LATEST REVIEWS BY THE POPCORN PANEL
No-holds-barred reviews of movies, TV shows, and streaming services by film and TV connoisseur Alex Cearns. 

FRIENDSHIP

Lonely outsider Craig (Tim Robinson) is trapped in a dwindling marriage to Tami (Kate Mara) and is bored with his monotonous existence. When he befriends his charismatic, confident neighbour, Austin (Paul Rudd), a popular news weatherman, the two quickly hit it off and Craig quickly becomes infatuated. Aspiring to be like his new best friend, Craig’s blossoming bro-mance gives him purpose and broadens his horizons. Feeling like he’s found his place, Craig leans into his friendship with Austin until he has a strange outburst that isn’t well received at a casual drinks night with some of Austin’s friends. As their relationship deteriorates and Austin eventually cuts him off, Craig spirals into obsession, desperately attempting to reconnect with his former friend by any means necessary. This film isn’t humorous in the conventional sense and you’ll find yourself laughing at it in discomfort most of the time. Despite this, there are a few hilarious moments, particularly one involving a toad. Craig’s behavior is cringeworthy and his desperate need to be liked is sad to witness. Robinson is superb as Craig and his character undergoes the only real development of the movie. The supporting cast are excellent and pull everything together. With steady pacing, there’s enough momentum to maintain viewer interest, with a few plot surprises along the way. By the finale you’ll feel sorry for Craig but also frustrated at his inability to take responsibility for his actions. An awkward, cringy dark comedy that will leave you thinking about it long after the credits roll.

SCORE:

Alex and Michelle’s Score 7/10

Kelly and Duncan’s Score 6/10

Saraj’s Score 5/10

Tony’s Score 7.5/10

Michelle and Fiona’s Score 8/10

TRAIN WRECK: THE REAL PROJECT X

In 2012, Merthe Weusthuis announced her upcoming 16th birthday party as a public event on Facebook. Before long thousands of strangers RSVP’d and the situation quickly spiraled out of control. Realising the chaos was escalating, Merthe removed the event, but aggrieved partygoers reposted it on copycat pages, causing it to go viral. As a result, over 350,000 people RSVP’d to attend. On the night of the now-canceled party, more than 3,000 intoxicated teens gathered and rioted in the streets, setting vehicles on fire, looting shops, and attacking police. Dubbed ‘Project X Haren’ (after the Dutch town where Merthe lived) the astonishing lack of remorse shown by the two main perpetrators who shared details of the party reveals a disturbing disconnect from empathy and responsibility. In true ‘Train wreck’ style, this 48 minute documentary is concise quick to the point while offering a good mix of archival footage and current interviews.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

NONNAS

Joe Scaravella (Vince Vaughn) dreams of opening an Italian restaurant in honour of his beloved mother after her passing. To bring this vision to life, he hires four nonnas (played by Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Brenda Vaccaro, and Talia Shire) as chefs, with the goal of creating home-cooked meals that make diners feel loved and cared for. At first the nonnas don’t get along, but over time they learn to resolve their differences and embrace each other’s individuality to work together as a team. The restaurant faces a difficult start but eventually Joe is able to turn things around. Based on the true story of Joe’s life and his Staten Island restaurant, Enoteca Maria, which is still in operation today, this film is perfect Sunday afternoon viewing. Homely and warm with a strong cast and sweet premise.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

M*RDERBOT

The plot of ‘M*rderbot’ revolves around self-aware, rogue cyborg security unit (referred to as a SecUnit and played by Alexander Skarsgard), who is addicted to watching space themed soap operas and who hacks its own programming to gain free will. It must hide its independence while protecting a team of galactic scientists led by Dr Mensah (Noma Dumezweni) who are on a mission to survey a distant planet. Along the way the SecUnit not only keeps them safe against all odds, and despite its programming, but also begins to develop genuine friendships, build emotional connections, and find its own humanity. Sounds promising, but the execution of this series is sufferable. The acting is stilted and I didn’t care for any of the characters as they came across as inauthentic and poorly cast. Overall the story doesn’t go anywhere, there are ridiculous sub plots (especially the ménage à trois tangent) and an attempted emotional ending comes across as bland. I was only thankful for the 25 minute episode durations.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3.5/10

Amanda’s Score 5/10

SMURFS

Evil wizard brothers Razamel and Gargamel kidnap Papa Smurf (John Goodman), holding him hostage in Razamel’s castle. Several Smurfs, including Smurfette (Rihanna) and No Name (James Corden), seek the help of Papa’s brother Ken (Nick Offerman) to rescue him. Along the way No Name discovers his true purpose and the Smurfs unite with the adorable and zany Snooterpoots to save the world from the wicked wizards. I particularly enjoyed the live-action animation crossovers, set in Paris and the Australian outback, as well as the different realms visited by Smurfette, No Name, and Gargamel – plasticine world and 8-bit video game land were brilliant. My favorite character was Mama Poot (voiced by Natasha Leone) with her brash tone and fearless recklessness. Devoid of adult innuendo, this movie is primarily made for kids and those who are young at heart. A fun and frolicking triumph of good over evil. You’ll leave feeling anything but blue.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Kyleigh's Score 6/10

Emilee's Score 6/10

Lenny's Score (age 4) 13/10

SUPERMAN

David Corenswet takes the helm as Superman in the latest DC offering. He faces off against arch enemy Lex Luthor (Nicolas Hoult), who has assembled an army of metahumans and developed multiple portals leading to pocket universes. With the safety of Metropolis at stake, Superman takes several beatings and loses a battle for the first time. Along the way Superman is aided by his love interest and Daily Planet colleague, Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), as well as The Justice Gang, which includes Green Lantern (Nathan Fillion), Mister Terrific (Ed Gathegi), and Hawkgirl (Isabela Merced). With many mentions of Superman being an alien, he uncovers unsettling information about his birth parents and begins to understand the true meaning of family. The story features multiple subplots and moves around as quickly as the action sequences, epic stunts and big battles do. Thanks to a $225 million budget, the production quality is high with expensive sets and decent special effects. The plot however is average. A standout for me was Krypto, the CGI dog, affectionately described by director and writer James Gunn as a “not-so-good-good-boy” and modeled after his own dog, Ozu. The song ’Punk Rocker’ by Teddybears (featuring Iggy Pop) closes out the film – a fitting choice given its David Bowie-esque vibe, the artist nicknamed ‘Starman’ after releasing a song of the same name about a kind-hearted extraterrestrial who comes to Earth to deliver a message of hope and inspiration. Milly Alcock makes a brief cameo as Supergirl in a role that will be explored more in ‘Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow’ due for release in 2026. Wait for the credits to watch a sweet bonus scene. Poised to be a box office hit.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

