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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. Unspoken by LT Jason Knight A-Train: New Beginnings Jason Knight The Dragonborn Comes-Main Theme Jason Knight The Panharmonion Chronicles: Times of London Patrick Foley Lost All Care Joe Beck Everything Will Dissolve in the Void James Learoyd Rooftop Screamers Joe Beck Hot Chip Eleanor Swati Verma A New Kind of Life Jason Knight alexjames96 Jun 6 2 min read Ain’t my Vibe Short Music Video Review alexjames96 Mar 17 2 min read Cinerama (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Dec 19, 2023 2 min read Homecoming (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Nov 16, 2023 2 min read Sheep F-cked In the Head Short Film Review Theo Aug 1, 2022 2 min read Service for The King short film review Chris Olson Sep 28, 2021 2 min read Stroke Code Music Video Review More Film Reviews

Latest Film Reviews The latest movie reviews from UK film critics, this is the page to find the newest reviews from our team. The UK Film Review critics are assembled from around the globe, covering all types of movies. Whether these are movie reviews for films currently in UK cinemas (or even globally) or for films on streaming sites such as Netflix, Prime Video or Disney Plus, we cover them all. On this page you will also find the latest film reviews for indie and short films from the UK and around the world. Every month, UK Film Review receives a large selection of submissions from filmmakers requesting us to watch their independently made film and review it. We treat all movies the same and our reviews are never (ever) paid for! We do receive payment from PR companies and other filmmakers for services such as promoting their film, or skipping to queue, but this has nothing to do with the movie review itself. Whilst you will see our latest movie reviews here you should also follow UK Film Review on our social media profiles, as well as subscribe to our popular film podcast. This will help you stay up-to-date with the latest releases, as well as the goings-on from our community of film lovers and critics. average rating is 5 out of 5 The Last Ranger Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Y2K Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Peace Process Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Bull Street Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 That Christmas Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Perform Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Lots Love Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Walnuts Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Til Your Last Breath Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Maria Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Freelance Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Farewell Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Lovesick Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Conclave Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Nutcrackers Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Lola Dust Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Opportunity Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Other Birthday Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Moana 2 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Beatles '64 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Cubic Zirconia Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Molina Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Mouse Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Moeder Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Happy Pals Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 To Hell With You Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Petro Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The American Question Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Rita Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Buscando Alma Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Miner's Son Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Gladiator II Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Kruste Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Wicked Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Flirting with Darkness Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 A Place to Fall Down Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 My Week with Maisy Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Street Trash Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 From Above Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Meal Ticket Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Neither Donkey Nor Horse Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Picture Day Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Seven Jewish Children Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Tomorrow Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Pylon Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Red One Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 A Real Pain Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Unspoken by LT Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Pocket Princess Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Orango Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 A Beautiful Day Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Sileo Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Death Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Into the Unknown Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 That's the Spirit Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Art Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 My Name Is Alfred Hitchcock Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Memoir of a Snail Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Belief Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Breakdown Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Miss or Misses Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Another World Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Through the Stew Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Here Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Signs of Allegiance Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Absolution Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Anora Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Emilia Pérez Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Chasing Chasing Amy Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Continuance Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 In the Garden of Tulips Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Savanna by AMAFFI Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Black Boy's Don't Cry Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Sunflower Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Clearance Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 OK/NOTOK Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Saving Mango - A Cat's Story Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Better the Neville You Know Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Your Monster Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Little t Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 A-Train: New Beginnings Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Long Quiet Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Scum Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Jack & Lou: A Gangster Love Story Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Canteen 2 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Betrayed Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Shifting Tides Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Art Thief Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Primal Fear Read Review average rating is 2 out of 5 UME Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Fear and Love: The Story of The Exorcist Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Last Anomaly Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Disposal Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Saturday Night Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Making Up Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Daddy's Head Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Falling Stars Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Shelf Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Flesh and Blood Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Terrifier 3 Read 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 5 out of 5 The Last Ranger Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Y2K Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Bull Street Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Lots Love Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Maria Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Conclave Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Nutcrackers Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Lola Dust Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Moana 2 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Beatles '64 Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Petro Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Rita Read Review Chris Olson Mar 8 2 min read Film Podcast - Dune: Part 2 Chris Olson Mar 1 3 min read Film Podcast: George Clooney Rowing Biopic Scoops Film of the Month - Jan 20, 2023 3 min read TAR FILM REVIEW Taryll Baker Oct 13, 2022 2 min read Empire of Light - Film Review - Oct 11, 2022 3 min read Bones and All LFF Review - Oct 7, 2022 3 min read White Noise (2022) LFF Review - Sep 20, 2022 2 min read Sanctuary TIFF Review UK Film Review Sep 13, 2022 5 min read FrightFest 2022 Highlights - May 25, 2022 3 min read Top Gun: Maverick Film Review - Apr 23, 2022 3 min read 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.

