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Baked Beans film review by UK film critic James Learoyd. Starring Shelby Lattany, Kahmal Sealey directed by Remone Jones. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Baked Beans Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: James Learoyd | Posted on: Jan 9, 2025 Directed by: Remone Jones Written by: Remone Jones Starring: Shelby Lattany, Kahmal Sealey What if you had to rush the consumption of your beans on toast? And what if your boyfriend seemingly forgot about your birthday? But most importantly, what if these two unrelated occurrences coincided with gastronomically disastrous results?! These are some of the amusing questions which Remone Jones’ new five-minute comedy Baked Beans poses to its audience. The film tells a simple story of one woman’s unfortunate encounter with circumstance. We begin with the appearance of the titular beans on toast – a meal which our protagonist Tameka slightly begrudges, because she should be doing something sweet with her boyfriend Liam on her birthday. But it’s not as simple as that – her boyfriend, in fact, has not failed to remember, and has something planned for the special day. The beans, however, pose an obstacle. It’s a tonne of fun and incredibly watchable; a well-formed comic piece. The performances featured in the short are absolutely terrific due to the confidence of the actors. For how heightened and humorous the movie is, the characters are completely believable. Oddly it’s through their big, expressive use of vocal expression that brings the performances both a hilarity and a realism – we believe in our protagonist’s annoyance in her boyfriend, and, in turn, her embarrassment come the film’s payoff. I’d also like to mention the authenticity of the opening conversation between our main character and her friend. The dialogue is funny in a satirical sort of way; you can feel that the scene is being used not only to convey information but to establish the silly but endearing tone. The cinematography is strong, and also demonstrates a similar sense of amusement. Specifically, the opening shot – that of a perspective shot from inside the can of beans – shows a high level of inventiveness. Then again, in terms of the negative, one might question the use of the widescreen format. When viewing the camerawork and direction, it almost feels as if the compositions might have been even more interesting were it to adopt a more conventional 1.85:1 format. This kind of visual style doesn’t require an extended frame, and prioritises clarity over complexity; so, the black bars are just cutting off visual information as opposed to adding to the aesthetic. For clarification, though, this is a really well thought-through movie in terms of its look, even if a couple of choices don’t entirely translate. The best thing about the audio and music is its consistency. An intelligent use of sound design comes towards the story’s end when the main character is given noise-cancelling earmuffs to wear by her boyfriend while he sets up the surprise. A wonderful attention to detail is how the sound itself becomes muffled as well, and then fades back to being clear and sharp when the earmuffs are removed. Not only does this place the audience in the sensory perspective of the individual, but it also leads into the final joke of the film which everything has led up to. Beans on Toast is based around joke structure and elegance, and having the viewer experience a pleasingly elaborate setup before the payoff. About the Film Critic James Learoyd Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

The Iron Claw film review by UK film critic Matt Weine. Starring Zac Effron, Jeremy Allen White, H arris Dickinson directed by Sean Durkin. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Iron Claw Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Matt Weiner | Posted on: Dec 22, 2023 Directed by: Sean Durkin Written by: Sean Durkin Starring: Zac Effron, Jeremy Allen White, H arris Dickinson For the Von Erich professional wrestling family, success in the ring—starting in the freewheeling territory days and continuing into the present—has existed uneasily alongside the “family curse.” Writer/director Sean Durkin (Martha Marcy May Marlene and The Nest ) brings together his lifelong love of wrestling with a keen ability to heighten psychological tension to the breaking point and then see what fills the void that comes after that break. The Iron Claw charts these harrowing ups and downs starting with family patriarch Fritz (Holt McCallany), whose overbearing presence dominates every aspect of his children’s lives. The athletic Von Erich children unquestioningly glide into the path Fritz lays out for them, the family business of wrestling. The series of events that ultimately spin out of this fateful choice gives rise to the legend of the curse, which the brothers deal with in their own (mostly taciturn) ways. Kevin (Zac Efron) is the genial audience stand-in, who wants nothing more than to please his father and have fun in and out of the ring with his brothers. This includes the charismatic David (Harris