Joe Bloggs About Films: Recent Episodes
Joe Hobson
Weekly 'mini' podcast discussing/reviewing films, as well as the tv world.
https://www.facebook.com/joebloggsaboutfilms
'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' swings into cinemas, ushering Peter Parker into the next chapter of his life as he grapples with the repercussions of the previous trilogy. The result is a genuinely impressive reintroduction to the character.
'Brand New Day' is the closest at recapturing the spirit of what Sam Raimi delivered with his original trilogy. Through outstanding practical effects, dynamic cinematography, and inventive camera work, the action feels intimate and immersive. Director Destin Daniel Cretton thrives in this space, delivering some of the most exhilarating live action Spider-Man sequences we've seen to date
Beyond the spectacle, the emotional journey is just as compelling. Peter is navigating life alone, burdened by loss, and increasingly embracing the spider over the man. It gives Tom Holland the opportunity to showcase an impressive emotional range, making this arguably his strongest performance since taking on the role.
That said, while the film's first half is exceptional, the focus shifts around the midway point, and the momentum begins to falter. The energetic, street-level Spider-Man story gives way as the film's apparent antagonist takes centre stage. It's the one aspect that didn't quite live up to my expectations - although, admittedly, those expectations may have been set exceptionally high.
Even with a few shortcomings, 'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' is an exhilarating, heartfelt blockbuster that delivers both spectacle and emotion in equal measure. It's a thrilling return for the web-slinger and stands comfortably among the very best live action Spider-Man films ever put to screen.
Full thoughts in this review
'The Odyssey' is epic in every sense of the word. Christopher Nolan has once again delivered something truly special with this three-hour fantasy action-drama, and it's going to take something special to top it this year.
While Homer's story has endured for centuries, Nolan applies his distinctive filmmaking style to make a timeless, familiar tale feel remarkably fresh. The result is a film that balances breathtaking spectacle with an emotionally rich drama at its core.
With a cast packed full of stars, it would be easy for some performances to get lost in the pack. Instead, every actor makes a lasting impression, with no one feeling underused or giving anything less than their all. Leading the charge is Matt Damon, who delivers a career defining performance as Odysseus; bringing equal measures of strength, vulnerability, and determination to the legendary hero.
As impressive as the action sequences and visual grandeur are, it's the quieter, character driven moments that leave the greatest impact. Themes of identity, redemption, and the consequences of our choices give the film its emotional weight, transforming Odysseus' long journey home into a brutal and deeply human odyssey of endurance, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
'The Odyssey' deserves to be in the conversation for best Christopher Nolan release. It's a perfect example of why we go to the cinema; to be immersed and transported within exceptional storytelling and vision.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Supergirl' is the second entry in the all-new DCU, and unfortunately, it leaves a lot to be desired. Coming away from it, I just wasn't a fan.
After being thoroughly impressed by James Gunn's 'Superman' last year, I was completely on board with this new era for DC. There's still plenty of time for the universe to find its footing, but sadly, 'Supergirl' does very little to build excitement for what's next. Instead, it falls into many of the same traps that have plagued the superhero genre in recent years. Anyone already suffering from superhero fatigue will likely feel a strong sense of déjà vu.
Almost everything that gives modern superhero films a bad reputation is present here: a clunky script, underdeveloped character arcs, painfully awkward dialogue, forgettable villains, and action sequences so overloaded with CGI and green screen that they become little more than visual noise.
There are flashes where Milly Alcock gets the chance to shine. As a fan of hers, it's disappointing to see her given so little to work with, because she clearly has the screen presence to make this role her own. With a stronger script and a more compelling story, there's every reason to believe she could become an excellent Supergirl.
This isn't the follow up James Gunn and co will have wanted. In fact, it often feels like a film that would have been more at home in the now disbanded DCEU. than as the next chapter of a fresh cinematic universe. Perhaps the muted and largely negative reaction will encourage the studio to course correct and strengthen future projects. For the sake of the DCU, let's hope so.
Full thoughts in this review.
The toys are back in town, and this time they're facing their biggest challenge yet: technology. As screens begin to take over, 'Toy Story 5' explores the idea in a surprisingly thoughtful and entertaining way.
There will always be debate over whether any more 'Toy Story' films should have been made. Afterall, the original trilogy delivered what felt like the perfect ending. Yet, against the odds, this fifth instalment finds enough fresh ground to justify its existence.
While the threat of technology looms large throughout the story, the film's message is far more nuanced than a simple 'technology is bad' argument. Instead, it presents a balanced conversation about its role in children's lives, exploring both the benefits and drawbacks of an increasingly screen driven world.
The film also gives Jessie a well deserved central role, grounding the story in the themes that made the franchise so beloved in the first place: growing up, finding your place, and navigating change. Not every idea lands, and the reduced presence of Woody and Buzz is certainly felt, but 'Toy Story 5' remains a charming and worthwhile addition to the series that delivers plenty of heart and entertainment throughout.
Full thoughts in this quick review.
'Disclosure Day' was high on my most anticipated list. Another summer blockbuster from the cinematic genius that is Steven Spielberg - what could possibly go wrong?.... Oh boy.
This is easily the biggest disappointment I've felt towards a film in quite some time. The premise is undeniably fascinating, but it's handled in a surprisingly dull and lifeless way. The film spends so much time hiding inside its mystery box that it forgets to actually entertain. Building a story around the revelation that aliens exist opens up countless narrative possibilities, which makes it all the more deflating to watch the film settle for something so uninspired.
What's perhaps most surprising is how absent Spielberg's usual sense of magic, awe, and wonder feels. Instead, we're left with bland characters, ineffective villains, and a story that never fully capitalises on its enormous potential. When you have Spielberg directing and a cast featuring Emily Blunt, Colin Firth, Josh O'Connor, and Colman Domingo, expectations are naturally high, yet 'Disclosure Day' (or more appropriately, 'Disappointment Day') falls well short of them.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Backrooms' has been on everyone's lips since its release. Partly because it's helmed by 20 year old Kane Parsons, the youngest director ever to take on a project of this scale, but also because of the enduring legacy of the Backrooms phenomenon and its unlikely journey from internet folklore to the big screen.
Full disclosure, I wasn't familiar with the online discourse or mythology that grew out of the infamous image, nor had I seen any of the YouTube shorts that expanded its universe. Still, the trailer was enough to pique my interest.
Coming away from it, I'm conflicted. There are elements here that are genuinely superb: the lead performances are strong, it's beautifully shot, the sound design is outstanding, and at times it's deeply unnerving. Yet it's also something of a slog. There were stretches where my attention drifted and, frankly, I found myself bored.
The film has little interest in providing answers, which will undoubtedly appeal to some viewers, but it ultimately frustrated me. It's at its strongest when it fully embraces the endless, disorienting nightmare of the Backrooms themselves. By contrast, its attempts to unravel the protagonists' personal stories feel underdeveloped and lacking in emotional weight.
'Backrooms' is unsettling and atmospheric, but it demands patience from its audience. Whether that investment pays off will largely depend on how much you're willing to embrace the mystery.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Obsession' hit cinemas just a couple of weeks ago and has already made a huge impact, breaking box office records while earning widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences - and it's easy to see why.
Director Curry Barker has crafted an unsettling yet thoroughly entertaining film that explores themes of control, identity, and the terrifying consequences of losing both. The premise, a wish granted with devastating repercussions, is far from new, but it's the film's execution, atmosphere, and mounting sense of dread that elevate 'Obsession' above familiar genre territory.
A major reason for the film's success is Inde Navarrette's outstanding central performance. She delivers an impressive emotional range, balancing vulnerability and menace in a way that is as compelling as it is unnerving. Combined with a sharp, polished script and a consistently effective tone, 'Obsession' lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
Disturbing, captivating, and expertly crafted, 'Obsession' is one of the standout films of 2026
Full thoughts in this review.
After seven years, audiences finally return to a galaxy far, far away with 'The Mandalorian and Grogu', bringing everyone’s favourite bounty hunter, and his little green friend, to the big screen in a fun, albeit slightly bumpy, adventure.
I personally had a great time with this one. While there are elements that didn’t fully work for me, particularly the pacing and parts of the second half, the film absolutely captures the spirit that made the series such a success in the first place - and that’s a huge win.
There are some genuinely terrific action sequences and several crowd pleasing moments that will leave fans grinning from ear to ear (especially Mando’s reintroduction). The dynamic too between Din and Grogu remains as charming and engaging as ever, continuing to be the emotional heart of the story. Although the film loses some momentum midway through and struggles to maintain the energy of its opening act, there’s still more than enough here to make the journey worthwhile.
At its core, 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' feels like one big live-action Saturday morning cartoon - and honestly, that’s not a bad thing at all.
Full thoughts in this review.
It’s been a week since Disney released the Special Presentation 'The Punisher: One Last Kill', and I’ve definitely got some thoughts on it.
Without question, this is the most brutal project Disney has ever released - fully embracing the ferocity, trauma, and rage that define Frank Castle as he fights his way out of yet another personal hell. At times, the special retreads familiar ground with the character, but once it gets going, it never lets up… and when it kicks off, it really kicks off.
There are moments where the violence feels a little excessive for the sake of shock value - particularly one early scene that strays into unnecessarily nasty territory - but overall, it’s incredibly effective. Watching Frank blast and batter his way through an apartment building delivers some genuinely exhilarating action, with set pieces that feel heavily inspired by films like The Raid and Dredd. The whole thing is intense, claustrophobic, and relentlessly high-octane.
What’s especially interesting is where 'One Last Kill' leaves Frank by the end. For perhaps the first time in a long while, he seems to emerge with a renewed sense of purpose, hinting at an intriguing direction for the character moving forward.
And if there was ever any doubt left, this special proves once again that Jon Bernthal was born to play The Punisher.
Full thoughts in this review.
It’s quite surprising that a biopic about the King of Pop has taken this long to arrive, but in 2026, Antoine Fuqua finally brings us Michael - a dazzling, if not entirely flawless, portrait of the music icon.
There’s no denying the talent on display throughout the film. Jaafar Jackson steps into the role of his uncle with astonishing confidence. At times, its like he's possessed with MJ's ghost, he's THAT good. Colman Domingo is equally exceptional as Joseph Jackson, delivering a performance that makes you recoil whenever he’s on screen. That central conflict, good versus evil, control versus freedom, becomes the film’s emotional backbone. And, naturally, the soundtrack and visuals ooze style and energy.
Where Michael stumbles, however, is in its structure. The narrative jumps through time so abruptly that it can feel like channel surfing, which undercuts many of the film’s emotional beats and momentum. The final act, while entertaining, feels strangely incomplete - almost as though an entire section of the story has been cut away in the editing process... Which we know, it was.
Still, as far as biopics go, I had a genuinely good time with this one. It’s light, engaging, and consistently entertaining, with enough flair and musical spectacle to keep your feet tapping throughout, as MJ’s greatest hits light up the big screen.
Full thoughts in this review.
Icons return in 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'.
While the original wasn’t the defining film of my upbringing, its status as a cultural touchstone is undeniable. Revisiting it in later years only deepened my appreciation, and importantly, heightened my anticipation for this long-awaited sequel.
The follow-up certainly delivers where it counts: dazzling fashion, striking locations, and a magnetic ensemble that slips effortlessly back into rhythm. Yet, it never quite reaches the heights of its predecessor - and honestly, that’s perfectly fine. The original set an exceptionally high bar. What this sequel does achieve is carving out a narrative that justifies its return, making it a worthy continuation rather than a hollow revisit.
There are moments that slightly deflate its momentum, and a few elements that didn’t fully land for me. Still, it’s hard to ignore how naturally Hathaway, Streep, Blunt, and Tucci reinhabit their roles, bringing a familiar sharpness and charm that anchors the film throughout.
Full thoughts in this review.
Sony’s original vision for its Spider-Man universe came to an abrupt halt with the release of 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2'... and it’s not hard to see why.
Behind the scenes issues and the now-infamous email leaks certainly didn’t help, but the film’s reception fell well short of expectations. Rather than standing confidently on its own, the sequel feels overly preoccupied with setting up future installments and spin-offs, which ultimately makes for a frustrating viewing experience.
That’s not to say it’s without its strengths. Spider-Man’s suit is arguably the best we’ve seen in live-action, the web-swinging sequences are dynamic and immersive, and Andrew Garfield delivers a standout performance in the lead role. Unfortunately, these highlights are weighed down by an overstuffed narrative, an excess of new characters, and a number of creative decisions that simply don’t land. The result is an underwhelming and very disappointing entry in the Spider-Man franchise.
There’s a better film buried somewhere within it, but this sequel feels like a turning point for Sony, and not in a good way. Just look at the studio’s subsequent Spider-Man spin-offs to see how uncertain their direction became. Still, least we got to see Garfield back again with 2021's 'No Way Home', but its a real shame his journey came to an end just as it was beginning.
Full thoughts in this review.
After Sam Raimi wrapped up his Spider-Man trilogy, Sony Pictures hit the reset button and delivered 'The Amazing Spider-Man' - a fresh take with a new suit, a new lead, and a different kind of energy for the iconic hero.
And honestly? I quite like this one. Andrew Garfield gives a genuinely well-rounded performance as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, capturing both the awkwardness and emotional weight of the character. It’s easy to see why his portrayal still resonates with fans. His chemistry with Emma Stone is a real highlight - their relationship feels natural and adds meaningful stakes to Peter’s struggle to balance his double life. The action delivers too, with dynamic web-swinging and fluid movement that rank among the best live-action interpretations of Spider-Man.
That said, it’s not without its flaws. The story hints at deeper threads involving Peter’s parents but never fully explores them, and the Lizard storyline doesn’t feel as strong or compelling as it could have been. Still, these issues don’t drag the film down in any major way. The highs, particularly the performances and action, are strong enough to outweigh the weaker elements, making it a solid and enjoyable reboot overall.
Full thoughts in this review.
The last thing anyone needs in the week leading up to their wedding is a life-altering bombshell from their partner - and that’s exactly the premise driving the latest release, 'The Drama'. What follows is a series of deeply awkward yet consistently hilarious moments that thread tension and comedy together with precision.
The film’s trailers and marketing have been exceptional, carefully building intrigue around the mystery of Zendaya’s character and what she’s done. That sense of curiosity pays off, pulling the audience in and holding their attention throughout. It’s a bold choice of subject matter from writer-director Kristoffer Borgli, one that many filmmakers might avoid, but here it’s handled with confidence and balance. The result is a story filled with thought-provoking, often uncomfortable, yet sharply funny moments centred on its two leads.
Zendaya and Robert Pattinson are both at the top of their game, crafting a relationship that feels authentic and lived-in. Their chemistry grounds the film, making the emotional weight of the central revelation land all the more effectively, and helping us understand just how difficult it is for both characters to process.
Through well executed editing, a polished script, and tremendous leads, 'The Drama' sits as one of my favourite watches for 2026, easily.
Full thoughts in this review.
Samara Weaving returns, once again drenched in blood, wedding dress tattered and shotgun in hand, as another deadly game unfolds in 'Ready or Not 2: Here I Come' - and it’s every bit as wickedly fun as its predecessor.
The filmmaking collective Radio Silence continues to carve out a strong reputation in modern horror, blending sharp tension with a darkly comedic edge. Their track record speaks for itself, and this sequel raises the stakes while peeling back more layers of the sinister cult at its core, offering audiences a deeper look into how it operates within this twisted world.
Weaving is, unsurprisingly, a standout once again, bringing both grit and charisma to the role. This time, she’s joined by Kathryn Newton as her sister - a pairing that adds fresh energy and elevates the film into an even more chaotic and entertaining ride. Once the game kicks off and the blood starts flowing, the film delivers plenty to rival the original, occasionally even surpassing it.
That said, the script does occasionally feel like it’s straining to justify its own existence. Still, it’s hard to dwell on those moments when the film is this much fun - expanding its lore, embracing its characters, and leaning fully into its gleeful brutality. It’s an absolute blast
Full thoughts in this review.
Glen Powell returns in John Patton Ford’s black comedy 'How to Make a Killing', a film that flashes moments of creativity, particularly in its inventive premise and offbeat kills, but ultimately feels like it’s missing a certain spark.
The biggest spark is, of course, Powell himself. This time playing a regular guy, cut off from his wealthy family and driven to claw his way back to the top by any means necessary. Powell plays it brilliantly - sly, charming, and just convincing enough to make every so-called 'accident' feel almost plausible. His charisma does a lot of the heavy lifting.
Alongside him, Margaret Qualley delivers another strong performance as his manipulative childhood friend, equally self-serving and calculating. Their dynamic promises something deliciously dark and entertaining, and at times, it delivers.
Yet despite the ingredients being there, the film never quite pushes itself into greatness. It remains consistently watchable and often entertaining, but there’s a lingering sense that it could have been more - bolder, sharper, or just a little more daring.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Project Hail Mary' is, quite simply, the best film released so far this year.
Bold words, I know, but everything from the screenplay, the jaw dropping visuals and cinematography, sound design, and lead performance from Ryan Gosling is enough to tick all the boxes that you would expect from a 'big sci-fi blockbuster'.
Centred around a lone scientist in space, Gosling's Grace is on a mission to find out why the Sun is dying, and hopefully save the Earth in the process. This becomes the start of a thrilling adventure, as he meets what will become everyone's favourite side character, Rocky, who too is on a mission to save his own planet.
It captures a genuine sense of wonder and cinematic magic that’s been missing from many so-called 'big' releases in recent years. Yet for all its scale and spectacle, there’s something unexpectedly intimate about it - because at its heart, it’s simply the story of one man alone in space… with his new rock friend, saving the day.
Strap yourselves in for a rocket of a film, giving as much heart and fun as it can to satisfy audiences.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Peaky Blinders' is a show that needs little introduction. Since its debut in 2013, it has become one of the UK’s most impactful and highly rated television dramas. With every season, the scale grew larger, culminating in an explosive ending that paved the way for the long-awaited feature-length continuation, 'The Immortal Man' - and it is stunning.
'The Immortal Man' uses every minute of its runtime to great effect, making the experience feel cinematic in both scale and ambition. Cillian Murphy, as expected, is outstanding in the role once again. Given a wealth of emotional depth to explore, we see a different side of Tommy Shelby than ever before. But rest assured: once the long coat, suit, and flat cap return, so does the unmistakable aura he carries as this character.
Placing Tommy at the centre of a nefarious plan involving fascists attempting to tip the balance of the World War II in Germany’s favour only raises the stakes - not just for the UK and the wider world, but for the Shelby family as well.
'The Immortal Man' has plenty to satisfy die-hard fans, while its gripping storytelling ensures that casual viewers will find just as much to enjoy
Full thoughts in this review.
'Scream' is one of those franchises where, even when an instalment doesn’t quite measure up to the best, there’s usually still some twisted fun to be found. And then there’s 'Scream 7'... Oh boy. For the first time in this beloved series, we have a genuinely bad entry on our hands.
It’s undeniably great to have Neve Campbell back, but nostalgia can only carry a film so far. When the rest of the cast is given little to no character development - or even distinct personalities - and exist purely as future body bags, the whole experience starts to feel hollow. What should be tense and emotionally charged, instead comes across as forced and, unfortunately, soulless
There are a handful of solid moments and a couple of satisfying kills, and the opening sequence is genuinely strong. But after that, the film steadily unravels. The longer it goes on, the more its flaws pile up - clunky, unnatural dialogue, cringeworthy performances, and a growing sense that the story is limping toward an inevitable disappointment. All of it culminates in a killer reveal so laughable and poorly executed that it stands as the weakest twist the franchise has ever delivered.