THE DIVINE SARAH BERNHARDT

An audacious personality with theatrical prowess, French actress Sarah Bernhardt (portrayed by Sandrine Kiberlain) commanded the stage in the late 19th century, starring in over 190 plays. Considered to be the first celebrity, her diverse fan base included young female workers, artisans, wealthy socialites, politicians, and the general public across Europe, North America, and Australia. This biopic focuses on two pivotal moments in Sarah’s life: the lead-up to ‘Sarah Bernhardt Day’ in 1896 and her leg amputation in 1915. As she reminisces about an affair with her greatest love, actor Lucien Guitry (Laurent Lafitte), her scandalous lifestyle, filled with promiscuity and lively parties, comes to light. A trailblazer but also a textbook narcissist, Sarah was attention-seeking, a shameless self-promoter, and could be vicious, especially toward her long-suffering servant Pitou (Laurent Stocker). She doesn’t come across as particularly likeable, and the motives of her inner circle were questionable, given that she was a source of endless cash, alcohol, and s*x. She demanded unwavering devotion from those around her, especially from Lucien, and had a history of self-harm for attention, something she first attempted as a child to gain her mother’s love. Known for candid and shocking statements, she regularly challenged reporters who questioned her acting abilities and criticised her performances. The film’s costumes are grand, and the sets are lavish, particularly her home which is filled with colourful artworks, eclectic sculptures, and a large collection of animals, including multiple dogs, two horses, a donkey, a hawk, an Andean wildcat, and a boa constrictor. The film moves backwards and forwards in time and it’s not always clear which era is playing out. Overall the story is engaging but feels like it only scratches the surface of Sarah’s 78-year life. French with English subtitles.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Kelly's Score 7/10

Chris’s Score 9/10

Maree’s Score 9/10

Sharon’s Score 6.5/10

Helena’s Score 5/10

Liz’s Score 6/10

Tania’s Score 8/10

TRAIN WRECK: THE POOP CRUISE

In February 2013, the Carnival ‘Triumph’ cruise ship set sail on a four-day round-trip from Galveston, Texas, to Cozumel, Mexico. Marketed as a luxury cruise, it promised a relaxing escape for its passengers. Three days into the journey, a fire broke out in the engine room, disabling the ship’s electricity and propulsion systems. With 4,000 passengers and crew onboard, the Triumph began to drift aimlessly. As toilets stopped functioning and air conditioning failed, the situation quickly escalated. When a tugboat arrived and pulled the vessel sideways, it caused it to list, resulting in raw sewage spilling across the guest rooms and sloshing throughout the ship. In a shortsighted attempt to appease passengers, the crew opened the bar and gave out free drinks, which soon led to brawls and chaos among those onboard. A media frenzy ensued and eventually the passages were finally able to disembark, seven days after they departed. This 55 minute documentary vividly depicts the unsanitary ordeal and will make you grateful you weren’t aboard the Triumph in February 2013, while possibly putting you off a cruise for life. Interviews with passengers and crew reveal that the Carnival’s contingency plans were inadequate, maintenance on the ship’s diesel generator was overdue by 12 months, and the fine print of their terms of carriage stated that the company made no guarantees regarding the ship’s safety, seaworthiness, or sanitary conditions. The ship has since been renamed Carnival ‘Sunrise’ and remains in operation to this day. This is not a drill – it really happened. Nasty and yuck!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

M3GAN 2.0

This sequel takes place two years after AI doll M3GAN (Jenna Davis) was shut down following a murd*rous rampage. She is reactivated by her creator Gemma (Allison Williams) in order to stop Amelia (Ivanna Sakhno), a humanoid being used as a weapon. There are numerous robot vs robot fight scenes and frequent sarcastic barbs – though sharing most of the latter in the trailer meant that the laughs were long gone in the cinema. In contrast to the first film, M3GANS TikTok dance is cringey and definitely isn’t going viral this time. Some elements of the plot are illogical and despite being marketed as a horror / thriller / comedy, it doesn’t fit into any of those categories. It lacks suspense and scary moments and would be better labelled as action / sci-fi. Some viewers may see this mis-classification as a bait and switch. Amelia’s relentless pursuit of her targets reminded me of the Terminator, but with a 2025 glow-up and a less menacing demeanour. Mildly entertaining but mostly over the top.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

THE RESIDENCE

When the president’s head butler is found de*d in the White House during a state dinner, renowned detective Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba) is called in to solve the crime. Unconventional and quirky, she shuns traditional investigative techniques, and begins her investigation by quarantining the world leaders attending the event, plus Kylie Minogue (playing herself) who was providing the evenings entertainment. Reluctantly assisted by FBI special agent Edwin Park (Randall Park), Cordelia faces resistance from misogynistic politicians who she consistently takes down with her sharp wit. Her unorthodox methods and eye for detail enable her to spot clues others overlook and to sniff out a lie from a mile away. This 8 part series starts out strong and Cordelia is fun to watch with her quips and humour, but before too long it becomes convoluted and drags. We binged the first few episodes then took months to finish the rest. It seems this pattern tracks amongst viewers as the show is not being renewed for a second season due to a ratings dip half way through the season. Costing between Netflix 12 to 15 million dollars an episode, it seems this expense could not be justified against a waning audience. Had potential!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

TRAIN WRECK: THE CULT OF AMERICAN APPAREL

When the U.S. brand American Apparel (AA) launched in 1989, it quickly became a hot commodity. Founded by Dov Charney, the company promoted its products as “ethically made – sweatshop free.” With its distinct vibe and provocative advertising, Dov built his empire around simple clothing basics, manufacturing everything in the United States and claiming to pay workers above minimum wage. With stores operating in 11 countries, working for AA was considered to be the pinnacle of retail. Soon Dov’s true colours were exposed and his success was marred by serious allegation of abuse, inappropriate relationships with employees, and sexual misconduct, leading to several lawsuits. Many staff members were traumatised by their experiences. A government investigation uncovered that 1,500 factory workers had falsified documents and were residing illegally in the country. In 2014 Dov was removed as CEO by the board and AA filed for bankruptcy the following year. The brand was later purchased by a Canadian company in 2017. Today, all physical stores are closed and only online shopping remains. A tale of how bad behaviour and flouting the rules caused a fashion failure.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

