kevin_robbins Reviews

The Cannibal Man (1972)

Cannibal Man has enough unique elements to make it worth a watch for horror enthusiasts but not enough to stand out in the genre

[6/10 · 16 May 2024]

I recently watched the Spanish film 🇪🇸 Cannibal Man (1972) on Shudder. The storyline follows a man and his girlfriend who are attacked by a taxi driver, leading to the man accidentally killing the driver. As he tries to cover up his crime, he begins to go mad, making matters worse.

Directed by Eloy de la Iglesia (El pico I & II), the film stars Vicente Parra (Cotolay), Emma Cohen (Cross of the Devil), Eusebio Poncela (Matador), and Vicky Lagos (Five Dollars for Ringo).

The movie feels realistic and features a solid, authentic lead performance. The events are fascinating and unpredictable, with a certain tragic element. The protagonist's mental deterioration is compelling to watch. There are a few notable kills, including a worthwhile throat slash, but most are mediocre, with the blood resembling red paint. The soup subplot is gross and hard to fathom, and the ending felt a bit like a copout.

In conclusion, Cannibal Man has enough unique elements to make it worth a watch for horror enthusiasts but not enough to stand out in the genre. I would score this a 6/10 and recommend seeing it once.

Night Patrol (1984)

Night Patrol is a below-average addition to the comedy genre with a fun 80s vibe

[4/10 · 16 May 2024]

I recently watched Night Patrol (1984) on Tubi. The storyline follows Melvin, a cop who gets demoted to the night shift. He's also an aspiring comedian, struggling to balance both career paths and seeking advice on what he should do.

Directed by Jackie Kong (Blood Diner), the film stars Linda Blair (The Exorcist), Jack Riley (Spaceballs), Billy Barty (Willow), Pat Morita (The Karate Kid), and Sydney Lassick (One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest).

This is one of those movies that has more misses than hits but is still fun to watch. It has a classic 80s vibe and some entertaining cameos. Pat Morita is always enjoyable. The film starts with an awkward arrest scene, but the comedian scenes are hilarious. The bag-head standup and the "marry an ugly woman" jokes were particularly funny. It also features classic 80s nudity, acting, and comedic content.

In conclusion, Night Patrol is a below-average addition to the comedy genre with a fun 80s vibe. I would score this a 4/10 and recommend skipping it.

Dead Enders (2010 Video)

Dead Enders falls short as a horror film and fails to offer any redeeming qualities

[1/10 · 15 May 2024]

I recently watched Dead Enders (2010) on Tubi. The storyline revolves around a vengeful, power-hungry woman who constructs a maze filled with death traps. She captures a man named Robert and releases him into the maze, where he must navigate the deadly obstacles to survive, find his captor, and seek revenge.

Directed by Paul C. Hemmes (Maya), the film stars Seth Gandrud (Atomic Shark), JC Marquez Pulita (Evil Good), Christie Santo (Dead in 5 Heartbeats), and Kim Wagner-Hemmes (Maya).

Dead Enders is an excruciatingly brutal movie. The acting, writing, and cinematography all scream low budget, resulting in a lackluster production overall. The only redeeming quality is the female main character, who could have been utilized better throughout the film. One standout scene is a sex scene, but it's overshadowed by the poor execution of the horror elements. The final fight scene is particularly painful to watch, adding to the disappointment.

In conclusion, Dead Enders falls short as a horror film and fails to offer any redeeming qualities. It's best to skip this one entirely. I would give it a score of 1/10 and recommend avoiding it.

Bringing Down the House (2003)

Bringing Down the House is a below-average comedy with more misses than hits

[4/10 · 15 May 2024]

I recently rewatched Bringing Down the House (2003) on Tubi. The storyline follows a recently single man who ventures into online dating, only to find himself overwhelmed by his forward online love interest's impact on his life.