Dickinson), golden boy Kerry (Jeremy Allen White) and the sensitive aspiring artist Mike (Stanley Simons). Fritz and the boys are given varying degrees of personality and dialogue that at times sacrifices depth for quick characterizations. But with so much biopic ground to cover, Durkin narrows in on Kevin as the one bearing witness to all the inexplicable tragedy. It’s a difficult role to serve, and Efron delivers a commanding performance. As the family’s Job-like suffering grinds down his stoicism and filial loyalty, he remains tethered to hope and the possibility of a different life thanks to his stalwart wife Pam (Lily James, matching Efron with a vibrant performance that elevates her otherwise dutiful lines). The result is a mesmerizing sports movie with more echoes of Malick than Aronofksy. Call it a curse or call it bad luck, but Durkin’s deft handling of these events turns public tragedy into a searing meditation on familial bonds and the limits of a certain type of masculinity. About the Film Critic Matt Weiner Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Joyride film review by UK film critic Christie Robb. Starring Olivia Colman, Charlie Reid directed by Emer Reynolds. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Joyride Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Christie Robb | Posted on: Dec 22, 2022 Directed by: Emer Reynolds Written by: Ailbhe Koegan Starring: Olivia Colman, Charlie Reid A cozy story of mutual self-discovery, director Emer Reynolds and writer Ailbhe Keogan’s Joyride delivers a series of poignant moments but unfortunately not enough of them to result in a believable conclusion. The excellent Olivia Colman plays Joy, a solicitor that has recently given birth to a late-in-life baby that she wishes to give away to a childhood friend. The delightful Charlie Reid plays Mully, a teenager who has recently lost his mom to cancer and is left with a scumbag dad who wants him to steal money from a hospice fundraiser to clear his debts. Their lives intersect when the two try to use the same stolen taxi. The transitional nature of a road trip during a transitional period in both of their lives provides the opportunity for each of the two to learn things they never knew about themselves and to grow and mature as individuals. They are doing this while rolling through the Irish countryside, which is quite a pleasurable backdrop. The two leads are very talented and their banter is written naturally enough to be believable. However, the plot at times veers into the ridiculous, ignoring so much of the way the actual world works as to leave you wondering if you accidentally got the genre wrong and you are watching a fantasy. It’s a world in which you can evade the police by simply turning into the first driveway on the side of the road and 13 year-old-boys can function as effective lactation consultants. But, if you are looking for a movie to attempt to give you heart-expanding holiday feelings without the Hallmark tinsel explosion, Joyride might be the movie for you. About the Film Critic Christie Robb Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Netlix Film Feature by Chris Olson Welcome to another monthly breakdown of what’s hitting the small screen. As we shake off the last of the January blues, Netflix is stepping up its game with a February slate that feels remarkably diverse. We’ve got a heavy-hitting #documentary that’s already the talk of the #filmfestival circuit, a high-octane Brazilian spin-off, some trademark Tyler Perry chaos, and a Spanish psychological thriller that might just be the hidden gem of the season. At UK Film Review , we’ve always championed the idea that great cinema doesn’t require a theatrical seat and a ten-pound tub of popcorn, although they are preferable. This month’s home-streaming highlights prove that the "big" in big-screen storytelling is more about the stakes than the size of the monitor. Queen of Chess Release Date: February 6th Queen of Chess on Netflix 6th February 2026 Kicking things off on February 6th is Queen of Chess . Directed by the formidable Rory Kennedy (whose work on Downfall: The Case Against Boeing  remains a masterclass in investigative #filmmaking), this documentary arrives on Netflix fresh from its prestigious slot at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival . The film focuses on the legendary Judit Polgár, widely regarded as the greatest female chess player in history. But don't expect a dry, play-by-play recount of grandmaster matches. Kennedy’s film is a "battle of the sexes" epic, charting Polgár’s fifteen-year crusade to dismantle the deep-seated sexism of the international chess world. From being a twelve-year-old prodigy to her historic showdowns with Garry Kasparov, it’s a story about a family experiment in "cultivating genius" that turned into a global revolution. With a vibrant visual style and a soundtrack that leans into "girl-power" energy, this looks set to be the definitive portrait of a trailblazer who refused to be told where she belonged. State of Fear Release Date: February 11th State of Fear on Netflix February 2026 For those who prefer their drama