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FILM REVIEWS UK UK Film Review is a film reviews website based in London, UK. We promote films and movie trailers from around the world and support indie films that would usually find it hard to find the spotlight against the bigger films of cinema. From the latest blockbusters, to small indie cinema, we tackle as many films as we can. Reviewing them from all aspects, not just how many digital landscapes they blow up using CGI. We also review short films in the UK and internationally, helping filmmakers to promote their movies and raise their profile. If you would like to have a short or indie film reviewed by us, please submit all info using the button below. Take a look around, enjoy the spoils of filmmaking, film festivals and artistic expression. Our merry band of film critics are constantly hard at work, writing film reviews, or watching movie trailers for some of the most exciting movies coming out in UK cinemas. So to keep their morale up, please be nice...or at least funny if you choose to troll. Because, in the immortal words of Rick Moranis in the movie Spaceballs, "Keep firing A**holes!". By the way, on this film reviews website, you may see several references to Spaceballs. If you have not seen that classic Mel Brooks film, you MUST seek it out and tell us what you think. SUBMIT YOUR FILM Are You a Film Podcast Fan? Film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn host a monthly podcast for all types of film fans! ​ Whether you like the latest blockbuster releases, or streaming is your thing - we have you covered. ​ We even review short and independent films on the podcast. ​ Our final review is usually for a "Nostalgia" pick - something from the past worth revisiting. Previous picks for this have included Jaws, The Fly, and Good Will Hunting. ​ Search UK Film Review Podcast wherever you like to listen and join our global community of film lovers. Film Reviews from UK film critics LATEST REVIEWS Small Showers Second Thought Luke 6:37 The People in the Walls This Is Only a Test Boys Like You Inside Out 2 Marching On Together Ride Bleach Trick? or Treat? Metaverse Load More

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Small Showers Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Chris Buick | Posted on: Jun 17, 2024 Directed by: Alex Rosales Written by: Alex Rosales Starring: Lauren James, David Reilly Written and directed by Alex Rosales, Small Showers tells the poignant tale of a married couple’s grief as they struggle to come to terms with a recent tragedy, risking losing themselves and each other more and more in the process. Rosale’s film is infused with a constant melancholy that might be the film’s biggest strength. Its decidedly mournful mood is one that sits heavily and persistently right from the start, and as such means that the audience can not only fully feel and carry the weight of this tragedy with them but connects us instantly and wholeheartedly with the characters of Rachel (James) and Joshua (Reilly) from beginning to end. And with both characters having two very differing approaches in terms of attempting to cope with this tragic situation, the audience gets to see two very different perspectives and portrayals of how people tackle grief in their own unique ways. On one hand, we have Rachel, who the weight of loss has effectively numbed into immobility, anger, and despair. Heart-rending stuff to watch, and James is clearly a highly skilled actor with the deftness in their ability to make sure all that gets across as it needs to without ever descending into melodrama, their delivery of “I can’t” at the film’s finale brilliantly underlining a very commendable and heartbreaking performance. On the other side, Reilly’s Joshua, unknowing it seems of any other way to handle the situation, is looking to power through the emotions rather than face them, opting to be the one dealing with all the red tape of the situation in an attempt to distract himself completely, going through the motions of what needs to be done in terms cremation arrangements, payments, etc. But the highlights from Reilly’s equally strong performance come when Joshua, persistently trying his ineffectual best to do the right things or say the right words and trying desperately to hold it together for both of them, eventually feels the full force of emotion descend on him like a ton of bricks, finally wearing his helplessness so plainly we feel every part of it too. But what Rosales does best with Small Showers is tell a story that is not laden with the particulars i.e. the what and the why of the story, but rather the meaning or feeling of it. It is never explicitly clear what exactly has transpired, but piecing together all the clues Rosales leaves throughout will tell you all you need to know of the unfathomable events that have clearly occurred. Because of this, Small Showers is a story that yes tells you what you need to know, but more importantly, makes you feel what you need to feel, and that right there is what elevates this film to another level. Small Showers portrays grief in a very profound