You're not laughing with 'Scream 7', you're laughing at it.
Full thoughts in this review.
Emerald Fennell returns to the director’s chair, this time taking on one of the most influential and beloved novels of all time; 'Wuthering Heights'
Though the film wasn't at the top of my 'must see list', it certainly delivers with excellent style and use of wardrobe - arguably the films strongest component (outside the leads' performances). Whatever you think of the storytelling choices, visually it’s clear that Fennell knew exactly what tone and atmosphere she was aiming for.
Of course, Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi are THE stand outs in this thing. Their on-screen chemistry is electric, capturing the volatile, all-consuming, and at times feral love that defines Cathy and Heathcliff’s relationship.
However, beyond these strengths, the film occasionally drifts into indulgence. Certain sequences linger longer than necessary, causing the narrative momentum to dwindle and making the runtime feel more extended than it perhaps needed to be.
Still, definitely worse films out there! Full thoughts in this review.
It's always an exciting time when Sam Raimi returns with another slice of fun horror - and that trend continues with his latest flick 'Send Help'.
Being stranded on a deserted island is bad enough. Being stranded there with your insufferable boss? That’s enough to push anyone to the brink; and Raimi has a wicked amount of fun with the premise. Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien both deliver terrific performances, charting distinct emotional arcs as their characters unravel (and evolve) in very different ways
Of course, this is Sam Raimi, so expect all of the nasty and yucky imagery flung at you with super wild camera work. The film revels in its nastiness, yet there’s a mischievous energy to it that keeps a grin on your face. While it perhaps could have benefited from one or two extra surprises to elevate it further, its straightforward narrative ultimately works in its favour - delivering a tight, entertaining ride that’s simply a blast to watch.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Wonder Man' recently dropped on Disney+ which wasn't exactly at the top of my list to check out, however, having done so, I can safely say that this is the best Marvel project for as long as I can remember.
It's something utterly unique and different from Marvel, straying away from capes and spectacle, and instead shifting the focus to its lead characters. Both Yayah Abdul-Mateen II and Sir Ben Kingsley are outstanding in this thing, creating a relationship and dynamic that is so infectious, you only want to see more of them. And its a credit to the writing team as well by making these characters extremely well-rounded and fleshed out.
'Wonder Man' feels like the antidote to Disney+ fatigue, Marvel burnout, and even superhero overload. It's sharp, confident and a beautifully written and performed series - and, as stated, one of Marvel’s strongest projects in years.
Full thoughts in this review.
'X-Men' changed the game for superhero releases when it dropped back in 2000. Not only did it respect long-time fans of the comics, but it also inspired a whole new generation of fans in the process - making it such a huge success at the box office.
Its a film that I look back on fondly at; still placing it as one of my all time favourite superhero movies. It says something that even after 25 years or so, these actors and characters are still held in high regard, that we cannot wait to see their return in the upcoming 'Avengers: Doomsday'.
But without 'X-Men', its hard to imagine team up superhero films being as successful as they are today. Granted 1998's 'Blade' walked so that the 'X-Men' and future Marvel releases could run, but the shift following 'X-Men's' success of having multi-character stories well and truly reshaped the genre for years to come.
It's a film I adore, with its wonderful balance of social commentary and spectacle, and one that I had to revisit on the podcast.
Full thoughts in this review.
Last year’s '28 Years Later' was one of my favourite releases of the year, so it’s no surprise that its sequel/spin-off, 'The Bone Temple' sat high on my most anticipated list for 2026 - and it absolutely delivers.
'The Bone Temple' weaves a chilling, thought-provoking tale that pits science against faith, anchored by commanding performances from Ralph Fiennes and Jack O’Connell. Both are exceptional, but O’Connell in particular stands out, delivering one of the most compelling villain performances in recent memory - arguably even surpassing his own chilling turn in 'Sinners'.
Director Nia DaCosta also deserves high praise for her bold vision and willingness to take risks with the film’s imagery. This is a world teeming with monsters, yet 'The Bone Temple' powerfully reminds us that humans are often far more dangerous than anything lurking in the shadows.
Another outstanding entry in the franchise, 'The Bone Temple' leaves me eager to see how this trilogy ultimately concludes.
Full thoughts in this review.
The remake/reboot/requel of 'Anaconda' was surprisingly high on my most anticipated list last year. The idea of four friends heading into the jungle to remake the original film - only to find themselves hunted by a giant snake - was a concept I was fully on board with. The fact that this version leaned into comedy, penned and directed by the filmmaker behind 'The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent', only heightened my expectations.
Unfortunately, the film ends up being a misfire, largely because it never quite figures out what it wants to be. Even with Paul Rudd and Jack Black at the helm, both of whom deliver a few genuinely fun moments, it can’t escape a lingering sense of meh. While some jokes land, including light jabs at Hollywood’s obsession with remakes and reboots, the film is weighed down by underdeveloped subplots and surprisingly little screen time for the giant serpent itself.
It’s far from the worst film you’ll ever see, but it’s also nowhere near the best. Full thoughts in this review.
The fifth and final season of 'Stranger Things' has arrived on Netflix, offering fans long-awaited answers and a sense of closure for the characters, and the monsters, within Hawkins.
'Stranger Things' is a show I truly adore, so my excitement to see how this story would end was through the roof. And if we’re talking purely about the final episode; it delivers a brilliant, epic conclusion that closes the chapter beautifully. However, taken as a whole, the season is a little bumpier, with moments where its vision and narrative feel unfocused and, at times, disappointing.
Despite issues with pacing and an overcrowded cast, the season still delivers several excellent moments that are a joy to watch, alongside standout performances from Jamie Campbell Bower and Gaten Matarazzo in particular.
It’s bittersweet knowing we won’t be returning to Hawkins again, but the Duffer Brothers ultimately stick the landing - reminding us all just why we fell in love with this show in the first place.
Full thoughts in this review.
As the end of 2025 approaches, it's the time to share my list of 10 favourite films from this year!
A massive thank you for all of your support throughout the year, I very much appreciative of anyone listening to me waffle away about film and tv.
Here's to a wonderful 2026.
The latest addition to the 'Knives Out' series brings more murder and satire, as Benoit Blanc looks to unravel his most difficult case to date in 'Wake Up Dead Man' - and it's a blast.
I'm a big fan of Rian Johnson's murder mysteries. They are a wonderfully fresh, modern take on the classic whodunnit. Setting themselves apart apart with a distinctive tone, blending sharp humour and a touch of irony through the tension of the central murder mystery. Each have a terrific ensemble that only elevate the film even more.
This time, Blanc faces off against religion and beliefs- as a murder takes place within a sealed room of a church, with a list of suspects all capable of pulling off this impossible crime; and the journey the film takes you on is nothing short of brilliant.
Craig oozes charisma and flamboyance, but Josh O'Connor too stands out in a team up that will have you chuckling one minute, to being at the edge of your seat the next.
Full thoughts in this review (spoiler free).
Guillermo del Toro has a singular vision and voice. Each of his films feel distinct, seamlessly blending beauty with horror, which is why he’s become such an esteemed filmmaker. Naturally, I was eager to see what he would do with the classic 'Frankenstein' - and, as expected, the result is something truly special.
It’s clear this was a true passion project for the director - you can feel that love and craftsmanship in every scene and every line of dialogue.
And if it’s not the stellar writing and performances from leads Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi or Mia Goth that capture you, it’s the exquisite costume design, prosthetics, practical effects, and sets that build this world with such vivid detail. The cinematography, too, is visually striking - often downright breath-taking.
Altogether, it’s a remarkable achievement that may have even edged out 'The Shape of Water' as my favourite del Toro release.
Full thoughts in this review.
Edgar Wright returns with his adaptation of Stephen Kings explosive dystopian tale; 'The Running Man'.
It goes without saying that, like many, I’m a huge fan of Wright and his filmography. His style and techniques are among my favourites in contemporary filmmaking: the punchy zooms, the energetic swish pans, and the way he interweaves music with visuals all stand out as signature elements that elevate each of his films. Its something I always look forward to - and whilst 'The Running Man' does incorporate those techniques, sadly it doesn't leave its mark as much I anticipated.
Glen Powell shines as lead Ben Richards. Your average joe, dealt a bad hand and trying to provide for his family, no matter the cost. There's a fine line of him being in control, and pure rage that Powell executed to perfection. Its a performance that will cement himself as the new action star, undoubtedly.
Whilst this is a fun watch with explosive action, it sadly left me wanting more. Or rather, would've preferred a better third act as it does, unfortunately, overstay its welcome.
Full thoughts in this review.
There's always a question mark when a film suggests it was 'inspired by true events' as to which parts were actually true. Then there's a film and story such as Derek Cianfrance's 'Roofman' in which the true story sounds more like the work of fiction... It's surreal, but most definitely true.
Following the story of Jeffrey Manchester, aka Roofman, a chap who robbed 46 stores, escaped prison, and then hid in a Toys R Us, is one that you wouldn't expect to carry as much emotional weight to it. But down to terrific storytelling and performances from leads Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, it is easily one of the best films of the year due to that emotion, as well as relatability, that the film holds.
It's a surprise hit, and one that does have a lot of fun in there. It explores the desperation and desire that one man has to provide for his family - and it leaves its mark on you once the credits roll.
Full thoughts in this review.
Following the success of 'Prey' and 'Killer of Killers', Dan Trachtenberg returns with his next Predator release; 'Badlands' - and its epic.
Taking a big swing, Trachtenberg shakes things up and puts us up close and personal with the Yautja as they take centre stage, making for an epic sci-fi action adventure that never stops with its thrills. The director clearly has a strong vision for this world and the skill to bring it to life. His passion shines through in every frame, and delivering three consecutive hits is a testament to both his creativity, and his commitment, to pushing the franchise forward.
‘Badlands’ might not have the grit you would like from a Predator film, but it does manage to generate that intensity and suspense through its set pieces and danger our lead finds itself in - and it really is hard not to come away impressed by it.
Full thoughts in this review
Having been a fan of what Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone brought to the screen with last year’s brilliant 'Poor Things', I was eager to see what their next collaboration would deliver. Enter 'Bugonia'.
This wonderfully strange black comedy delves deep into themes of truth and reality, anchored by outstanding performances from Stone and Jesse Plemons. It's a simple premise; conspiracy theorist kidnaps CEO as he believes she's an alien, but its one that is executed terrifically through Lanthimos' vision and style. The real intrigue and drama lies in watching these two strong-minded characters clash over their opposing ideologies - it’s an unpredictable battle that's a fascinating watch throughout.
Though it is certainly a slower 'slow burner', the pay off is absolutely worth it for the films wild third act that only goes the way you would expect a Lanthimos release to do so.
Full thoughts in this review.
Having been a fan of Chris Stuckmann for some time, I was thrilled to see him receive the backing and funding to release his first feature film; 'Shelby Oaks'. Its a journey that will no doubt inspire many others, and its one that gets all my applauds.
Coming away from this directorial debut, it’s clear that the film marks a promising start for Stuckmann — though, not without its flaws. There’s a strong sense of style and a wealth of intriguing ideas that showcase what he can bring to the horror genre, and its subgenres. His clever blending of found-footage elements with more traditional filmmaking techniques creates an effective sense of unease, letting the scares build naturally. However, the film ultimately falters in its third act, struggling to fully deliver on the ambitious concepts it sets up earlier.
But when all is said and done, there's certainly enough thrills and chills to get you invested in its story surrounding the disappearance of Riley - and the determination of her sister, Mia, to find her. With some terrific atmosphere and tension, 'Shelby Oaks' is definitely one to watch over the spooky season.
Full thoughts in this review.
There's no better way to prepare for Spooky Season, than spending a couple of hours with the masked menace that is Michael Myers, right?
Dropping in 2018, the legacy sequel, or requel, gained positive reactions from both fans and critics as it served a helping of kills, as well nods to the 1978 original. Not only were fans getting more Michael, but too the ultimate scream Queen Jamie Lee Curtis returned as Laurie Strode, bringing her all in what is a terrific performance throughout.
It's a very smart and bold move to wipe the slate clean and having this as the only sequel following the original. It helped in reviving the franchise, as well as opening the door for richer character work, especially for Laurie and Michael, as they confront the lasting scars of that fateful night decades later.
It might've taken me a while to watch this release, but I can safely say I had a blast with this 'Halloween' film.
Full thoughts in this review/revisit.
To this day, it still surprises me that we never got a sequel to Stephen Sommers 2004 gothic action-horror 'Van Helsing'. Its one that I have a wee bit of nostalgia for, having watched at such an impressionable age, and with Halloween approaching; it seemed appropriate to revisit.
Like others of similar age, it was my first 'real' introduction to iconic monsters like Dracula, the Wolfman, and Frankenstein’s creature — characters we all grow up knowing, even without seeing the originals. While it sticks to a PG-13 tone, the film still delivers fast-paced, visually striking action that holds up surprisingly well today.
Hugh Jackman and Kate Beckinsale make a great duo, with solid chemistry woven between the film’s many, MANY action set pieces. The atmosphere, production design, and energy all shine, even if the film occasionally feels overcrowded with characters and subplots.
Still, a perfect and fun watch for spooky season. Full thoughts in this revisit.
Ever rewatch a classic and think, "They don’t make films like that anymore"? Well, Paul Thomas Anderson’s 'One Battle After Another' proves they still can.
This latest release from PTA feels like a standout in his filmography. Rich in character, layered in tone, and packed with that nostalgic density of ’80s and ’90s cinema. The genre bending too has that perfect balance of intensity, with sharp satire and surprising humour, all displayed and executed terrifically via its leads Leonardo DiCaprio, Chase Infiniti and Sean Penn.
'One Battle After Another' simply is a must see for cinema lovers. Not only is it shot on VistaVision for the first time in 60 years, but too its backed by a powerful Jonny Greenwood score that accompanies the film beautifully. Its a spectacular reminder of why we fall in love with movies in the first place.
The announcement that came at last years comic con regarding yet another Dexter series starring Michael C Hall had me a little concerned that this was getting a tad silly... but boy, oh boy, was I wrong - this latest season was a blast from start to finish.
Despite the clumsiness of how Dexter evaded prison (as well as surviving) on the back of 'New Blood', Dexter: Resurrection delivers as a terrific legacy sequel. It recaptures what made the original great, while adding a fresh twist by dropping Dexter into the vast, chaotic world of New York City — the perfect new hunting ground for his dark urges.
With some brilliant storytelling, 'Resurrection' jumps high in the list of best Dexter seasons, which is a huge achievement considering twice now they've tried to end the show altogether. What's more impressive, is that I want more.
Full thoughts in this review.
I was lucky enough to attend an early screening of 'The Long Walk', and it's absolutely worth your time. The premise is simple: young men walk over 300 miles in a brutal competition. Fall below 3mph, get three warnings—then you're executed. It's a harrowing concept that delivers both shocking visuals and emotional gut-punches as characters you grow attached to are picked off.
While the full ensemble is strong, it's Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson who shine. Their performances and growing bond give the film real emotional depth, anchoring the relentless journey. Despite the straightforward setup, the film explores its characters deeply, thanks in large part to their dynamic.
'The Long Walk' earns its place among the best Stephen King adaptations. Francis Lawrence captures the bleak, psychological toll of the journey with precision, making this not just a survival story, but a powerful character study.
The third and final season of the highly popular streaming sensation 'Squid Game' premiered a couple of months back - and whilst 'Squid Game 3' raised the stakes and gave Seong Gi-hun a dramatic send-off, the story often felt forced and messy; especially when compared to the stronger, more cohesive seasons that came before.
There are still some standout moments – particularly, the hide-and-seek game, which only demonstrated how brilliant a writer Hwang Dong-hyuk is. The performances, too, are a high point—Lee Jung-jae delivers arguably his best work of the series, bringing real depth and intensity to Gi-hun’s final arc.
But as a concluding chapter, this season is a mixed bag. It lacks the tight, purposeful storytelling that made the first season so impactful. It’s far from a disaster, but considering the heights Squid Game has reached, the finale feels like a missed opportunity.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Weapons' is the latest release from 'Barbarian' director Zach Cregger, and once again, he delivers something brilliant.
While marketed as horror, 'Weapons' leans more into thriller territory, similar to 'Prisoners', exploring a chilling mystery surrounding missing children that unfolds with a gripping story, tone, and performances that keep you fully immersed from minute one.
Much like 'Barbarian', Cregger’s structure here is unique - told in multiple chapters from different perspectives, revisiting the same events through new eyes. It’s one of my favourite storytelling methods, and it's executed masterfully. Cregger generates enough thrills that even if you’re a little unsatisfied with the overall reveal, you’re still on board down to the creativity behind this one.
'Weapons' is easily another standout of the year. It blends supernatural elements with real-world themes like grief, addiction, and police brutality, all while maintaining edge-of-your-seat suspense. A must-see that’s sure to land on many top 10 lists.
Full thoughts in this review.
Leslie Neilson cemented himself as one of the comedy greats with his roles in classics such as 'Airplane' and 'The Naked Gun', packed with timeless gags and quotable lines. Thankfully, the same can be said for this new sequel/legacy sequel starring Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson - because boy, is this a blast from start to finish.
Sure, not every joke will land, but for every small chuckle, comes a huge belly laugh with some outrageously funny jokes and sight gags courtesy of Neeson and Anderson. There is a charm within thanks to these characters being well played, coming across serious in a very un-serious film that's sole purpose is to make its audience laugh - and it works excellently.
'The Naked Gun' is one of 2025’s best films, as well one of the best legacy sequels that Hollywood has delivered. In a time where the world is going to shit, we could all do with a laugh - and 'The Naked Gun' delivers just that.
Full thoughts in this review.
Marvel’s First Family has finally arrived in the MCU with 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' - and yes, the fourth time really is the charm.
Matt Shakman delivers a stunning, retro-futuristic world that visually is Marvel’s best yet, elevated by outstanding costume and production design, as well another brilliant score by Michael Giacchino.
Question marks surrounded some of the casting choices upon announcement, however, all of the key players in here are terrific. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach all shine, bringing heart, charm, and real chemistry to the screen. Some get more spotlight than others, but the cast’s authenticity makes the family dynamic feel both genuine and lovable.
While 'First Steps' isn’t flawless and feels like it’s missing something, it still delivers on spectacle, emotion, and the nostalgic spirit of classic comic book films—making it a strong, heartfelt addition to the MCU.
Full thoughts in this review.
The DC Universe has officially launched under James Gunn's direction, and his first outing with 'Superman' is nothing short of remarkable.
Gunn brings a fresh and heartfelt take on the iconic Man of Steel. 'Superman' delivers everything fans hoped for—epic action, strong performances from David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicholas Hoult, and a perfectly balanced script full of warmth, humour, and heroism.
Even for those who didn’t grow up loving Superman, this version rekindles admiration for the character, presenting him as a true symbol of hope. With standout moments (including a scene-stealing Krypto), 'Superman' marks a powerful and emotional start to the new DCU—reminding audiences just how great superhero films can be when guided by the right vision.