THE WOLVES ALWAYS COME AT NIGHT

This documentary, interspersed with some fictional scenes, offers a glimpse into the struggles faced by Mongolian goat shepherd Davaasuren Dagvasuren, his wife Otgonzaya Dashzeveg, and their four children. Each day they tend to their animals with care and dedication, while finding peace and freedom in life’s simple pleasures. Their land is becoming increasingly barren due to climate change and when an unrelenting dust storm wipes out their goat flock, they are forced to relocate their yurt to the outskirts of a nearby town. There they navigate a new way of life. Dagvasuren takes a job in earthmoving but is conflicted between the need to earn an income and digging up untouched land. With director Gabrielle Brady at the helm, the panoramic cinematography is mesmerising and the story unfolds gradually, reflecting the calm personalities of Dagvasuren and Otgonzaya. Though they yearn to return to wide-open spaces, they know that for now they must stay where they are. While the drawn out pacing won’t be for everyone, this poignant and quiet reflection narrowly avoids falling into depressing territory.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

JURASSIC PARK

The seventh instalment of the ‘Jurassic’ franchise is set in the present day and public interest in dinosaurs has waned. They’ve now fallen out of fashion and only survive in the wild in a small, remote region near the equator. Scarlett Johansson stars as Zora, a skilled mercenary leading a team tasked with extracting fluid samples from the largest land, air, and sea dinosaurs – creatures that could potentially prevent heart disease in millions of people. Their client is a pharmaceutical company which begins to raise ethical issues for ScarJo and her dino wrangling friends. Returning to the island based roots of the original film was a smart move, as the story’s tension is intensified by having the protagonist’s trapped in an area dominated solely by beasts. This instalment is definitely more engaging than the previous one, ‘Jurassic World: Dominion.’ It’s not perfect – there are barely mentioned back stories, some slower moments of dialogue, and the CGI featuring humans in natural environments occasionally feels a bit clunky – but the dinosaurs are realistic. Fan faves like t-rex, velociraptor, and dilophosaurus are joined by some new mutations, including a cute aquilops called Delores. There’s loads of action and the film will bring people to the cinema and make a tonne of cash. Watch it for the nostalgia, the entertainment, and to catch the fun Easter eggs scattered throughout.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

F1

Former Formula One driver Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt) is recruited to the APXGP F1 team by owner Ruben (Xavier Bardem). It’s been 30 years since Sonny last raced in F1 and he quickly finds himself at odds with egotistical rookie Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris), who believes Sonny is too old to compete. Tensions escalate as the two drivers clash, under the added stress of the team being sold off if they don’t work together to secure a victory. The supporting cast, including Kim Boden and Kerry Condon, delivers stellar performances. With seven-time world F1 champion Lewis Hamilton on board as a producer, the crew were granted unprecedented access to the world of F1. Filming took place during breaks between nine real Grand Prix races around the world, and the fictional APXGP team was given its own garage between Scuderia Ferrari and Mercedes. The film features cameos and background appearances from F1 stars and celebrities, adding to the authentic atmosphere. The production quality is exceptional, with polished cinematography – costing 300 million dollars to make, no expense was spared and it shows in every frame. Multiple cameras mounted inside several race cars give the closest perspective of being behind the wheel most of us will ever have. A pumping soundtrack complements the high-octane action. While the story has more heart than believability, this adrenaline-fueled ride will keep you on the edge of your seat. Entertaining and exhilarating from start to finish.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9.5/10

Kelly’s Score 8.5/10

Steve’s Score 7/10

Lachie’s Score 8.5/10

Rosie’s Score 8/10

Shaz’s Score 10/10

Mick’s Score 9/10

Simon’s Score 8/10

Saraj’s Score 9/10

A NICE INDIAN BOY

When shy Indian doctor Naveen (Karan Soni) falls for caucasian photographer Jay (Jonathon Groff), he finds himself torn between his burgeoning relationship and being completely honest with his family. They are aware of his sexu*lity but don’t discuss it openly. While the theme of being gay out and risking rejection isn’t new, this film is still a joyful, colourful rom-com filled with warmth and heart. Zarna Garg as Naveen’s stoic and loyal mother Megha delivers the most humorous moments with impeccable comedic timing. The entire cast is a delight, and the story offers meaningful lessons about acceptance, true love, and overcoming differences. Feel good with a touch of Bollywood spirit.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

PREDATOR KILLER OF KILLERS

This animated sci-fi feature is divided into four interconnected chapters: ‘The Shield’ set in Scandinavia in 841 AD, ‘The Sword’ set in Japan in 1609 AD, ‘The Bullet’ set in North Africa in 1942 and ‘The Battle’. The first three stories follows a protagonist – Viking warrior Ursa, Samurai Kenji, and American fighter pilot John J. Torres – who confront the predators of their respective eras in graphic battles. The final chapter reveals that Ursa, Kenji, and Torres have been captured by the predators and held in suspended animation. They are awakened and forced to fight each other to the de*th by the ultimate predator, the Grendel King, in an epic survival showdown involving multiple predators. As a huge predator fan, with predator being my absolute favourite film alien, I loved depiction of the Grendel King and the brilliant visuals. Light on dialogue but heavy on non stop action this is a graphic and engrossing production with an ending that hints at a possible sequel. Loved it!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

GRANDE MAISON PARIS

Japanese chef Obana (Takuya Kimura) strives to earn three Michelin stars for his Paris restaurant, Grande Maison Paris. Renowned for his culinary artistry and innovation, he often clashes with his staff due to his arrogance and refusal to listen to anyone’s opinion. He runs his kitchen with an iron fist, insisting on his way or the highway. Viewed as an outsider by food suppliers, he is frequently given inferior ingredients, with the best saved for the elite local chefs. When facing eviction from his restaurant, Obana is forced to reevaluate his approach. He realises that teamwork and unity are essential to achieving his dream, and comes to understand that receiving three Michelin stars is the combined goal of his whole team as well. In Japanese and French with English subtitles, this is an engaging and dramatic film, that will leave your mouth watering. A hearty serve dishing up at Luna Palace Cinemas on 10th July!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