and interesting way, capturing that sense of aggravation when the rest of the world just goes on spinning without you when you feel yours spinning out of control. Never tries to fill itself with any big answers but rather fills itself with a lot of heart. About the Film Critic Chris Buick Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Film Reviews Here at UK Film Review we like to tackle all kinds film reviews. Our writers come from all walks of life, and feel passionate about critiquing the movies they watch. From the latest Theatrical Releases to Short Films, Indie Films, Documentaries and even Animation, the contributors of UK Film Review are as eager to please as Dev Patel in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011). If you are a filmmaker, or are working in film PR and want to promote one of your clients, please get in touch using the Submit Your Film button under the drop-down menu for Home. Take a look at our list of film reviews below from some of the hottest releases in UK cinemas. Simply click the image of the review you would like, or the title of the movie. Or use the search button to find the movie you are looking for. We have given any feature length film a star rating (out of 5) in order to help viewers sort the Citizen Kanes from the Waterworlds, the Inceptions from the Transformers. Michael Bay will be given a fair film review from our writers, but that probably will not go in his favour. Speaking of Filmmakers, head over to our Filmmaker Features page for awesome articles about some of the best filmmaking geniuses who ever lived. Movie Trailers are also available, either underneath the film reviews, or on the Movie Trailers page. And lastly, if you like your film reviews verbalised. Simply because reading is boring and listening is marvellous, then make sure you Subscribe to the UK Film Review Podcast. Our critics offer up some banterous opinions on the best and worst movies across all genres. Head over to the Podcast page, or click this link to go straight to iTunes. If you would like to read or view any of the following, simply use the navigation. Alternatively, you can click on one of the images to read the film reviews here, or simply have a ganders at the lovely movie artwork on display. Remember to listen to film reviews on our regular film podcast. GET REVIEWED average rating is 4 out of 5 Second Thought Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Inside Out 2 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Ride Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Kill Your Lover Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Hit Man Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 The Watchers Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Sopann - The Sequel Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Wish Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 On The Ridge Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Shed Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 In a Violent Nature Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Lost Soulz Read Review Chris Olson Mar 8 2 min Film Podcast - Dune: Part 2 Chris Olson Mar 1 3 min Film Podcast: George Clooney Rowing Biopic Scoops Film of the Month Jan 20, 2023 3 min TAR FILM REVIEW Taryll Baker Oct 13, 2022 2 min Empire of Light - Film Review Oct 11, 2022 3 min Bones and All LFF Review Oct 7, 2022 3 min White Noise (2022) LFF Review Sep 20, 2022 2 min Sanctuary TIFF Review UK Film Review Sep 13, 2022 5 min FrightFest 2022 Highlights May 25, 2022 3 min Top Gun: Maverick Film Review Apr 23, 2022 3 min The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent Film Review Spoilers in our film reviews As with all digital forms of expression sometimes people may find something that upsets them online. Spoilers can often be one of these things! Whilst we do our best to ensure that major plot points, twists, character deaths and celebrity cameos are not found in our reviews, it can sometimes be difficult to judge what each and every film lover on the planet would to be a spoiler. If you feel that one of our film reviews contains one too many details then please do let us (politely) know using our social media platforms. We may then take serious action, such as expelling the critic responsible from this and every other movie publication past and present, declaring war against the studio for leading our writer into temptation, or we may do nothing at all. To be honest, it is most likely going to be the latter unless some serious rules have been broken. You may also see some movie trailers in our reviews that could also contain potential spoilers. In which case anyone who is hoping to avoid these should probably not click the play button on them. Or click the play button, turn the sound down on your device, then leave the room for a least 28 minutes whilst the trailer finishes and leaves your life naturally. You may be wondering what you could do with all 28 of those minutes! Why not read some more film reviews on another device? Or make a short film of your cat playing with a piece of string? Spend it wisely guys and gals.