Full thoughts in this review.
Joseph Kosinski returns with the high-octane and adrenaline pumping, 'F1' .
Though I'm not a fan of the sport, nor did everything fully work for me within this release, it's hard not to be impressed with the films thrilling and up-close racing sequences, and the techniques used to capture them. Brad Pitt brings in another top performance, alongside a great supporting cast, delivering on drama and emotional weight that has you rooting for the team in every race.
Fans of the sport will find plenty to love, and Kosinski’s direction delivers the energy and visuals you’d expect. The story is good, but it's the racing that truly shines.
Full thoughts in this episode.
After the lacklustre 'Dominion', it seemed the Jurassic saga was set to go extinct. However, life indeed has found a way, as Universal and Gareth Edwards have unleashed the 7th instalment 'Jurassic World: Rebirth'.. and I had a pretty fun time with this one - even if the ride is a little bumpy.
It's very much back to basics; dinosaurs on an island and the humans trying to avoid being chomped. It does have its flaws due to its paper thin script. It plays things safe and throws in as many nods and references to the original as they can, but 'Rebirth' still serves some absolutely stunning visuals and set pieces that puts it higher up that Jurassic ranking list.
An all-star packed cast, as well some stunning looking dinosaurs (mutants aplenty), 'Rebirth' has moments that are exceptionally impressive, as well as underwhelming components too.
Full thoughts in this review.
Danny Boyle and Alex Garland reunite to bring the highly anticipated sequel '28 Years Later', thrusting audiences into how survivors are coping nearly three decades after the initial outbreak; and its excellent.
'28 Years Later' highlights the beauty in human survival and the evolution of a community over time, shaped by their harsh environment. At the same time, it explores the surprising endurance and adaptation of the infected, who seem to have evolved and thrived over 30 years. The comparison between human and infected evolution is seen as a compelling and well-executed concept, making this release a different experience when comparing to the earlier films in the series.
As far as storytelling goes, this is one of 2025’s standouts. The breathtaking visuals and expertly crafted effects elevate the film into a truly visceral experience—heightened even further by exceptional performances from Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, and a scene-stealing turn by Alfie Williams. Without question, it ranks among the best legacy sequels ever made.
Full thoughts in this review.
Live action remakes are all the rage these days, and with that, DreamWorks have finally released their new reimagination of the fan favourite 'How to Train Your Dragon'... and it's just as great as the original.
I wasn't overly keen on a live action adaptation for this story upon its announcement. The animation was pretty much perfect (as too was the whole trilogy, to be fair), but credit where credit is due, as this release conjured all the same feelings and emotions that the original delivered.
The sets are fantastic, as too the CGI used in bringing the loveable Toothless to life. Mason Thames and Nico Parker take over responsibility as the films leads, and both were pretty ace in their respected roles.
If you're sick of the live action films that have been coming our way of late, I'm pretty confident that 'How to Train Your Dragon' will make you change your mind.
Full thoughts in this review.
Ana De Armas takes centre stage in this highly entertaining new spin off from the world of John Wick; 'Ballerina'.
It's hard finding anyone that doesn't like at least one of the Wick films. They are full of incredible spectacles thanks to the sets, locations, and of course, action - and 'Ballerina' continues this trend, with de Armas showing off her skills for some terrific viewing.
Though the story is a little safe, it's the different scenarios and choice of combat approach that really shines through - catapulting some sequences within 'Ballerina' to the top of the list for best moment in the Wick-verse.
'Ballerina' definitely scratches that itch if you're missing some Wick action.
Full thoughts in this review.
The first season of HBO's adaptation of 'The Last Of Us' was met with mostly high praise from fans and critics. But much like the second game, the second season has been met with a lot of criticism... But I’m not too sure as to why.
I might be in the minority, but I felt the second season was another incredible spectacle that delivered a brutal story of love, loss and revenge. It’s not a perfect season by any stretch, but the scope and scale of the show (as well terrific performances) made it all the more compelling to watch.
Bella Ramsey grew more and more with each episode as she delivered a top notch display of grief, and how that can take you to such dark places. Pedro Pascal’s departure did leave a big mark, but it also allowed for a richer and hard hitting display from all the shows leads on the back of his exit.
It essentially was a lose lose situation for creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mason, knowing how polarised the second game was… But all in all, season two of 'The Last Of Us' carried on the exceptional storytelling from the season prior and sets up for an exciting third season.
Full thoughts in this review.
Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt in what seems to be the finale to the pretty darn good Mission Impossible franchise. Aptly titled 'The Final Reckoning'. Cruise and his IMF team try to save the world from the AI entity known as.. well, the Entity. Cue death defying stunts, lots of running and a whole lot of exposition.
I wasn’t the biggest fan of 'Dead Reckoning', and sadly, 'The Final Reckoning' was even more disappointing. Granted, there is your classic suspenseful beats, and the action (of course) is highly impressive. Cruise doing what he does best to give audiences the best experience whilst watching him cheat death. But the plot, as well as the sheer amount of exposition, is exhausting - making the film a bit of a slog to get through.
There is enough to make this an 'ok' watch, but it seems the dazzling heights that the franchise reached with ‘Fallout’ are but a distant memory.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Final Destination' returns to the big screen with it's newest addition; 'Bloodlines'. This time, death is taking down a whole family tree due to their ancestor cheating death years prior.
It certainly felt like a new and refreshing creative team were involved with this release. The franchise had reached a point of becoming stale and repetitive - afterall, there's only so many times you can watch people cheat death, only to then be killed in some freak accident. An argument can be made that it still feels stale this time round, however, the concept of a family that technically shouldn't be here and now being hunted was a fascinating spin.
Whilst the film does have its flaws, there's no denying that the ,mousetrap-like kills are as entertaining as ever. 'Bloodlines' also includes arguably the franchises best ever opening disaster, which given we're now 6 films deep, that is some going!
Full thoughts in this review.
Growing up, there was a good amount of horror/thrillers to choose from – but none more so impactful or impressionable, for my generation, than the 'Final Destination' series.
Having originally been penned as a potential episode of 'The X Files', co-writers James Wong and Glen Morgan repurposed the story into the feature that we all love today – and the franchise has never looked back. The concept and idea was so unique; death stalking those that cheated its plan, it’s no wonder the original release from 2000 has spawned four (soon to be five) sequels following its success.
The suspense and anxiety that drips into each scene for the survivors of Flight 180 is remarkable yet excruciating to endure. As well the ingenuity with its well-thought and equally terrifying 'freak accidents' that death pits the characters in, are just another reason as to why the 'Final Destination' franchise remains a favourite and highlight for so many. It may be 20 years since the originals released, but it holds up very well.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
Marvel’s latest entry 'Thunderbolts*' is a much needed, and frankly brilliant, return to form. It wasn’t at the top of my anticipated list, but its certainly left its mark.
Unlike most of the recent MCU releases, this feels raw and sincere with its narrative - whilst also being incredibly fun. The film tackles darker themes which allows for some excellent character exploration of its leads. It’s a film that most can resonate with, taking Marvel into places they haven’t before - all being executed perfectly.
The cast fire on all cylinders, the script is polished and well crafted, action on point with terrific cinematography and choreography.. 'Thunderbolts*' feels like the Marvel of old and I am ALL for it.
Full thoughts in this review.
Alex Garland teams up with Ray Mendoza for their new release 'Warfare'; bringing to the screen Mendoza's real life experience as a Navy SEAL during the Iraq war.. and it is brutal.
This boots on the ground, real life/real time viewpoint makes this film stand out higher than any other war film you may have seen before. It is nerve-racking, anxiety inducing, as well as feeling extremely real due to this being director Mendoza's own experiences.
Everything from the cinematography, which captures the events hauntingly, to the impeccable sound design for this film, gives off that impact of what it is like to be in the firing line and making you truly believe you are in the chaos with these soldiers.
It's a film that is not only another stand out for this year, but one that audiences need to experience at least once in their life.
Full thoughts in this review.
Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' is arguably the filmmakers most ambitious, yet impressive, to date. Diving into American history, the film fully explores those themes of oppression and freedom, whilst also leaving its mark with its bite.
It's a film that sets itself apart from the rest due to the execution and talent both on screen and off. Michael B Jordan is tremendous in the dual role of twin brothers Smoke and Stack, Jack O'Connell is creepily jovial as the malevolent Remmick, Hailee Steinfeld is gorgeously excellent - but stand out goes to young Miles Caton as Sammie aka Preacher Boy because boy oh boy, does he have a bright future ahead of him.
'Sinners' will leave you transfixed and blown away by each sequence as it unfolds - the horror is dark, the world building though is on another level, as Coogler fleshes every location and character brilliantly, making 'Sinners' a rich and immersive experience from start to finish. And not to mention the score for this one courtesy of Ludwig Göransson.. Utter genius how the score and imagery go hand in hand together. Film of the year so far? No doubt about it.
Full thoughts in this review.
The directorial debut from Alex Scharfman 'Death of a Unicorn' is a bit of a mixed bag. It has some genuine thrills and comedic moments, but at times it feels that the movie doesn't know what it wants to be and thus doesn't fully stick the landing.
The stand out in this one is its fantastic ensemble, including Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Richard E. Grant, Téa Leoni and highlight Will Poulter - all of which have moments that shine, generating laughs that are welcomed. Even the horror is fun too, if you've ever wanted to see someone be impaled or eaten by a unicorn; you're in luck!
But while the film has its highs with the comedy and horror element, its social/class commentary, as well as tapping into themes of grief and parenthood, all feels very surface level stuff with its execution - causing it at times doesn't feel as natural as its trying to be.
Full thoughts in this review.
Jack Quaid stars as Nathan Caine; the man who feels no pain within Dan Berk and Robert Olsen's latest release 'Novocaine' - and my goodness is there a lot of fun, and blood, in this one.
As action comedies go, this is quite a fresh and original concept. With no pain to worry about, there's also no fear for Quaid's character, as he goes on a one man mission to save the girl of his dreams. The film does stay within its lane on that front, but its the imagination behind each grizzly blow that makes you appreciate what its trying to do.
Quaid can pretty much sleepwalk through this kind of role; its the standard quirky, nerdy, everyman flung into a bad situation that you would expect him to play. Nevertheless, 'Novocaine' does scratch that itch if you're looking for something fresh and equally fun.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Last Breath' is the terrifying and extraordinary true story of how deep sea diver, Chris Lemons, was left stranded 100 metres under the sea, with only his back up oxygen to save him.
While this story maybe familiar to its audience, its the way in which director Alex Parkinson executes bringing this story to the big screen that is the most impressive. Filming techniques such as wide shots that is mainly filled with blackness, limiting lead actor Finn Cole to a small portion of the screen, really sets in that fear and anxiety of how alone it is within the dark and underwater world.
The entire supporting cast, made up of Woody Harrelson and Simu Liu, create a great and believable chemistry, raising the stakes, as they look save their lost friend and diver. It might not be a film you rewatch after your initial viewing, but it is one you'll be telling people to check out.
Full thoughts in this review.
Returning to the FBI's basement to talk about yet another episode of The X Files. Joined in this revisit by fellow X Files enthusiast Tom Grant-Ward, as we discuss the controversial and only 'banned' episode of the show; Home.
Premiering in October 1996, the episode was met with a mixture of applause and disgust due to the graphic nature of the episode and its themes. Horror fans loved it, your average viewer... not so much. But even with this being arguably the darkest episode of the show, it is still hailed as one of the best - and it is easy to see why.
The episode includes so many horror tropes, as well as using inspiration and aesthetics from your classic horrors such as 'Texas Chainsaw' and 'The Hills Have Eyes', whilst thriving in the insecurities we all have when home alone.
'Home' essentially changed the game, and standards, for TV - and pits Mulder and Scully against some of the scariest and unsettling monsters the show has ever seen.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
Bong Joon-ho returns with his latest release 'Mickey 17'. The film follows Mickey, an expendable worker, that is sent out on dangerous missions and dying for research purposes.
I do love some good sci fi - and 'Mickey 17' was neither good, nor bad, its somewhere in the middle that is basically 'ok'. Which given how the trailer made this look like it would be pretty special, it is underwhelming coming away feeling that the film missed the mark a tad. There's some great hits in here and strong highs (in particular the first hour of the film), but then it just loses itself and the interest has gone.
Pattinson is terrific, playing the quirky and innocent Mickey - even getting to play 2 versions of the character which was pretty grand. But it wasn't enough to take the film from being 'ok' to 'excellent', nor the brilliant sets and visual effects that are within.
Full thoughts in this review.
Everyone's favourite serial killer is back... this time younger. Dexter returns to the small screen for the prequel series, aptly titled 'Original Sin', in which fans get an insight into the development of the killer with the code.
Its not a show that I was overly keen to watch, nor very excited for - but boy, was I wrong to prejudge. The aesthetic and feel of the show is captured wonderfully, instantly transporting you back to the good old days of the shows original run. Topped off with some excellent casting that brings much loved faces back with a warm fuzz. Its not a home run, the show has a fair few flaws that pull it down a tad, but not enough to take away from the many high's that 'Original Sin' includes.
The main stand out of course is the shows lead; Patrick Gibson. The actor has fully and truly embodied Dexter Morgan. Every characteristic, mannerism, quirk, is all there; breathing newfound, and unseen, life into the character that makes this a fascinating performance and arc right the way through.
Full thoughts, with spoilers, in this review.
'The Monkey' couldn't ask for a better set of names attached to the project. Stephen King, the man behind the original short story and an all-round mastermind within the horror genre; James Wan, responsible for some of my all time favourite horrors; and Osgood Perkins, fresh off the back of the successful and unsettling 'Longlegs' from last year. It's a recipe for success, you might say - and 'The Monkey' is just that.
This film is just one big hoot. Tackling the horror via comedy isn't an easy thing to do, but 'The Monkey' has plenty of fun within its run time. Every pint of blood that is lathered all over its set pieces is captured and presented effortlessly by Perkins, whilst lead actor Theo James, delivers a dry and awkward, yet brilliant, performance in this devilish and wacky release.
Its another firm favourite for me already for 2025, and I already cant wait for a rewatch.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Captain America returns to the big screen with 'Brave New World'; the latest entry into the once great, now Meh-CU. And it was just fine.
The film finally gives audiences the first feature length for Anthony Mackie's Sam Wilson, now firmly with his hand around the shield, as he looks to investigate a conspiracy surrounding the new president Thaddeus Ross.
Though the film's leads are genuine standouts, the film unfortunately suffers from a very messy and underdeveloped plot that focuses too much on tying up loose ends.
But rest assured, Mackie's talent comes out in abundance, and the personal struggle of Sam accepting being Captain America added an extra layer. Danny Ramirez injects much needed energy into a fairly flat film, that puts all its chips on the third act stand off between Cap and Red Hulk - which to give it its credit, the knockout match was worth the wait through all the messiness that was this film.
Full thoughts in this review.
From the creative team behind 'Barbarian', comes another very clever thriller that brings an AI twist to the cabin horror subgenre.
'Companion' delivers on a number of levels; the outstanding performance from lead Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quad too in here is devilish and psychotic, the script is tight, but its the films themes of consciousness, technology, as well as controlling relationships, that really is where the movie is at its strongest.
But even with these themes and messages, the film still basks in its horror, making 'Companion' an intense and gripping, not to mention humorous, watch from start to finish. There are films akin to this latest release from Drew Hancock, but there's enough about it that makes this feel unique and stand out amongst the rest of the AI horror flicks you may have seen prior.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Following the films premier at the 2024 Annecy International Animation Film Festival, along with its recent Oscar nomination, Adam Elliot's 'Memoir of a Snail' is finally making its way to cinemas worldwide; and it is simply excellent.
This mature themed, tragicomedy presents the whirlwind journey for lead character Grace Pudel, from childhood to adulthood, all beautifully and perfectly captured through claymation. The film manages to balance and explore the dark and harder aspects of life, as well the beauty and innocence excellently - and it doesn't hold back when it comes to the humour too.
As poignant releases go, it's going to be hard to top this one - and it's a film that needs to be seen by all.
Full spoiler-free thoughts in this episode.
Everyone's friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man returned to the big screen in 2007, with the franchises biggest, and darkest story yet... and ultimately, the worst of the bunch.
Though 'Spider-Man 3' delivered at the box office, becoming one of the highest grossing films ever at the time, it was severely criticised by fans and critics, entering into meme territory (thank you, Bully Maguire) thanks to the huge misstep in direction that left so many underwhelmed with an awful lot that was included - most notably, the handling of fan favourite Venom.
As much as the story did try to continue and resolve a lot of character arcs already established from the previous films, as well as delving into themes such as revenge and forgiveness, Spidey 3 had too much going on with its overstuffed script and stacked cast, that it was an impossible job to land this successfully.
Full thoughts in this episode.
'Wolf Man' reunites Leigh Whannell with Universal Pictures, as he once again brings a classic monster into a modern and contemporary setting.
Whannell is a writer and filmmaker I have followed since his breakout with 'Saw', and so having him attached to bringing universal monsters to the big screen is a huge win in my eyes. 'The Invisible Man' was a big success, but sadly 'Wolf Man' doesn’t leave the same mark.
The film does use some effective camera techniques to showcase a man transforming into a werewolf, as well some brilliant sound effects to exaggerate this transition. And though the character study of Blake, played by Christopher Abbot, is gripping - it doesn’t connect as well as the film wants on an emotional level between he and his family. Ultimately, 'Wolf Man' leaves a lot more to be desired, but still has some fun scares for audiences.
Full thoughts in this episode
The highly anticipated 'Squid Game 2' dropped on Netflix over the festive period, bringing audiences back to this world, as more participants enter these wicked and mysterious games.
The first season was an overnight sensation, and catapulted the show to becoming a pop culture icon. Now with season 2, the stakes have been raised, as Seong Gi-hun re-enters with the motive of stopping the games once and for all. Though the show may have lost some sting, it still packs a punch with a gripping narrative that is equally entertaining as it is disturbing.
It's evident that creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has taken time to perfect and craft this sequel's story, whilst also elevating the games and the shows philosophical angle. As dark as the show can get, its still a joy to see its return - and what a return this is.
Full thoughts in this review
Robert Eggers brings us his take and vision on the silent picture from 1922, ‘Nosferatu’, and my goodness it is VERY good.
Starting as a passion project back in 2015, Eggers has delivered on bringing audience a terrifyingly gorgeous picture that will lock you in a trance from minute one. The tone and atmosphere are impeccable, as well the stunning sets and costumes, on top of some staggering cinematography courtesy of Jarin Blaschke.
But the main stand outs in this Gothic supernatural horror are its leads, Lily-Rose Depp, who puts on an outstanding performance, and Bill Skarsgård, who is lost in the makeup and embodied the malevolent Count Orlok.
‘Nosferatu’ deserves all the praise it is receiving, and then some. It is already a serious contender for film of the year… and it’s only January…
Full thoughts in this episode.
As 2024 comes to a close, it's time to once again unveil my top 10 favourite films of the year!
A massive thank you for all the support this year for the podcast - we officially hit 20k downloads this year (which I'm pretty chuffed about) so again, thank you - it means the world!
Catch you in 2025.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson is Kraven the Hunter, the latest and possibly final entry in this messy Sony-verse of Spider-Man characters. The bar was quite low on the back of the last few releases from Sony, however, Kraven does have its moments that shine.