with a side of adrenaline, February 11th brings us State of Fear . This isn't just another action flick; it’s a significant milestone for Netflix Brazil, serving as the first feature-film spin-off from the hit series Brotherhood (Irmandade) . Directed by Pedro Morelli, State of Fear  plunges us back into the volatile world of the Brotherhood, but with the stakes raised to a breaking point. When the gang’s top leadership is transferred to maximum-security facilities, the city of São Paulo descends into a "State of Fear"—a coordinated wave of violence against the police. At the heart of the chaos is Elisa (Camilla Damião), the daughter of the Brotherhood's founder, who finds herself caught between the legacy of her father and a desperate bid for survival. Morelli is known for his immersive, complex tracking shots, and I’m expecting this to be a visceral, gritty exploration of justice and the cycle of violence. Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip Release Date: February 13th Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip Look, I’ve often said that film criticism is about finding the joy in what a filmmaker is trying to achieve, and Tyler Perry knows exactly what his audience wants. Dropping just in time for the Valentine’s weekend on February 13th is Joe’s College Road Trip . After appearing as a supporting player in twelve Madea  films, Joe Simmons—Madea’s cantankerous, weed-loving brother—finally takes center stage. The premise is classic Perry: Joe takes his sheltered, high-achieving grandson B.J. (Jermaine Harris) on a cross-country trip to visit prospective colleges. Tyler Perry's Joe's College Road Trip Official Netflix Trailer Naturally, Joe’s idea of "the real world" involves a series of disastrous encounters and unfiltered advice. While the Madea  cinematic universe (MCU, if you will, but please don't) isn't everyone's cup of tea, there’s an undeniable heart to Perry’s work. Expect broad comedy, a few "hallelujah" moments, and a surprisingly touching look at the generational divide between a grandfather and his grandson. Firebreak Release Date: February 20th Firebreak Date Announcement on Netflix YouTube Channel Finally, on February 20th, we have what might be the most intense watch of the month. Firebreak  (originally titled Cortafuego ) is a Spanish psychological thriller directed by David Victori, the man behind the frenetic Sky Rojo . The film stars the incredible Belén Cuesta ( Money Heist ) as Mara, a widow who takes her family to their remote summer house in the woods to finalize its sale. Things take a terrifying turn when her young daughter vanishes after an argument, just as a massive, uncontrollable wildfire begins to consume the forest. When the authorities order a total evacuation, Mara refuses to leave, leading her family on a desperate, unsanctioned search through the smoke and flames. It sounds like a claustrophobic nightmare, but the real hook is the suspicion that the fire isn't the only threat lurking in the trees. Victori is a master of high-tension pacing, and Firebreak  looks like it will be an absolute nail-biter. Whether you're looking for the intellectual rigor of a chess grandmaster, the gritty streets of São Paulo, the chaotic laughs of a Tyler Perry road trip, or the searing tension of a forest fire, February on Netflix has you covered. It’s a month that celebrates resilience—whether that’s against a patriarchal sporting system or the literal flames of a wildfire.

Film Festival Feature by Chris Olson In March, the streets of Austin, Texas, will once again be flooded with the heady scent of barbecue and the even more intoxicating aroma of cinematic ambition. For those of us who live and breathe film, the South by Southwest Festival is not just another date on the industry calendar; it is a vital, beating heart of independent storytelling. At UK Film Review , we have always championed the underdog and the visionary, and the 2026 lineup feels like a particularly potent blend of high-concept genre pieces and intimate, soul-baring narratives. The beauty of this festival lies in its refusal to be pigeonholed. You can spend your morning moved to tears by a #documentary about human composting and your midnight screaming at a slasher film about murderous cults. It is a playground for the bold. With the first wave of programming finally revealed, the task of narrowing down the must-see titles is a daunting one, but there are certain projects that leap off the page with that unmistakable SXSW energy. Here are the twelve films that have firmly planted themselves at the top of my watchlist for the 2026 festival. 1. I Love Boosters I Love Boosters Film Trailer Opening the festival with a jolt of pure adrenaline is Boots Riley’s latest offering, I Love Boosters. Riley has already proven himself a master of surrealist social commentary with Sorry to Bother You, and his return to the director’s chair is cause for celebration. Centred on a crew of professional shoplifters targeting a ruthless fashion mogul, the film boasts an ensemble cast that is frankly staggering: Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, LaKeith Stanfield, and Demi Moore. Knowing Riley, this will be far more than a simple heist movie. Expect a stylish, sharp-witted dissection of capitalism and consumer culture that will leave the opening night audience buzzing. 