Latest Film Reviews average rating is 4 out of 5 Small Showers Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Second Thought Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Luke 6:37 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The People in the Walls Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 This Is Only a Test Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Boys Like You Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Inside Out 2 Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Marching On Together Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Ride Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Bleach Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Trick? or Treat? Read Review average rating is 1 out of 5 Metaverse Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Disrupted Expectations 4: Art, Words, and Mind Powers Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Kill Your Lover Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Blossom Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Dinner With My Family Read Review average rating is 1 out of 5 Disrupted Expectations 3: Setting the Scene Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Hit Man Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 The Watchers Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Sopann - The Sequel Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Pawn Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Parasocial Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Wish Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 On The Ridge Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Sublime Hubris Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Ti Amo, Mr. Nibbles Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Bird of Paradise Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Leech Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Shed Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Bad Seed Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 In a Violent Nature Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Tiou Dou Goun (Tomorrow's Village) Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Lost Soulz Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Areia Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Pandemonium Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Smriti Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Deloping Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Grand Tour Read Review average rating is 1 out of 5 Tsoro Da Ruwa Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Bardo Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Seine Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Queen of the Deuce Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Anora Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Devil Makes Work Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Babes Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 The Shrouds Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Spirit of Friendship Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Freydís and Gudrid Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Emilia Perez Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Kinds of Kindness Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Ramgog! Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Roommate Contract Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Botching Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 I Saw the TV Glow Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 The Strangers: Chapter 1 Read Review average rating is 1 out of 5 Megalopolis Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Adze The African Vampire Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Faceless After Dark Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Another Mother's Day Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Back to Black Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Evil Does Not Exist Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Original Skin Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Second Act Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Nightwatch: Demons Are Forever Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Voyager Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Depression Is A Beast Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Gunslingers Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Adam the First Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Pandæmonium Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Red Lantern Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Tomorrow Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Maiken Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Denmark Doesn't Exist Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Last Stop in Yuma County Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Feeling That the Time for Doing Something has Passed Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Thin Black Line Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Tomorrow Never Comes Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Imperfect Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Call Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 bad lunch. Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Kenny Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Fall Guy Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Cast Away Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Protégé Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 On My Level Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Changing Tides Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Storm Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Challengers Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Jane Austen's Period Drama Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Mother Maker Lover Taker Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Humane Read Review average rating is 1 out of 5 Cruel Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Company Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Boy Kills World Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Beast Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 No Mercy Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Infested Read Review