The main highlights from this release is the performance from Taylor-Johnson, who makes Kraven his own, whilst still bringing in that intimidating presence, as well as animalistic qualities that us fans expect. The action in places is certainly a step up from some of the previous attempts courtesy of our favourite studio - however, as usual, the film is let down by a pretty weak script that includes some of the worst dialogue put to screen. It takes some big swings that, like all these spin offs, lacks that killer blow.
Is it the worst of the spin offs? Definitely not. Is it the best? Not by a long shot.
Full thoughts in this review.
Celebrating its 40th Anniversary, Joe Dante's 'Gremlins' is still a film that is adored by all - and a huge staple within pop culture.
The film manages to balance the tones of comedy and horror equally to excellent effect, setting it apart from all the rest of horror/comedies - which is one of the many reasons it still is hailed all these years later. Not to mention everything you see is shot on camera, with no CGI and all animatronics, it makes everything feel real and captures a tightknit community who's Christmas spirit is ruined thanks to the mischief and mayhem these creatures cause.
But aside from the wonderful tone, creativeness of the creature designs and brilliant script and performances, the other key component to the films success is down to the lovable Mogwai, Gizmo. Gizmo is the sole reason we all return, and is arguably one of the best creations and designs in cinematic history.
'Gremlins' is a must watch in our household over the festive period, and without doubt one of my favourite films of all time.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
After 24 years, Ridley Scott brings audiences a chance to re-enter the Colosseum for another round, with 'Gladiator II' - and I was indeed entertained.
Following the now older, and more hench, Lucius from the first outing, the sequel reminds you what made the first film so epic and mesmerising, whilst also looking to create something new for this current generation. There is that feeling of familiarity with its plot and character journey, however, its certainly all forgiven once the gladiator-ing commences.
The scale of the film, at times, is off the chart. And with a stacked cast of Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielson, Joseph Quinn, and more, it seems too easy to say that there really wasn't a bad performance in here - but I'll say it anyways; there really wasn't a bad performance in this 2 and half hour, Roman epic courtesy of Scott.
Contender for film of the year? Quite possibly - all dodgy CGI baboons to one side!..
Full thoughts in this review.
Regarded as one of the best superhero films ever, 'Spider-Man 2' took the world by storm with an even bigger story that brought in a tonne of action, along with a superb character study of everyone's favourite nerd, Peter Parker.
Whilst the first Spidey flick is still very near and dear to me, the sequel also sits high in that list due to its deep dive into Peter as a character, and the struggles he has juggling his normal life along with that of being Spider-Man. Throw in an iconic comic villain like Doc Oc, and you have a recipe for success - especially when you get some top tier Raimi horror too.
Its pretty amazing that a film from 2004 is still highly regarded by so many. In a world now where every other day a new MCU film is released, 'Spider-Man 2' still stands out amongst the greats. The spectacle is there, but so too is the excellent personal journey for each of its main protagonists.
Full thoughts in this revisit!
A24 have given audiences something we never thought imaginable; Hugh Grant playing a villain.. and a very interesting one at that!
'Heretic' pits Grant against two members of the Mormon church, played excellently by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, as what seems to be a simple chit chat over religion, soon spirals into a devilish game of Cat and Mouse - courtesy of everyone's favourite gentlemen, Hugh Grant.
Writers and directors Scott Beck and Bryan Woods have delivered a very thought provoking piece that doesn't really dive too much into the horror, and instead focus on atmosphere and tension to drum up the scares. Religion as a theme is always going to get people talking, and I have my own views and experiences on the topic, which is where I found 'Heretic' was at its strongest; when different ideologies were at play. Unfortunately, I came away a little unsatisfied with the film overall - it almost felt that the concept was too big and thus didn't quite stick the landing.
Full thoughts in this review.
Released in 2012, along with a tonne of great films that year, was Josh Trank's found footage superhero thriller 'Chronicle'. The film was a huge success at the box office, jumping straight to number 1 and throwing Trank in the mix of exciting up and coming directors. Upon its initial release, I wasn't too fussed on the film - however, revisiting the film so many years later - I can safely say I was wrong about it.
As the current state of superhero movies has gotten all too stale, 'Chronicle' stands out vastly higher with its direction and story - all topped off with stellar performances from its leads Alex Russell, Michael B. Jordan and, stand out, Dane Dehaan. There's a lot of found footage films to choose from, but Trank manages to bring in refreshing ideas to the genre that aids the films action, suspense and thought-provoking premise.
My younger, foolish self, was probably lost in the many excellent films that were released in 2012 to fully appreciate this hit . 'Chronicle' in some respect was ahead of its time, and is certainly one worthy of a revisit.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Venom: The Last Dance' brings to a close this epic symbiote journey for Eddie Brock and his best mate, Venom. Even though Sony get a bad wrap for their Spidermanless spin offs, the Venom films are ones that I do have a soft spot for. They're simply dumb fun with a brilliant performance from Tom Hardy.
'The Last Dance' continues that trend of dumb fun and Tom Hardy shining, however, I did come away a tad disappointed with this entry. As final outings go, this one left a lot to be desired - and though Venom does get an explosive and emotional send off, I can't help but think that the studio and filmmakers just missed the mark with this one. Maybe they spent too long editing and cutting this to an inch of its life, who knows? But at least we can all agree that Tom Hardy is the gift that keeps on giving when it comes to his portrayal of Eddie and Venom.
Full thoughts in this review.
Coralie Fargeat brings us 'The Substance', a satirical body horror flick that has taken audiences and critics by storm. It seems everyone has been talking about the release, and its easy to see why. The film has had such a mixed reaction, that I had to check it out to see what the fuss was about....
Regardless of where you stand, 'The Substance' certainly delivers on what it was set out to do, and is layered with symbolism and messages from substance abuse, to society’s attitude towards women and what standards are expected of them.
Both leads, Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, are fantastic in their respected roles - though technically, they are one - both manage to deliver a fascinating watch of a subject that desires to be younger and 'better', sending them on a wicked spiral with very dark, and horrifying, consequences.
In 2002, Rob Bowman unleashed 'Reign of Fire' into cinemas - and sadly, it didn't set the world alight. But even though the film disappointed at the box office, I still don't think we've had a better dragon themed film release since.
Not only did the film have great characters to root for, played excellently by Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, but it also changed the game on the Dragon design in film and media. Moving foreword, elements from these creature designs would inspire future releases such as Harry Potter and, of course, Game of Thrones.
'Reign of Fire' is such an underappreciated release that, in a way, was ahead of its time. It balances the use of special and practical effects brilliantly, which is why the film still holds up 22 years after its release.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
As much as the first 'Joker' didn't really need a sequel, its hard for a studio to leave things alone - especially when a film you release brings on 2 Oscar wins, as well as over $1 billion at the box office. So alas, here we are with a sequel that no one really asked for; 'Joker: Folie à Deux'.. and unfortunately, its a huge misfire.
The musical aspect derail's the movie on a number of occasions, and sadly, the plot isn't enough to gain the same response or connection that the first film had with audiences. Putting it simply, I found it incredibly boring and lacklustre. It does beg the question whether this was self sabotage? or if it was a case of 'sticking it to the fans'? Who knows, but its easily the biggest disappointment of the year.
Full thoughts in this review.
'Joker' was a huge smash hit when it dropped in 2019. Grossing over $1 Billion, as well as winning 2 Oscars; one being for Joaquin Phoenix's mesmerising and unsettling lead performance, it generated a huge buzz and fan base. The film did however prove to be extremely divisive with its subject matter and themes within, that saw a troubled and struggling Arthur Fleck, transform into the clown prince that we are all familiar with.
Todd Phillips and team created a whole new world that at times, felt all too real. With the poor being oppressed, and the rich getting richer, 'Joker' dove deep into the social commentary surrounding society as a whole - and how this can impact the mentally ill and less fortunate. It's a film that left me floored upon its release, and easily shot its way up the list of favourite comic book movies.
Full thoughts in this revisit
36 years after the juice was originally let loose, he is BACK in an all new wacky and fun adventure that is perfect for spooky season. 'Beetlejuice Beetlejuice' is a brilliant sequel that captures everything that made the original a great time.
Michael Keaton shines, of course, stepping back into the black and white striped suit for another memorable outing as the titular character. The cast; Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, Katherine O'Hare, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci and WIllem Dafoe, ALL bring their A game on top of brilliant practical effects and sets that aid in building this weird and wonderful world.. and afterlife!
Full thoughts in this episode
James McAvoy stars in this remake of the Danish hit 'Speak No Evil', where once again he displays the range and talent he has to make you feel extremely uncomfortable throughout. Directed by James Watkins, the film really pushes the tension and suspense within the film, playing with your expectations, and never letting on just when the drama and horror is to unfold.
Though the innocent family make some very questionable decisions during their stay, there's no denying that this latest thriller is a satisfying watch, leaving you breathless by the time the films closing credits appear.
Whilst we all eagerly await the final season of Netflix’s widely popular 'Stranger Things', fans have been given the chance to experience something completely different with the theatrical show 'The First Shadow' – and my goodness is this a brilliant piece of theatre.
Serving as a companion to the upcoming final season, 'The First Shadow' dives further into the life of Henry Creel, and the journey of his towards becoming the fearful Vecna. With stunning sets, props, as too the performances from the entirety of the cast, 'Stranger Things: The First Shadow' has the prospect of becoming another great extension from a popular IP for stage, as well as a must see for all Stranger Things fans.
There are many great superhero films to choose from, but Sam Raimi’s 'Spider-Man' from 2002 still holds a very special place in my heart. The film was a generation defining summer blockbuster for most upon its release, and finally brought the web-slinger in live action form that went down a treat for audiences and fans worldwide.
With great use of special and practical effects, the film stepped up the superhero genre to extreme lengths and brought so many memorable moments that are still spoken about to this day. Performances from Tobey Maguire and Willem Dafoe are electric, as well as the themes interwoven within this coming of age, superhero story.
Spider-Man is still adored to this day, and even with the different faces that have played the character since the '02 release, it’s still this original that stands out the most in my eyes due to the impact it had, and the impression it left on me as a young fan.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
'Blink Twice' is the directorial debut from Zoë Kravitz – and it’s a very good one at that! What seems to be yet another 'millionaire buys an island where bad things happen' flick, soon transcends into something unique and unsettling, as the guests find that things are in fact too good to be true.
The cast is jam packed with familiar faces and a range of talent. The performances from Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie and Adria Arjona are stand outs, however the entire cast really are strong in this release. Kravitz brings in some brilliant flare and style with the imagery, making 'Blink Twice' one of the best-looking films of the year, but also one of the most uncomfortable and uneasy watches too.
Full thoughts in this review.
Six years after the shows original run ended, The X Files returned to the big screen for the second time with its sequel; 'I Want to Believe'. Stepping away from the shows mythology and more towards its classic 'monster of the week' story lines, the film didn't live up to expectations, or really deliver anything special for fans or regular audiences.
The film does have its bright sparks with its leads' performances, both David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson display what made them such a great duo in the first place. The themes too within the film of Science and Faith are strong and bring out the best from the duo - in particular Anderson's Scully.
But sadly, the films reveals fall short and leave much to be desired all things considered. Its not a terrible effort, but definitely a disappointing one.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
With the release of 'Alien: Romulus', and the success it's having at the box office - I thought it was time to settle down, in a snug Cryopod, and rank the entire Alien franchise.
Fede Alvarez brings us another installment to the Alien franchise, and its VERY good. 'Alien: Romulus' has all the ingredients you want from an Alien film, and then some. Its arguably the best looking film in the franchise with stunning cinematography, on top of top notch practical effects, all the while both Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson knock it out of the park with their performances.
Though I have mixed feelings about the final act, it doesn't derail the overall experience and thoughts I have on this brilliant release. In space, no one can hear you scream.. but everyone hears you in the cinema screening.
Life is like an M Night Shyamalan film, you never know what you're going to get... 'Trap' was a release that I was quite excited for on the back of the trailers. It looked intense, grounded and a promising cat and mouse flick courtesy of everyone's favourite director.. Sadly, the film nosedives - and it doesn't really take that long to stumble. Other than the brilliant performance from Josh Hartnett, 'Trap' doesn't have a lot going for it, and becomes yet another disappointing release that sits firmly amongst the other M Night misses.
Full thoughts in this review.
Comic Con 2024 threw out some BIG surprises. In this episode, I'm diving into all the announcements that caught my attention, and what I am most excited for – including THAT Dr Doom news.
'Deadpool & Wolverine' finally brings Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman together for a buddy cop, action packed, foul mouthed spectacle, that has been on everyone’s wish list since the messy X-Men Origins: Wolverine film – none more so than Reynolds. And boy did it deliver. I had forgotten what it was like to leave an MCU film being very impressed by the spectacle delivered.
Having Deadpool now in the MCU allows for some extreme fan service and fun poking that will impress most audiences. But even on this grander scale for the character, the film still manages to keep things close and intimate for both leads, allowing for some excellent set pieces and action on some very exciting backdrops.
Full thoughts in this episode.
'Twisters' is the long-awaited sequel to the much-adored 1996 original. With nearly 30 years passed, it always worries me when these 'legacy' sequels drop as more often than not, they are disappointing and just a quick cash grab for studios. However, this doesn’t apply to this latest release courtesy of director Lee Isaac Chung.
The film ticks all the boxes that you would expect, and does its best to capture that ‘old school blockbuster’ vibe of the original with some impressive spectacles. There are flaws; the CGI at times can be clunky, and the lack of practical effects does take the sting out, but the overall plot and performances from its leading trio, Daisy Edgar Jones, Glen Powell and Anthony Ramos are really strong and make this movie as entertaining as it is – all storms to one side.
Full thoughts in this episode.
'Longlegs' is taking audiences and critics by storm – and it’s easy to see why. Written and directed by Osgood Perkins, the film homes in on tension and atmosphere to create one of the most unsettling viewing experiences I’ve had.
Nic Cage is unrecognisable, yet brilliant – equally brilliant is his opposite Maika Monroe, who brings in a unique performance that only elevates her character the further into this mystery she goes. But probably the most effective aspect of the film is the way it has been shot, courtesy of cinematographer Andrés Arochi. Simply put, its one of the best-looking films this year with sequences and imagery that I’ve still been unable to shake since viewing.
Full thoughts in this review.
Steven Spielberg and Tom Cruise joined forces once again, following their success with Minority Report, to work on a chilling adaptation of one of my favourite novels; HG Wells' classic 'War of the Worlds'.
Having worked on sci fi films in the past, it was the first time audiences got to see a truly terrifying invasion courtesy of Spielberg. The film has some absolutely jaw dropping set pieces, and at times is a masterclass in tension and suspense. Cruise is on top form, along with new ideas and twists on the original story, its easy to see why the film became fourth most successful film of 2005 - as well as one of my personal favourites from the acclaimed director and lead star.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
Michael Sarnoski directs the new spin off in the 'A Quiet Place' saga; 'Day One'. As the title suggests, the film drops audiences into the day of the initial invasion from these menacing creatures, showcasing the horror as New York, one of the loudest cities in the world, is brought to silence.
With terrific performances from Lupita Nyong'o and Joseph Quinn, an emotional script, as well as some beautiful effects and cinematography, 'Day One' is a fantastic addition to the saga that brings the terror to a much larger scale with this new backdrop.
Full thoughts in this episode. .
William Eubank finally brought us 'Underwater' in 2020. After much delay, the film managed to make its way out to the world before cinemas closed due to the pandemic. Though the film didn't do well at the box office, nor really with audiences, I was a fan of the Kristen Stewart lead flick.
'Underwater' definitely feels familiar with its sets and backdrop, and the nods and homages to classics such as 'Alien' and 'The Abyss' are littered throughout. But even with these nods, the film still stands on its own feet, creating fear and tension with every reveal in this mysterious sci fi horror.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
Released earlier this year, and recently dropping on Disney+, was Arkasha Stevenson’s ‘The First Omen’; a prequel to the horror classic from 1976.
With a brilliant performance from the films lead, Nell Tiger Free, as well as some incredibly dark and haunting imagery, the film does stand above a lot of the recent thriller/horrors from over the years. Stevenson has managed to create a film that pays homage to the original, as well as something that can stand on its own feet - which is brilliant for a directors feature length debut.
Though 'The First Omen' ticks a lot of boxes, it still does have a sense of predictability running through, which in some way ruins the overall experience. But taking nothing away from the strengths the film includes, as there are some things in here that you just cant unsee.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Richard Linklater brings us ;'Hit Man'. Inspired by true events, the film brings audiences into the life, as well as showcasing the many faces, of Gary Johnson; a professor by day, whilst also playing the role of hit man for local police.
With some decent enough twists and turns, the film doesn't shy away from keeping you on your toes - however, there are elements that do seem predictable in execution. The leads, Glen Powell and Adria Arjona, are great- and you will absolutely have a good time, though it did leave me hoping for a tad more.
Full thoughts in this review
George Miller returns to the 'Mad Max' saga with Furiosa; a prequel story surrounding the character introduced in Fury Road. This time played by Anya Taylor Joy, in brilliant fashion, we see a younger Furiosa seek revenge on the one who took it all from her.
At times, the film can leave you breathless with its epic action set pieces. It is extremely pleasant on the eye, and Miller has worked wonders to elaborate further on an already well developed world of his. The wastelands have never looked as good, Hemsworth is wild, and Taylor Joy brings in the ferocity within this latest thrill ride.
Full thoughts in this review
Released in 2001, 'Jurassic Park III' sadly didn't' reach the same heights as its predecessors. With a very troubled production, its evident that the film didn't really know what it wanted to do or say - but as a kid, I enjoyed the film nonetheless!
In this revisit, I'll be diving in to the films background, development and overall thoughts on this messy affair that saw Sam Neill's Dr Alan Grant be whisked off to Isla Sorna, where more dinosaur mayhem, plot conveniently, unfolds.
John Krasinski brings us 'IF', a beautiful story which sees a young girl make it her mission to reunite IF's with their respected children. There is so much to enjoy and love about this film; its heartwarming, emotional, funny, but deep within its core are many themes ranging from love, growing up and grief.
With a fantastic script, exceptional score (courtesy of the brilliant Michael Giacchino), stunning visual effects and brilliant actors in Cailey Fleming and Ryan Reynolds, 'IF' has certainly cemented itself as one of the films of the year.
Full thoughts in this review
David Leitch brings us 'The Fall Guy'; a love letter to stunt work in film. Along for the journey is Ryan Gosling, who I adore in comedic roles, and the ever brilliant Emily Blunt - both bringing their A game in a match made in heaven.
Though the overall plot isn't as good as I hoped for, it still has some fantastic action set pieces, as well as laughs for all with its meta jokes regarding the film industry. Biggest highlight though goes to Gosling and Blunt who's chemistry oozes into every scene, making it all the more entertaining.
Full thoughts in this review.
Time to get the party hats, because its EPISODE 200!
All the waffling has led to this, and joining me on this celebratory episode are my good friends, and fellow film enthusiasts, Ben, Arun & Andrew, as we have a good ol' natter about all things cinema.
Thanks to everyone who has supported the pod since it started!