2. Ready or Not 2: Here I Come Ready or Not 2: Here I Come Film Trailer There is a specific brand of joy found in a well-executed horror sequel, and after the riotous success of the 2019 original, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come is easily one of the most anticipated titles in the Headliner section. Samara Weaving returns as Grace, the bride who fought her way through the world’s worst wedding night. This time, she is joined by Kathryn Newton in what promises to be another high-stakes game of life and death. If the directors can maintain that perfect balance of pitch-black comedy and genuine tension, this will be the crowd-pleaser of the festival. 3. The Sun Never Sets The Sun Never Sets One of the most intriguing additions to the 2026 Narrative Spotlight is Joe Swanberg’s The Sun Never Sets . Swanberg, a stalwart of independent cinema who essentially helped define the mumblecore movement, returns to Austin with a drama that feels both deeply personal and uncomfortably relatable. The film stars Dakota Fanning as Wendy, a woman whose life is upended when her boyfriend, Jack (played by the reliable Jake Johnson), decides they need "space" to evaluate their future. What follows is a messy, volatile triangle when Wendy unexpectedly reconnects with her ex, Chuck (Cory Michael Smith), during the hiatus. Featuring an impressive supporting cast including Anna Konkle and Lamorne Morris, the film promises to be a raw exploration of modern commitment and the ghosts of past relationships. It is exactly the kind of character-driven, performance-led storytelling that has made Swanberg a festival favourite for over two decades. 4. Over Your Dead Body Over Your Dead Body In the realm of high-concept genre cinema, few titles on the 2026 slate carry as much dark promise as Over Your Dead Body . Directed by Jorma Taccone—one-third of the legendary Lonely Island trio—the film is a world premiere that leans into the "lovers to enemies" trope with lethal commitment. The narrative follows a hopelessly dysfunctional couple who retreat to a remote cabin under the guise of saving their marriage, only for the audience to discover that both partners have arrived with meticulous plans to murder the other. Produced by the action heavyweights at 87North, including Kelly McCormick and David Leitch, the film promises a level of visceral, inventive stunt work to match its cynical wit. The cast is a masterclass in eclectic talent: Samara Weaving, who has become a modern scream queen, stars alongside Jason Segel, with the formidable Timothy Olyphant and Juliette Lewis rounding out a group that feels perfectly calibrated for Taccone’s brand of chaotic energy. Written by Nick Kocher and Brian McElhaney, this is a pitch-black marital satire that suggests the only thing more dangerous than falling in love is trying to get out of it. 5. They Will Kill You They Will Kill You Film Trailer Zazie Beetz leads this slasher-action-comedy as a housekeeper who discovers her employers are part of a murderous cult. Directed by Kirill Sokolov, They Will Kill You sounds like the kind of blood-soaked, high-octane genre mashup that thrives in the Headliner category. Beetz is an actress of immense range, and seeing her take on a lead role in a survival horror setting is a prospect that should have every genre fan reaching for their badge. 6. Brian In the Narrative Feature Competition, Brian stands out as a potential breakout hit. Directed by Will Ropp and starring Ben Wang alongside the legendary William H. Macy, the film follows an acerbic high school student with panic attacks who runs for class president to woo a teacher. It sounds like a classic coming-of-age tale with a modern, anxious edge. At UK Film Review, we always keep a keen eye on the competition slots for the next great indie voice, and Brian has all the hallmarks of a film that finds the extraordinary within the ordinary. 7. Black Zombie Black Zombie The Documentary Spotlight often provides the most thought-provoking moments of the festival, and Black Zombie looks to be no exception. This documentary uncovers the origins of the zombie film, tracing its deep roots back to Black culture and Haitian folklore. In an age where the zombie genre is a staple of mainstream entertainment, understanding its historical and cultural foundations is essential. This is the kind of educational, engaging filmmaking that reminds us why the documentary format is so vital. 8. Family Movie Family Movie Few things are as intriguing as a meta-horror comedy starring a real-life Hollywood family. Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon co-direct and star in Family Movie , alongside their children Travis and Sosie Bacon. The plot, involving a filmmaking family whose production takes a dark turn, allows for a fascinating exploration of the industry and family dynamics. It is a bold move to put one’s own family life under the cinematic microscope, especially within the framework of a horror-comedy. 