Music Video Reviews One of the most exciting sub-genres our critics review is music videos. They are often incredible pieces of storytelling, either in their own right or aligned with the song playing over them. On this page you will find a great selection of music video reviews from the team of critics at UK Film Review. ​ If you are a filmmaker or artist who would like us to review your music video, submit your film here . ​ When it comes to reviewing a music video, the process differs slightly from perhaps a narrative short film or documentary. The music has to be explored far more intimately than if it were a soundtrack because that's where the story originates from rather than being added further down the line. Music videos do conform to genres but these are often musical genres rather than film categories, for example pop, folk, rock, rap etc. So this will also influence the music video review our critics write because the target audience is going to be considered. ​ Music videos may take a variety of forms or even combine different aspects to create a different effect on the viewer. For example, it is common for a music video to contain a small narrative, as well as live performance footage. Top filmmakers making music videos will be able to immerse you into the song and story without leaving you feeling like you have just watched a promo piece. ​ Choreography is also a common trait in music videos, with dance sequences and flash mobs recurring - often in pop music videos. Editors of music videos will have their work cut out to ensure the choreography looks tight and engaging without it feeling staged or lifeless. ​ Hopefully the array of music video reviews you see below will include some gems for you to peruse. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of the article, as we often include the actual music video so you can watch it for yourself. Rooftop Screamers Joe Beck Hot Chip Eleanor Swati Verma A New Kind of Life Jason Knight Vaarwell - Quarter Life Crisis - EP Campaign Patrick Foley KYTLY - "Neverending" Patrick Foley Rebel Rob Jones Millais Flower Honey - Sugarless Rob Jones Som.1-Ultimatum Jason Knight My Brain Does Not Compute William Hemingway alexjames96 Jun 6 2 min Ain’t my Vibe Short Music Video Review alexjames96 Mar 17 2 min Cinerama (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Dec 19, 2023 2 min Homecoming (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Nov 16, 2023 2 min Sheep F-cked In the Head Short Film Review Theo Aug 1, 2022 2 min Service for The King short film review Chris Olson Sep 28, 2021 2 min Stroke Code Music Video Review More Film Reviews

Short Film Reviews Welcome to the UK Film Review page for short film reviews . Here you will find some of the best and brightest sparks in a sea of cinema. Filmmakers from across the globe submit their short films to us to be reviewed, and our Contributors lovingly dissect them. If you would like one of our team to write a film review of your short film, please use the form below or visit our Submit Your Film page Our short film reviews are written by passionate film critics across the UK and aim to highlight and promote terrific filmmaking when we find it. We are always honest with our reviews, so if you are looking to submit your short film for review, please do so knowing that we will not alter what we have said because you don't like it. There is a wealth of amazing talent in the short film industry, and we hope by writing film reviews about this underexposed creativity we can get your movies to a new audience...but we need your help. Please join in the chatter on our social media channels so that we can grow our community and share the joy. Use the buttons in the footer to Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter, and Subscribe to us on YouTube #supportindiefilm. Get Your Short Film Reviewed ↓ alexjames96 Jun 6 2 min Bird Drone Short Film Review alexjames96 Jun 6 2 min Ain’t my Vibe Short Music Video Review alexjames96 Jun 6 2 min Surprise Short Film Review alexjames96 Apr 19 2 min A Happy Ending Short Film Review alexjames96 Apr 19 2 min Shear Disturbance Short Film Review alexjames96 Apr 19 2 min Watch What I Do Short Film Review alexjames96 Mar 17 2 min After Hours Short Movie Review alexjames96 Mar 17 2 min Cinerama (Music Video) Short Film Review Chris Olson Mar 1 3 min Film Podcast: George Clooney Rowing Biopic Scoops Film of the Month Chris Olson Feb 22 3 min Film Podcast: Anthony Hopkins drama crowned "Film of the Month" alexjames96 Feb 17 2 min Mannequin Short Film Review alexjames96 Feb 17 2 min The Separation Short Film Review alexjames96 Feb 17 2 min Bare Foot Short Film Review William Hemingway Jan 18 8 min Filmmaker Interview with Jiwon Lee alexjames96 Dec 19, 2023 2 min Dominion Short Film Review alexjames96 Dec 19, 2023 2 min Homecoming (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Dec 19, 2023 2 min Sunset Drive Short Film Review Chris Olson Nov 28, 2023 5 min Filmmaker Interview with Alexander Ratter alexjames96 Nov 16, 2023 2 min Purely Cosmetic Short Film Review alexjames96 Nov 16, 2023 2 min What Remains Short Film Review More Film Reviews Small Showers Chris Buick Second Thought Patrick Foley Luke 6:37 Jason Knight This Is Only a Test James Learoyd Boys Like You Jason Knight Marching On Together James Learoyd Bleach James Learoyd Trick? or Treat? Swati Verma Metaverse Joe Beck Blossom Chris Olson Dinner With My Family Jason Knight Sopann - The Sequel Patrick Foley Pawn Jason Knight Parasocial Swati Verma The Wish William Hemingway Ti Amo, Mr. Nibbles Jason Knight Leech Swati Verma Shed Patrick Foley Bad Seed Jason Knight Areia Jason Knight Smriti Swati Verma Deloping William Hemingway Tsoro Da Ruwa Joe Beck Bardo Jason Knight Seine Patrick Foley Load More Reviews What is a short film review? A short film review is often written by a movie critic and it's their opinion on a film that is less than sixty minutes long. Short film reviews still explore every aspect of a movie. How do I write a short film review? Writing a short film review needs to cover multiple aspects of the movie. Including the script, the characters, performances, cinematography, score & sound design, editing and so on. How long should a film review be? A film review should be as long as the house style. Some publications provide lengthier reviews than others. A general minimum word count would be 300. How much money do film critics make? Film critic salaries depend massively on their publication. Many film critics are freelancers, meaning they get paid per review and sometimes this is based on word count. Making money through film reviews can be challenging.