'The Phantom Menace' celebrates its 25th Anniversary; a film that defined a generation, even if it was met with mixed responses from fans and critics. Being a 90's kid, this film was everything to me growing up. Though the flaws stick out more the older, and dare I say wiser I have become, there's still some dazzling moments within this film that are up there as some of my favourite Star Wars sequences.
Full thoughts in this revisit
Alex Garland delivers with another stunner, 'Civil War'. giving audiences an up close and personal look at a nation violently divided. With some breathtaking and pulsating, and at times, anxiety inducing moments, 'Civil War' is a gripping feature that sits firmly in the best of 2024.
Full thoughts in this review
After years of waiting, we finally have answers - and a conclusion - to the story of Rick Grimes.. for now anyways! 'The Ones Who Live' is the epic love story between two of tv's big hitters; Rick and Michonne, as they search for eachother, and themselves, in this dark and unprecedented world.
With an increased budget and gripping storytelling, 'The Ones Who Live' breathed new life into The Walking Dead Universe, and definitely surpassed many of my expectations. However, it wasn't all plain sailing, and certainly has a few bumps I can't quite ignore.
Full thoughts in this review!
The directorial debut from Dev Patel is, to put it simply, epic. 'Monkey Man' brings the action, grit and culture in a stomping feature that is easily one of the best of 2024. The film excels on so many levels; from the fight choreography, dazzling colours, and the performance itself from Patel is just outstanding. A film that needs to be seen on the biggest screen.
Full thoughts in this episode.
With the highly anticipated release of 'Alien: Romulus' due in August, I thought I would revisit and discuss the highly divisive 'Alien: Covenant' released in 2017 - because WHY NOT.
Ridley Scott returned again to the directors chair, however the films overall narrative and tone is a tad jarring considering it merged both the Prometheus plot along with that of being a prequel to Alien.
But in the midst of the messiness, I still had a real great time with the film. Michael Fassbender's portrayal as David was excellent in Prometheus, but even better in Covenant. The film feels darker in tone in places, however I found the themes of creation and existence extremely compelling throughout.
Full thoughts in this revisit
The fifth instalment of the Monsterverse has hit the screens and is doing VERY well at the box office. This time, Kong and Godzilla team up to take down a new threat lurking in the depths of Hollow Earth in 'Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire'.
With inspiration from the Showa era, and some 80s flicks, GxK absolutely has moments that are dazzling and, frankly, hilarious as they cause mayhem and destruction. But aside from the fun action, there’s not an awful lot more going for this film, and feels essentially like we’re now getting Fast and Furious films.. but with Monsters!
Full thoughts in this episode.
Having very much enjoyed the previous release, 'Ghostbusters: Afterlife', going as far to say probably the best sequel since the 1984 original, I was certainly up for another sequel of ghosts and ghouls being busted.. As they say, be careful what you wish for! 'Frozen Empire' sadly falls quite short on a number of things that makes this one of the weaker sequels that has been delivered in this franchise.
With a few ok moments sprinkled here and there, the film is stuffed with returning characters, exposition, plot conveniences, and just not that good of a big bad.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Inspired by true events, 'Wicked Little Letters' follows two neighbours, pitted against each other due to foul mouthed letters arriving on peoples’ doorsteps. Though crude, funny and charming, the film also has serious undertones of equality between men and women, and women’s rights in general; executed and delivered wonderfully by director Thea Sharrock and the films leads Olivia Coleman and Jesse Buckley – both of which are fantastic in this release.
Full thoughts in this episode.
We return to the desert planet Arrakis for another visual masterpiece courtesy of Denis Villeneuve and team. 'Dune: Part Two' takes everything you loved from the first, in terms of scale, imagery, practical and visual effects, and ups it to a whole other level. With tremendous performances from leads Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya, as well as the brilliant supporting cast, 'Dune Part Two' certainly is a great sequel, and one that will be spoken about for a long. long time.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Took a bit of time off for personal reasons. New episodes starting next week - more details in this quick update. Thanks again for your support
Next on the list of terrible Marvel movies courtesy of Sony; Madame Web.
Disastrous from start to finish. Full painful thoughts in this episode.
I am very late to the party on this one, but I have finally caught Yorgos Lanthimos' 'Poor Things' – and good lord was this film excellent.
It is crystal clear why this film has received 11 nominations at the upcoming Oscars. The script is fantastic, set and costume is stunning, a phenomenal performance from Emma Stone, as too stunning cinematography included that brings this wacky and wonderful world to life.
One of the better character pieces I’ve seen in a very long time! Full thoughts in this episode.
Matthew Vaughn brings us 'Argylle', another action spy comedy, starring Bryce Dallas Howard and Sam Rockwell (as well as a number of big names) and I can absolutely see why the film is dividing audiences and critics.
The film keeps you guessing with its constant pulling of the rug, and at times this is great – but other times, it just feels a little too out there. Its silly, flash and full of fun action sequences, but the hideous CGI and green screen really make you work for it.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Finally hitting UK cinemas is 'All Of Us Strangers', and I cannot stress enough to moviegoers – go see this film. It might only be January, but the film is straight away up there as one of the best films of the year with its excellent script as well as stellar performances from the whole cast, in particular, Andrew Scott, who was exceptional. It’s a beautiful but heartbreaking story surrounding identity, true love, grief, loneliness and family.
Full thoughts in this episode
Steven Spielberg returned to the directors’ chair for the highly anticipated sequel to Jurassic Park; 'The Lost World'. Released in 1997 to mixed reviews, the film upped the adventure, tension and amazing work from Stan Winston, as well as ILM.
The first two Jurassic films are, still to this day, my favourites of the bunch (barring 'The Lost World's' clunky third act). The work from Spielberg is, as usual, flawless, the dynamic between the films leads are great fun, and though the film makes some big changes from the novel, it still also honours the source material; making 'The Lost World' the best sequel of the saga.
Full thoughts in this revisit.
Finishing its first season, 'Monarch: Legacy of Monsters' certainly took fans and audiences on a spin! If you’re a fan of the Monsterverse, there is certainly key elements and parts that will really draw you in and put you at the edge of your seat. However, if you’re an average fan to this universe, well... this show probably isn’t going to make you love the big kaiju's any more so!
The series certainly had its highlights, with stunning visuals, revelations, and as mentioned on the first review I did for the show, a heck of a lot of mystery and intrigue. But sadly, the show falls short with its characters and murky middle section, where you can’t help but think this series should have been shorter.
Full thoughts in this 2nd part review!
Taika Waititi returns to the director’s chair with 'Next Goal Wins'. Based on real events and adapted from the 2014 documentary of the same name, the story follows the American Samoa national football team on the back of the world breaking 31-0 loss in a World Cup qualifier. Brought in is Thomas Rongen, played brilliantly by Michael Fassbender, who aims to turn the tide – or at least, get the team to score 1 goal.
The film celebrates the Polynesian culture whilst also balancing itself well with quick gags around the culture and lifestyle. Ultimately though, it is the people and characters within the island that make this an extremely enjoyable and fun watch.
Full thoughts in this episode.
'Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom' closes off the bumpy ride that was the DCEU. Though the film doesn't hit all the right marks, there's a charm about this entry that gave me that feel of an early 2000's superhero flick with its campy tone, as opposed to being too serious. The action is fun, the buddy comedy is a laugh, but ultimately its let down by certain plot developments and (as usual) questionable CGI.
Full thoughts in this episode.
As 2023 comes to a close, it's time to countdown my top 10 favourite films of the year!
Thank you as always for checking out and supporting the pod - it means the world! See you in 2024.
Finally reaching UK cinemas is 'Godzilla Minus One', and good lord, this film was FANTASTIC. From the script, the characters, the design of the iconic Kaiju, it ticks all the boxes for making a terrific Godzilla film – and it was an absolute thrill to watch this all unfold on the big screen. Instantly shot its way into my list of, not only favourite films of the year, but favourite Godzilla films ever.
Full thoughts in this review
'Leave the World Behind' dropped on Netflix this month, depicting what looks to be the end of the world through the eyes of 2 separate families pitted together during this crisis. With an intriguing and tense concept, incredible cast, brilliant score and lovely cinematography, the film has sparks of excellence, however, its more so the pacing that pulls this one down a tad.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Timothée Chalamet is Wonka in this latest take on the iconic character, penned and directed by Paul King. It's been sometime since we have dove back into the weird and wonderful world of Roald Dahl, and this latest release has its pros - but also its cons. The magic is there, the wonder is there, however with no chocolate factory to fall back on, the story certainly takes a dip and feels a little short when comparing to the iconic 1971 original.
'Better Call Saul' brought us the story of Jimmy McGill, and the transition into the much adored, yet flawed, Saul Goodman. The series as a whole is absolutely fantastic, and everything a spin off from the incredible 'Breaking Bad' should be. The performances are excellent, the script writing is immaculate, and the cinematography is stellar. Its simply breathtaking.
Catch many thoughts of mine on this top tier show in this episode.
Doctor Who returns with a trilogy of specials to celebrate the shows 60th Anniversary! And what better way to celebrate, than to bring back some very familiar faces. David Tennant is back, Catherine Tate is back, heck, even Russell T Davies is back for what is shaping to be a very exciting future of the show - and this first special has gotten off to an absolute FLYER. It's bigger, it's better, it's more Doctor Who-y-er than ever!
Full thoughts in this episode
As a big fan of the Monsterverse, I was thrilled with the news Apple would be developing a tv series surrounding the scientific organisation 'Monarch'. With a dual timeline, taking place in the 1950's and 2010's respectively, and having both Kurt and Wyatt Russell along playing the same character, the series already has gotten off to a strong start. The series is shrouded with mystery and wonder, leaving me very excited to see what is to come for our heroes of this particular story – or stories!
Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel returns - only this time, her powers are entangled with that of Kamala Khan and Monica Rambeau, as they battle to save the universe. This latest MCU release is definitely not the worst that Marvel have dropped, however its certainly not the best. The dynamic between the films 3 leads is by far the stand out, though with some clunky editing and plot conveniences, the story overall does suffer - even if the leads are a lot of fun to watch together.
Full thoughts in this episode
Insomniacs 'Spider-Man 2' was finally released to the world a few weeks ago, and I have struggled to put it down since. As for many, including myself, this was the most anticipated release of the year - and it did not disappoint. The game is bigger, darker, grittier than its predecessor, taking everything we loved from the first and making it even better. An absolute joy to play.
Full thoughts in this episode.
Released in 2011, 'Crazy, Stupid, Love' was met with high praise as the film took a deep dive into all aspects of Love. From relationships ending, starting, first crushes, rekindling of love, the film covered all grounds and stuck the landing perfectly with a star studded cast including Steve Carell, Julianne Moore, Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling - the latter whom I absolutely love in comedic roles. Full thoughts in this episode
David Fincher's latest release sees Michael Fassbender deliver an exceptional performance as 'The Killer'. There's much to adore from this noir thriller; the cinematography, the score courtesy of the goats Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, to just the overall intense story itself. It's certainly one of the best films dropped this year - as well, one of the best Fincher films.
'Tis the season to be spooky! So let's rank my all time favourite horror franchise; SAW.
Daryl Dixon’s spin off has come to a close! This show has certainly been a lot of fun, and one that seems to have developed Daryl’s character even further.
In this review, I’m covering the final 3 episodes of the first season (originally published as individual reviews), where we finally learnt just how Daryl ended up washing ashore in France, as well as some fantastic performances from Norman Reedus and Clémence Poésy, and just where the show leaves us looking ahead at season 2.
After directing the recent 'Halloween' trilogy, David Gordon Green returns with his next project; tackling a brand new series of 'The Exorcist' films. This latest release 'Believer' is set to be the start of a trilogy, however, the film doesn’t do an awful lot to get you excited for any more films that are to follow. Though there are great concepts and ideas, the film ultimately never gets past being just a tad creepy, when comparing to the iconic, and at times, haunting original. Full thoughts in this episode
If it's Halloween… it must be Saw. The tenth instalment of the iconic horror franchise was one that I was absolutely looking forward to, and it did not disappoint. 'Saw X' is up there as one of the best of the entire saga. From the gnarly traps, Charlie Clouser’s impeccable score, and an emotional performance from lead Tobin Bell, 'Saw X' will please not only fans of the franchise, but horror fans in general. Catch all my thoughts in this latest episode.
Daryl Dixon returns in his own 'Walking Dead' spin off. The last we saw Daryl, he was riding off into the sunset in the search for two of his closest friends. However, trouble was on the horizon as now he has ended up in France, as new allies, new threats, and new variant walkers all wait around the corner.
In this review, I’m covering the first 3 episodes (originally published as individual reviews), discussing the gorgeous looking post-apocalyptic France, new walker variants, Pouvoir du Vivant (Power of the Living) and the relationship and journey between Daryl, Isabelle and Laurent.
Gareth Edwards returns to the directors chair for 'The Creator' pitting humanity against A.I. in this sci-fi blockbuster. Edwards' previous work has catapulted him to being one of my all-time favourite directors, and so I was excited to see what promised to be a visually stunning piece of cinema. I certainly didn’t come away disappointed on that front, however, the film dipped with the lack of emotional connection I had with the characters, and their stories within. Though the film is impressive and is jaw dropping to look at, it sadly fell short on certain aspects. Perhaps this will age like fine wine and become a future classic – certainly has the potential! Full thoughts in this ep
Arriving on Disney+ over the weekend was 'No One Will Save You', written and directed by Brian Duffield. The trailers gave the impression that this was just a straight up home invasion – but with aliens, however, this is so vastly different to what you’re expecting. With limited dialogue and an amazing performance from lead Kaitlyn Denver, the film really is a character study of Denver’s Brynn, and just what has lead her to these events and whether she is able to move forward from her past trauma.
Hercule Poirot returns in this latest adaptation of Agatha Christie’s work. Loosely based on the 1969 novel ‘Hallowe'en Party’; ‘A Haunting in Venice’ brings ghosts and ghouls into the frame, leading Poirot to question just what exactly is real and what is not. Kenneth Branagh is doing a terrific job with the character, and I’ve enjoyed all three releases so far. However, the suspense and gothic backdrop that this latest flick has, is certainly what caught my attention and felt like a much needed shakeup for the film series.
Daryl Dixon returns in his own 'Walking Dead' spin off. The last we saw Daryl, he was riding off into the sunset in the search for two of his closest friends. However, trouble was on the horizon as now he has ended up in France, as new allies, new threats, and new variant walkers all wait around the corner.
On the back of this jam packed first episode, I am instantly a fan. The backdrop of the post-apocalyptic France is gorgeous, whilst the new characters all bring something new and exciting for what is shaping to be a VERY good tv show. Catch all my thoughts on episode 1 in this podcast episode.
Celebrating its 30th Anniversary, Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jurassic Park’ broke box office records, and went on to win all three Academy Awards for which it was nominated, gaining high praise and a huge fanbase following its release in 1993. The film changed cinema with its fantastic visual effects, allowing audiences to be amazed at the spectacle of believable dinosaurs on screen for the first time. This iconic adventure film still to this day captures audiences imaginations, with fantastic set pieces and moments that define why the film is THE blockbuster that it is.
Insomniacs 'Spider-Man 2' is just over a month away, and since the gameplay trailer, we've had bits and bobs being released promoting the game, including the story trailer which again has only added excitement for its release. So with that, I thought I would discuss further about what I'm looking forward to, and most importantly, who I think Venom could be in the game.
Returning back to small screen for another 'X Files Collection' episode! This time we tackle 2016's 'Mulder and Scully Meet the Were-Monster', which is easily my favourite episode from the shows revival. With fantastic support from Rhys Darby, Kumail Nanjiani, and penned by show veteran Darin Morgan, the fun and laughs return to the show with a brilliant twist on the 'shapeshifting' trope, whilst Mulder has a crisis of faith. Full thoughts in this revisit!
The latest superhero to hit screens is ‘Blue Beetle’, a character I had NO idea of prior to its announcement and release in general. This origin story doesn’t do anything massively different from any other origin story you may have seen, and it certainly wasn’t the best watch due to its pretty dull plot and awful bad guys – however, the real driving force for this story is family. And the Reyes family are certainly a lot of fun.Full thoughts in this episode.
What better way to come from back from Disneyland than review the latest release from Disney; ‘Haunted Mansion’. With a cracking ensemble, including LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson, Owen Wilson, Tiffany Haddish, Danny DeVito and more, the film has a great blend of laughs as well as spooky shenanigans. That being said, the film does seem a little mature for very young audience members, but not ‘scary’ enough for the older side of the audience- its somewhere in the middle of the spooky spectrum. If anything, the main thing I took away was the brilliant performance from Lakeith Stanfield. His performance was fantastic in a fairly ok script and story.Full thoughts in this episode
On the back of the first Meg that dropped in 2018, I was absolutely down for a sequel. As we know, I’m a big fan of the creature feature genre, and 'The Meg' was a silly, but fun trip to the cinema. However, The Meg 2… not so much. The adage 'be careful what you wish for' (I could have punned that to 'be careful what you fish for', but I held off) comes to mind, as my god this film was a bad. No fun, no bite, just absolutely stupid, and a real snooze fest at times. Whats more shocking to me is that Ben Wheatley’s name is attached to this as director. Such a talent and yet this film falls so short. Full thoughts in this episode
At the Midsummer Scream Festival, ‘Saw’ fans were treated to some very cool updates, and the first full trailer for the 10th instalment of the franchise. ‘Saw’ is still my favourite horror franchise, and though the saga has been a little bumpy in places, I still can't help but get excited for this latest film to see all the twists and turns and of course, some bonkers traps. In this bonus episode, I’ll be discussing what we know so far, the trailer reaction and what I would like to see, and what I don’t want to see, in the upcoming SAW X.
The Ninja Turtles return to the big screen in this dazzling new animation with lots of quips, action and pizza! Attached to the project was Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, so we knew to expect this to be fun, and the film does have some grand moments. Sure, not everything works, however the animation and score for the film were huge stand outs for me on top of a pretty entertaining storyline. A good ol’ trip to the cinema.
Maggie and Negan join forces in Manhattan, where it is swarming with the dead, survivors and new threats. The series has been receiving high praise and has become AMC+’s highest streamed show (so obviously season 2 was going to be announced). The show itself touches on new elements and emotions regarding the dynamic between Maggie and Negan, but also retreads a few things we’ve already seen and heard between the two of them, which at times seems a bit repetitive. That being said, the show is a lot of fun and has some really excellent and stand out moments as the wider Walking Dead world is explored.Full thoughts in this episode.
The film of the summer has finally arrived in cinemas! 'Barbie', directed by Greta Gerwig, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, with a huge batch of talented supporting cast members; the film packs in a lot of pink and fun - but also some important themes and messages within its story that are a real focus and vocal point that work excellently. Catch full thoughts in this episode
The latest release from Christopher Nolan is, quite simply, astonishing. This biopic, in depth character study of Oppenheimer (based on the biography ‘American Prometheus’) is a remarkable piece of cinema, keeping you engaged and transfixed as you witness history being written, as well as the personal implications these events have on Oppenheimer himself. It seems that Nolan’s entire career has been leading to this film, and with no CGI at hand, I am absolutely taken back by the films impeccable spectacle and cinematography – on top of a jam packed cast who all bring their A game, none more so than Cillian Murphy.
