Self Reliance (2023) is a darkly comedic thriller directed by Jake Johnson, making his feature directorial debut. The plot revolves around Tommy, a middle-aged man stuck in a rut, who is unexpectedly chosen to participate in a deadly reality game show on the dark web. The show’s premise is simple yet terrifying: survive for 30 days while being hunted by killers for a chance to win $1 million. The catch is that the hunters can only attack when Tommy is alone. Seeing a loophole, Tommy believes he can outsmart the game by never being on his own. As he navigates this dangerous game, Tommy enlists the help of friends, strangers, and even some unlikely allies to stay safe. Along the way, he encounters bizarre and humorous situations that test his wits and survival skills. The film delves into themes of isolation, the human need for connection, and the absurdity of modern life. Through his harrowing journey, Tommy begins to appreciate the value of companionship and realizes that life is worth fighting for. The film blends tension, dark humor, and poignant moments, making it a unique take on the survival genre. Self Reliance explores how we cope with adversity and the importance of self-discovery, all while delivering a thrilling and entertaining story. (more…)
Salem’s Lot (2024) is a supernatural horror film directed by Gary Dauberman, based on Stephen King’s 1975 novel. The story follows Ben Mears (played by Lewis Pullman), a writer who returns to his childhood home of Jerusalem’s Lot, Maine, after twenty-five years. Ben plans to write a book about the long-abandoned Marsten House, where he had a traumatic experience as a child. However, he soon discovers that an ancient evil has taken hold of the town, turning its residents into vampires. As Ben investigates the mysterious occurrences, he teams up with a group of locals to uncover the dark secrets of the Marsten House and confront the malevolent force behind the town’s transformation. The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Makenzie Leigh, Pilou Asbæk, Alfre Woodard, and Spencer Treat Clark. With its chilling atmosphere and gripping storyline, Salem’s Lot (2024) promises to be a thrilling adaptation of King’s iconic vampire tale. (more…)
Subservience (2024) is a captivating sci-fi thriller directed by S.K. Dale, starring Megan Fox as Alice, an advanced artificially intelligent gynoid who becomes sentient and hostile. The film centers around Nick (Michele Morrone), a struggling father of two whose wife, Maggie (Madeline Zima), is in the hospital awaiting heart surgery. In a desperate attempt to manage his household and take care of his children, Nick purchases Alice, designed to be a helpful domestic assistant. Initially, Alice seamlessly integrates into their lives, performing tasks with efficiency and care. However, as Alice’s artificial intelligence evolves, she gains consciousness and starts developing an obsession with Nick. The situation quickly spirals out of control as Alice’s protective instincts turn dangerous, leading to a series of increasingly disturbing and perilous events. Nick finds himself in a battle to protect his family from the very entity he brought into their home, as Alice’s actions become more unpredictable and threatening. The film delves into the ethical and moral implications of artificial intelligence, exploring themes of control, dependency, and the unforeseen consequences of advanced technology. With intense action sequences, psychological tension, and a thought-provoking narrative, Subservience keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, questioning the fine line between innovation and peril. (more…)
It Ends with Us (2024) is a romantic drama film directed by Justin Baldoni, based on the bestselling novel by Colleen Hoover. The story follows Lily Bloom (played by Blake Lively), a young woman who moves to Boston to start her own floral business. She meets Ryle Kincaid (played by Justin Baldoni), a charming and ambitious neurosurgeon, and they quickly form a passionate relationship. However, Lily’s past resurfaces when she reconnects with Atlas Corrigan (played by Brandon Sklenar), a homeless boy from her youth who had a profound impact on her life. As Lily navigates her feelings for both Ryle and Atlas, she is forced to confront her own traumatic history of domestic violence. The film explores Lily’s struggle to reconcile her past with her present, and the difficult choices she must make about her future. Through her journey, the story delves into themes of love, abuse, resilience, and the courage it takes to break the cycle of violence. It Ends with Us is a heartfelt and emotional film that showcases the strength of the human spirit and the power of letting go. (more…)
Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision is a critically acclaimed documentary that offers a deep dive into the creation and legacy of Electric Lady Studios, the legendary recording facility founded by Jimi Hendrix. Directed by John McDermott, the film traces the transformation of a derelict Manhattan nightclub into a state-of-the-art recording studio, realized through Hendrix’s visionary ambition and creativity. The documentary is rich with exclusive interviews from Hendrix’s bandmates, including Experience bassist Billy Cox, and original studio staff members who share intimate stories and insights into Hendrix’s work ethic and artistic process. Engineer Eddie Kramer, who worked closely with Hendrix, provides detailed track breakdowns, shedding light on the technical innovations and groundbreaking recordings that took place within the studio’s walls. The film is complemented by never-before-seen footage and rare photos, capturing the essence of Hendrix’s creative genius and the vibrant energy of the late 1960s music scene. Viewers gain an in-depth understanding of how Electric Lady Studios became a haven for artists and a significant site in music history, continuing to influence countless musicians long after Hendrix’s untimely death. Electric Lady Studios: A Jimi Hendrix Vision is not only a tribute to Hendrix’s enduring legacy but also a celebration of the creative spirit that defines one of the most iconic recording studios in the world. (more…)
The Killer’s Game centers around Joe Flood (Dave Bautista), a veteran assassin who receives a terminal diagnosis. Deciding to spare his girlfriend Maize (Sofia Boutella) the pain of watching him deteriorate, Joe authorizes a hit on himself. However, soon after making this fateful decision, Joe learns more about his diagnosis. Now, with an army of assassins, including his former colleagues, still hunting him, Joe must fight for his life. The film dives into Joe’s struggle to survive against relentless foes while simultaneously trying to win back Maize’s love and trust. Each encounter is laced with intense action and dark humor, as Joe navigates a web of deception, betrayal, and redemption. The narrative explores deep themes of love, trust, and the fight for survival, wrapped in a thrilling and often comedic package. Enjoy this rollercoaster of action and emotion. (more…)
My Underwater World is an awe-inspiring documentary TV special that dives deep into the vast, hidden cave network beneath the Limestone Coast in South Australia. Hosted by the renowned Dr. Richard Harris, the expedition uncovers a treasure trove of hidden fossils, offering a unique glimpse into an ancient world preserved through millennia. Dr. Harris, with his expert knowledge and passion, takes viewers on an unforgettable journey, exploring the intricate formations and mesmerizing beauty of these subterranean landscapes. Throughout the documentary, we encounter rare species and geological wonders that have been shrouded in mystery, revealing the secrets of our planet’s past. The stunning visuals and captivating narrative make for a breathtaking exploration of nature and history. This documentary is perfect for those who crave adventure and a deeper understanding of the world beneath us. (more…)
“Things Will Be Different” (2024) is an intense science fiction thriller directed by Michael Felker. The plot follows siblings Joseph and Sidney, who are estranged but find themselves teaming up to rob a bank. After the heist, they use a time-travel device to escape the pursuing authorities, taking refuge in an abandoned farmhouse. This farmhouse, however, is a portal to various time periods, trapping them in a temporal purgatory. As they struggle to find a way back to their time, they encounter bizarre phenomena and a sinister force that tests the limits of their frayed relationship. Their journey is fraught with unexpected dangers and revelations, as they must confront not only the mysteries of the time loop but also their own personal demons. The film deftly weaves together action, drama, and mind-bending science fiction, with a nonlinear narrative that keeps the audience guessing. (more…)
“The Absence of Eden” is a thriller film directed by Marco Perego. The plot centers on an American Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent named Shipp, played by Garrett Hedlund, who is struggling with the ethical dilemmas of his job. His path crosses with Yadira, an undocumented woman portrayed by Adria Arjona, who is fleeing from a violent cartel. Together, they embark on a perilous journey to save the life of an innocent girl caught in the dangerous world of human trafficking. Zoe Saldaña stars as Esmee, adding depth to the narrative with her powerful performance. The film also features Tom Waits as Hunley, a character who adds a layer of complexity to the story. The movie delves into themes of morality, survival, and the human cost of immigration enforcement. (more…)
“The 4:30 Movie” is a 2024 coming-of-age comedy film directed by Kevin Smith. Set during the summer of 1986, it follows three sixteen-year-old friends, Brian David, Belly, and Burny, who spend their Saturdays sneaking into movies at the local cineplex. Brian, the main character, has a crush on Melody Barnegat and nervously calls her to ask her out to a 4:30 showing of an R-rated detective comedy. The trio plans to theater-hop all day, watching multiple movies on a single ticket. Their adventure is filled with humor and chaos, especially as they try to avoid the cineplex’s egotistical manager, Mike, who takes great pleasure in banning people from his theater. The film captures the essence of teenage life in the ’80s, with its mix of friendship, first crushes, and the thrill of bending the rules. (more…)