KARATE KID: LEGENDS

Forty-one years after the release of the original ‘Karate Kid’ movie, the 2025 remake follows a similar formula: a teen boy skilled in martial arts picks up a nemesis and their rivalry culminates in a competition fight. Kung fu prodigy Li Fong (Ben Wang) moves from Beijing to New York City with his mother, Dr. Fong (Ming-Na Wen). He makes friends with pizza shop owner Victor (Joshua Jackson) and his daughter Mia (Sadie Stanley). When under-dog Li is targeted by Mia’s ex-boyfriend and local bully Conor (Aramis Knight) their conflicts escalate leading them to face off in the ‘5 Boroughs’ karate challenge. Enter the masters – Li’s Uncle, Shifu Han (Jackie Chan) and Sensei Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) who join forces and have seven days to train Li to defeat Conor. Their frequent clash of egos and humorous dynamic were my favourite parts of the film. It was nostalgic to see 71 year old Chan and 63 year old Macchio sharing the screen, with Chan showcasing that he still has the skills that made him famous, and Macchio reprising his iconic role. I loved the way the memory of Mr Miagi (played but Pat Morita in the original movies) was honoured, which was bittersweet given Morita passed away in 2011. This is an enjoyable family movie focussing on the values of loyalty, friendship and hard work. Wholesome and feel good.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

THE SHROUDS

Director David Cronenberg’s latest offering is a mixed bag. Through his company GraveTech, Karsh Relikh (Vincent Cassell) has developed innovative technology involving a body shroud that streams a live video feed from inside a grave. Accessible via an encrypted phone app, users can watch the body of a loved one decompose in real time. Karsh’s wife Rebecca (Dianne Kruger who also plays Rebeccas sister Terry) passed away from cancer four years earlier, and at the time he he eased his grief by burying her in his high-tech cemetery. When vandals damage several electronic gravesites and lock Karsh out of his own software, he enlists the help of Maury (Guy Pearce), an IT guru and his former brother-in-law, to investigate. Together they work to uncover who was behind the attack and why Karsh became a target. The film features advanced technologies (self-driving cars, AI assistants, and 3D video shrouds) that either already exist or are commercially plausible and I was glad the plot didn’t spin off into supernatural territory. This is not a comedy but the audience initially laughed along with some of the witty banter, particularly during Karsh’s awkward first date set up by his dentist, but by the end their laughter shifted towards more ridiculous moment, like scenes where Rebecca visits Karsh in his dreams with body parts missing. The plot would’ve been more cohesive if these dream sequences were cut. The female characters are one dimensional and seem to only exist for Karsh to conquest. I also guessed early on who was behind the vendetta against Karsh and found the final ten minutes to be a convoluted web of accusations. The ending was too abrupt. One of my movie club attendees said “The best thing about it was the groodle.” Indeed the groodle was cute. A clever concept that needed a tidier script.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.5/10

Chris’s Score 5/10

Sharon’s Score 6.5

Cath’s Score 4/10

Vicki’s Score 4/10

Illonas Score 6/10

Glenn’s Score 7/10

ECHO VALLEY

How far will a mother go for her daughter, and does unconditional love outweigh betrayal? These two questions lie at heart of ‘Echo Valley,’ starring Julianne Moore as Kate, a grieving lesbian widower, and Sydney Sweeney as Claire, her drug-addicted daughter. Kate operates a horse agistment and riding center and is struggling financially. When Claire arrives seeking help in a desperate state, Kate sets aside her better judgment, and soon finds herself in a dangerous predicament with drug dealer Jackie (Domhnall Gleeson.) Moore’s acting talent isn’t enough to save this storyline from its absurdity. There’s one decent plot twist, then events become increasingly fanciful. Clare’s constant transgressions and Kate’s lack of boundaries are frustrating to watch. Everything is meh. Two stars from me for the fabulous Fiona Shaw as Kate’s best friend Les, and some beautiful horses.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 2/10

Amanda’s Score 4/10

THE QUIET MAID

Ana (Paula Grimaldi), a Colombian maid, works for a wealthy family of four at their Spanish holiday estate, aiming to save her wages for her sister’s university tuition. Her employers have promised to assist her with her residency papers once she completes four months of service, but Ana discovers that she actually needs to spend two years in Spain before she can submit her application. While she works tirelessly, the family relaxes and indulges in the luxuries of their lifestyle. Bored with the monotony of work and longing for some fun, Ana begins to take risks and push boundaries. The family members talk about her openly, both in her presence and behind her back, and over time, tensions escalate. This culminates in a lecherous act that leads Ana to take drastic action. Most of the film is set in and around the holiday home, with Grimaldi convincingly portraying Ana as a quiet, observant servant. Executive produced by Steven Sodengerg, this slow paced drama feels like it covers familiar under-dog territory. Has some emotional depth but offers nothing new. Spanish with English subtitles.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

TITAN – THE OCEANGATE SUBMERSIBLE DISASTER

This eye-opening documentary explores the doomed submarine names Titan which imploded in 2023, instantly killing all five passengers onboard … including its developer Stockton Rush. A millionaire and the founder of Oceangate in 2009, Rush became obsessively determined to push the boundaries of deep-sea submersibles in order to visit the Titanic wreck. Over several years, he tested multiple prototypes, eventually deciding on a carbon fiber hull. Exploiting a loophole that allowed him to avoid proper classification of his vessels, Rush cut safety corners to prepare his submersibles for passenger voyages. Authorities were aware but did not intervene. During testing, multiple staff members (including senior engineers) raised serious concerns about cracking occurring in the hulls. Some resigned on principle, believing Rush was putting lives at risk, while others were dismissed for standing in the way of his dream. Rush is presented as tunnel-visioned, ego driven man who refused to compromise on the relentless pursuit of his goal. On June 18, 2023 the Titan crew lost contact with the Oceangate team and a large search and rescue operation was commenced. Four days later Titan debris was found 500m from the hull of the Titanic and it was confirmed that a catastrophic event had occurred. Shocking and unfathomable.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

28 YEARS LATER

Danny Boyle is back at the directing helm, nearly three decades since the rage virus infected most of Britain. Twelve-year-old Spike (Alfie Williams) lives on an isolated gated island with his parents, Isla and Jamie (Jodie Comer and Aaron Taylor-Johnson). Jamie takes him to the quarantined mainland to practice kil*ing zombies – creatures that have evolved into grotesque crawling, slug-like blobs and fast-moving, upright, intelligent Neanderthals. During his second visit to the mainland, with Isla in tow, Spike is determined to find a doctor who can help diagnose her health issues. Along the way they meet Swede Eric (Edvin Ryding) who is frustrated about being stranded in a foreign land filled with monsters. He delivers the film’s best lines and injects humour into some tense situations. The filming style is erratic (in a good way) with the camera placed right in the actors’ faces, immersing you in the scenes and adding to the unease. The acting is convincing and the script, written by Alex Garland (whose recent direction and writing of ‘Warfare’ was phenomenal) offers strong character development with an easy to follow plot. There’s a masterful balance between zombie action and story progression, and everything unfolds with just the right timing. The 115 minute run time flies by. Spike starts out as a scared child but evolves into a confident, independent pre-teen – with Williams effortlessly carrying the lead role. I’m not sure Ralph Finnes was well cast for his brief appearance (maybe I’m still picturing him in ‘Conclave’?) and one scene 10 minutes from the end felt rushed and disjointed compared to the rest, but they are minor picks. Overall it’s a well crafted zombie film with a solid foundation and IMHO is the best of the ‘28’ series so far. I’m looking forward to ‘28 Years Later – The Bone Temple’ scheduled for release in January 2026. Memento mori!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Kate’s Score 8.7/10