Released in 2017, 'Logan' brought an end to Hugh Jackmans run as the iconic character. Having played the role for 17 years at the time, it seemed fitting for Jackman to lay the claws down and head out with a bang, and what a bang 'Logan' was. Granted, Jackman is reprising the role in the upcoming Deadpool 3, but nothing can be taken away from the brilliant script and performances that were within the 2017 release. A truly fitting end to the character. With spoilers, catch all my thoughts on this fantastic, and easily one of the best, superhero films.
Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt as once again, his IMF team must tackle an impossible mission where car chases, running, masks and crazy stunts are all involved, only this time, AI is the enemy. Cue the MI theme please.The film has some fantastic set pieces and performances, in particular Hayley Attwell who was tremendous. However, MI7 (part one) left me feeling a tad disappointed with the overall story and at times lack of suspense that the MI films usually include - which hopefully will be redeemed once part two drops!Full thoughts in this episode.
Directed by franchise veteran Patrick Wilson, in his directorial debut, ‘Insidious: The Red Door’ brings us back to the Lambert family, who once again begin to experience things that go bump in the night. The scares in the film are pretty ace, and Wilson has really utilised his experience with top horror filmmakers to great effect and it shines mostly with the scares. The story on the otherhand… that’s where the film massively falls short and as a ‘conclusion’ to the Lambert's story; this is not the one for me.Full thoughts in this episode.
Harrison Ford is back as the iconic Indiana Jones in this new adventure; 'Dial of Destiny'. It’s certainly been a while in the making (with injuries and a pandemic causing delays), but this latest, and final, instalment has its fun – however overall, I’m pretty disappointed with this new release. It’s a certainly a bumpy ride, so hold on to your Indy hats as we will discuss all. Joined on this episode by my good friend (and avid Indy fan) Andrew, as we go over everything we liked, as well as what didn’t quite work for us.
The latest release from the beautifully bonkers mind of Wes Anderson is classic Wes Anderson. From excellent cinematography and symmetry on screen, to visually pleasing aesthetics and a huge cast, it ticks a lot of boxes. However, for me the film didn’t have the same flare as some of his previous work. There’s some grand performances from Jason Schwartzman, Scarlett Johansson and Maya Hawke, but the film itself falls a little flat and at times sucks you out of the picture with its structure.Full thoughts in this episode, including a very special guest appearance!
As expressed a number of times, 'The X Files' is my all time favourite show. And with that, I wanted to dive more into the series as a whole; talking about my favourite episodes, or monsters, in one nice little package. Kick starting this new 'X Files Collection' of mine, is Eugene Victor Tooms, featured in the Season One episodes 'Squeeze' and 'Tooms'. 'Squeeze' marked the first of the ‘monster of the week’ episodes that the show included, and ultimately helped sell the show to the masses. Tooms' ability to stretch and contort into the smallest of spaces makes them easily one of the scarier characters of the shows run - and one I had to discuss on the pod!With spoilers, catch my full thoughts in this episode.
It’s been a long time coming, but finally ‘The Flash’ has finally been released to the world in this huge DC blockbuster. Starring Ezre Miller, Michael Keaton, Sasha Calle, Ben Affleck and more, we find Barry Allen travelling back in time to save his parents, triggering a chain events, leading him to try and save the multiverse. To quote an unsuccessful DC movie – 'the hierarchy of the DC universe is about to change'. I’m joined on this episode again by my very good friend Ben, as we finally have a LOT of positive words to say about a recent comic book movie!
On this EPISODE 150 special, I'm joined by my good friend Arun, as we journey to a galaxy far far away, and discuss one of, if not THE greatest trilogies in film history; Star Wars. George Lucas changed the face of cinema when the original dropped in 1977, and what has followed has been nothing short of remarkable. Star Wars has become a huge staple in the pop culture world that continues to grow and grow to this day. With that, catch all our thoughts as we discuss (and gush over) this epic trilogy.
Having blown audiences away in 2018 with ‘Into The Spider-Verse’, Miles returns with a whole bunch of new Spidey’s in the jaw dropping and dazzling sequel; ‘Across The Spider-Verse’. The film is visually stunning, and has again pushed the boundaries with its animation. The sequel is bigger, grander, darker, and frankly, better than the first and will once again take audiences breath away with its outstanding story, in addition to some gorgeous and astonishing visuals.Spoiler free thoughts in this episode
After quite some time, we have finally been treated with some new Spider-Man 2 footage! Due for release later this year, and exclusively to PS5, this is my most anticipated game release of 2023 - having been such a big fan of the first couple of games Insomniac have released. So as a first for the pod, I’m diving into the gaming world to discuss and give my thoughts on this fantastic game play footage.
Rounding up the Monsterverse revisits with this episode, as we discuss 'Godzilla vs Kong'. After a few delays, the film dropped in 2021 directed by Adam Wingard - and it did SO well at the box office. It seemed the perfect film for cinemas at that time, having not long reopened following the pandemic.
With a tonne of gorgeous colour and epic action, as too excellent cinematography from Ben Seresin, the film really is a fun watch and a great time seeing these two heavyweights battle out for the first time since the 1962 original.
Full thoughts in this episode!
Released in March 2017, 'Kong: Skull Island' was a surprise hit - and another great piece in laying the foundation for Legendary’s successful Monsterverse. With some gorgeous visuals and cinematography, as well as excellent monster action and performances from its leads, the film pleased fans and critics alike; not only having success at the box office, but also receiving an Oscar nomination for best Visual Effects.
Catch my full spoiler thoughts in this revisit, as we cover it all from the films announcement and buzz at 2014’s Comic Con, to its overall release and reaction.
The Guardians are back on the big screen for a final outing and mission together. Helmed once again by James Gunn, who brings all the beats that you would expect from a Gunn film and from this dysfunctional team/family. Though the film does have dips and flaws, it certainly is the best Marvel film in the last couple of years. Joined on this episode by my good friend Ben M to talk all things Guardians and MCU.
Picking up where Part One finished on our revisit, myself and my good friend Nat go over the epic final battle for Middle Earth, as well as the emotional goodbye and send off to this wonderful trilogy.
Just like Frodo and Sam’s story, it has taken us a very long time to get to the final stage of the journey! But I am once again joined by my good friend Nathaniel McCartney Williams on this episode, as we discuss the final instalment of the epic The Lord of the Rings trilogy; ‘The Return of the King’.
Because we are big nerds, and there is a LOT to dissect, this revisit is split into two!
The 'Evil Dead' franchise returns to the big screen with the latest installment 'Evil Dead Rise', directed and written by Lee Cronin - and good heavens was this an experience in the cinema!
With some fantastic nods to the original, and its creator Sam Raimi's style of filming, on top of a menacing script and brilliant performances from its leads Alyssa Sutherland and Lily Sullivan, 'Evil Dead Rise' is certainly winning over fans and critics and going fairly high in my series' overall ranking. Its gnarly, its fun, its Evil Dead, right?
Spoiler free thoughts in this episode
Nicholas Hoult and Nicolas Cage star in this latest release from Chris McKay; 'Renfield’. Being the Count’s familiar, Renfield is manipulated and controlled leading Renfield to breaking point and wanting out of this toxic relationship – cue the laughter and body count, as the film has a good chunk of both!
Penned by Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead), the film does have that comic book feel within this world, as well the editing and action (and blood) that the film showcases. The performances from the 2 leads are of course brilliant, and the film overall is a good laugh – even though the subplots within this release are quite underwhelming.
Full thoughts in this episode
Released in 2019, 'Godzilla: KOTM' had a good run at the box office; grossing $386.6 million, however, it didn’t get as much high praise from critics as its 2014 predecessor.
Though the film does have some extremely good highlights, with its terrific visual and special effects for the monster action, as well as gorgeous cinematography, the sequel for me was underwhelming with its story and characters – and at times felt like a bit of a rewrite of what we had seen before.
Full spoiler thoughts in this revisit
Directed by Ben Affleck and starring Matt Damon, ‘Air’ brings the story of how Nike managed to create the iconic Air Jordan trainer for the, then rookie, Michael Jordan – and the rest they say is history!
I have to say that the script and performances are absolutely excellent – there’s no filler, no fat, and you’re hanging off every sequence. Given the films simple premise, this film is a perfect example that you don’t need huge explosions or CGI, and that if you have a great story and great actors giving excellent performances, the film is going to be a success.
Full thoughts in this episode
'Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves' is now out in cinemas everywhere. Written and directed by the team behind 2018’s ‘Game Night’, things are taken to a whole new level with this adaptation of the popular board game – and though they had some interesting ideas and concepts, overall, I sadly wasn’t its biggest fan.This fantasy heist flick has a great cast who all have bright moments, and aided with some brilliant cinematography, the film has its high points - but with every high point, the film has pretty big low ones too.Catch my spoiler free thoughts in this episode
It’s been a minute, but we are back talking about the Baba Yaga on the podcast as 'John Wick: Chapter 4' has finally hit cinemas and is literally kicking ass on all fronts. The film has grossed an incredible $137.5 Million in its first weekend worldwide, already making its budget back of $100 million. Everyone loves Mr Wick.
The stakes are raised even higher for this latest instalment; Wick is angry, and is taking on the High Table in the hope for his freedom – queue the gunfire! The scope in Chapter 4 is massive. With extraordinary set pieces and glorious cinematography, on top of outrageous stunt work, JW4 puts itself firmly in the list of best action films made.
Full thoughts on JW4 in this episode
If you want peace, prepare for war – and John Wick: Chapter 3 is ALL out war. Diving more and more into the lore of the underworld, Chapter 3 has fantastic scope, as well as action sequences that are some of the biggest the franchise has. With adjudicators, ninjas and plenty of bullets, JW3 grossed $327.3 Million at the box office globally making it the best received Wick so far.
With spoilers, catch all my thoughts on JW3 as we close off the revisits in time for Chapter 4!
Directed once again by Chad Stahelski, 'John Wick: Chapter 2' goes in bigger and bloodier than the first. Not only do we get some extraordinary set pieces, including my personal favourite of the entire saga; The Room of Mirrors, but we also dive further into the ‘Wick-verse’, elaborating on The Continental and the High Table. Chapter 2 grossed $171.5 million at the box office, earning twice as much as John Wick 1 – easy to see why Chapter 3 was eventually greenlit!
With spoilers, catch all my thoughts on JW2 in this episode
We have finally reached the conclusion of the first series for 'The Last Of Us', and I have been saying regularly just how much I have enjoyed this adaptation! The finale brings together yet again top performances and cinematography, all the while leading us to an exciting action set piece for its final moments. Pascal and Ramsey once again steal every scene they’re in, however, I did find myself for the first time this season, a little underwhelmed with the episode and how it was all done and dusted rather quickly
Taking nothing away though from what has been a remarkable first season of the show, it has blown my socks of plenty of times during this run and I cannot wait for more
Full thoughts in this bonus episode
The sequel to the 'requel'… 'Scream VI' has taken audiences and the box office by STORM. Credit to the creative team collectively known as 'Radio Silence', as I feel they were really unshackled on this instalment. 'Scream VI' does still fit the mould of a Scream movie – with its classic meta horror/humour etc, however, they managed to breathe new life into the franchise with this instalment - whilst still honouring the film franchise as a whole. It is easily my favourite since 'Scream 2', OR it could easily be the best Scream since the original
Bold words? You tell me! Full thoughts in this episode
Adam Driver crash lands on earth 65 million years ago – and dino sci-fi action unfolds…ish.
'65' has such a great premise and concept that from the trailer I was all on board. Its just a shame that though the film has good Dino action and some excellent suspense, it is a tad dull. The film mainly centres around the relationship between Driver and young co-star Greenblatt, which is fine – but this at times sucks the air from the film, and also left me questioning ‘where the heck are these dinosaurs?’
Full thoughts in this episode
Released in 2014, 'John Wick' stood out amongst the many mindless action films audiences had seen over the years. With some top performances and incredibly choreographed fights (and of course, plenty of gunfire), John Wick has become many peoples favourite hero – spawning sequel after sequel and only getting better with each release. With Chapter 4 due at the end of March, I thought I’d revisit the films to get even more excited for the return of the Baba Yaga on the big screen
Full spoiler thoughts on JW1 in this episode!
Undoubtedly the darkest episode of the show so far. Not in terms of visuals or gore, which we know the show can do when it wants to, but the themes and motives and desires of characters – or character – that we meet are extremely dark and puts our heroes, in particular Ellie, in grave danger.
The show continues from strength to strength, with the aid of wonderful cinematography yet again in this episode – as too a fantastic performance from Scott Shepherd as David, who gave me the creeps from start to finish.
Full spoiler thoughts in this episode
One of those films where there’s no beating around the bush, you see the poster, you see the title – and there is no question of ‘I wonder what this film is about?’. ‘Cocaine Bear’ is loosely based on true events which pits residents and gang members etc against a drug fuelled bear. As silly goes, this isn’t exactly the silliest film you will ever see, and to be honest, I was expecting to have more of a fun time with this than I did. There’s laughs and gore, but there’s too much going on for you to really have a fun time with a film centred around a cocaine induced bear. There’s a sentence I didn’t think I’d be saying!
After a wonderful performance last week from Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey in this week’s episode is exceptional. I loved the relationship and chemistry between Ellie and Riley (shout to Storm Reid, who also was fantastic), both were so great together and to see them discover themselves was beautiful. As I’ve mentioned in pretty much every episode, ‘love’ is the biggest theme of the show, and this episode showcased that in a number of ways.
Full spoiler thoughts in this episode
Idris Elba is back as John Luther, and boy oh boy is it good to see him. 'The Fallen Sun' finally brings Luther to the big screen, as he not only fights for his freedom, but also bringing down the latest threat in Andy Serkis’ serial killer. With some great set pieces and suspense, the film definitely has high points that Luther fans will bask in – there are slight negatives, but overall, this film adaptation is certainly one of the better ones
Family reunites in the latest episode of 'The Last Of Us', as Joel and Ellie finally find his brother, Tommy, and the community he currently resides in. Pascal truly excels in some scene stealing performances with such raw emotion, as too does Ramsey; who not only brings the high-level energy, but in contrast the sense of doubt whether any of their plan involving her will work. Pascal and Ramsey really shine together in what is probably the best performances from them both so far - making the final moments to the episode that little bit more sombre.
Catch full thoughts in this episode
Joined in this weeks episode by my good friend Martin of Sheffield based band; Seconds Apart – talking all things film, tv and especially daytime quizzes, where Martin has appeared on a few of UK game shows. Want to hear what its like on set? Want to know why the people of Twitter have such a problem with him? Check out this episode for all the details
MCU have finally kicked off Phase 5, sending us spinning into the Quantum Realm where we finally meet Kang the Conqueror. Joined in this episode by my very good friend Ben M, as we discuss our mixed thoughts on the latest story involving Ant-Man, and how the Ant-Fam cope with Kang.
Released in 2016, this claustrophobic thriller was a sheer roller coaster of suspense and mystery. Questioning throughout whether John Goodman’s Howard (who is outstanding) is telling the truth, with his theories about the outside being uninhabitable, or whether he has a sinister motive for Mary Elizabeth Winstead’s Michelle (also, absolutely fantastic) who is being kept against her will within his bunker. The film was such a change in pace and direction from its original blood relative, that it instantly went in to my favourites list. Catch my full spoiler thoughts in this revisit
Just when you think there’s hope for certain characters, The Last Of Us reminds us that ‘happy endings’ are very few and far between. ‘Endure and Survive’ not only had top performances from newcomers Lamar Johnson and Keivonn Montreal Woodard, but also included an incredible set piece which had my jaw on the floor. Catch full spoiler thoughts in this bonus bloggs episode
We find Joel and Ellie within Kansas City, as Ellie discovers that people are just as big a threat as the infected. Introduced in this episode is Melanie Lynskey as Kathleen who I’m very excited and intrigued to see how their story unfolds, and just what she has in store for Joel and Ellie. Pascal and Ramsey once again showcase the fantastic chemistry they have, as their respected characters bond and become closer – and more importantly, begin to trust one another. Catch full spoiler thoughts in this bonus episode
The latest release from M. Night Shyamalan finds a young girl and her parents taken hostage, whilst vacationing in a cabin, by four armed strangers - who demand that the family make an unthinkable choice to avert the apocalypse. With some excellent performances from leads Jonathan Groff, Ben Aldridge and Dave Bautista (special mention as well to young star Kirsten Cui), this anxiety inducing story does have bright sparks, however, I couldn’t help but feel a tad underwhelmed overall.
Full thoughts in this episode
The X Files is one of, if not my all-time favourite show. It’s very near and dear to my heart - and in this episode, I thought I’d revisit the feature length film that dropped in 1998- which I think is bloody ace. Managing to balance between pleasing the die-hard fans and the average audience member, the film has a tonne of great moments which only elaborates on the already established government conspiracy within the show. Its wonderful to see Mulder and Scully part of a big ‘blockbuster’ that I think is one of the best TV to Film adaptations.
With spoilers, catch all my thoughts in this latest episode
It is being said that no other tv show will have a better episode this year than the latest episode of ‘The Last Of Us’ – and I wholeheartedly agree. Titled ‘Long, Long Time’, this is easily one of the best pieces of television I have seen. From the impeccable script, to the outstanding performances from Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett, the episode packs so much heart and emotion that it has instantly gone into my top list. With spoilers, catch my thoughts on this latest ep
As our lead characters dive further into the desolate city, we finally get a full look at the terrifying clickers - and good lord, was most of this episode intense! From the fantastic cold opening, to the tragedy that unfolds for Joel, Ellie and Tess, this episode kept me at the edge of my seat. Some outstanding set design as well as terrific performances that once again has me itching for more
Catch full thoughts (including spoilers) in this bonus episode
'Plane' finds Gerard Butler and Mike Colter taking down some bad guys on a remote island following an emergency plane landing. With homages to 90's action flicks, as well as lots of gunfire, the film does pretty much what it was set out to do. Is it the best film you’ll ever see? Absolutely not. Will it keep you entertained? Pretty much!
Spoiler free thoughts in this ep
Move over Chucky, there’s a new doll in town! M3GAN brings the scares and thrills, but also an incredibly moving and emotional element – something I wasn’t expecting at all within this release! With some great performances from Allison Williams and Violet McGraw, plus the terror that any evil A.I. droid brings, M3GAN definitely sits as the surprise package for me this year so far!
Negan’s arrival on 'The Walking Dead' was a huge turning point, for the show as well as the fans. In this extended episode, I’m once again joined by my good friend Jamie W, as we revisit and discuss Negan’s arrival on the scene. From cliffhangers, sadistic smiles, Lucille’s kills, we cover it all – with spoilers of course!
‘It’s gonna be pee pee pants city here real soon..’
HBO have unleashed the tv adaptation of the highly acclaimed game ‘The Last Of Us’ starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. The show was one that I was highly anticipating, and after the first episode, I am even more excited for the rest of the series to unfold. Outstanding visuals, storytelling, performances – everything is one big tick. Join me for weekly reviews of each episode – with spoilers, of course!
