“Heretic” (2024) is a psychological horror film directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, known for their work on “A Quiet Place.” The plot centers around two young Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes and Sister Paxton, who visit the home of a reclusive man named Mr. Reed. Initially appearing friendly, Mr. Reed soon reveals his sinister intentions as he traps the missionaries in his house. He engages them in unsettling discussions about religion and belief, ultimately presenting them with a chilling choice between two doors: one for those who still believe in God and another for those who do not. The film takes a dark turn as the missionaries discover that both doors lead to the same grim dungeon, and they are subjected to Mr. Reed’s twisted experiments and psychological torment. The movie explores themes of faith, fear, and the human capacity for cruelty, creating a tense and atmospheric viewing experience. The performances by the cast, particularly Hugh Grant as the menacing Mr. Reed, add depth and complexity to the story, making “Heretic” a standout in the horror genre. As the characters grapple with their beliefs and face their darkest fears, the movie offers a thought-provoking exploration of the power dynamics between captor and captive, and the psychological impact of isolation and manipulation. “Heretic” (2024) is a chilling and intense film that leaves a lasting impression on its audience, raising questions about the nature of evil and the limits of human endurance. More …
2 episodes
“Father Brown” (Season 12) continues the adventures of the crime-solving Roman Catholic priest, Father Brown, in the 1950s-set village of Kembleford. Father Brown faces a string of new cases, including a medieval death at a Tudor battle re-enactment, Mrs. Devine finding herself accused of murder, and Sergeant Goodfellow’s professional future thrown into question. Brenda also makes a surprising appearance dancing on national television. The season features a special episode with the return of the devilish crook Flambeau, who is on a secret mission from the Vatican. The storyline delves into various themes, including justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature. With twists and turns, the series keeps viewers engaged as Father Brown and his gang navigate through the mysteries and challenges that come their way. The charming and picturesque setting of Kembleford provides a nostalgic backdrop for the detective drama, while the period-appropriate costumes and sets contribute to the show’s immersive atmosphere. Father Brown’s unique approach to solving crimes, combining intuition, compassion, and a deep understanding of human behavior, sets him apart from traditional detectives and makes for compelling viewing. The blend of suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments ensures that “Father Brown” (Season 12) remains a beloved favorite among fans of mystery and period dramas, offering a satisfying mix of intrigue and character development. More …
10 episodes
“Silent Witness” (Season 28) continues to follow the forensic pathology team at the Lyell Centre as they tackle a series of complex and emotionally charged cases. The season opens with a disturbing mystery: the death of an elderly woman found in a cave, prompting the team to question what drives someone to murder such a vulnerable person. New characters are introduced, including Professor Harriet Maven (played by Maggie Steed), the new Head of the Lyell Centre, and Kit Brooks (played by Francesca Mills), a crime analyst who works closely with Jack Hodgson (David Caves). Harriet Maven quickly proves to be a challenging boss, causing friction with Jack. The season explores themes of love, vulnerability, and justice, with the relationship between Nikki Alexander (Emilia Fox) and Jack Hodgson continuing to evolve as they navigate their engagement. The series promises to deliver gripping storylines, complex characters, and the high-stakes drama that fans of “Silent Witness” have come to expect. The show continues to blend forensic science with compelling storytelling, offering viewers a deep dive into the complexities of crime investigation. The interplay between seasoned characters and new additions adds fresh dynamics to the narrative, ensuring that the long-running series remains engaging and relevant. With its meticulous attention to detail and thought-provoking plots, “Silent Witness” (Season 28) is set to captivate audiences with its blend of suspense, emotion, and forensic intrigue. More …
10 episodes
“The Patient” (Season 1) is a psychological thriller series. The story follows Dr. Alan Strauss, a therapist mourning the recent death of his wife, who is held captive by a serial killer named Sam Fortner. Sam seeks Alan’s help to curb his homicidal urges, leading to intense psychological tension between the two characters. As Alan attempts to connect with Sam and understand his dark impulses, he must also grapple with his own grief and past traumas. The series delves into the complexities of the human mind, exploring themes of trauma, morality, and control. Steve Carell delivers a powerful performance as Dr. Alan Strauss, showcasing his range as an actor beyond his well-known comedic roles. Domhnall Gleeson portrays Sam Fortner with chilling intensity, creating a compelling dynamic between the captive and his captor. As the series progresses, Alan’s desperate attempts to escape and save himself from Sam’s grasp become increasingly fraught with tension and danger. The interactions between the two characters reveal deep insights into their psyches, making “The Patient” a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the dark corners of the human mind. The show’s writing and direction effectively build suspense and maintain a sense of unease throughout. “The Patient” (Season 1) offers a unique take on the thriller genre, blending psychological depth with intense drama to create an unforgettable viewing experience. More …
6 episodes
“Painkiller” (Season 1) is a Netflix limited series that delves into the rise of the opioid epidemic in the United States. The story is based on the 2017 New Yorker article “The Family That Built an Empire of Pain” by Patrick Radden Keefe and Barry Meier’s 2018 book “Pain Killer: An Empire of Deceit and the Origin of America’s Opioid Epidemic”. The series follows a fictional character, lawyer Edie Flowers, who works for the US attorney’s office in Roanoke, Virginia. Edie conducts an investigation into Purdue Pharma and uncovers the company’s role in the opioid crisis. The series highlights the devastating impact of OxyContin on individuals and communities, as well as the deceptive practices employed by Purdue Pharma to market the drug. Directed by Peter Berg, the show features a gripping narrative that sheds light on the real-life crisis and the human cost of the opioid epidemic. The series portrays the struggles faced by those affected by addiction, the ethical dilemmas encountered by the legal and medical professions, and the broader societal implications of corporate greed and regulatory failure. The show’s intense and emotional narrative, complemented by strong performances from the cast, makes it a compelling watch. With its powerful storytelling, “Painkiller” (Season 1) stands out as a significant addition to the genre of true-crime and social-issue dramas. More …