9. Drag Drag The Midnighter section is where SXSW truly lets its hair down, and Drag sounds like a quintessential late-night treat. Starring Lizzy Caplan and John Stamos, the film follows two amateur burglars whose routine robbery turns into a nightmare when one of them throws out their back. It is a simple, high-concept premise that relies heavily on performance and comedic timing. With Caplan’s sharp wit and Stamos’s veteran presence, this could be a sleeper hit of the festival. 10. Campeón Gabacho Campeón Gabacho Directed by Jonás Cuarón and produced by Alfonso Cuarón, Campeón Gabacho brings a much-needed international perspective to the Narrative Spotlight. Jonás has previously shown a knack for building unbearable tension with Desierto, and his latest project, exploring the Mexican experience through a unique lens, is highly anticipated. The Cuarón name is synonymous with technical excellence and emotional depth, making this an essential watch for those looking for global stories told with masterful precision. 11. Obsession Obsession Curry Barker’s Obsession arrives with the "Festival Favourite" tag, and for good reason. The story of a man who uses a "One Wish Willow" to win over his crush, only to find the price is far too high, is a classic supernatural cautionary tale. It sounds like a modern-day Twilight Zone episode, focusing on the dark side of human desire. These kinds of grounded genre pieces often provide the most resonance, staying with the viewer long after the credits have rolled. 12. Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice Finally, we have BenDavid Grabinski’s R-rated action comedy, Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice . While plot details remain somewhat under wraps, the title alone suggests a chaotic, character-driven romp. Grabinski has a reputation for playful, inventive writing, and in a festival often dominated by heavy themes, a well-crafted action-comedy can be the perfect palate cleanser. It represents the fun, unapologetic side of independent cinema that SXSW celebrates so well. Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice Teaser Film Trailer As we look toward March, the 2026 SXSW Film Festival promises to be a landmark event. From the high-budget spectacles of the Headliner section to the scrappy, inventive world premieres in the competition categories, there is a sense of renewal in the air. For those of us in the UK, looking across the Atlantic at this vibrant display of creativity, it serves as a reminder of the power of film to connect us, to challenge us, and, above all, to entertain us. Whether you are in Austin or following from afar, these twelve films are the ones to watch.

Film Feature by Chris Olson As the frost of January continues to bite, the British cinematic landscape is heating up with a slate of releases that suggests 2026 is going to be a vintage year for the silver screen. For those of us who spent the first half of the month nursing hangovers and catching up on the dregs of the holiday blockbusters, next week marks the moment where the "serious" cinema season truly begins. On Friday, 23rd January, the UK gets access to a diverse array of stories ranging from prestige literary adaptations and harrowing sporting dramas to the return of iconic psychological horror. It is a weekend that feels uniquely British in its distribution, offering a balanced diet of intellectual stimulation and visceral thrills. Here is what you can expect to find at your local multiplex and independent arthouse next week, or some home releases too. The History of Sound Paul Mescal in The History of Sound - releasing on MUBI Leading the charge is a film that has been whispered about in hushed, reverent tones since its premiere on the festival circuit. The History of Sound , directed by Oliver Hermanus, is a sweeping period drama that pairs two of the most formidable young talents of their generation: Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor. Set during the First World War, the narrative follows two young men, Lionel and David, who embark on a journey across the American landscape to record the lives, voices, and music of their countrymen. The History of Sound official film trailer What begins as an ethnomusicological expedition quickly evolves into a deeply felt and clandestine romance. Mescal, who seems incapable of a false note, brings a soulful vulnerability to the role of Lionel, while O’Connor provides a counterpoint of restless energy. In a month where Mescal already dominates screens with Hamnet , it is his work here that may well define his year. It is a film about the ephemeral nature of life and the permanence of sound, captured with a painterly eye that demands the biggest screen possible. Expect this to be a heavy hitter when the awards nominations start rolling in. H is for Hawk For those seeking a more introspective, though no less emotional, experience, H is for Hawk  arrives via Lionsgate. Based on Helen Macdonald’s seminal memoir, the film stars Claire Foy as a woman grappling with the sudden death of her father (played in flashbacks