Directed by Adam Shankman (The Wedding Planner), the film stars Steve Martin (The Jerk), Queen Latifah (Chicago), Eugene Levy (American Pie), Betty White (Lake Placid), Missi Pyle (Galaxy Quest), and Joan Plowright (Dennis the Menace).

Bringing Down the House falls short as a comedy, with a cheesy premise and lackluster execution. Steve Martin's casting feels questionable for the role, although Eugene Levy and Queen Latifah deliver enjoyable performances. Betty White's presence adds charm, but she feels underutilized. The writing disappoints overall, with some highlights such as the first date scene and established family dynamics, but painful moments like the club scene and Steve Martin's dancing detract from the experience. The ending's resolution feels overly contrived.

In conclusion, Bringing Down the House is a below-average comedy with more misses than hits. I would give it a score of 4/10 and recommend skipping it.

The Omen (1976)

The Omen masterfully creates an intense and mysterious atmosphere that hangs over the film

[10/10 · 15 May 2024]

I recently watched the classic The Omen (1976) on Hulu. The storyline revolves around an American ambassador who, after the tragic loss of their own child, decides to adopt. Initially happy, the ambassador and his wife begin to notice strange occurrences and a series of deaths surrounding them. Could their adopted son be the Antichrist?

Directed by Richard Donner (Lethal Weapon), the film stars Gregory Peck (To Kill a Mockingbird), Lee Remick (Anatomy of a Murder), David Warner (Titanic), and Harvey Stephens (The Omen, 2006).

The Omen masterfully creates an intense and mysterious atmosphere that hangs over the film from start to finish. The entire cast delivers remarkable performances, with Gregory Peck standing out in particular. The film features legendary sequences that keep the audience on edge, including the trip to the zoo, the birthday party, the graveyard discovery, and the hospital fall. The background sound effects contribute significantly to the haunting atmosphere. The climax, featuring the stabbing sequence, is nothing short of horror gold.

In conclusion, The Omen is a horror masterpiece and a timeless classic within the genre. I would give it a perfect score of 10/10 and strongly recommend it to all horror enthusiasts.

Challengers (2024)

Challengers is a well-written and crafted film with dynamic characters and compelling circumstances

[7/10 · 15 May 2024]

My wife and I watched Challengers (2024) in theaters this evening. The storyline follows a complex love triangle over a 13-year period, centered around three individuals involved in professional tennis. The female protagonist has an intense passion for tennis, and the two men are equally obsessed with her, setting the stage for inevitable disaster.

Directed by Luca Guadagnino (Bones and All), the film stars Zendaya (Spider-Man: Homecoming), Mike Faist (West Side Story), and Josh O'Connor (The Crown).

Challengers is an intricate and well-crafted film. The acting, attire, settings, lighting, and cinematography are all top-notch, showcasing masterful filmmaking. The film has similarities to Saltburn, with its authentic yet awkward relationships. A brilliantly executed hotel scene stands out, though it was not what I expected. The cat-and-mouse dynamics between the characters are intricate and unorthodox, with numerous twists and turns. The film effectively presents characters with no clear heroes, all trapped in their obsessions and causing harm to each other in their privileged world. The ending is somewhat drawn out but ultimately satisfying, with full-circle elements that made me smile, though I wasn't a fan of the very last scene.

In conclusion, Challengers is a well-written and crafted film with dynamic characters and compelling circumstances. I would score this a 7/10 and strongly recommend it.

Premutos: The Fallen Angel (1997)

Premutos: The Fallen Angel delivers raw, ruthless, and intense gore that is a must-see for fans of the genre

[8/10 · 14 May 2024]

I recently watched the highly recommended German film Premutos: The Fallen Angel (1997) on Tubi. The storyline delves into the tale of the first fallen angel, predating Lucifer, who seeks to dominate both the world of the living and the dead. A young man begins experiencing visions of the fallen angel's son throughout history, eventually receiving a strange book and potion that could unleash hell on Earth.