THE BETTER SISTER

Estranged sisters Chloe (Jessica Biel) and Nicky (Elizabeth Banks) are forced to reunite after the murd*r of Chloe’s husband, Adam (Corey Stoll). Adam was previously married to Nicky and together they have a teenage son, Ethan (Maxwell Acee Donovan). As detectives Nan Guidry (Kim Dickens) and Matt Bowen (Bobby Naderi) investigate the case, Ethan is arrested for the crime. Meanwhile, the sisters confront their childhood traumas as family secrets are uncovered, and attempt to repair their fractured, dysfunctional relationship. As the investigation unfolds, other suspects emerge, turning the story into a true whodunnit. This series is held together by strong cinematography and compelling acting throughout from the most of the solid cast. Nicky, feeling harassed by the police, frequently trades verbal barbs with Detective Guidry, creating some of the most entertaining scenes. A trim down from 8 episodes would’ve tightened everything up and prevented the drag that occurs in the middle. Eventually the plot loses focus and the ending leaves much to be desired.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.5/10

Amanda’s Score 6.5/10

Tony’s Score 8/10

ELLIS PARK

Warren Ellis is a musician best known for performing as part of the Bad Seeds band with Nick Cave. In this documentary he reflects on his early life, musical influences, and relationship with ‘Ellis Park’, a namesake wildlife sanctuary in Sumatra. The brief focus on the animal centre is meaningful and inspiring. Ellis states that the story isn’t about him, “It’s about them” but that’s not what rolls out. It’s mostly about him and centres on Ellis playing the violin extensively in various settings – a town rotunda, a church, an empty theatre, his parents’ house, and even in the rescued animals enclosures. There’s little background provided about the amount Ellis paid for the animal centre land. According to Google, in 2021 Ellis and his wife (who is not named or mentioned in the doco) purchased a 5,000 square-metre plot that adjoined the ‘Sumatra Wildlife Centre’ (SWC.) It was donated to SWC to be used for animals who cannot be released. Ellis visits the sanctuary for the first time during filming (2023) and reconnects with Dutch manager Femke den Haas. In a piece to camera he makes it clear the purpose of the trip is to deliver a fist-sized cast of a piece of Nina Simone’s chewed gum, having removed the original from a piano she used 20 years earlier. His obsession with this replica “relic” makes him oblivious to the fact that it’s not something the SWC needs. I wanted to learn more about the sanctuary, its staff, how den Haas came to work there, and its history and future. I wanted to hear of Ellis’s early connection to animals, but instead I don’t even know if he had one. I wanted to know what law enforcement were doing to tackle the wildlife trafficking epidemic. I didn’t want to hear another violin solo. It feels as though a documentary idea was pitched, but Ellis needed a more content to get it across the line so the wildlife aspect was thrown in as an after thought, making it feel disjointed. 10/10 to the sanctuary team for their rescue efforts and for raising awareness about the plight of animals in Sumatra and a commendable effort on Ellis’s behalf in purchasing the land, but I question the self indulgence presented here.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 4/10

Kate’s Score 4.5/10

FROM THE WORLD OF JOHN WICK – BALLERINA

Ballerina by name but not by nature. Ana de Armas is Eve Macarro, an assassin seeming vengeance for her father’s death a decade earlier. That’s where the linear, simple plot begins and ends. I could pick a few holes in the story and acting but where this film excels is the non-stop action. Armas k*icks a*s! She unleashes fierce feminine rage and takes down countless foes along the way. As the new John Wick protagonist, she brings fresh energy to the franchise, while Keanu Reeves cameos as the man himself. The grand finale fight scene features jaw-dropping pyrotechnics and flame thrower action, unlike anything I’ve seen in a film before. It’s spectacular. I liked this a lot more than I expected to. Adrenaline-fuelled and expl*sive.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON

On the ancient Isle of Berk, dragons and Vikings have been enemies for centuries. When aspiring dragon slayer Hiccup (Mason Thames) befriends an injured, rare Night Fury dragon, whom he names Toothless, their relationship gradually develops into mutual trust. Hiccup soon realises that dragons can be friends rather than foes. He trains Toothless and sets about changing the perceptions of his fellow villagers, including his stubborn and fearless father, Stoick (Gerard Butler) the village chief. With live-action animation being all the rage right now, this production stands out as one of the best. The CGI is seamless and the landscapes are visually stunning. The final battle scene is truly epic. Every character feels authentic and the story offers a balanced mix of action and humour. Toothless, the star of the show, will steal your heart. A strong orchestral sound track adds to the suspense and sounds brilliant pumped through cinema speakers. This film is an overall reflection on how humans have historically treated animals, conveying a message about the importance of empathy. Exciting and fun.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

Duncan’s Score 8/10

Tony’s Score 8/10

MATERIALISTS

Dakota Johnson stars as Lucy, a modern-day matchmaker who arranges dates for shallow singles with unrealistic expectations, mostly seeking partners with substantial wealth. After a client’s wedding, she begins dating Harry (Pedro Pascale) a wealthy, eligible bachelor. Meanwhile her ex-boyfriend John (Chris Evans) reenters her life. Their breakup years earlier was due to his lack of financial stability … something he still doesn’t have. When one of Lucy’s matchmaking clients is assaulted on a first date, she starts to question her career and her approach to relationships. A sharp dissection of modern dating, this film explores what people are willing to trade for love and how some will settle for a superficial connection when money is involved. Pascale remains as charismatic as ever, while Johnson and Evans deliver solid performances. There are also some light and fun moments, though this is far from a romantic comedy – it steps more into drama territory. Engaging, witty, thought provoking.

