Butterfly Affect film review by UK film critic Joe Beck . Starring Jediael Stiling, Shadrach Agozino, Noah Hicks directed by Edem Wornoo. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Butterfly Affect Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Joe Beck | Posted on: Apr 23, 2022 Directed by: Edem Wornoo Written by: Edem Wornoo Starring: Jediael Stiling, Shadrach Agozino, Noah Hicks Google defines the butterfly effect as ‘the phenomenon whereby a minute localised change in a complex system can have large effects elsewhere.’ It’s a theory which has been explored by many philosophers, and many films - namely the 2004 film ‘The Butterfly Effect’ starring Ashton Kutcher. Here, in Edem Wornoo’s ‘Butterfly Affect’, the phrase fits both the google definition and also the journey of a butterfly in becoming the beautiful creature everyone knows and loves. Everybody knows the journey of a butterfly from primary school - the caterpillar creates a cocoon and emerges a beautiful butterfly - but not everybody associates the same process with human development. ‘Butterfly Affect’ makes a noble attempt at delving into this compact topic, nailing the caterpillar and butterfly stages, but delivering an unfulfilling and confusing cocoon phase. The film focuses on Iris (Noah Hicks and later Jediael Stiling), a young ballet dancer on a South London council estate, who has to hide his passions from the people around him, for fear of losing respect. Iris lives a double life - immersing himself in the street culture of South London, and dancing when he’s alone. He reluctantly smokes, he pretends to be going out to ‘kick ball’ and he is being pushed towards a path of violence, yet, unbeknownst to everyone but his cousin Prince (Shadrach Agozino) he dances in front of his pet butterfly. Prince is at least somewhat supportive at the beginning, telling Iris ‘do your ting bro’, but then abruptly tells him that he can’t be dancing if he wants to keep face. This is indicative of much of the adversity which Iris faces, and it all builds up into a couple of outbursts of anger - one violent, the other non-violent. What’s strange is that in the cocoon stage Iris turns into someone unrecognisable - committing an unforgivable act which makes it extremely difficult to come back and like the character. Nevertheless, 'Butterfly Affect' is powerful, sending a clear message of acceptance, and that people should be able to enjoy whatever they like. Director Edem Wornoo is clear in this messaging, and tells it well - incorporating it beautifully into a story which could have easily been utterly soulless. At times, Iris does resemble a buttery, with beautiful shots of him dancing in his room, the camera gliding over his posture and technique and inviting you to sit back and applaud. The actors all are terrific, with Noah Hicks playing the young Iris with a tenderness in his youth, but with a roaring lion wanting to burst out, whether that be through dance or violence. When the baton is handed over to Jediael Stiling to play the older Iris, he maintains that tenderness, but adds a layer of strength to the tenderness to suggest that Iris has been through something traumatic and come out the other side a more mature man. 'Butterfly Affect' is a beautiful story of overcoming a form of adversity to become the person that you want to be. It slightly loses itself in the middle, but is nevertheless affecting in its messaging, and it's tenderness makes it all the more heartwarming. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Joe Beck Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Disrupted Expectations 4: Art, Words, and Mind Powers film review by UK film critic James Learoyd. Starring Jorge Villacorta directed by Jorge Villacorta. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Disrupted Expectations 4: Art, Words, and Mind Powers Film Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Critic: James Learoyd | Posted on: Jun 9, 2024 Directed by: Jorge Villacorta Written by: Jorge Villacorta Starring: Jorge Villacorta What a double bill! For those of you who have not read my piece on Disrupted Expectation 3 , please do so for some much-needed context before the following... Alrighty, let’s talk about Disrupted Expectations 4: Art, Words, and Mind Powers . This particular entry into the franchise begins with our protagonist addressing people off-screen who are neither seen nor really there. This establishes a fresh idiosyncrasy that was teased in the last film: we know, obviously, that no person is anywhere near this man, and yet he insists to state awkwardly “Everybody - I need your help with this” or “Ah! We have another question, thank you.” The intent, of course, is to persuade me (the actual spectator) that he is somebody whom people take seriously; however, in reality, it just makes him seem evermore unhinged. Is this in any way an entertaining element? - who knows. It’s for you to decide, dear audience, and that’s the magic of Disrupted Expectations 4: Art, Words, and Mind Powers . Allow us to discuss some positives. There’s a genuinely interesting moment early on in which he discusses a Columbian work of art depicting a squirrel, pointing out how a more abstract, geometrical approach has been taken (it sounds almost genuine). Later on, he talks about perspective and the role of artificiality in art, and that’s relatively interesting. And at one point, he actually goes outside which is a valuable change of scene! One of the more dynamic moments in the picture comes when our guy pretends to be on a phone call. Whilst it lasts for an excruciatingly long time, it’s some of his better acting and provides another layer of whimsy to this utter nightmare. It is also in this moment that the nicest shot in either film takes place – which I have used as the image for this review – as a piece of square furniture unintentionally frames his head quite pleasantly. This is also the most metatextual and, dare I say it, intelligent portion of the movie. While on the phone, he speaks of how artists wish to view themselves; he also effectively reveals the fact that this is all a scam... yeah, I don’t understand it either. It could very well be argued that there is a unique level of discovery to these bizarre videos... Consider this, the man at no point knows what he is about to do or say – and neither do we. To persuade his ‘audience’ that he has anything of value to offer, he utilises random objects in his location. In means of pure desperation, he attempts to convince the viewer that the random items in this warehouse are “beautiful works of art” that an artist has purposefully constructed. He points to a doorknob and exclaims “why is it here?” He throws out the term “the ocean of consciousness”. Whenever a loud plane flies by, he acts as if it has a greater meaning. There’s truly nothing like this, and thankfully - unless I blacked out - there’s no cryptic hate speech in this one! These are the standards we’re working with, folks. Now this is very important: at minute 32:50 he almost trips over and gets really scared. This is the most entertaining and emotive moment in both of these films. Following the slight scare, he explains “don’t worry, we have insurance... I apologise” - pretty funny stuff. He states that “you must learn about this kind of advanced art” - and, y’know what, maybe I’m just a slow learner. Watching these two pieces has been an interesting exercise in analysing human behaviour and psychology; delusions and showmanship. It’s an odyssey has left me with a great many questions and conflicting thoughts, but to quote something I can actually get behind: “Being an artist like this is not easy” - well you can say that again. Thanks for reading. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic James Learoyd Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Watch Painting By Numbers at the 2022 UK Film Review Festival. See the UKFRF 2022 lineup and buy your festival pass. Painting By Numbers Listen to our review on the film podcast What our film review said: READ FULL REVIEW Like many of his films, Jegatheva has developed an educational context for his audience with vibrant animation and an interesting vision into what our world could become if we keep seeking to destroy it. Painting by Numbers is a clear presentation of the faults of the human condition and the form of an animated short film is an eerie way to portray it. Proudly supporting MediCinema for our 2022 film festival.