Written and directed by Olaf Ittenbach (The Burning Moon), the film stars André Stryi (The Burning Moon), Christopher Stacey (Legion of the Dead), Olaf Ittenbach himself (Space Wolf), and Ingrid Fischer.

Premutos: The Fallen Angel is a horror enthusiast's dream, offering a relentless onslaught of blood, guts, and gore without relying heavily on intricate storytelling. The overarching theme of the devil's malevolence and the villain's sinister nature drive the narrative forward. The film boasts some of the most impressive kill scenes ever seen in horror cinema, featuring a diverse array of killers, weapons, and creative gore effects. Additionally, there are moments of dark humor scattered throughout, adding to the overall experience. I found myself captivated from start to finish.

In conclusion, Premutos: The Fallen Angel delivers raw, ruthless, and intense gore that is a must-see for fans of the genre. I would give it a score of 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

Paris (2003)

Paris falls short on nearly every front, clearly reflecting its low-budget independent production

[3/10 · 14 May 2024]

I recently watched Paris (2003) on Tubi. The storyline follows a police officer who finds himself in a difficult situation at a crime scene, accidentally killing his partner and stealing money before going on the run. Along the way, he encounters a woman involved in the sex trade whom he believes he's saved, but she harbors plans to dismantle the industry. As their relationship develops, complications arise.

Directed by Ramin Niami (Eye without a Face), the film stars Chad Allen (Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman), Bai Ling (The Crow), Ron Jeremy (The Boondock Saints), and James Russo (Django).

Unfortunately, Paris falls short on nearly every front, clearly reflecting its low-budget independent production. While the premise had potential, the execution falters, with lackluster settings, dialogue, and even the pivotal sex scene falls short. Bai Ling delivers a stunning performance, adding a spark of interest, but it's not enough to salvage the film. Even the purported "clever twist" at the end fails to impress.

In conclusion, Paris offers little of value to viewers. I would rate it a 3/10 and recommend skipping it altogether.

The Wasp Woman (1959)

The Wasp Woman 🐝 is a fun science fiction horror movie that was popular during its era

[6/10 · 13 May 2024]

I recently watched the Roger Corman classic The Wasp Woman (1959) on Prime. The storyline centers around a struggling cosmetic company that recently dismissed its head of research and development. The owner of the company decides to test a new serum developed by the fired researcher on herself, leading to unintended consequences.

Directed by icon Roger Corman (A Bucket of Blood), the film stars Susan Cabot (Gunsmoke), Anthony Eisley (The Naked Kiss), Michael Mark (Son of Frankenstein), and Lynn Cartwright (A League of Their Own).

The Wasp Woman shares similarities with "The Fly" in its portrayal of scientists and the intriguing circumstances they face. The premise is engaging, and the sets, including scenes on bee farms, laboratories, and hospitals, are well-crafted. The cast delivers authentic performances that lend credibility to the concept. The transformation sequences are particularly enjoyable, with impressive masks, makeup, and costumes. The film features good kill scenes, and the ending is satisfyingly executed.

In conclusion, The Wasp Woman 🐝 is a fun science fiction horror movie that was popular during its era. I would give it a 6.5/10 and recommend watching it at least once for fans of the genre.

Erin Brockovich (2000)

Erin Brockovich is an exceptional character-driven film with a compelling story

[10/10 · 13 May 2024]

I recently rewatched Erin Brockovich (2000) on Netflix. The storyline revolves around a single mother of three struggling to find a job and support her family. When she meets a biker who offers to help with her kids and a lawyer who gives her a chance as an office clerk, she seizes both opportunities to transform her personal and professional life. However, her involvement in a significant court case brings challenges and puts people's lives at stake.

Directed by Steven Soderbergh (Traffic), the film stars Julia Roberts (Pretty Woman), Albert Finney (Big Fish), Aaron Eckhart (The Dark Knight), and Conchata Ferrell (Edward Scissorhands).