SCORE:

Alex’s Score 8/10

Kelly’s Score 7/10

THE GREAT LILLIAN HALL

Jessica Lange star as Lillian Hall, a fictional Broadway star grappling with dementia. Loosely based on the life of American stage actress Marian Seldes (whose niece Elisabeth Seldes Annacone is the screenwriter) the film explores Hall’s struggles as her memory loss begins to affect her personal relationships and career. Kathy Bates delivers a no-nonsense performance as Edith, Hall’s longtime friend and assistant. Their friendship is fiery and honest, with Edith always caring for Hall’s best interests. Lange delivers a moving portrayal of Hall, expertly expressing a wide range of emotions. Her talent and versatility know no bounds and there’s a reason she’s been awarded an Oscar, a Tony, and an Emmy, and is widely regarded as one of the most respected and talented actors of her generation. The supporting cast (Lily Rabe as Hall’s neglected daughter Margaret, Jesse Williams as the play’s director David, and Pierce Brosnan as Hall’s neighbor Ty) are exceptional. A journey in superb storytelling that excels in all aspects.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

DANGEROUS ANIMALS

Tucker (Jai Courtney) is a shark-obsessed serial killer who operates boat tours on the Gold Coast. Once his unsuspecting clients are offshore, they rarely make it back alive, becoming the main course in a gruesome shark feeding-frenzy that Tucker films for his sick amusement. When he abducts feisty free-spirited surfer Zephyr (Hassie Harrison) she fights desperately to survive and resists becoming his next victim. Courtney plays psychopathic to perfection, seamlessly blending charisma with menace – it’s impossible to look away when he’s on screen. Showing his versatility as an actor, his character of Tucker severely contrasts with the kind and gentle father he portrayed in ‘Runt.’ The panoramic cinematography featuring frequent aerial shots of Tucker’s boat against the vast ocean gives a powerful sense of isolation and heightens the suspense. I was particularly impressed with the seamless integration of CGI and real shark footage. This film could be described as ‘Silence of the lambs’ on the seas or ‘Wolf Creek’ on water, but it is unique, tense and brilliant in its own right. The best shark movie since 1975’s ‘Jaws’. Destined to become a cult classic.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9.5/10

Saraj’s Score 9/10

WILDING

When Charlie Burrell inherited Knapp Castle and its 3,500 acres of land in West Sussex, United Kingdom, he intended to uphold the family’s farming tradition. However Charlie and his wife, Isabella Tree, soon realised that the soil was severely depleted after years of pesticide, fungicide, and overuse. They decided to remove all internal fences and embarked on an ambitious rewilding project, introducing ancient breeds of horses, pigs, and cows, as well as birds, insects, and other wildlife. Despite facing resistance from local farmers and navigating complex government bureaucracy, they transformed the landscape into a lush, safe-haven amid a dying environment. Their commitment to the land and joy in discovering the array of creatures who now call it home, is heartwarming. Narrated by Isabella, this thought-provoking documentary highlights the damage human activity inflicts on ecosystems and demonstrates how nature can flourish when left undisturbed. It is acknowledged that Burrell and Tree come from a position of financial privilege, allowing them the freedom not to work the land for income. I wish this aspect had been explored more deeply but their efforts are an inspiring example for others who can afford to regenerate and restore habitats damaged over the years. An inspiring and uplifting reality check.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

DEPARTMENT Q

This Scottish thriller centres on detective chief inspector Carl Morck (Matthew Goode) and his partner James Hardy (Jamie Sives) who are ambushed and shot at a murder crime scene. Upon returning to work, Morck is assigned to a new cold case unit and begins investigating the disappearance of prosecutor Merritt Lingard (Chloe Pirrie), who disappeared four years earlier. With the help of former Syrian cop Akram Salim (Alexej Manvelov) and Rose Dickson (Leah Byrne), a PTSD-stricken cadet, Morck employs unorthodox and aggressive methods to obtain information, often flouting police processes and the law. This series features an intriguing plot and clever writing (from Scott Frank who co-wrote ‘The Queens Gambit’ and who also serves as director, executive producer and creator), although it becomes somewhat convoluted at times. Thankfully everything is explained and resolved in the finale. It is well-acted with excellent character development, particularly for blunt Morck who has a tough exterior but a good heart. Highlights include his growing respect for Salim and his friendship with Hardy. The pacing is steady and maintains viewer interest across all nine episodes. Witty, tense, and engaging, the series leaves room for a second season.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

SIRENS

Simone DeWitt (Milly Alcock) works as an assistant to Michaela ‘Kiki’ Kell (Julianne Moore) and the two develop a codependent relationship. Michaela, the wife of billionaire Peter Kell, spends her days hosting high-society fundraising events for her passion project, a raptor rescue centre. While she appears to have it all, she’s secretly distrustful of her husband’s fidelity. When Simone’s impulsive sister Devon (Meghann Fahy) unexpectedly visits the Kell’s island estate, she becomes wary of Michaela’s intentions. Soon Simone is compelled to confront her past. The ultra-rich characters are portrayed as entitled, odd, and shallow, and despite being billed as a dark comedy the only genuine laughs are provided by Catherine Cohen’s portrayal of Lily-Rose, a drunk woman who shares a jail cell with Devon. Some aspects of the plot are fanciful and for most of the series you’ll wonder whether the story will take a sinister turn. The final episode doesn’t provide a solid resolution for anyone other than Simone, who turns out to not be what she seems. Strange and twisted.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

REUNION

When deaf father Daniel Brennan (Matthew Gurney) is released from prison, he’s initially set on seeking revenge for abuses he suffered as a young boy at an all deaf boarding school. With no care for the possible consequences, he sets about tracking down the man who ruined his life. Along the way he reconnects with his estranged daughter Carly (Laura Peake), who is now a young adult, and slowly realises he has someone to live for. I decided to watch this show after someone claimed it was “As good as ‘Adolescence’ which turned out to be bum-steer. It’s nowhere near as engaging or well filmed as ‘Adolescence’ was. However in a wonderful showing of representation the cast largely consists of deaf and hard-of-hearing actors who communicate primarily through British Sign Language. Many deaf crew members also contributed behind the scenes.