'Till' is the true story of 14-year-old Emmett Till, who was brutally murdered in 1955 after innocently flirting with a white shopkeeper. His mother, Maime, vows to expose the racism behind the attack while working to have those involved brought to justice. With a stunning performance from Danielle Deadwyler, the film is one of the most powerful, heart breaking and emotional films I have witnessed
Released in 2022, 'Barbarian' got A LOT of people talking – sadly, I wasn’t one of them! Having finally checked the film out, I am kicking myself that I didn’t give this a watch on its initial release. Written and directed by Zach Cregger, this is easily one of the best horror/thrillers in a long time. The intensity is all there, as well as a great structure, and performances from the cast. Light spoilers within this ep
We return to the 'Saw' franchise to discuss what is a lot of peoples favourite of the bunch; 'SAW II'. With a slightly bigger budget, the second instalment added more twists and turns, as well as excellent performances from Tobin Bell (who gets a much bigger role in this one) and Donnie Wahlberg. The film shattered the box office once again at Halloween, and the franchise pretty much never looked back. Catch full spoilers in this revisit
Dropping on Netflix at the end of 2022, 'White Noise' sees Adam Driver and Greta Gerwig thrown into chaos when an accident leaves an air born toxic over their town. With themes of life, love and death, the film has some thought provoking aspects, however the film does feel a little mish-mashed and not all worked for me – even though the spectacles are pretty eye catching! Spoiler free thoughts in this episode
It’s the final episode of 2022!.. Which means, it’s time to countdown my favourite films of this year. Thank you once again all who have listened to the pod throughout the year – let me know your top films of 2022, and I hope you all have a fantastic 2023!
Audiences return to Pandora, 13 years after the first release, for another spectacle and visually pleasing entry from James Cameron. I was never a big fan of the original, however I was blown away by some of the visuals we got in the trailers and was intrigued to see what Cameron had done next for this second instalment. Full spoiler free thoughts in this episode
We return to Springfield to discuss some of the best Christmas episodes courtesy of The Simpsons. Joined once again by my good friend, and Simpsons enthusiast, Joliver!
David Harbour is Santa Claus.. and there’s some season’s beatings to throw down! If you are a fan of Die Hard and Home Alone – or pretty much any action film ever (and a fan of Christmas), then I’m pretty sure you are going to have a fun time with this release. One of those ‘sit back, switch your brain off, and enjoy’ kind of movies. For the most part, it does work – there’s just a little padding here and there that slows the film down, BUT David Harbour as Santa is just an absolute win. Catch spoiler free thoughts in this ep!
Wednesday Addams returns to the small screen – taking Netflix by storm. Already breaking streaming records, this dark, murder mystery is a real treat with some wonderful humour as well as the classic Tim Burton gothic aesthetic. On top of all this, you have the absolute stand out Jenna Ortega who has a blast as the title character and fully embodies the character of Wednesday. Catch full thoughts in this episode
The Guardians return for Christmas! The latest Marvel Special, brought to us by James Gunn, has a whole amount of fun, heart, laughter – and Kevin Bacon! Catch my thoughts on this latest release
The Walking Dead has aired its final episodes! With call backs, endless emotion and variant walkers, the send off was probably the perfect way they could’ve capped off 11 seasons of storytelling. There were a few things the last 8 episodes that didn’t work for me, but this didn’t hinder the final outing as it not only closed off the main show, but put us on a good trajectory for the spin offs that are coming our way – and boy, the last 5 mins of the final episode has me SUPER excited. With spoilers, catch my thoughts on these last episodes to one of my favourite shows
Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc returns to the big screen – this time swapping Autumn for Summer, as we find our lead, and the ensemble cast, heading to a private island where another murder mystery unfolds. Rian Johnson has yet again released a fun and clever mystery that has plenty of twists and turns (and laughs) to keep all entertained. I very much can’t wait to rewatch and pick up on things I missed first time round, but more importantly, I cannot wait to see Daniel Craig return as Blanc in more of these films. Spoiler free thoughts in this ep
Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy & Nicholas Hoult star in Mike Mylod’s 'The Menu' – cooking up a mix of thriller and comedy in suspenseful fashion. The film centres around this lavish restaurant where Fiennes’ Chef Slowik has whipped up some surprises in addition to his elegant food menu. A decent enough story with some top performances, 'The Menu' is certainly worth the watch if you’re a thriller fan who like a good laugh as well– or in particular a foody!
'Wakanda Forever' is the long-awaited sequel to the brilliant first installment, but one that was surrounded by tragedy. Ryan Coogler and co have done the impossible and created a brilliant sequel with themes of grief and loss, but also has managed to honour Chadwick Boseman’s legacy. With that, lets dive into the film with lightish spoilers
Martin McDonagh reunites with Colin Farrell and Brenden Gleeson in his latest release 'The Banshees of Inersherin', bringing us laughs as well as the occasional gut punch throughout. With an excellent script as well as performances and cinematography, ‘Banshees’ sits perfectly on the list of top releases for 2022. Spoiler free thoughts in this ep
We return to Westeros in this week’s episode to discuss episodes 6-10 of 'House of the Dragon'! The first 5 episodes were solid, and the remaining episodes upped the intensity, bringing us closer to war for these characters. With fantastic performances from new cast members Emma D’Arcy and Olivia Cooke, as well as tremendous storytelling, the show is going from strength to strength. Joined again by my good friend Jamie W as we go over as much as we can on what has been a fantastic first season. Spoilers within!
Closing the spooky season in style! Joined by my very good friend, and equal Simpsons enthusiast, Joe Oliver aka Joliver, as we go through our favourite 'Treehouse of Horror' episodes. Get comfy with a Duff and enjoy!
Dwayne Johnson is Black Adam. This film has been one that Johnson has been pushing and determined to release for a number of years, and you can certainly tell it’s a character he cares a lot about. The film has some excellent action sequences and set pieces, and even has a dash of some great comedy within, but more importantly, it has a good story – something not all DC releases have had. With changes happening behind the scenes at DC and WB, and with Johnson’s helping hand, the future of DC is looking a little brighter! Full thoughts in this ep
Halloween decorations come to life in Netflix’s 'The Curse of Bridge Hollow'! Starring Marlon Wayans, Priah Ferguson and Kelly Rowland, we find this family make their way to a new town where a curse brings to life decorations at Halloween – and the fun really begins! With some nice laugh out loud moments and tongue in cheek action, this film is perfect for all the family to watch around spooky season. Spoiler free thoughts in this ep
One of the more uncomfortable watches of late was sitting through 'Dahmer – Monster' which hit Netflix last month, created by Ryan Murphy & Ian Brennan. The show has caused a stir with critics and audiences – and, understandably, the families of the victims. The show reflects and presents Dahmer’s life, and the monster that he was – brilliantly performed by Evan Peters, but also highlights the systematic racism and homophobia that allowed Dahmer to continue for as long as he did. Full thoughts in this episode
In 2004, James Wan and Leigh Whannell unleashed the small indie-horror film 'SAW' into cinemas – and boy, did it go down well. Grossing over $100 million at the box office, the film generated sequel after sequel – taking over Halloween and becoming one of the most profitable horror franchises ever. The first film is still my favourite, and one of my all-time favourite releases. From tremendous acting to the twists and turns the script provides, 'SAW' is one film I had to revisit on the pod for Halloween. Full spoiler thoughts in this episode
Directed by the fantastic Michael Giacchino, 'Werewolf by Night' is something fresh and new which is exactly what I have been craving from Marvel. With homages to 1930s horror and aesthetics and packed with some camp, but striking horror, 'Werewolf By Night' is a fantastic watch around the Halloween season. Giacchino certainly has showcased his directorial talent, whilst providing a lovely score also. Catch full thoughts in this ep
It’s episode 100!.. and you’re gonna need a bigger boat. Celebrating the landmark by revisiting and discussing my all-time favourite film, helmed by the incredible Steven Spielberg, 'JAWS' – creating the first ever summer blockbuster in the process!
Thank you to anyone that has clicked, streamed, shared the podcast so far within the journey to 100 eps. It is very much appreciated!
What starts out as a typical 'teens go to spend the weekend in a cabin' scary movie, 'The Cabin in the Woods' takes some sinister, but fun, twists. This film blew my little mind back in 2011, with its meta horror, as well as showcasing it’s many influences. Serving as almost a love letter to the classics, 'The Cabin in the Woods' ticks a lot of boxes, as well as mixes things up and reinvigorates the genre in fantastic fashion. Catch full spoiler thoughts in this episode!
The muchly anticipated spin off to Game of Thrones, 'House of the Dragon' has finally hit screens recently, and after 5 episodes I am HOOKED. The performances from Milly Alcock, Matt Smith & Paddy Considine - along with a fantastic supporting cast - have all been tremendous, as too the writing for this season. In this extended episode - I’m joined by my good friend Jamie W, as we discuss as much as we can about the season so far. Spoilers within!
We love a good murder mystery don’t we! ‘See How They Run’ takes us back to the 50s for this whodunnit flick, as the cast of Agatha Christie’s ‘The Mousetrap’ begin to fall at the hands of a mysterious killer – enter Sam Rockwell and Saoirse Ronan to solve the crime (Ronan absolutely steels the show with her performance). Directorial debut for Tom George who straight away shows the audience his influences (Mr Wes Anderson would be extremely pleased with the aesthetics), and brings us a great time at the movies as the story unfolds. Full thoughts in this ep
We return to Middle Earth as we discuss the first 3 episodes of the new series that has just hit Amazon Prime; 'The Rings of Power'. LOTR is easily one of my favourite stories and film sagas, and as mentioned previously, I have been a little unsure how this series would go. Safe to say it’s been a little bumpy, however there has been a lot to enjoy within the first 3 episodes – especially visually if not always the story. With spoilers, catch some of my thoughts so far in this latest ep
Finally managed to check out the latest release from the Russo Brothers, starring Ryan Gosling, Chris Evans and Ana De Armas; 'The Gray Man'. The film has SO many different locations as well as plenty of action to digest, as well as excellent performances from its leads. However, it can be a little over facing at times, and the film does feel longer than its runtime, but overall, I enjoyed this action/spy flick. Full thoughts in this episode
After being recommended by so many, I finally caught ‘Edge of Tomorrow’ at the weekend. I am extremely late to the party, however I very much enjoyed this sci fi/action flick starring Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt – both putting in some excellent performances, as well as great chemistry between the two of them. The film has a familiar sense with its influences, however, it has something new and refreshing about it – and also feels like you're playing a video game. Catch full thoughts in this weeks ep
Sylvester Stallone’s latest film 'Samaritan' finds him playing Joe Smith, a retired superhero known as Samaritan, laying low following a battle many years ago that cost the life of his twin brother, and villain, Nemesis. Stumbling into his life is young starry-eyed Sam Cleary, who still believes in superheroes – and believes Joe is in fact Samaritan. The films tone is a little all over the place, and though there is good chemistry with Stallone’s Joe and Walton’s Sam, everything else is very flat and forgettable. Catch full thoughts in this episode
On the back of his excellent work with 'Monsters' in 2010, Gareth Edwards was handed the director’s chair for 'Godzilla'- and what a job he did. This film was one I was extremely excited for, being a big fan of the title character, and I was not disappointed. From the special effects, the score, the performances (in particular Cranston’s), 'Godzilla' became one of my all-time favourites- and one that I’ve wanted to chat about for a while! Catch my full thoughts, as well as a sprinkle of trivia, in this episode
Jordan Peele’s latest release ‘Nope’ seems to be dividing fans and audiences. Having finally checked this out, I came out of the screening super impressed with his take on the sci-fi genre. It is an extremely refreshing and original story that will only get better on each viewing. With excellent imagery, cinematography, performances, and score, ‘Nope’ is definitely one of my favourite releases this year. Full thoughts in this episode
Based on the 2018 novel of the same name, 'Where the Crawdads Sing' is the story of Kya; an outsider living within the marshes in North Carolina, who finds herself being blamed for the death of a former love interest. The mystery thriller wasn’t as ‘thrillery’ as maybe most would have liked, but I found the story overall surrounding Kya really investing. Excellent performances from Daisy Edgar-Jones and David Straitham, as well as some lovely cinematography at times. Full spoiler free thoughts in this ep
Directed by '10 Cloverfield Lane’s' Dan Trachtenberg, 'Prey' brings a very stripped back and simple approach, something that the Predator franchise has desperately needed. The film has that familiarity, but also does things that are completely new and unique making this easily the best Predator film since the original. It is easily in my top 5 films of the year, an absolute triumph. Spoiler free thoughts in this ep
Now this was certainly a fun ride for 2022. 'Bullet Train' is up there as best surprise package of the year. With a star-studded cast including Brad Pitt, Sandra Bullock, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Joey King and plenty more, the film has a tonne of fantastic action, layered with laugh out loud humour that only enhances the experience of this 2 hour thrill ride. Spoiler free thoughts in this episode
'The Ritual' was released back in 2017 and was one of the MANY films I frustratingly missed from that year. Based on the novel f the same name, the film centres around 4 friends hiking through Scandinavian woods, where terrifying things start to unfold. The vision from director David Bruckner is excellent, and you can tell he has seen enough horror/thriller films to know how to pay homage, but also, do things differently. Leading the cast is Rafe Spall who puts out a top performance along with a believable friendship group as they battle their way through this nightmare. Catch full thoughts in this episode
Comic-Con returned over the weekend with a bunch of fantastic announcements! In this episode, I’ll be going over everything that caught my attention - and the releases I’m most excited for. From John Wick 4, The Walking Dead, The Rings of Power and Marvels hefty announcements for Phase 5 and 6 - there is certainly a lot to wet that appetite in the pop culture world!
Judge Dredd returned to the big screen in 2012 with slow-mo, guns and Karl Urban. The film did ok at the box office, however, not enough to ever gain a sequel – which is an absolute travesty. In this episode, I’ll be revisiting and discussing 'Dredd' and pointing out the many things I enjoyed about this film (mostly Karl Urban's chizzled jawline). Spoilers within!
Stranger Things is one of my all time favourite shows - and so, like many others, I was beyond hyped for the brand new season, wondering what was next for our heroes in Hawkins. The Duffer Brothers have yet again excelled with the story for Season 4; full of horror, twists, stunning visuals and fantastic performances from all – in particular Sadie Sink, who was outstanding this season. In this extended episode, we’ll be going over everything (that I can remember) from Volumes 1 and 2 of this epic season. Spoilers obviously within!
Thor is back! The 4th instalment helmed by Taika Waititi, following his excellent work with Thor Ragnarök, is very camp, very colourful and has a very good villain.. however, the film overall for me was just way too silly and almost feel they have lost Thor’s identity. Full spoiler free thoughts in this episode
After years, we finally have a new story involving Obi-Wan Kenobi! This is something I have been wanting for some time, and overall, I feel Deborah Chow and Disney really have delivered with this show. Having Ewan McGregor back as this titular character is wonderful, and added to the fact Hayden Christensen returned also as Anakin/Vader was fantastic for this story. Catch my full thoughts (with spoilers) in this ep
The latest film from Baz Luhrmann is here as he dives into the life of Elvis Presley. The look of the film is fantastic, as is the performances from Austin Butler and Tom Hanks who easily have Oscar Nominations written all over these performances. Catch full thoughts in this ep
Joined on this episode by my good friend Edward Joe Steel, as we discuss some of our favourite and best minor characters that have appeared in the much loved tv series ‘Friends’
Buzz Lightyear returns to the big screen in this action packed, sci fi flick. Full of excellent animations and landscapes, the film is set in the ‘Toy Story’ universe where a young Andy viewed, only for it to became his favourite movie. Though the film is incredible to look at, the story feels a little flat –with a few exceptions in there! Full thoughts in this ep
The final chapter in the ‘Jurassic Saga’ is here! Filled with a mega cast; old and new, as well as a tonne of dinosaurs, the film goes BIG. However, bigger doesn’t mean better, and I’d be lying if I was to say I wasn’t disappointed with this film and the story as a whole. The dino’s look great – and the amount of dino’s in this film is amazing, but the story falls short for this ‘Endgame’ level finale
Revisiting the only good sequel to my all time favourite film in this episode. 'Jaws 2' brought back Roy Scheider, Lorraine Gary and Murray Hamilton from the first, and for the most part, it’s another fun and suspense ride - but as to be expected, doesn’t reach the same heights set by the classic original
After 36 years, 'Top Gun' finally has a sequel – and what a sequel it is. 'Top Gun: Maverick' takes filmmaking to another level, added as well to some excellent performances from Tom Cruise, Miles Teller and Jennifer Connelly - it has it all. Sprinkled with 80s nods and high-end action, it really is a film to be seen on the big screen
With 'Jurassic World: Dominion' just around the corner, I thought I’d revisit and discuss the first 2 instalments of the new trilogy helmed by Colin Trevorrow and JA Bayona. Being a huge fan of the original Jurassic Park, these sequels have excellent moments and storytelling, as well as incredible special effects – but also a few issues that hopefully 'Dominion' fixes. In this ep, we’ll be diving into scrapped scripts, favourite moments and, of course, some minor negatives!
Multiverses are the new big thing in cinema! Written and directed by Dan Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, EEAAO brings in huge heart, as well as jaw dropping choreography, and a fantastic (yet at times bizarre and hilarious) look at the multiverse and how lead character Evelyn (Michelle Yeo) is the centre of it all
Doctor Strange returns for his second outing, and this time he's traveling across the multiverse for a crazy ride. Sam Raimi is at the helm - and boy does he bring in the horror! With some very good performances, visuals and surprises, the film has its highs – but also has a few lows
Spoilers from 16:15
Nicholas Cage is Nic Cage in this fictionalised version of himself within the Hollywood world. Downbeat and ready to quit acting, he takes an offer to appear at a birthday party for mega fan Javi (Pedro Pascal) where all hell, and laughter, breaks loose. I can honestly say that this film was an absolute BLAST. Catch my spoiler free thoughts in this episode
Robert Eggers latest release ‘The Northman’ is receiving such high praise. Visually, this film is outstanding, cinematographer Jarin Blaschke deserves huge applauds- as does lead cast member Alexander Skarsgård. The film dives deep into Norse mythology and religion to bring a brutal story surrounding vengeance, however not everything within the story lives up to just how fantastic the film looks
Released in 2017, ‘Life’ takes place aboard the International Space Station where a team of Scientists discover a rapidly evolving life form that caused extinction on Mars which now threatens all life on Earth. With a brilliant cast, incredible cinematography and a memorable and shocking ending, ‘Life’ cemented itself as one of my favourite sci fi films – so naturally, I had to revisit this on the pod!
Returning to the final season of The Walking Dead to review and go over what has been, again, a pretty great 8 episodes within its final run. Following the events with the Reapers, our survivors find themselves within the walls of the Commonwealth where all looks perfect, however not all is as it seems. With some stand out performances from Lauren Cohan, Jeffrey Dean Morgan and latest villain Josh Hamilton, Season 11 is really giving TWD a grand send off. Full thoughts in this ep
Sonic returns to the big screen in the sequel to the very successful first film. Along for the ride this time is Tails, as well as Knuckles - joining forces with the brilliant Jim Carrey as he once again has a blast portraying Dr Robotnik. The first was a huge surprise, and one that I really enjoyed – but did the sequel reach the same heights, or even surpass the first?
Sony’s next spin off brings Dr Michael Morbius to the big screen. On announcement, I wasn’t sure how this would work and its clear within the film, that neither did Sony. In a word, it’s a mess. Full thoughts in this episode.