Erin Brockovich is a remarkable character-driven piece that skillfully portrays different lifestyles, perceptions, and the struggle of individuals against corporations. The characters are endearing and easy to root for, with Julia Roberts delivering a captivating performance, arguably one of her best. The writing is outstanding, effectively conveying the complexities of the characters and their circumstances. The dialogue is raw and authentic, enhancing the film's realism. The plot unfolds seamlessly, evoking a range of emotions from sadness to compelling realism. It's a nice touch that the real Erin Brockovich makes a cameo appearance as well.

In conclusion, Erin Brockovich is an exceptional character-driven film with a compelling story. I would give it a perfect score of 10/10 and highly recommend it.

Melancholia (2011)

Melancholia is a masterfully crafted movie that is a must-see for cinema enthusiasts

[9/10 · 12 May 2024]

I recently rewatched Melancholia (2011) on Hulu. The storyline follows a bride struggling to find joy in her seemingly perfect life, husband and wedding. Despite her family's efforts to make her wedding perfect, she feels unsettled and compelled to confront her inner turmoil. Meanwhile, a planet is hurtling towards Earth, threatening civilization's existence.

Directed by Lars von Trier (Dogville), this film features an exceptional cast including Kirsten Dunst (Spider-Man), Kiefer Sutherland (The Lost Boys), Alexander Skarsgård (True Blood), Charlotte Gainsbourg (The Pale Blue Eye), Udo Kier (Suspiria) and John Hurt (1984).

Melancholia is a unique character study with fascinating subplots and circumstances. Kirsten Dunst delivers a remarkable performance, delving into themes of self-sabotage and its impact on oneself and others. The cinematography is magnificent, capturing the imagination, and the soundtrack complements the visuals superbly. The film also explores the complexities of wealth and entitlement in confronting problems. While the conclusion may not offer the traditional happy ending, it feels authentic and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, Melancholia is a masterfully crafted movie that is a must-see for cinema enthusiasts. I would give it a score of 8.5/10 and strongly recommend it.

El pico (1983)

El Pico is a well-crafted depiction of drug addiction with clever narrative twists that make it worth watching

[8/10 · 12 May 2024]

I recently watched the Spanish film 🇪🇸 El Pico (1983) on Shudder. The storyline follows two best friends, the son of a politician and the son of a commander, as they delve into the world of drugs, specifically heroin, which becomes both their greatest high and a new source of business. Their descent into the heroin business leads their lives into a downward spiral.

Directed by Eloy de la Iglesia (Navajeros), the film stars José Luis Manzano (Navajeros), José Manuel Cervino (The Last Circus), Enrique San Francisco (Save the Zombies), and Carme Contreras (REC 3).

Set in Bilbao, a city my daughter and I adore, El Pico is an intriguing character-driven piece reminiscent of "Requiem for a Dream" in some aspects. The plot unfolds with smart twists and turns, some leading to better outcomes while others exacerbate the characters' situations. The acting is excellent, and the portrayal of addiction and rehab is compellingly realistic. The needle scenes are particularly intense and authentic. Additionally, there is unexpected nudity that adds to the film's shock value. The conclusion is marked by multiple twists and turns, leaving a sense of sadness and shock.

In conclusion, El Pico is a well-crafted depiction of drug addiction with clever narrative twists that make it worth watching. I would give it a score of 7.5/10 and strongly recommend it.

YellowBrickRoad (2010)

YellowBrickRoad is a film that had potential with a better budget and production team could have been solid

[2/10 · 12 May 2024]

I recently watched YellowBrickRoad (2010) on Shudder. The storyline centers around a New Hampshire town where the entire population disappeared down a mysterious path in the woods and never returned. Sixty years later, an expedition sets out to find the road and uncover the fate of the missing townspeople.

Co-written and co-directed by Jesse Holland (The Crooked Man) and Andy Mitton (The Harbinger), the film stars Michael Laurino (I am Frankie), Anessa Ramsey (The Signal), Cassidy Freeman (Smallville), and Tara Giordano (The Witch in the Window).