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Last Ranger Film Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Critic: William Hemingway | Posted on: Dec 3, 2024 Directed by: Cindy Lee Written by: David S. Lee, Darwin Shaw and Will Hawkes Starring: Liyabona Mroqoza, Avumile Qongqo, Makhaola Ndebele, David S. Lee A young girl in South Africa is taken on a journey by her ranger friend to see some real, live rhinos, but when poachers turn up to cut the rhino’s horn the girl’s life takes a dramatic turn. From Six Feet Films and Kindred Films, The Last Ranger is the second production in a proposed series of twenty-four from the When The World Stopped series. The idea, from co-founders and producers Darwin Shaw and Will Hawkes, is to make these films in collaboration with local artists around the world in order to tell the stories most relevant to the issues these communities were facing during the global pandemic. In this, the South African entry into the anthology, we follow Litha (Mroqoza) as she spends a day like no other, unknowingly being inducted into the way of the wildlife ranger, which will have far-reaching consequences for her and her future. Litha lives with her father and her grandmother. They are poor and have become desperately more so since the pandemic hit, stopping as it did, all tourism and any money coming into the community. Litha’s father, Thabo (Ndebele) must leave for a while to go and find some work, though he does not say where he is going. In the meantime, Litha must get herself out of her grandmother’s hair, knowing herself to be, and having being told so many times – just ‘too wild’ to be underfoot. So, Litha picks up the wooden animal figurines which her father has carved and resolves to take them to one of the lodges to sell for cash. On the way she meets Khuselwa (Oqongqo), the last local ranger who has been protecting and recording the numbers of rhino in the area. Khuselwa tells Litha that the lodges are closed because of the pandemic and will not open for many months, then, seeing the despair in the child’s eyes, offers to take her to see some real rhinos who also live wild and free, just as she does. The relationship between Khuselwa and Litha is very open and honest and builds quickly as they traverse the land in their jeep. Litha has never used a video camera before and when she sees herself in the viewfinder, as Khuselwa records, a tender moment of childhood innocence is shared. Litha marvels at the sight of the wildlife surrounding her, learning the English name for ‘giraffe’ and being introduced to the rare white rhino. One female rhino in particular, Thandi, is known to Khuselwa and she listens to the voices of the two women in the jeep as they continue their conversation around her. It is only when Thandi starts ‘dancing’ in a strange way that the reality of the situation is revealed and Khuselwa must do everything she can to keep both Thandi and Litha safe. Throughout The Last Ranger we are treated to some incredible shots of the South African landscape from director Cindy Lee and cinematographer James Adey. There are plenty of tracking shots across the ground, along with aerial shots from above, which really pull the audience into the South African veldt and set the scene beautifully. There is plenty of colour and light coming into the picture from the sun and the vegetation, and once the real, live animals start coming into the frame it really does feel like you’re on safari. The music, too, from composer John Powell, uses local sounds and instruments along with the empowering voices of the Thanda Choir to round out the experience of being enveloped by the wild South African landscape. It is this marriage of the power of the visuals and the strength of the narrative which stands The Last Ranger out as a tour de force in independent filmmaking. As we are brought into Litha, Khuselwa and Thandi’s story we get to share their hopes and fears in up-close and personal detail. The quick turns offer smiles and tears in equal measure and despite the short time we have to get to know them, the characters spare no emotion in helping us to identify with their plight. Each actor does a great job in their own right but it is Liyabona Mroqoza as Litha who really holds the