by the reliably brilliant Brendan Gleeson). In her grief, she turns to a tradition as old as time but rarely seen in modern London: falconry. H is for Hawk official film trailer The film focuses on her relationship with Mabel, a young goshawk. It is a prickly, difficult, and ultimately life-affirming story about the wildness of grief and the discipline required to tame both a bird of prey and one's own internal demons. Foy’s performance is a masterclass in restrained anguish; she captures the jagged edges of a mind pushed to the brink. It is a quiet film, but one that lingers long after the credits roll, reminding us that sometimes the best way to process human loss is through a connection with the non-human world. Saipan On a completely different note, we have Saipan , a film that will likely dominate pub conversations across the country. This isn't just a sports movie; it is a dramatisation of a national trauma. Centred on the infamous 2002 World Cup incident, the film stars Éanna Hardwicke as Roy Keane and Steve Coogan as Mick McCarthy. Saipan official film trailer For the uninitiated, the "Saipan incident" was the moment the Irish captain walked out on his team—or was sent home, depending on whose side you took—following an explosive row over training facilities. Coogan is an inspired choice for McCarthy, capturing the pragmatic, weary frustration of a manager caught between a legend and a hard place. Hardwicke, meanwhile, has the unenviable task of portraying Keane’s singular, terrifying intensity. It is a claustrophobic, dialogue-heavy drama that plays out like a Shakespearean tragedy set in a Pacific island training camp. Whether you are a football fan or not, the clash of egos on display here is riveting. Return to Silent Hill If the psychological weight of the aforementioned dramas feels too heavy, Entertainment Film Distributors is offering a different kind of darkness with Return to Silent Hill . This marks a long-awaited return to the fog-shrouded town that defined survival horror for a generation. Director Christophe Gans, who helmed the 2006 original, returns to adapt the story of Silent Hill 2 , widely considered the narrative peak of the franchise. Return to Silent Hill final film trailer The film follows James Sunderland, a man drawn back to the mysterious town after receiving a letter from his deceased wife. While video game adaptations are often a mixed bag, the early word on this is that Gans has leaned heavily into the Lynchian surrealism and body horror that made the source material so iconic. With a score that reportedly pays homage to Akira Yamaoka’s haunting industrial themes, this is a treat for horror purists. It is less about jump scares and more about the creeping dread of one's own psyche, manifested in the form of grotesque creatures and rusted, metallic corridors. Mercy For those craving a high-concept thriller, Timur Bekmambetov’s Mercy  arrives courtesy of Amazon MGM Studios. Starring Rebecca Ferguson and Chris Pratt, the film is set in a near-future where capital crimes are on the rise. Pratt plays a detective who finds himself accused of a crime he didn't commit and is forced to prove his innocence in a society where the justice system has become increasingly automated and merciless. Mercy official film trailer Bekmambetov, known for his kinetic visual style in films like Wanted , brings his signature energy to the proceedings. While it may not have the intellectual weight of The History of Sound , it serves as a necessary jolt of adrenaline for the January schedule. Ferguson continues to prove she is one of the most versatile actors working today, providing a grounded presence in a film that often moves at breakneck speed. The 23rd also sees a smattering of smaller, yet intriguing, releases. Dogs at the Opera  offers a bit of levity for families, an animated feature that is exactly what it says on the tin, though one suspects it might be more of a "wait for streaming" title for many. On the more experimental end of the spectrum, MUBI brings us No Other Choice , a film that promises to challenge audiences with its uncompromising look at contemporary social structures. Additionally, for the cinephiles who prefer the classics, Park Circus is re-releasing Steven Spielberg’s Duel . Seeing that 1971 masterpiece on the big screen remains a thrill; it is a reminder of how much tension can be wrung from a simple premise and a very large truck. The final full week of January 2026 offers a remarkably robust selection of cinema. We are seeing a trend of "double-headers" for certain actors—Paul Mescal being the prime example—which highlights the current star-driven nature of the UK market. Whether you are in the mood for the historical romance of The History of Sound , the grit of Saipan , or the nightmares of Return to Silent Hill , there is a genuine reason to brave the cold and head to your local cinema next Friday. The diversity of these releases suggests that distributors are no longer treating January as a dumping ground for subpar content, but rather as a launchpad for films that require a bit more breathing room than the summer blockbusters allow.