YellowBrickRoad is a film that had potential with a better budget and production team could have been solid. The premise offers a solid setup and a worthwhile backstory. There are moments of solid writing and acting that effectively convey the characters' deteriorating mental state. The background music shows promise as well. However, the overall atmosphere falls short, lacking the eerie intensity of films like "The Blair Witch." The horror elements and kills could have been executed with more impact, although there is a memorable leg rip scene.

In conclusion, YellowBrickRoad is a film that struggles to make the most of its resources. I would give it a score of 2/10 and recommend skipping it.

Blue Eye Samurai (2023)

Blue Eye Samurai stands out as another exceptional Netflix anime/animated series

[9/10 · 12 May 2024]

My daughter and I recently watched Blue Eye Samurai (2023) on Netflix. The storyline revolves around a young woman who conceals her identity while seeking revenge. She is of mixed white and Japanese heritage, and she embarks on a quest for vengeance against four white men, including her father, who are responsible for her mother's death.

Directed by Jane Wu (Jackie Chan Adventures), the series features the voices of George Takei (Star Trek), Maya Erskine (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, television series), Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (Mortal Kombat), and Kenneth Branagh (Oppenheimer).

Blue Eye Samurai is an outstanding Netflix samurai anime series, blending samurai action, supernatural elements, cultural themes, and gore seamlessly. The storyline is rich in depth, and the anime style complements the premise perfectly. The characters are well-developed, with intriguing backstories. The action scenes are excellently executed, offering a satisfying mix of gore, flying appendages, and blood splatter. Additionally, the soundtrack enhances the overall experience.

In conclusion, Blue Eye Samurai stands out as another exceptional Netflix anime/animated series. I would give it a score of 9/10 and highly recommend it.

Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989)

Tetsuo: The Iron Man is an artistically crafted horror film that is a must-see for fans of the genre

[8/10 · 11 May 2024]

I recently watched the Japanese film Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989) on Shudder. The story follows a man with a metal fetish who inserts metal into a wound, leading to a transformation and a potential killing spree...

This picture is written, directed by and stars Shin'ya Tsukamoto (Bullet Ballet) and also stars Tomorô Taguchi (Non-Stop), Kei Fujiwara (Organ) and Nobu Kanaoka (Tokyo Fist).

This film was way ahead of its time and a unique addition to horror. The use of props, gore, and transformation scenes is impressive, especially considering the lack of CGI. The cinematography is striking, and there are memorable sequences involving a drill, another with robot sex, as well as a great sequence with a fork. There's also a brutal self surgery to get the movie started. There's just so much to like here. It reminded me of Riki-Oh and Bloody Muscle Body Builder in Hell.

Overall, Tetsuo: The Iron Man is an artistically crafted horror film that is a must-see for fans of the genre. I would score it an 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985)

Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins is a must-see for fans of 80s action

[8/10 · 11 May 2024]

I recently watched Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins (1985) on Tubi. The story follows a cop whose death is faked so he can join a secret government organization. Assigned to stop an Asian organization involved in political scandals and arms dealing, he embarks on a thrilling adventure.

This picture is directed by Guy Hamilton (Live and Let Die) and stars Fred Ward (Tremors), Patrick Kilpatrick (Minority Report), Joel Grey (Cabaret), James Allen Preston (A Few Good Men) and Katherine Mulgrew (Star Trek: Voyager).

This film is reminiscent of Sonny Chiba's Streetfighter. The fight scenes are well-executed, and the movie captures the essence of 80s action with cliché training sequences and memorable moments like head explosions and Coney Island scenes. Wilford Brimley's performance adds to the charm, and the soundtrack complements the action.

In conclusion, Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins is a must-see for fans of 80s action. With its thrilling fights and nostalgic vibe, it's a solid entry in the genre. I'd give it an 8/10 and strongly recommend it.