heart of this film, delivering a stunningly visceral performance that is well beyond her years to tell us just what this story means. The Last Ranger is an important and insightful film which tells its story with immediacy and integrity. It is a visual spectacle as well as a well-crafted narrative joy, where the audience can experience their heart beating solidly in their chest whilst also having the bitter taste of blood in their mouth. The strong message behind The Last Ranger resonates far beyond the plains of South Africa, and as such it is one of the most useful lockdown films to have been made by anyone thus far. About the Film Critic William Hemingway Short Film, World Cinema, Digital / DVD Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

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 on 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. The selection of short film reviews you see below are mostly for films submitted to us. In this instance, the filmmaker has requested us to watch and provide a short film review. Get Your Short Film Reviewed The Curious Clever and Collectively Convoluted Case of Detective Ebeneezer Maisonette   Short Film Review Hardwicke Circus: The Prison Gig Short Film Review Through the Stew Short Film Review Filmmaker Interview with Zehua Yang Isabella Short Film Review Finger Food Short Film Review Warrior: Predator Short Film Review A Hell of a Trip to Delicias Short Film Review No Tell! Short Film Review Last Rendezvous Short Film Review In The Moonlight Short Film Review Bridge Short Film Review Bird Drone Short Film Review Ain’t my Vibe Short Music Video Review Surprise Short Film Review A Happy Ending Short Film Review Shear Disturbance Short Film Review Watch What I Do Short Film Review After Hours Short Movie Review Cinerama (Music Video) Short Film Review More Film Reviews The Last Ranger William Hemingway Peace Process James Learoyd Perform Jason Knight Lots Love Patrick Foley Til Your Last Breath Chris Buick Farewell James Learoyd Lovesick William Hemingway The Other Birthday Jason Knight Molina Chris Buick Mouse James Learoyd Moeder William Hemingway Happy Pals Jason Knight To Hell With You Joe Beck Buscando Alma James Learoyd Kruste Chris Olson Flirting with Darkness Jason Knight A Place to Fall Down Chris Olson My Week with Maisy Joe Beck From Above Chris Olson Meal Ticket James Learoyd Neither Donkey Nor Horse Chris Olson Picture Day James Learoyd Seven Jewish Children Brian Penn Tomorrow William Hemingway Pylon Jason Knight 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. Sometimes we consider the piece only as a short film; whether it works in that format, other times we may think of it as a "proof of concept" for something longer, or perhaps a piece of a web series/TV show. These can be important to consider when writing a short film review. 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 500. This may be also for SEO reasons, as short film reviews that are longer may be more likely to rank higher on Google. The important thing to remember is that the review should be well-structured, not full of bloated points to fill up the word count. 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. Video Short Film Reviews Below you will find a selection of short film reviews in video form! This is where one of the UK Film Review Critics records their review and we upload it to our YouTube channel (as well as TikTok and Meta Reels in some cases). A Place to Fall Down Short Film Review by Chris Olson A short film about coping with loss and grief, film critic Chris Olson gave A Place to Fall Down 4 stars. Watch his video short film review here to here from the man himself about his thoughts and feelings. OK/NOTOK Short Film Review by Patrick Foley In this short film review from Patrick Foley, he gives us his opinion of the brilliant movie OK/NOTOK. Set in a futuristic world where AI robots are available as companions (as long as you can afford the subscription), it's a riveting piece. Betrayed Short Film Review by Chris Buick Film critic Chris Buick offers up a fantastic video short film review for Betrayed. A movie about a girl with special powers who, with the help of her protective father, must elude those who would use her for nefarious means.