8 episodes
“Bookie” (Season 2) continues the story of Danny, a veteran bookie, as he navigates the challenges of keeping his illegal sports betting business afloat in Los Angeles amidst the legalization of sports gambling. Danny, played by Sebastian Maniscalco, and his partner Ray, played by Omar Dorsey, face increasing instability from their clients and the fast-paced life in LA. In Season 2, Danny and Ray desperately try to hold onto their business while dealing with personal issues and trying to reconcile their shady enterprise with their personal lives. The series is filled with humor, as Danny gets into zany hijinks and interacts with new clients, including some guest stars. The show explores themes of survival, loyalty, and the absurdity of trying to maintain an illegal operation in a rapidly changing world. With its irreverent comedy and strong performances, “Bookie” (Season 2) promises to be an entertaining and laugh-out-loud experience. The series delves into the personal lives of the characters, providing depth and emotional resonance to the comedic plot. Viewers get to see Danny’s interactions with his family and how his double life affects his relationships. With its sharp wit, engaging characters, and a blend of humor and drama, “Bookie” (Season 2) offers a fresh and entertaining take on the complexities of navigating the evolving landscape of sports betting. More …
“Babygirl” (2024) is a drama film directed by Halina Reijn and produced by A24. The story revolves around a young woman named Lena, who is navigating the complexities of adulthood while dealing with her troubled past. Lena, played by a rising star, finds herself caught between her aspirations and the harsh realities of life. As she struggles to make ends meet, she becomes involved with a charismatic but dangerous figure named Rico, who promises her a way out of her troubles. The film delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams in the face of adversity. Lena’s journey is marked by moments of vulnerability and strength as she learns to confront her fears and take control of her destiny. The film’s gritty and realistic portrayal of urban life, combined with powerful performances and a compelling narrative, makes “Babygirl” a standout in the drama genre. The movie also explores the dynamics of family relationships, as Lena’s interactions with her estranged mother and younger brother add depth to her character and highlight the importance of familial bonds. With its raw and emotional storytelling, “Babygirl” (2024) offers a poignant and thought-provoking cinematic experience that resonates with audiences. The film’s exploration of the protagonist’s internal struggles and external challenges presents a nuanced depiction of the human experience, drawing viewers into Lena’s world and evoking empathy for her plight. More …
“Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” (2025) continues the high-stakes world of heists and crime from its predecessor. The story picks up with Sheriff Nick O’Brien, who is now on the hunt in Europe, tracking down Donnie Wilson, who has joined the Panther Crew led by Jovahnna. The crew plans a daring heist on the World Diamond Center in Nice, France. Donnie, posing as a diamond merchant, infiltrates the bank while Nick gets closer to uncovering the plot. The Italian mafia, seeking revenge for a stolen red diamond, adds another layer of danger. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fine line between law enforcement and criminality. With intense action sequences and a complex plot, “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” delivers a thrilling cinematic experience. As the Panther Crew prepares for the heist, internal tensions arise, testing their loyalty and resolve. Jovahnna, the mastermind behind the plan, must navigate these challenges while staying ahead of Nick’s pursuit. Meanwhile, Donnie struggles with his own moral dilemmas, caught between his criminal associates and his desire for redemption. The heist itself is meticulously planned, with elaborate strategies and high-tech gadgets that add to the suspense. “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” combines thrilling action with character-driven storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of heist films and crime dramas. More …
6 episodes
“We Own This City” (Season 1) is a gripping crime drama miniseries based on the nonfiction book by Justin Fenton. The series dives into the rise and fall of the Baltimore Police Department’s Gun Trace Task Force (GTTF). The story centers on Sergeant Wayne Jenkins, one of the officers involved in the GTTF, who was convicted on various corruption charges. The series explores the illegal activities and corruption within the GTTF, including drug distribution, robbery, and brutality. It also follows the efforts of Nicole Steele, an attorney from the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice, who begins investigating the officers after numerous complaints of excessive force and misconduct. The narrative is non-linear, frequently using flashbacks to provide context and depth to the characters and events. As the investigation unfolds, viewers witness the impact of the GTTF’s actions on the community. The series offers a raw and unflinching look at the systemic issues within the police department and the consequences of unchecked power. The show not only highlights the personal stories of the officers involved but also the broader implications of their actions on the justice system and public trust. With its intense and gripping storytelling, “We Own This City” (Season 1) paints a compelling picture of corruption and its far-reaching effects, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and true crime narratives. More …
2 episodes
“Brian and Maggie” (Season 1) is a two-part Channel 4 docu-series based on Rob Burley’s book “Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying to Me?”. The series dramatizes the final television interview between journalist Brian Walden and former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, which took place in 1989. This interview is considered one of the most famous political exchanges in British history and is believed to have contributed to Thatcher’s resignation the following year. The series explores the complex relationship between Walden and Thatcher, highlighting their friendship and the tension that arose during the interview. Walden, a former Labour MP turned journalist, conducted multiple interviews with Thatcher on his show “The Walden Interview,” but their final encounter in 1989 became particularly impactful. The 45-minute showdown was a national talking point and is thought to have irreparably damaged Thatcher’s standing as a leader. As the series unfolds, it delves into the personal and professional dynamics between the two characters, shedding light on the political landscape of the time and the intense scrutiny faced by public figures. “Brian and Maggie” provides a nuanced look at the power dynamics and the intense media scrutiny that political figures endure. It offers viewers a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between the press and political leaders, and how pivotal moments can shape the course of history. More …