Tarot (I) (2024)

This film falls into the cliché Hollywood trope of teenagers making foolish decisions in a big-budget horror setting

[4/10 · 11 May 2024]

My daughter and I caught Tarot (2024) in theaters last night. The story follows a group of friends who rent an Airbnb for a night of fun but stumble upon cursed tarot cards instead of the expected liquor cabinet. As one friend attempts to read fortunes, they unknowingly unleash dark forces.

This picture is codirected by Spenser Cohen and Anna Halberg, in their directorial debuts, and stars Harriet Slater (Pennyworth), Avantika (Mean Girls), Jacob Batalon (Spiderman: Homecoming) and Larsen Thompson (The Midnight Club).

This film falls into the cliché Hollywood trope of teenagers making foolish decisions in a big-budget horror setting. This has an $8 million budget (and $11 million in revenue to date). This film is shot cleanly and incorporates CGI with impressive masks, costumes, and makeup. However, the kills are lackluster, with limited gore and most deaths being the killer's action and a quick cut to blood splatter. The characters are unremarkable, and the storyline is predictable. Dialogue and jokes fail to land, offering little to engage the audience.

In conclusion, Tarot is a subpar addition to the horror genre, lacking the standout qualities needed to make it memorable. I'd give it a 4/10 and suggest it only as a last resort if better options are unavailable.

Born to Ride (2011)

Born to Ride is a disappointing movie that fails to deliver. With its uninspired writing and lackluster execution, it's best to skip this one

[2/10 · 11 May 2024]

I recently watched the biker movie Born to Ride (2011), starring Casper Van Dien (Riko from Starship Troopers) on Tubi. The story follows two buddies on a road trip to a biker rally who find themselves embroiled in a political scandal and money laundering scheme.

This picture is directed by James Fargo (The Enforcer) and outside of Casper Van Dien stars William Patrick Muldoon (Starship Troopers), William Forsythe (Raising Arizona) and Theresa Russell (Wild Things).

This film falls short in every way. While Van Dien's performance as a biker is intriguing and there are a few comedic moments, the overall quality is lacking. The writing feels subpar, and the film has a made-for-television vibe. Despite a solid cast, the acting doesn't elevate the weak material, and even the soundtrack falls short. There is some nudity but not the girl on the cover.

In conclusion, Born to Ride is a disappointing movie that fails to deliver. With its uninspired writing and lackluster execution, it's best to skip this one. I'd give it a 2/10.

Mary, Mary, Bloody Mary (1975)

Mary, Mary, Bloody Mary is a fun and distinctive addition to the giallo genre, deserving of attention from fans

[7/10 · 10 May 2024]

I recently watched the Mexican giallo 🇲🇽 Mary, Mary, Bloody Mary (1975) on Shudder. The story follows a woman traveling across Mexico, leaving death in her wake wherever she goes. Men and women alike disappear after encountering her, and a new lover who hopes for a future with her may be the only threat to her deadly lifestyle.

Directed by Juan López Moctezuma (Dr. Tarr's Torture Dungeon) and starring Cristina Ferrare (The Weather Man), John Carradine (Stagecoach), David Young (Hellraiser III), and Helena Rojo (Foxtrot).

Mary, Mary, Bloody Mary offers a unique and skillfully crafted blend of vampire and giallo genres. The circumstances, characters, and their motivations are well-established, contributing to a methodically delivered plot. While the kills are relatively average and gore is limited, the film compensates with several noteworthy twists and turns in the conclusion, providing a satisfying resolution.

In conclusion, Mary, Mary, Bloody Mary is a fun and distinctive addition to the giallo genre, deserving of attention from fans. I would rate it 6.5/10 and recommend seeing it at least once.

The Fall Guy (2024)

The Fall Guy boasts a promising premise, but it succumbs to overproduction, poor editing and an abundance of cheese

[5/10 · 10 May 2024]

My wife and I caught The Fall Guy (2024) in theaters last night. The plot centers on a stuntman who, after a debilitating accident, loses both his confidence and direction in life. A year later, he receives a call for help for the woman he once loved, prompting him to return to the movie industry to help her. However, upon arrival, he discovers ulterior motives at play, leading to unexpected twists and turns.

Directed by David Leitch (Bullet Train) and featuring a star-studded cast including Ryan Gosling (Barbie), Emily Blunt (Oppenheimer), Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick-Ass), Winston Duke (Black Panther), and Hannah Waddingham (Ted Lasso).

The Fall Guy had the potential for a compelling romantic comedy, but unfortunately, the excessive $130 million budget leads to over-the-top scenes and cheesy moments in almost every frame. Despite solid performances from the cast, the film suffers from poor editing and unrealistic storytelling. While there are a few good lines and a touching love story, the movie is weighed down by drawn-out scenes that diminish its impact. Even after the apparent conclusion, the film continues with behind-the-scenes shots during the credits and additional scenes post credits, prolonging the experience unnecessarily (even if I did enjoy the behind the scenes shots).

In conclusion, while The Fall Guy boasts a promising premise, it succumbs to overproduction, poor editing and an abundance of cheese. I would rate it 4.5/10 and recommend it only with appropriate expectations.

Nomads (1986)

Nomads may not be a standout film, but its unconventional approach offers something different for viewers seeking a unique experience

[6/10 · 10 May 2024]

I recently watched Nomads (1986) on Prime. The plot centers on an archaeologist who uncovers an ancient artifact that begins to haunt him, ultimately leading to his demise. Before his death, he entrusts a young aspiring professor with protecting his wife and delving into the events surrounding his demise in hopes of preventing a similar fate.

Written and directed by John McTiernan (Die Hard) and featuring a talented cast including Pierce Brosnan (GoldenEye), Lesley-Anne Down (The Great Train Robbery), Frank Doubleday (Escape from New York), Mary Woronov (Death Race 2000), and Frances Bay (Happy Gilmore).

Nomads held significant potential, and there were aspects I appreciated. While the premise is not entirely original, its execution is unique and engaging. The film gradually unravels its mysteries, inviting viewers to piece together the puzzle at their own pace, resulting in multiple worthwhile twists and turns. The conclusion is satisfying, albeit somewhat subdued. The cast delivers authentic performances, with Lesley-Anne Down and Pierce Brosnan standing out. Brosnan's accent was fun. However, I wished for more substance and perhaps some impactful kills or gore to heighten the horror elements, which were subtle and primarily serve as backstory.

In conclusion, Nomads may not be a standout film, but its unconventional approach offers something different for viewers seeking a unique experience. I would rate it 5.5-6/10 and recommend it with appropriate expectations.

Sweetness in the Belly (2019)

Sweetness in the Belly presents enough worthwhile elements to warrant a viewing, but it lacks the standout qualities to make it memorable

[6/10 · 10 May 2024]

I recently watched Sweetness in the Belly (2019) on Tubi. The plot unfolds against the backdrop of civil war in Africa during the 1970s, leading to a wave of refugees fleeing from areas surrounding Ethiopia to Europe. Among them is a refugee who, upon securing a job at a hospital, forms a deep bond with an African doctor.

Directed by Zeresenay Mehari (Difret) and featuring a talented cast including Dakota Fanning (Man on Fire), Wunmi Mosaku (Lovecraft Country), Yahya Abdul-Mateen II (Aquaman), and Sophie Kennedy Clark (Sorority).

While Sweetness in the Belly possesses the necessary elements for a compelling character-driven narrative, it ultimately falls short. The performances are commendable, with Fanning, Mosaku, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II displaying excellent chemistry. The settings and overall premise offer depth and intensity, complemented by well-developed character backstories and subplots. Smart twists and turns keep the story engaging. However, the film suffers from significant lulls where it feels stagnant, failing to fully convey the desperation of the characters' circumstances. Additionally, a more impactful conclusion could have elevated the overall journey.

In conclusion, Sweetness in the Belly presents enough worthwhile elements to warrant a viewing, but it lacks the standout qualities to make it memorable. I would rate it 6/10 and suggest seeing it once for its commendable performances and intriguing premise.

Kolobos (1999)

Kolobos is an uneven addition to the horror genre, primarily recommended for diehard slasher fans

[5/10 · 9 May 2024]

I recently watched Kolobos (1999) on Shudder. The plot revolves around a group of individuals who sign up for a reality TV show, agreeing to live in isolation in a remote cabin in the woods. However, their experience takes a terrifying turn when they discover they are locked in with a serial killer.

Directed by Daniel Liatowitsch and Todd Ocvirk in their directorial debut, and starring Amy Weber (Unbeatable Harold), Promise LaMarco (Sibling Rivalry), Ilia Volok (Gemini Man), and Kim Simms Thomas (Unbreakable).

While Kolobos delivers on the horror elements, little else stands out. The premise feels recycled and lacks originality, resulting in a fairly straightforward narrative. The acting, writing, and production values appear low-budget, detracting from the overall experience. Inconsistent camera angles add to the disjointed feel, alternating between found footage-style shots and traditional cinematography. Despite a solid, if predictable, killer reveal twist, the kills offer some enjoyable gore.

In conclusion, Kolobos is an uneven addition to the horror genre, primarily recommended for diehard fans. I would rate it 5/10 and suggest approaching it with appropriate expectations.

Mind Game (I) (2004)

Mind Game is a clever exploration of self-discovery, life, and death

[9/10 · 9 May 2024]

I recently watched the Japanese anime masterpiece 🇯🇵 Mind Game (2004) on Shudder. The story follows a group of friends who find themselves in the wrong diner at the wrong time, leading to an otherworldly experience. They embark on a journey of self-discovery in hopes of finding their way back to the world of the living, should they choose to return.

Co-directed by Masaaki Yuasa (Devilman: Crybaby) and Kôji Morimoto (Memories), the animation in Mind Game is truly exceptional, blending elements of 70s psychedelia with modern facial recognition technology. The film's aesthetic evokes memories of MTV's Liquid Television, adding to its unique charm. The premise and characters are captivating from start to finish, with exhilarating action scenes, notably the unconventional dinner scene featuring a creative use of butt cheeks. The universe depicted is surreal, with standout sequences including a thrilling car chase, boat scenes, and a mesmerizing "paint dance." The conclusion offers a thought-provoking metaphor that surpasses expectations.

In conclusion, Mind Game is a clever exploration of self-discovery, life, and death. I would rate it 8.5/10 and highly recommend.

Infested (2023)

Infested offers a solid viewing experience, although I personally preferred Sting from earlier this year

[6/10 · 9 May 2024]

I recently watched the French film 🇫🇷 Infested (2023) on Shudder. The plot centers around a group of tenants inhabiting a dilapidated apartment building, where a sudden infestation of rapidly reproducing spiders threatens their lives.

Directed by Sébastien Vanicek in his directorial debut, and starring Jérôme Niel (Meet the Leroys), Finnegan Oldfield (Reinventing Marvin), Sofia Lesaffre (Meanwhile on Earth), and Théo Christine (Gran Turismo).

Infested relies on atmospheric tension and impressive special effects to deliver its horror, prioritizing the intensity of the circumstances and creatures over explicit kills or gore. The portrayal of the spiders and their movements is particularly well-executed, adding to the film's suspense. The opening scene effectively sets the tone for the rest of the movie, while the haunting settings and sets enhance the overall atmosphere. Additionally, the soundtrack complements the visuals perfectly.

In conclusion, Infested offers a solid viewing experience, although I personally preferred Sting from earlier this year. I would give it a score of 6/10 and recommend it to horror enthusiasts.