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 The Last Ranger Y2K Peace Process Bull Street That Christmas Perform Lots Love Walnuts Til Your Last Breath Maria Freelance Farewell Load More

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Y2K Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: George Wolf | Posted on: Dec 3, 2024 Directed by: Kyle Mooney Written by: Kyle Mooney, Even Winter Starring: Jaeden Martell, Rachel Segler, Julian Dennison Who can forget those crazy few years when people like my Mom were buying books called “Time Bomb 2000,” and then it struck midnight on 12/31/99 and…nothing much happened. With Y2K , director and co-writer Kyle Mooney reimagines that New Year’s Eve as a night when plenty happens. The double zero year wreaks technological havoc that’s even worse than the doomsayers warned, and a bunch of teenage New York partygoers have to fight for their lives while reminding us about everything 90s. Eli (Jaeden Martell) and Danny (Julian Dennison) are lifelong BFFs (“the Sticky Boys!”) but pretty low on the high school status bar. Eli pines for the pop-u-lar Laura (Rachel Zegler), and figures the big NYE party that they’re not really invited to might be his best chance to steal a midnight smooch. So the Sticky Boys crash. But what the F? The start of a new millenium instantly turns everyday tech into killing machines, and bodies start piling up with a succession of comical blood-splatter. Mooney co-wrote the underrated Brigsby Bear in 2017, but Y2K marks his first directing effort. He also joins the cast as a relentlessly upbeat hippie stoner, adding to the film’s array of characters who are sufficiently amusing inside some usual high schooler stereotypes. And as the kids head out across Brooklyn looking for a safe haven, Mooney plays with zombie outbreak tropes while Fred Durst has some fun sending up his own image. There are laughs to be had before things get overly silly, but Mooney finds his groove by serving up plenty of nostalgic callbacks that will hit 90s kids in the feels and give the older viewers some knowing smiles and head nods. I mean, remember how long it used to take just to burn one freaking compact disc? About the Film Critic George Wolf Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Peace Process Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: James Learoyd | Posted on: Dec 3, 2024 Directed by: Marco Jonathan Suthya Written by: Charlie Kneller, Marco Jonathan Suthya Starring: Raphael Lecat, Alice Thoma, Liam Woon Peace Process is the fascinating new political drama about the conflict in Aceh, Indonesia from 1991 to 2004. We follow a war journalist as he fights against the bureaucratic forces which aim to silence the truth, and to expose the horrific realities of the oppression against the Aceh people. It’s a strong short, and one which should be seen. In terms of its overall narrative structure, you’ll notice that the film experiments with chronology: we’ll go from one scene depicting legal proceedings, followed by a scene of our protagonist in the thick of the conflict, and then back again to the present. This is an intelligent way of explaining the protagonist’s intentions, and this isn’t the only way the film uses perspective and form to tell an engaging story. One of the most effective characteristics of the movie’s visual style is how long focal lengths will be implemented to compress space. This works particularly well within the conference/court setting – wherein the significant space between people sitting across from one another at tables is emphasised through the filmic language. The lens makes it so two subjects in an over-the-shoulder shot occupy a balanced place in the frame, removing the space between them through compression. And yet, this also infuses the images with a claustrophobic realism; a documentary aesthetic combined with something cinematic and vivid. This is intelligent direction, and a sign of a higher-level product. On another technical point, it should be noted how spatial geography – in terms of blocking and eye-lines – is executed pretty seamlessly, which is not so easy when it comes to sequences consisting of tens of people occupying the same space. In contrast, the main issue with the film’s look is, unfortunately, the lighting and colour. Although, that’s not to suggest that there aren’t strong examples of both practices in the picture -- there is. A clear display of competence and ability is present throughout; however, viewers may find that certain shots look slightly flat. For the dramatic sensibility the filmmakers have chosen, one would like to see a lighting style which incorporates more darkness into the mix, and perhaps a more dynamic and interesting colour palette. It might be that there is, in fact, strong lighting in its making; but sadly, most evidence of this is lost to the washed-out digital medium. The sterile white light makes sense in the abstract for procedural scenes, but the picture misses a trick by not matching the aesthetic with the often heightened tone – this is, after all, work filled with emotional monologues and expository dialogue, which it uses to its advantage. On the other hand, audiences may not pay so much attention to these technical nit-picks when its overwhelming strength is in its prescient story and social intent. We not only admire the progressive attitudes the film displays, but find ourselves being actively confronted with the terror of injustice. This, in turn, may also encourage the spectator to consider the state of their modern world (horrors of the oppression of Palestinian people certainly occupied my mind while viewing). All this to demonstrate that, despite stylistic