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Second Thought Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Patrick Foley | Posted on: Jun 15, 2024 Directed by: Jimmy Martin, Chris Stanley Written by: Art Bezrukavenko, Chris Stanley Starring: Art Bezrukavenko, Chris Stanley, Brett LaBelle Released appropriately in Pride month, Second Thought is a short film that explores nuances and intricacies around gay dating culture as it follows two young men around Provincetown in Massachusetts. Told largely without dialogue and set to music by Conditional and Jon Bjork, the film details potential outcomes of a meetup of Art (Art Bezrukavenko) and Chris (Chris Stanley), two young gay men visiting the Cape Cod seaside town. Finding each other on a hookup app, Art awakens after a night together to walk away from Chris as a one-night-stand. But another future is considered for the pair, one which stretches into a lifetime of happiness. Second Thought is a heartfelt short that excels in character building. Utilising a split-screen opening in which both men are shown getting ready for their days in almost identical fashion, the desires of each appear to run parallel until the fateful decision of Art to either walkaway or stay after a hookup. Without demonising Art for his choice, the pain to Chris is clear – demonstrating the director’s critique of meaningless casual sex culture and its consequences for those who are looking for something more. Audiences will share Chris’ disappointment, and intrigue of what could have been. The film is vibrant and optimistic, emphasising the colour of the town and its excitement for young single people and what summer flings offer. Directors Jimmy Martin and Chris Stanley infuse a momentum into the film that matches the short running time and sufficiently tells the men’s story without ever feeling hurried. Touches such as the split-screen during the opening, or realising the messaging app for the pair’s (surprisingly PG) interactions also add to the vibrancy and modernity. The choice of retro VCR-style rewind graphics during a pivotal moment in the film is an interesting one – somewhat out-of-sync with the rest of the presentational style of the film but working well overall. The film is intriguing in presenting longer-term commitment as preferable to short-term hookups, without deeming Art’s decision to bail on Chris as morally wrong. The message of pride and normalising of what appears to be a clear meaningless sex encounter is in itself a positive and enthusiastic presentation of LGBT culture – one that even a few short years ago would have been highly uncommon. It’s obvious that the emotional resonance of a longer connection is more powerful than a successful shag, But given both guys appear clear with what their meeting is going to lead to in the build-up, there is something of a disconnect that the expected outcome is then presented as a negative. Art’s thoughtless blocking of Chris is however a powerful capturing of how ruthless the culture can be, even after a spark is evident – and may give pause to thought about how such behaviours can impact others. The youthfulness and enthusiasm of Second Thought is infectious, and its reflections and realisations of gay dating culture presents a healthy critique of behaviours. With lively direction and strong performances, this coin-flip presentation of sex and love is impressive and impressionable. About the Film Critic Patrick Foley Digital / DVD Release, LGBTQ+, Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Luke 6:37 Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Jun 15, 2024 Directed by: Remone Jones Written by: Remone Jones Starring: Ingrid Marsh, Shelby Lattany, Benjamin Lafayette A dramatic family confrontation is taking place inside a church. Since the title of this short drama refers to a religious passage about condemnation and forgiveness, one can expect that this is a story that involves dramatic scenes and religion (actually almost the whole narrative takes place inside a church). The screenplay is the aftermath of a family get-together that does not go well due to a mother's disapproval of her children's actions. The mother is Carmen (Marsh), a middle-aged woman who she arrives at a church one evening after having stormed away from her two grown-up offspring Joseph (Lafayette) and Jamelia (Lattany). She is very upset and she is soon joined by her children, who are quite unhappy with her behaviour. What follows is a heavy confrontation, during which Carmen expresses