That said, I found parts of the story to be slow, and I lost interest several times. The acting was decent though I feel the series could’ve been trimmed by at least one episode. Unjust and harrowing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

THE PHOENICIAN SCHEME

After surviving multiple assassination attempts, businessman Zsa-zsa Korda (Benito Del Toro) names his nun daughter (Mia Threapleton) as sole heir to his entire fortune on a trial basis. They set off to negotiate trade terms with several foreign tycoons and find themselves dodging death and misadventure along the way. In true Wes Anderson fashion (he serves as director, producer, and screenwriter) the film features an a-list cast, including Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Bill Murray, Michael Cera, Benedict Cumberbatch, Willem Dafoe, Bryan Cranston, and Rupert Friend. The slapstick humour provides a few laughs though the plot is only moderately engaging. The stars of the show are the distinctive colour palate and intentionally themed, meticulously detailed sets synonymous with all of Andersons movies. His distinct visual style always oozes brilliance, even though in this instance, the content didn’t quite match his creative genius.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.5/10

THE SALT PATH

Based on a true story and adapted from the book of the same name, ‘The Salt Path’ tells the story of Moth Winn (Jason Isaacs) and his wife Raynor (Gillian Anderson.) After losing their home to the bank and not having a viable place to live, they embark on a trek along the South West Coast Path in England. Moth, having been recently diagnosed with a terminal illness, frequently struggles with his heavy pack, a possible metaphor for the guilt he feels in making the bad investment that caused their hardship. They set off with no plan, very little money and even less knowledge of the great outdoors. I found most of this movie to be tedious and my frustration grew at their unpreparedness for the harsh elements. Respect to real life Moth and Ray for their 600 mile year-long journey, but the translation of their feat onto the big screen just didn’t do it for me. While the themes of resilience, hope, and the healing power of nature are commendable, it was overall pretty dull.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5/10

THE SURFER

When an unnamed protagonist(Nicholas Cage) returns to his childhood surf beach with his teenage son, he is denied access by a group of aggressive local surfers (led by Julian MacMahon). This initial confrontation sets off a chain of harassing events that escalate into a turf war fueled by toxic masculinity. Unwilling to give up on riding those particular waves, the man fights back, pushing himself to the limits of physical endurance. His resistance gradually spirals into madness as he begins to experience hallucinations about his life and becomes fixated on purchasing his former family home, perched on a nearby cliff. This film immerses viewers in discomfort from start to finish. The camera frequently captures actors in close-up shots, increasing the sense of tension and unease. Filmed in Yallingup, Western Australia, the Australian landscape shines under a blazing inhospitable sun. A raw, captivating and bizarre psychological thriller.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

Duncan’s Score 8/10

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE – THE FINAL RECKONING

Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in the eighth installment of the ‘Mission Impossible’ franchise, which also serves as the second part of the final film. Once again Hunt is the only person who can save the planet, this time from an AI program called The Entity who had gone rogue and intends to detonate the nuclear weapons of several superpowers. His mission involves retrieving a hard drive from a sunken submarine, stealing a thumb drive necklace from the villain, and disarming a nuclear bomb. Amid espionage and a planet teetering on the brink of war, his dependable and long-suffering Impossible Mission Force team provides crucial support, always appearing at just the right moment to save his skin. The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, with constant jeopardy and multiple countdowns to potential catastrophes. At 65 years old, Cruise delivers jaw-dropping stunt work and defies his age as he matches much younger actors in intense fight scenes. Could’ve lost 30 minutes along the way but viewers won’t be bored. Just ignore the plot gaps and suspend belief while you sit back and watch the master of action movies once again steal the screen. Fans are sure to love this high-octane thrill ride but after three hours of non stop stress, I felt like I needed a lie down.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Kelly’s Score 2/10

Steve’s Score 4/10

Mich’s Score 7/10

Ally’s Score 8/10

LILO AND STITCH

After the success of the 2002 animated classic ‘Lilo and Stitch’ Disney brings the 2025 live-action adaptation to the big screen. Retaining the heartwarming themes of strong family bonds and overcoming adversity, the story follows Lilo (Maia Kealoha) whose greatest wish for a best friend comes true when Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders) crash-lands on her Hawaiian island. As they cause chaos and mischief, they also discover the true meaning of “Ohana.” In her feature film debut, Kealoha excels as excitable and well-meaning Lilo. The film maintains enough momentum to engage young audiences and delightful humour to connect adults. Stitch is just adorable as the cheeky, mischievous alien pretending to be a dog. Fun, endearing and enjoyable.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Cath’s Score 8/10

Vicki’s Score 8/10

THE STUDIO

This ten-part series is fresh, interesting and quirky. Seth Rogen stars as Matt Remick, the head of the fictional Continental Studios in Los Angeles. Catherine O’Hara, Ike Barinholtz, Chase Sui Wonders, and Kathryn Hahn co-star as Matt’s colleagues, while more than 36 real-life actors, directors, and media personalities (like Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard to Charlize Theron, Ice Cube and Zoe Kravitz) make memorable cameos. The storylines are witty and satirical, complemented by masterful filming techniques. One-shot scenes are frequently used to enhance the pacing and energy, highlighting meticulous planning by the entire crew. Each actor delivers a brilliant performance, effortlessly playing off one another. But what shines through most is Rogen’s love for film. As a co-creator, co-director, lead, and an executive producer, his creative talent is evident and the respect he has within the industry is demonstrated by those playing themselves, parodying their public personas. Fabulous entertainment! Loved it and am thrilled it’s been renewed for season two.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

HOLLAND

Home economic teacher Nancy (Nicole Kidman) lives what looks like a charmed life with her optometrist husband Fred (Matthew Macfadyen) and son Harry (Jude Hill) in the Midwest town of Holland, Michigan. She gradually becomes suspicious of Fred’s frequent work trips and enlists the help of her colleague Dave (Gael García Bernal) to spy on him in an attempt to find evidence of an affair. Instead, Nancy and Dave become close and end up biting off more than they can chew when they discover what Fred’s really been up to. Not even a strong twist can save this film from its ridiculous spiral. The development of the leads is lacking in backstory and there are several inconsequential characters who could’ve been cut. The plot feels like it’s been done before, only better. Inconsistent and disappointing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3/10

LIKE MY BROTHER

A feature length documentary following four inspiring teens from the remote Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory, Rina, Freda, Julianna and Jess, who are each chasing the goal of playing for the Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW.) They all have excellent skills on the field and catch the attention of Essendon AFLW talent scouts. As their dreams are slowly realised, they struggle between city life and the call of their homelands, family ties and cultural traditions. Filmed over six years, this bittersweet tug-o-war between two worlds highlights the difficulties some First Nations athletes face when leaving their mob.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