missteps, this is a mostly strong and thought-provoking piece. Affecting for its complex portrayal of geo-politics; admirable for its aim to bring real-world atrocities to light and depict an individual inspired to fight for the truth. About the Film Critic James Learoyd Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Bull Street Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Chris Olson | Posted on: Dec 3, 2024 Directed by: Lynn Dow Written by: Lynn Dow Starring: Malynda Hale, Loretta Devine, Arielle Prepetit Lynn Dow's Bull Street is a compelling legal drama that delves into complex themes with passionate intensity. The film's strong performances and evocative Southern atmosphere create a captivating viewing experience. Malynda Hale stars as LouEster Gibbs, a small-town lawyer who must take on the case of her life when her estranged father turns up dead. The passing of her dad brings uncertainty surrounding LouEster’s family home, which she shares with her much-beloved grandmother Mrs Big-Gal (Loretta Devine), as her biological sister Kendra (Arielle Prepetit) - also a lawyer but with a Harvard background - comes to town looking to take what she sees as rightfully hers. Lynn Down delivers a potently emotional journey with Bull Street . The tone of the film has an engrossing Southern U.S. charm that plays to the sense of character often found in depictions of that part of the world. LouEster is a sympathetic character, having lost both her parents but still powering through barriers and challenges set before her by centuries of prejudice and privilege. Hale gives a strong lead performance, coping well with the various traumas her character endures, a moving speech at a funeral was a particular highlight. Other cast members shine too but not as brightly as Loratte Devine who is simply having a ball in every scene she’s in. The vibrant cinematography and solid editing are often overpowered by the dominating soundscape. The sound design, at times, is too clunky and mawkish, giving the feel of the film a sense of a “made-for-TV” movie which sadly undermines the story. A more elegant choice of songs and music could have enhanced Bull Street quite dramatically but as it is, this may still appeal to a mainstream audience. By exploring themes of family, inheritance, and racial injustice, Bull Street offers a poignant commentary on the complexities of the American South. The film's exploration of the intersection of personal and systemic issues is both timely and thought-provoking. There is a great section where the complicated backstory of LouEster’s parents gets explained from various viewpoints, which is a terrific way of displaying the gossipy nature of this community and how certain people aim to control the narrative in their favour. While some scenes lean into melodrama, the film's emotional intensity largely works, drawing the viewer into the characters' struggles. Despite its occasional missteps, Bull Street is a heartfelt and engaging film that explores important themes with passion and conviction. While it may not be a perfect movie, it offers a compelling story and strong performances that are sure to resonate with audiences. About the Film Critic Chris Olson Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS That Christmas Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Hope Madden | Posted on: Dec 3, 2024 Directed by: Simon Otto Written by: Richard Curtis, Peter Souter Starring: Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw More than two decades ago, writer/director Richard Curtis made a very British Christmas film. It hasn’t aged particularly well, though many folks watch it year in, year out. Including, apparently, the inhabitants of Wellington-on-Sea. Now, that may be because That Christmas— the new animated film set in the little port village—was co-written by Curtis. The Love Actually joke is a good bit in director Simon Otto’s holiday tale that’s a bit disjointed but never lacking in charm. The film opens with Santa (Brian Cox—wait, really?) narrating the climax of one particularly problematic Christmas Eve night in the tiny community. The worries are larger than just this massive blizzard. But to do it all justice, Santa has to take us back a few days, to the school Christmas play. One set of twins is split on the naughty and nice lists. One tween girl, left to care for her baby sister and three other children, breaks tradition but may also be negligent enough to allow tragedy to occur. And lonesome Danny (Jack Wisniewski) fears he will spend Christmas utterly alone. Curtis, writing with Peter Souter, creates another crisscrossing of bittersweet, intimate, interconnected Christmas stories. And once again, Bill Nighy (this time voicing the character Lighthouse Bill) is underused. The animation is delightful, the humor decidedly British, and the hijinks wholesome but relatable and often bittersweet. One bit about an under-appreciated single mum is not only beautifully tender but also quite welcome. But none of it is particularly funny, or terribly fresh. Five years ago, Netflix produced Klaus , a Christmas story that was stunning to look at and full of surprises. This year’s holiday offering is a charmer, and its understated humor and wry observations help to keep it engaging regardless of your age. But that’s not enough for That Christmas to transcend the glut of Christmas fare this year (and every year) to become an annual tradition. About the Film Critic Hope Madden Netflix, Animation < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Unspoken by LT Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Nov 13, 2024 Directed by: Johnny Lesnefsky, Bryan Talbot, Bryan Britt, Lundon