her disappointment regarding her son's homosexuality and her daughter getting pregnant, while they accuse her of being unfair. The passage that the title refers to involves judgement, condemnation and forgiveness and in this case, these three heavy actions are addressed to Carmen. The reasons for this are that she is stubborn, harsh and critical towards Jamelia and Joseph and shows no sign of remorse for her cruel words and the reason for this is most likely because she is a deeply religious person. On the other hand, her children do not seem to share her beliefs (religious or otherwise ) and they try hard to make her accept their choices. Jones utilises handheld camera effectively and Tomas Posada deserves a lot of praise for the wonderful cinematography. Unsurprisingly, since the setting is the interior of a church, thanks to the work of Theo Elwell, there is church music to be heard, along with hymns. This short is a dramatic confrontation that mixes family drama with religion. It is about a dysfunctional family whose differences are tearing it apart and the drama rises sky-high thanks to the dialogue and the strong acting by the three leads. Ultimately, the message that the film aims to communicate appears to be the words that are within the passage that the title refers to, which is that people must not judge or condemn and they must forgive instead. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The People in the Walls Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Chris Olson | Posted on: Jun 13, 2024 Directed by: Michael Crum Written by: Gerald Crum Starring: Mckenna Smith, Natalia Santacoloma, Cassi Colvin, Donny Boaz Filmmakers Michael and Gerald Crum deliver a haunting and thrilling movie that fits nicely into the “Stranger Things” era of horror filmmaking. Rachel (Mckenna Smith) is a traumatised teen who witnessed her friend Becca (Aleena Heritage) experience a gruesome death following a viral craze which invites The People in the Walls to come out. After moving home and trying to fit in with a new set of friends (who have also had some run-ins with the wall people), Rachel becomes determined to take these monsters head on. Told with an impressive depth for darkness, The People in the Walls is a horror film that manages to smartly combine the worlds of childhood nightmares with adult horror. Often we see this balance completely missed by filmmakers, with horror films misfiring when attempting to tell stories about bogeymen. The story from Gerald Crum perfectly captures that innate fear all children experience of what’s lurking in their very own home. The creepiness factor turns up to eleven by the final third of the film, with a brilliantly delivered spooky finale. Impressive performances come in the form of Rachel’s parents (played by Cassi Colvin and Danny Boaz) who navigate the world of troubled mum and dad expertly. Mckenna Smith is also terrific in the lead role, especially when in scenes with her mum and dad. Sections where she is with the other child actors so sometimes lack the quality of delivery, with lines coming off a little wooden and theatrical. That being said, there’s a wonderful chemistry between Rachel and her two new friends Nancy (Natalia Santacoloma) and Chris (Cole Crum). The People in the Walls is broken into chapters, perhaps with the idea of a series being part of the original plan, and this gives the movie a sense of horror storytelling. The whole piece feels akin to a Goosebumps book but with a harder edge for the scary bits, with jump scares aplenty. The use of darkness was particularly impressive, such as an earlier scene where a toy gets dragged into the blackness, which happens later on in the movie too. Plaudits are due to Adam Anthis who handled the sound, so essential in horror filmmaking, as this was excellent and made sure the film felt professionally scary. With such enduring themes and a penchant for horror filmmaking, the Crums have excelled in bringing this spooky story to life. Fans of the genre will be able to gorge on the feast of scares and connect with well-drawn characters. Watch the Video Film Review of The People in the Walls by Chris Olson About the Film Critic Chris Olson Horror, Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS This Is Only a Test Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: James Learoyd | Posted on: Jun 13, 2024 Directed by: Bill Sorice Written by: Bill Sorice Starring: Tamar Pelzig, Mason Heidger, Jennie Epland This Is Only a Test is a short film which could very well leave viewers slightly stumped. It’s a Surrealist piece which tells the story of a woman’s ever-changing life, with a focus on this motif of ‘tests’. Despite being purposefully bizarre and disorientating, what’s perhaps more striking is just how nihilistic the narrative becomes. Besides being a Surrealist work, it’s also made strangely - there are technical mishaps throughout, but I’ll elaborate on which of these in fact work within the logic of the movie and which do not. There’s some fascinating, deeply meaningful stuff in this dream-like odyssey, both thematically and stylistically, so we should question what ‘imperfections’ provide further aesthetic context to the work. I am speaking primarily of its unsettling use of greenscreen. It’s implemented constantly – to a point where it leaves you questioning why they would need to artificially impose a janky image of an empty room; why not actually film it? - Not only this, but it’s noticeably shoddy with the edges of characters fading off into a disconcerting fuzz. It could really throw you off as a viewer; however, its inclusion is so prominent that its quirky effect most likely is a unique artistic decision. One should probably admire its creatively brazen nature, though its ugliness is something one can equally point a finger at. Either way, the phenomenon certainly adds a Brechtian layer of artifice and experimentation to the already abstract story, and I can’t help but commend it. Formal qualities like the editing and cinematography are equally unconventional and further inform this vision. So, let’s delve more into the narrative itself. We begin with some amusing images of our protagonist applying condoms to what appears to be a broom handle (this certainly sets the tone for the rest of the picture). It then proceeds to depict our main character at various job interviews / auditions, and progresses all the way to old age – with some quite amusing fake gray hair to go along with it, once again adding to that audacious artifice. As tragedies befall the character, the film’s dark sense of humour shines through. The overall messaging is deeply pessimistic – the last shot simply evokes ‘death is all that remains’ - so the filmmaker’s vision is admirably unflinching. There’s a real vision behind it all even if sometimes it doesn’t wholly translate. But it goes without saying that there are countless characteristics to admire in This Is Only a Test for its artistic ambition cannot be oversighted. Lovers of Surrealism (myself included) are also surely to have a lot of fun with the sporadic nature of the filmmaking, and the profound content. Surrealism is undoubtedly my favourite ‘genre’ to discuss analytically, so the more made the better as far as I’m concerned. The film in question is absolutely a welcome addition to the practice of experimental movie making and makes one wish to explore the director’s other work, just to see whether they still reflect the same sense of filmic nihilism. About the Film Critic James Learoyd Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Boys Like You Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Jun 13, 2024 Directed by: Paul Holbrook Written by: Lindsay Bennett-Thompson, Paul Holbrook Starring: Lindsay Bennett-Thompson, Liam Francis Collins, Louis Emerick A middle-aged woman tracks down a young man, leading to dramatic consequences. June (Bennett-Thompson) is a married woman with children and she seems to be unhappy with her life. She has been observing a youth named Chris (Collins), who is a drug dealer. One day, she goes to the pub where he hangs out, with the supposed intention of meeting him. He notices her and sits with her and the two of them talk. The events that follow are rather astonishing. This short drama revolves around a woman's decision to change her life, perhaps in order to get some answers. Approximately the first half of the screenplay is about the conversation between June and Chris. Their awkward interaction involves topics that include why she is at the pub, purchase of drugs, social class differences, their views on certain types of people, their family and whether they are happy. While this is taking place, it is not clear why June is interested in Chris and he is unaware that she has been watching him. The other half is the aftermath of their encounter. June left the pub, leaving behind a written message for Chris. The contents of that message have left him gobsmacked and she does not know how to proceed. In comparison to the first half, this part has