Michael Bay returns doing what Michael Bay does best; explosions, 360 camera shots and more explosions. With a great concept and stellar cast including Jake Gyllenhaal, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II and Eiza González, it seems that the film could’ve been a surprise – however, sadly it wasn’t to be. Full spoiler free thoughts in this episode
In this extended episode, I’m revisiting and discussing the infamous Batman v Superman. The theatrical cut wasn’t great, but the unrated version changes the film massively and mostly positively. It’s hard not to enjoy seeing Batman and Superman do battle – but the film does have its dips. With that, let’s dive in!
Shawn Levy and Ryan Reynolds collaborate once again to bring us 'The Adam Project' - the latest time travel, sci-fi flick to hit Neflix this last week. With some great special effects and a fantastic duo in Reynolds and Walker Scobell (playing a younger Reynolds very well), 'The Adam Project' has more highs than it does lows. Full thoughts in this episode
'The Batman' has been in cinemas now for a week, so it seems the perfect time to start talking about spoilers! Catch full thoughts, and spoiler discussion, in this extended episode
'The Batman' has hit cinemas and is creating a huge buzz. From the films fantastic sets and aesthetics, to the brilliant performances from Robert Pattinson, Zoe Kravitz, Paul Dano and many more, Matt Reeves has delivered a stunning cinema experience – and for me, possibly the best portrayal of the caped crusader yet. Full (spoiler free) thoughts in this episode
Jim Broadbent stars as Kempton Bunton, the mastermind behind the infamous heist, where the Goya painting of the Duke of Wellington was stolen from the National Gallery. Alongside Helen Mirren, this film has so much heart and warmth that you can’t help but enjoy. Broadbent, as usual, is fantastic in what is easily one of the most enjoyable films of the year. Full thoughts in this episode
Tom Holland stars as Nathan Drake in the film adaptation of the hit game series ‘Uncharted’. After being in production hell for around 15 years, the film finally has hit the big screen with a tonne of action – but was it worth the wait? Full thoughts in this episode
Serving as a direct sequel to the original 1974 release, 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' was finally released on Netflix over the weekend. The film includes the 'classic horror' elements you'd associate with Leatherface - it's just sadly everything else doesn't work. Full thoughts in this episode
Joined this week by my good friends Kyle and Ed of Perfectparachutepicture. These guys are bloody brilliant, and I’m super happy to have them featuring on the pod to have a chat about their favourite films and plenty more.
Make sure to check out and follow the band – and we hope you enjoy this extended episode!
@perfectparachutepicture / @pppband
I’m joined by my good friend Nat McCartney once again, as we discuss and give our thoughts on the upcoming LOTR series; ‘The Rings of Power’.
As mentioned on a previous episode, I have very much been looking forward to catching this film. Branagh once again returns as Hercule Poirot to solve another murder mystery in what is a very entertaining film – not without its flaws though. With another great cast ensemble, alongside some lovely visuals, Death On the Nile is definitely not the worst murder mystery. Catch my full thoughts in this ep
‘The Book of Boba Fett’ has got a lot of Star Wars fans talking – and like other Star Wars releases, it’s splitting the fanbase. I am definitely on the fence with this show; there are elements of the series that are absolutely fantastic and epic, and other parts that are flat and just a tad weak. Catch my full thoughts in this episode
Released in 2017, ‘Murder On the Orient Express’ was the latest adaptation of the Agatha Christie novel helmed by Sir Kenneth Branagh. With the next instalment ‘Death On the Nile’ just around the corner (which looks super good), I thought I best sit down and check out the first. I love a good murder mystery, and Branagh certainly delivered, not only on his direction, but his performance as the titular detective. Full thoughts in this revisit.
In this episode, I’m joined by Sam and Ross of the excellent Respite to talk all things films. Massive thank you to the guys for taking the time to chat, make sure to check out and follow the band – and we hope you enjoy this extended episode!
@respitebanduk
The latest film directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh ‘Belfast’ is fantastic. This semi-autobiographical film, set within 1969 Belfast, depicts a young boy, Buddy, as he learns and discovers religion, love and the prospect of leaving Belfast for England. It is easy to see why this film is receiving so high praise, and winning awards due to its gripping storytelling and fantastic performances. Catch my thoughts in this episode
The latest film from Guillermo del Toro ‘Nightmare Alley’ is finally released in UK cinemas. With a star-studded cast, as well as fantastic cinematography, ‘Nightmare Alley’ has excellence – but isn’t the best del Toro flick for me. Catch my full thoughts in this episode
Stephen Graham stars in Philip Barantini’s new film ‘Boiling Point’, centred around a restaurant tackling one the busiest days of the year. The editing and filming of this piece is remarkable, as too the performances within. Catch my full thoughts in this episode.
In this 50th episode special, I thought I’d continue my revisit of the Star Wars saga – tackling another divisive trilogy amongst the fans; the Prequels. These films do have weak moments, but they were also a giant step for digital effects within cinema. So with that, lets all disagree again about this trilogy in this episode!
Ghostface returns to Woodsboro in the latest addition to the franchise, aptly titled ‘Scream’. From new characters, the legacy characters, to playful kills, this latest Scream has enough to satisfy fans of the franchise and of the horror genre – however, there are parts of this new film that I was unsure on. Catch my thoughts in this ep!
Returning to Iron Lake for the conclusion of my Dexter reviews in Part 3. This season has been a real treat with some fantastic performances within - the finale certainly has been a talking point online, splitting the fanbase right down the middle. Personally, I felt it was fitting for this character. So catch my thoughts on the build up to the finale, and the infamous finale itself, in this episode – obviously including spoilers!
Jessica Chastain leads a batch of international agents as they attempt to retrieve a top secret weapon in this new spy action thriller, directed by Simon Kinberg. The strong female leads all bring something to this film, and there are great moments within, but the story wasn't all that. Catch full thoughts in this episode.
First episode of 2022! Back at it with yet another Disney+ show in 'Hawkeye', starring Jeremy Renner and Hailee Steinfield. This show was a lot of fun to watch during the festive period and had some great surprises and action throughout. It was a real hit for me, so catch my full thoughts in this ep.
As 2021 comes to a close, I thought it would be a great opportunity to go over my top 10 favourite films of the year. Enjoy!
Neo and Trinity are back on the big screen in 'The Matrix Resurrections'. Lana Wachowski returns solo for the 4th installment of this beloved franchise, which has some good moments - but is it enough to please all? Hear my thoughts in this episode.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence feature in the new Adam McKay film 'Don't Look Up' where an asteroid is set to wipe out the planet in 6 months time - yet the world doesn't seem to believe, or care! This very tongue in cheek and jab at the current world has some excellent performances within, and an all round fun feel towards the end of days. Catch my full thoughts in this episode.
It’s spoiler time! Following my spoiler free review of No Way Home, here we go with the spoils; discussing the many treats and surprises the new Spider-Man flick has. What. A. Film.
Returning to the small screen in this episode to discuss episodes 4-6 of Dexter: New Blood! Harrison is now hailed a hero following a school incident, Dexter is still struggling to form a true relationship with Harrison - and keeping his past behind him, whilst the killer within Iron Lake (other than Dexter) is revealed, in what is promising to be one of the best seasons of Dexter ever. Catch my thoughts on ep 4-6 in this episode.
It's finally arrived! The hype has been building and building for the latest Spidey adventure; 'No Way Home', and holy smokes is this film breathtaking. From the fantastic ensemble, to the amazing visuals, this film ticks a lot of boxes for Spider-Man fans. Catch my spoiler free review in this episode.
Risky business talking about Star Wars… but Christmas is approaching, and I always love a revisit of these films. I thought for this episode I would discuss the highly divisive sequel trilogy. Being a huge Star Wars fan, there are things in the sequel trilogy I loved, and also things I was pretty disappointed with. So with that, let’s all disagree about the trilogy in this episode!
After a bit of a delay, myself and my good friend Nat McCartney are back to dive into Middle Earth once more as we discuss the epic continuation of The Lord of the Rings – The Two Towers. From Gollum’s arrival, the battle of Helm’s Deep (and memes), we try to cover it all – so find a comfy branch on Treebeard, and enjoy this extended episode!
Dexter is back! Everyone's favourite serial killer returns to the small screen in the 10 episode event titled 'New Blood'. In this episode, we are covering episodes 1-3 where we find Dexter living a new life in Iron Lake - however unable to shake off his dark passenger and past..
Original showrunner Clyde Phillips returns, alongside Michael C Hall and Jennifer Carpenter, in what is shaping to be one of the best seasons of Dexter since Phillips left in 2009. Catch my thoughts on episodes 1-3 in this pod!
Jason Reitman continues the work of his father, Ivan Reitman, to bring us ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’. On the back of the trailers, this new addition to the Ghostbusters franchise looked set to be the sequel we’ve all been waiting for as fans. So, did it live up to my personal expectations? Find out in this episode.
Finally, we have a new 'Spider-Man: No Way Home' trailer! In this bonus episode, I'm discussing everything I enjoyed from the new trailer, & what I'm looking forward to in this latest spidey adventure. Villains assemble! Spidey's assemble?...
William Eubank directs the new Paranormal Activity film - 'Next Of Kin', which takes the franchise in a new(ish) direction. With no ties to the original run, this latest installment brings new life to the franchise - but at the same time feels a bit samey. Catch full thoughts in this episode.
Edgar Wright returns with his new film ‘Last Night In Soho’ & being a huge fan of Wright’s work, I was extremely intrigued by this shift in genre and seeing something new from the director. Written alongside the brilliant Krysty Wilson-Cairns, this film takes the audience on a dark path through the 60s with some excellent performances from the leads Thomasin McKenzie and Anya Taylor-Joy. Catch full thoughts in this episode.
Marvel’s ‘Eternals’ has hit the screens and has received a very mixed bag of reviews – critics seem to hate it, fans seem to love it. Directed by Chloé Zhao, and the aid of a mega cast, the film has some excellent visuals - but lacks that special something for me. Hear my full thoughts in this episode.
Denis Villeneuve’s ‘Dune’ is out now, and it is pretty breathtaking. Packed with an all-star cast, this first part for ‘Dune’ is full of incredible spectacles and set pieces, as well as fantastic acting from its leads. With unanimous high praise and five star reviews, the hype has been built for all to enjoy this epic release. Catch my thoughts in this episode.
Wes Anderson's latest release 'The French Dispatch' is now in cinemas, and at the weekend I caught this visually and aesthetically pleasing film on the big screen. Anderson is a grand filmmaker, and again with the aid of a mega cast and great sets, he takes us on yet another wild journey. Hear my thoughts in this episode.
DC Fandome kicked off at the weekend and we were spoilt with the amount of new footage from upcoming DC projects – including Matt Reeves new take on the caped crusader; ‘The Batman’. Due to be released March 2022, starring Robert Pattinson, Zoe Kravitz, Paul Dano and a number of others - this film simply looks incredible. I thought I would do a bonus episode just to go over the brand new trailer, and what my overall thoughts (and excitement) are for the Dark Knight’s new outing.
Finally, ‘Venom; Let There Be Carnage’ has made its way to the UK cinemas! If you’ve avoided any spoilers, then bravo! I thought the first film was just a bit of fun, so I was excited to see the Eddie Brock/Venom story continue. Directed by the genius that is Andy Serkis and penned by Kelly Marcel & Tom Hardy himself, this sequel has a lot of hot topics that I’ll be discussing in this episode
As I’ve mentioned on a previous episode, I am a big fan of The Walking Dead. Through the highs and the lows, I’m always there – ready to watch and enjoy another season. But all good things must come to an end, and with season 11 being the last – I have big expectations. The first part of the season has now concluded, so I thought I would discuss what I loved – and what I didn’t, about this exciting new and final season so far.
'El Camino' hit Netflix in 2019, receiving high praise from critics and fans of 'Breaking Bad' alike. Fans had always wondered what happened to Jesse following his open ending in 'Breaking Bad', and Vince Gilligan once again delivers in this fantastic final chapter to Jesse's story. With spoilers, I'm diving back into the 'Breaking Bad' world in this episode to revisit this brilliant film.
'The Guilty' is directed by Antoine Fuqua and stars Jake Gyllenhaal - a police officer demoted to answering 911 calls which takes a sinister twist and explodes into a tense and dramatic hour & half. Gyllenhaal has always been one of my favourite actors, and he shines extremely bright in this remake of the Danish film of the same name. Catch my thoughts in this episode.
Bond is back. Daniel Craig signs off as 007 in his final outing 'No Time to Die' - and what a send off this is. Catch my thoughts on this epic, action packed, and emotional, last film of Craig's era as Bond.
Venom was released in 2018 with a fair bit of backlash from critics and some fans. For me, this was just a bit of fun that brought the infamous symbiote to the big screen (the right way). With 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' just around the corner, I thought I would revisit the first film and discuss its pros and cons, and Tom Hardy.
I've recently received my copy of Spiral (after a bit of a delay!) and so thought what better excuse to revisit and discuss 'Spiral' and 'Saw'. As mentioned in my very first podcast episode, I love this franchise, and 'Spiral' was pretty much what I wanted; something new and fresh. With spoilers, traps and twists, I dive into everything Spiral; the latest chapter from the book of Saw.
As a huge fan of James Wan's work, I was eagerly awaiting to check out his latest Horror 'Malignant', starring Annabelle Wallis and Maddie Hasson. The trailers didn't reveal too much, and as usual I was expecting something fresh and unique from Wan.. check out this weeks pod for my breakdown of this new tale in horror.
Mary Elizabeth Winstead is 'Kate', the latest film that has hit Netflix. Following her poisoning, Kate has 24 hours to get vengeance on the persons responsible.. and absolute carnage unfolds! Catch my full thoughts in this review.
We all love a good superhero film, and there have been some absolute gems over the years. From a young age I was watching the likes of Batman and Superman, but since the late 90's, superhero films have really picked up and become a massive force. So with that, I thought I'd cause uproar and go over my top five superhero films of all time... (which no doubt will change again and again)
Marvel have struck gold again with the latest addition to the MCU, 'Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings'. From stunning visuals, to compelling storytelling, hear all my thoughts in this weeks episode.
Candyman returns in 2021 daring you to say his name.. Nia DaCosta's new take on the classic horror icon was definitely one I was excited to see. Starring Yahya Adbul-Mateen II, Teyonah Parris, Colman Domingo and more, this latest release once again cements the fear of Candyman into the horror world.
With the trailer for the new Spider-Man film dropping last week, I thought I would upload a special episode to discuss the trailer, as well as what us fans would like to see - without diving into too many theories! Are you excited as I am for 'No Way Home'? Have a listen and let me know!
The infamous 1998 Godzilla stomped onto our screens to a reception of pure distaste to what TriStar had done to this beloved character. Though it isnt exactly 'Godzilla', its a film that paved the way for me to discover more from the famous Kaiju, and I still have a soft spot for this monster flick. With that, I thought I would revisit this monster movie, and go over some of the background to this films development.
Ryan Reynolds returns in 'Free Guy' - a film that I felt had great potential with the names in the cast and from the concept.. but how did it play out? Hear my full thoughts in this episode.
In this extended episode, I’m joined by my good friend (and massive LOTR fan) Nat McCartney, as we dive into everything Middle Earth to dissect and discuss the first part of this epic trilogy. ‘Fellowship’ is my personal favourite, so sit back and enjoy our revisit and let us show you just how nerdy we are!
From the horribly beautiful mind of James Gunn comes 'The Suicide Squad' - and by word is it bloody good! WB have unleashed Gunn and I am here for it. Hear my thoughts in this spoiler free review on what is probably now my favourite Superhero film.. bold words I know!
The latest film from M. Night Shyamalan 'Old' has recently hit cinemas with the usual scrutiny that has followed M Night ever since his first twist. Being a fan of his earlier work, I always go into his new releases hoping that I will be surprised.. So, how did 'Old' do compared to his other work? Find out in this episode.
Late to the party with this (better late than never!), however, I sat down to watch Disney Pixar's latest release 'Luca' this weekend and was pleasantly surprised! Catch my thoughts of this lovely coming of age and family fun film in this weeks pod.
Marvel have done it again! Their 3rd Disney+ show ‘Loki’ surpassed all my expectations and has changed the MCU in a big big way. With spoilers, and variants, I’m talking about why I loved this show, and why it is easily the best Marvel show to date.
I wasn't overly hyped for the new Chris Pratt film 'The Tomorrow War' on the back of the trailers, but since it has been doing very well on Amazon Prime, I thought why not - let's see if its a yay or nay. Being a big fan of sci-fi, I was keen to see how this alien invasion/time travel flick would hold up against some of the great sci-fi films from over the years. Full thoughts in this weeks pod episode.
After a long long time, we finally have a solo 'Black Widow' film! Having had to wait even longer due to covid, it was great to get back to the cinema to see a new Marvel film. I was curious to see how the film would work within the timeline (having this film set between Civil War and Infinity War) and hopeful that Marvel wouldn't just shoehorn the film into the franchise, so - did Marvel nail it again? or did this fall flat? Full thoughts in this weeks ep!
Released in 2014, 'Chef' was accompanied with huge praise- and rightly so. Having not seen the film since its initial release, I sat down to rewatch and remind myself just why I loved the film in the first place (and any excuse to talk about food and Jon Favreau). Unlike the last 'revisit', this one is spoiler free! Hear my full thoughts in this latest pod episode.
I was a big fan of the first & second Conjuring films directed by James Wan and so was curious to see how the latest addition, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, would be without Wan at the helm. Centered around the trial of Arne Johnson, The Conjuring 3 was a great surprise full of tension and heart. Hear my full thoughts in this episode.
Last week I caught Disney's 'Cruella' - a film that I felt very indifferent towards, but hopeful that it would surprise me. In this spoiler free episode, I'm talking what I liked about the film, and also what just didn't quite work.
In this weeks episode, I'm diving into the world of The Walking Dead; a show and comic I absolutely adore - but one that fans have drifted from over the years. With the show set to finish with season 11, I take a look at a few reasons why fans and viewers have stopped tuning in.
After over a year delay, John Krasinski's 'A Quiet Place Part II' is finally out in cinemas! The first was a huge hit, and a film I thoroughly enjoyed. So, the big question, did the sequel live up to the first?
It's the first TV themed episode! This week I'm joined by my good friend, and big Office fan, Edward Joe Steel as we dive in to the series as a whole and discuss the universally loved episodes, as well as our own personal favourite episodes, of the brilliant US Office.
This week I thought I'd watch a film I haven't seen for a number of years; the infamous 'Knowing' starring Nicolas Cage from 2009. Turns out, there's a reason I haven't watched this since its release.. With spoilers included, I'll be talking all things from numbers to aliens(?).
In this episode, I'll be discussing the latest film in Legendary's 'Monsterverse'; Godzilla vs Kong directed by Adam Wingard which has finally hit UK cinemas to be enjoyed in all it's CGI glory. Being a big fan of Godzilla since a young age, its great to see these 2 titans battle it out on the big screen again, but the big question - are you Team Kong, or Team Godzilla?
In this first episode, I'm talking all things Saw as Chris Rock and Samuel L Jackson tackle a Jigsaw copycat killer in the newest addition to the Saw franchise; 'Spiral: From the Book of Saw'. I'm a huge fan of the franchise, so I was excited to see what new direction this film would take. Hear my full thoughts in this episode, as well as my ranking of the Saw franchise as a whole.