Crow, Kaz Lefnsfsky Written by: LT! Starring: Johnny Lesnefsky, Bryan Talbot, Bryan Britt, Lundon Crow A music video by American songwriting duo LT!, with Johnny Lesnefsky playing guitar and doing the vocals, Bryan Talbot taking care of the bass and keyboard, Bryan Britt doing the drums and Lundon Crow responsible for the lead & slide guitar. So what does this video contain then? It operates as a montage and primarily features the musicians mentioned above using their instruments and playing the titular song Unspoken . Through frequent use of split screen techniques, viewers see the artists performing, each one in a separate screen and seeing them in action is rather cool. Talbot also worked on the editing and his work is quite creative, making effective use of superimposition in addition to split screen. Apart from the musical artists, there is a variety of images that are seen occasionally, including a young woman covering her mouth with her hands, a broken heart, an electrocardiogram and a triangular symbol that includes an eye. Regarding the song, it is a rock song about love, pain, connection and damaged feelings and the singing, guitars, bass, drumming and keyboards make it a rather enjoyable one, especially to fans of that kind of music. The cool beginning should be pointed out, with Lesnefsky placing headphones on the camera that is filming him, giving the idea that he is actually placing them on the viewer's head so they can hear the song If one was to point out some negative aspects here, one might be the reasons regarding the presence of certain things. For instance, there is a brief appearance of pigs and a factory and the reason for this seems unclear and the same could be said about the symbol with the eye as although it is an interesting symbol, its significance is not apparent and it feels random. Moving to the performances, the four musicians in action add a great deal of quality to this video as watching them work their magic and creating fine music is enjoyable and admirable. The themes that are axplored here are to be found in the song's lyrics. Unspoken is about the challenges in trying to communicate and connect without words and the emotional pain that it causes. This is a nearly-six-minute-long music video with an entertaining song. It shows the creative musical and filmmaking abilities of a group of musicians and helps promote them. People will most likely enjoy listening to the song and watching the artists perform and acknowledge the themes that the lyrics are attempting to communicate. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film, Music Video < All Reviews Next Film Review >

HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Perform Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Dec 1, 2024 Directed by: Fareed Kairon Written by: Fareed Kairon Starring: Jon Allen Russo, Garance Chansigaud-Fargepallet A short psychological thriller written and directed by Fareed Kairon and starring Jon Allen Russo and Garance Chansigaud-Fargepallet. The plot centres on Daniel (Russo) an actor who is auditioning for a part. For his audition, he is performing a dramatic scene with Jane (Fargepallet), a young actress who is also hoping get a role. Daniel deeply fancies Jane, however he does not know how to approach her. As time goes by, his mental state proceeds to deteriorate as he becomes obsessed with Jane and unhealthily influenced by the character that he plays. The intriguing plot and Russo's dramatic performance are key stengths in this film that places the viewer into the mind of a mentally troubled man. Filmed in black-and-white, this short's atmosphere feels dark and uneasy as the story follows Daniel as he nervously and desperately pursues Jane, attemtping to make a connection. What is supposed to be a simple series of auditions turns sinister due to Daniel's awkward and disturbing behaviour and the eerie atmosphere is further enhanced by Coor Brow-Obles and Dominic Cade's unsettling music. The screenplay effectively creates a story about a man's troubed state of mind and his desires, however, perhaps it would had been beneficial if the character of Jane was explored more thoroughly, just to give a better understanding regarding why Daniel likes her so much. As mentioned, Russo's performance is one of the strongest elements and it is vital in order for the film to have an effect. Russo portrays a lonely man who is a talented actor and by being attracted to Jane and not being with her, he has found himself in a situation that is tearing him apart. The audition that the two of them take part in involves a scene where Russo plays a character who is ruthless, quite the opposite to Daniel, an insecure guy who seems to lack communication skills and self-esteem. The sinister character part appears to be having serious effects on Daniel, affecting his personality and making him question who he is. Of course, commendations also go to Fargepallet for her portrayal of a cheerful and talented actress. Through Daniel, the film explores a variety of psychological subjects. Dissociative identity disorder seems to be one, as Daniel's mind appears to be intruded by the character that he plays. Additionally, themes involving insecurity, obsession self-esteem and self-expression are present. From another point of view, the film also provides an insight into the world of acting and seems to suggest that acting can influence people in negative ways. This short looks into the psychological deterioration of an actor who is suffering from being unable to be happy and from being influenced by an acting role. It is a dark commentary about mental health. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >