice outside New York City with her cat, Frodo. When Sam reluctantly joins a group outing to a marionette show in Manhattan, meteor-like objects begin falling from the sky, signaling the start of an alien invasion. The creatures, which have ultra-sensitive hearing, attack the city, forcing Sam and other survivors to remain silent and hidden. As the military attempts to contain the invasion by destroying bridges and issuing warnings to stay quiet, Sam and the survivors must navigate the dangerous, silent world while trying to stay alive. The film explores themes of survival, resilience, and the lengths people will go to protect themselves and others in the face of unimaginable danger. As Sam leads the group through the harrowing experience, her resolve and courage are tested, revealing her strength and determination to survive. With its intense atmosphere and gripping storyline, “A Quiet Place: Day One” promises to be a thrilling addition to the franchise. (more…)
“Holiday Mismatch” (2024) is a heartwarming holiday comedy about Barb, a new retiree who joins a Holiday Committee and quickly clashes with Kath, a long-standing member. Their tension escalates when they discover that their adult children are dating via a dating app. Determined to stop the romance, Barb and Kath conspire to break up the couple. However, as they attempt to sabotage the relationship, they find themselves bonding over their shared mission, despite their initial differences. Their antics lead to humorous and touching moments, ultimately bringing their families closer together. As they navigate the chaos of planning community holiday events and the complexities of their newfound friendship, Barb and Kath’s schemes repeatedly backfire, resulting in laugh-out-loud situations and heartfelt revelations. The film blends comedy with the warm spirit of the holiday season, highlighting the importance of acceptance and unity. The festive backdrop, with beautifully decorated sets and a holiday soundtrack, enhances the joyful atmosphere. “Holiday Mismatch” is not just about romantic entanglements and family dynamics; it also celebrates the power of friendship and the magic of the holiday season. The film promises to be a delightful and feel-good experience for all ages, perfect for holiday movie marathons. (more…)
“The Outrun” (2024) is a drama film, based on the bestselling memoir by Amy Liptrot. The story follows Rona, a young woman fresh out of rehab for alcoholism, who returns to the wild beauty of Scotland’s Orkney Islands, where she grew up. As Rona reconnects with the dramatic landscape, memories of her childhood merge with recent challenging events that set her on the path to recovery. She grapples with the remnants of her addiction and the emotional scars it has left, while also finding solace in the island’s raw, untamed environment. The film explores themes of addiction, healing, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Saoirse Ronan delivers a powerful performance as Rona, capturing the character’s emotional journey with depth and authenticity. Through stunning cinematography, the Orkney Islands become a character in their own right, symbolizing both the isolation and beauty that parallel Rona’s inner turmoil and her journey toward self-discovery. With a focus on personal growth and the stark realities of overcoming past traumas, “The Outrun” promises to be a deeply resonant and visually captivating film that speaks to the strength of the human spirit. (more…)
“Light ‘Em Up: Ghostbusters Past, Present, & Future” (2024) is a documentary. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the beloved Ghostbusters franchise, comedians Patton Oswalt and Kumail Nanjiani are headlining a special tribute event. This milestone homage, “Light ‘Em Up: Ghostbusters Past, Present & Future,” invites fans on a nostalgic journey through the Ghostbusters universe with never-before-seen interviews, exclusive clips, and a comprehensive look back at the iconic series. “Light ‘Em Up: Ghostbusters Past, Present & Future” is a 22-minute special that not only honors the franchise’s enduring legacy but also pays tribute to the creative minds behind it. The event includes heartfelt vintage footage of the late Harold Ramis, co-writer of the original Ghostbusters, and the late Ivan Reitman, the visionary director of the first two movies. Through a blend of past and present, this retrospective allows fans to relive their favorite moments and gain new perspectives on the timeless Ghostbusters story. The special promises to be a heartwarming and exciting experience for long-time Ghostbusters enthusiasts and newcomers alike, highlighting the franchise’s significant impact on pop culture and its lasting influence on the world of supernatural comedy. (more…)
“Denzel Washington: American Icon” (2024) is a documentary. The film delves into the life and career of Hollywood legend Denzel Washington, exploring his journey from his early theater beginnings to becoming a two-time Oscar winner. It highlights how Denzel shattered stereotypes by portraying complex Black characters across various genres, forever changing the landscape of cinema. The documentary provides an in-depth look at his rise to fame, his impactful roles, and his contributions to the film industry. It showcases interviews with colleagues, industry experts, and Denzel himself, offering a comprehensive view of his artistic journey and personal philosophy. The film also addresses his role as a mentor and advocate for diversity in Hollywood, emphasizing his influence on future generations of actors. Through archival footage, behind-the-scenes clips, and personal anecdotes, “Denzel Washington: American Icon” paints a vivid picture of the man behind the iconic roles. It celebrates not only his achievements but also his dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to breaking barriers. This documentary is a must-watch for fans of Denzel Washington and those interested in understanding the impact of one of Hollywood’s most influential figures. (more…)