limited dialogue and alternates between Chris being affected by June's revelation and her struggling to decide what she will do next. The two leads are quite different individuals. June is a person who appears to have it all: a family, a house, a comfortable life, yet she seems to be feeling unfulfilled and has probably decided to meet Chris in order to fill in gaps in her life. Clearly, talking to him has a profound effect on her as she is constantly uneasy and hesitant during their conversation. Unaware of June's knowledge, Chris is confident and cheerful, yet he partially reveals his aggressive side. The filmmakers utilise interesesting techniques during the sequences where diegetic sounds disappear and an ominous music takes place. These dramatic moments reveal June's anxious state of mind, along with close-ups. The beautiful cinematography by James Oldham is one of the strongest aspects of the film, its quality creating a dark and moody atmosphere and the slow motion sequences effectively make drama. The contribution by composers Jim Cornick and Matthew Loveridge deserves recognition as they develop a sinister and dynamic score that adds significant tension. The decision to add the song The Great Pretender by the American vocal group The Platters during the closing credits was definetely a good one. This short is about a life-changing encounter. It is supported by outstanding performances from Bennett-Thompson and Collins, portraying characters that are explored by a well-written script that contains quite a plot twist. The film's message appears to be that sometimes things should be left as they are and the final shot is mind-bending. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Inside Out 2 Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: George Wolf | Posted on: Jun 13, 2024 Directed by: Kelsey Mann Written by: Meg LeFauve, Dave Holstein, Kelsey Mann Starring: Amy Pohler, Maya Hawke, Kensington Tallman It’s been nine years since Pixar’s Inside Out took us on that wonderful ride through a young girl’s feelings. Almost a decade, and I’m still not over what happened to Bing Bong. Revisiting Riley (voiced by Kensington Tallman) when she hits her teen years seems like a natural exercise. And beyond that, Inside Out 2 delivers enough warmth, humor and insight to make the sequel feel downright necessary. Riley’s now turning 13, and all seems status quo. Joy (Amy Poehler) keeps the reins on Anger (Lewis Black), Fear (Tony Hale), Sadness (Phyllis Smith) and Disgust (Liza Lapira) as Riley gets set to head to the Bay Area hockey skills camp. Then, overnight, the puberty alarm goes off. Oh Lord. Director Kelsey Mann and writers Meg LeFauve (returning from part one) and Dave Holstein unleash this emotional onslaught with a mix of laughs and empathy that sets the perfect catalyst for another winning Pixar trip into a secret world. And this world is more chaotic than ever. Anxiety (Maya Hawke) turns up with a plan to take over, leaning on Envy (Ayo Edebiri), Embarrassment (Paul Walter Hauser) and Ennui aka Boredom (Adèle Exarchopoulos) to steer Riley away from who she is and toward “who she needs to be.” Will Riley abandon her BFF teammates Bree (Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green) and Grace (Grace Lu) to cozy up to star player Val (Lilimar) and the other older girls? Will Riley’s belief that “I’m a good person” crumble under doubt and desperation? In his feature debut, Mann proves adept at showcasing what Pixar does best: meaningful stories for kids that are also emotional for parents. From the demo crew that arrives with puberty to the “sar-chasm”, this is another very clever romp through all that builds the sense of self. The film’s battle between joy and anxiety is relatable for all generations, and it’s filled with levels of creativity, humor, and visual flair that are undeniably fun. And while it may not be Toy Story 4 funny, it is funny, especially when a leftover memory from Riley’s favorite kiddie show turns up to help our heroes out of “suppressed emotions” exile. His name is Pouchy. He’s a pouch. He’s hilarious. Trust me on this. Could we now be moving closer to a Disney-fied treatment of Paul Almond’s Up series? Well, June Squibb’s charming cameo as Nostalgia just might be a peek at things to come. Either way, Inside Out 2 is a completely entertaining two-hour guide toward understanding – or appreciating – the messy emotions of growing up. About the Film Critic George Wolf Theatrical Release, Animation < All Reviews Next Film Review >