SUSPECT: THE SHO*TING OF JEAN CHARLES MENEZES

The British have a reputation for producing compelling crime dramas, and this four-part series is no exception. It is inspired by the real-life events surrounding the de*th of Brazilian electrician Jean Charles de Menezes, who was mistakenly identified as a suspect in the aftermath of the failed July 2005 London b*mbings. Incorporating actual footage of the b*mbing aftermath and subsequent press conferences, the series vividly portrays the police misidentification of Menezes, the subsequent sho*ting, and the ensuing controversy – including the public outrage and the legal battles waged by the de Menezes family. Shocking and visceral, it often depicts graphic and unsettling scenes and offers a stark and thought-provoking exploration of police actions and their devastating consequences. Compelling and disturbing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOUR

This toxic friendship murd*r mystery is a sequel that never should have been made. Some films should end after their initial installment. I’m not even going to go into the plot – I don’t want to relive the trauma. While Anna Kendrick excels at comedy, Blake Lively does not. The location of Capri, Italy is stunning but the beautiful scenery isn’t enough to carry the weight of this cringey and absurd movie. The last half an hour beggars belief and crosses so many boundaries, going for shock value rather than any semblance of a decent story. No wonder it went straight to streaming – it would’ve bomb*d in cinemas. What rot!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 2/10

EMILIA PEREZ

Cartel leader Manitas (played by trans actress Karla Sophia Garscon) has always felt like he was born in the wrong body. In a quest to live as his authentic self he abandons his two young children and wife (Selena Gomez), hires lawyer Rita (Zoe Saldana) to help him fake his own death and re-emerges as a woman named Emilia Perez (also Karla Sophia Garscon.) The opening musical number almost made me to turn it off and I found the subsequent song and dance sequences unnecessary and viewed them in fast forward. The emotional depth of those scenes could’ve been conveyed through acting rather than song and this would’ve made the plot more cohesive. Some of the performances were also off key – if you’re creating a musical, make sure it’s in tune. While this film’s strengths lie in its intriguing story and the noteworthy performances of Gomez, Saldana, and Garscon, it attempts to be too many things at once. It’s as if writer (and director) Jacques Audiard mashed every concept he’d ever had into the movie and he even stated in a press interview that it’s an “opera” – it’s not. Original but mixes too many genres.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.9/10

FLIGHT RISK

Mark Wahlberg leads as creepy pilot Daryl in this action thitller. He is transporting an essential witness in an embezzlement trial, Winston (Topher Grace) and his escort air marshall Madolyn (Michell Dockery) in a small plane above the Alaskan wilderness. Daryl’s villainous intentions are soon exposed as he attacks his two passengers and reveals he’s been hired to kill Winston. Madolyn fights back and soon finds herself in control of a plane she has no idea how to fly. Plus she has to contend with a leak in the Department of Homeland Security Air Marshal Division. The acting is average, Daryl is skin crawlingly vile and the far fetched metre is off the charts. Throw in some basic CGI scenery and you have a real dud SPOILER ALERT! The only high point is Daryl’s eventual demise Naff and nonsense.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3.5/10

FANATICAL: THE CATFISHING OF TEGAN AND SARA

As the popularity of twin sister singing duo Tegan and Sara grew in the early 2000’s, so did their fan base. In 2011 an impersonator emerged (nicknamed ‘‘Fake Tegan’ and ‘Fegan’) and began communicating with fans as Tegan and sharing personal photos of her and unreleased music demos. The fans genuinely believed they were developing friendships and, in some cases, romantic relationships with Tegan. This documentary investigates the catfishing, which continued for several years, and explores its damaging impact on the deceived fans. It also delves into the violation of Tegan’s personal life, the way her relationships were affected and how her trust in everyone around her was broken. Due to the sheer number of victims involved, keeping track of the convoluted messages being sent back and forth becomes difficult as a viewer, but this also emphasises how chaotic and messy the whole situation was. I found it particularly frustrating that there was no resolution at the end – an examination of the email header information by police would have identified the IP address used by the perpetrator, and they could’ve been traced. Tegan still doesn’t have closure and the reverberations of this heinous behaviour are still felt by her today. An alarming look at fandom and the dark side of celebrity attention.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

THUNDERBOLTS

The 36th installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) franchise kicks off in a big way as Florence Pugh (Yelena) leaps from the second highest skyscraper in the world, Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka 118. It’s fitting that the opening scene introduces the character who carries the remaining 126 minutes. Alongside a team of mercenary anti heroes, known as the Thunderbolts, Yelena sets out to confront corrupt CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) who has been attempting to manufacture super humans in a lab and is the subject of an impeachment trial. The Thunderbolts save one of the test subjects Bob (Robert Pullman) but when he realises the veracity of his powers he soon becomes a new adversary. With a strong emphasis on mental health, depression, and the healing power of friendship, this film has more emotional depth than some of the previous MCU offerings. There are enough action sequences to maintain viewer interest and the interactions between Yelena and her adoptive father Alexei (David Harbour) bring the laughs. Although this film is engaging and entertaining, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu due to its familiar and predictable plot. Another Marvel money maker set up for a sequel.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

Steve’s Score 7/10

THE FOUR SEASONS

Three married couples, all longtime friends, take trips together every season. When Nick (Steve Carell) leaves his wife Annie (Kerri Kennedy) and falls for a younger woman named Ginny (Erika Henningsen), the group dynamics are impacted. The other couples, Danny and Claude (Colman Domingo and Marco Calvani) and Kate and Jack (Tina Fey and Will Forte), must face their own relationship issues, in addition to reassessing their friendships. Ticking the box as a comedy with plenty of humour throughout, this mini series also features a decent dose of drama and two unexpected plot twists. The eight episodes run for 30 minutes each and they flow well thanks to the decent script, well acted characters and solid pacing which maintains momentum. A quality production that’s watchable and easy to binge.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

MOVIEPASS MOVIECRASH

When discount movie card ‘MoviePass’ was launched in 2011, its goal was to attract consumers back to cinemas. The business model involved members using a pre paid debit card to load up movie ticket purchases. In 2017, Helios and Matheson Analytics (HMNY) became a majority owner and soon began charging members a monthly subscription of $10, allowing them to attend any films of their choice as often as they wanted. The cost to MoviePass for each ticket purchased was $11.50 and some users were viewing hundreds of films a year. As membership grew to over 3 million subscribers, the unscrupulous HMNY management proceeded to bleed tens of millions of over of dollars every month on parties, private jets and celebrity pay offs. When questions were asked, they ousted the two original founders (Stacy Spikes and Hamet Watt) from the board. Within a year of the takeover, the financial losses and overspending led the company to file for bankruptcy, prompting a criminal investigation. Eventually, Spikes reacquired ‘Movie Pass’ and with the implementation of new user restrictions, it’s been a profitable venture since 2023. A promising idea that was undermined by ego and greed.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

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