Old Guy film review by UK film critic Hope Madden. Starring Christoph Waltz, Lucy Liu, Cooper Hoffman directed by Simon West. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Old Guy Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Hope Madden | Posted on: Feb 20, 2025 Directed by: Simon West Written by: Greg Johnson Starring: Christoph Waltz, Lucy Liu, Cooper Hoffman There were three reasons to be optimistic about Old Guy , the latest from director Simon West. West used to make big budget, memorably bad actioners (Con Air ), then middle budget middling actioners (The Mechanic, The Expendables 2 ), and now low budget actioners that have to find a way to capture attention. Hence, the three reasons for optimism. Number one, two-time Oscar winner and all around magnetic onscreen mischief maker Christoph Waltz plays the lead. He’s Danny Dolinski, an aging hitman with a penchant for drink, drugs and threesomes (and hideously patterned short sleeve button downs). Dolinski’s recovering from hand surgery—his trigger hand—which is slowing him down. Thus, he’s been tasked with training a new man, Wihlborg (Cooper Hoffman). Reason number 2. The actor’s handful of onscreen performances—particularly, his remarkable lead turn in Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2021 Licorice Pizza —mark him as an actor I’m anxious to see in anything. And reason 3, Lucy Liu, whose recent work finds edges and scars that give characters intriguing dimension. She’s particularly wonderful onscreen right now in Steven Soderbergh’s inverted ghost story Presence. What’s most fun about the casting is that all three talents are playing entirely against type. And though not one of them is entirely convincing as their own particular fringe-of-society misfit, each is deeply charming. West’s direction is frantic enough to do service to both the action and comedy Old Guy is trying to convey. Greg Johnson’s script is not helping. The dialog is not especially funny and worse still, the plot itself falls entirely apart under the lest scrutiny. But the veteran popcorn-and-car-chase director injects a bit of tension and giddy humor with image juxtaposition and punchy editing. And there’s just a silliness in the cast that’s engaging. Liu’s character is an absolute afterthought, but the performance compels interest nonetheless. Hoffman’s been handed less a character than a handful of tics in dark nail polish, but he gives the guy a heartbeat and you find yourself rooting for him. And Waltz, so charmingly miscast, characteristically finds insignificant moments to turn into cinematic highlights. You’ll forget Old Guy the minute those catchy looking credits stop rolling, but sometimes a brain needs to turn off and wallow in three solid performers having fun and making the most of a bad situation. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Hope Madden Digital / DVD Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Film news - SHEEP WITHOUT A SHEPHERD in virtual cinemas 12th April. Find out more at UK Film Review. SHEEP WITHOUT A SHEPHERD in virtual cinemas 12th April Chris Olson Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at 2:43:21 PM GMT+1 Trinity CineAsia presents critically acclaimed thriller Sheep Without A Shepherd released in virtual cinemas and as part of Chinese Cinema Season from 12th April, and available on Digital platforms from 26th April. Li (Xiao Yang, Detective Chinatown ) and his wife A Yu (Tan Zhuo, The Bravest ) run a small business in Thailand and enjoy a happy home life with their two daughters. When their eldest daughter is violently assaulted, blackmailed and left traumatised by another student, her parents intervene, leading to a dead body which needs to be hidden, and every trace of the boy buried to cover up the accident. However, the missing boy’s parents, dogged detective La Wen (Joan Chen, Marco Polo, Lust, Caution ) and mayoral candidate Du Peng (Philip Keung, Blind Detective ) are pushing the local police to turn over every rock to find the truth, stopping at nothing until their missing son is found. A remarkable directorial debut from filmmaker Sam Quah, Sheep Without A Shepherd boasts incredible performances and a tense and emotionally riveting story, making it a must-see and compelling new thriller. Trinity CineAsia presents Sheep Without A Shepherd released in virtual cinemas and screening as part of Chinese Cinema Season from 12th April Book tickets: https://www.chinesefilm.uk/film/sheep-without-a-shepherd-wu-sha/ Available on Digital from 26th April Pre-order on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/movie/sheep-without-a-shepherd/id1558945070 See it virtually via… Rio Cinema Genesis Cinema HOME Manchester Chapter Showroom Workstation Kinokulture The King's Man UK Home Release Date Announced The Latest King’s Man Film Will be Available on Digital February 9 and 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD on February 21. Read Now BFI Future Film Festival announces 2022 Awards Jury and full programme Find out who the jury is for the 2022 BFI Future Film Festival. Read Now The Wonderful: Stories From The Space Station UK Release Date The Wonderful: Stories from the Space Station is a Dog Star Films production in association with Fisheye Films. Directed by Clare Lewins (I Am Ali, Kareem: Minority of One, The Lost Tapes of Memphis.). Read Now Redemption of a Rogue UK Cinema Release Date Read Now Cryptozoo Coming to Mubi This October Having made a splash at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, filmmaker Dash Shaw's upcoming fantasy animation Cryptozoo is a highly anticipated film coming to Mubi later this year. Read Now Another Round UK DVD And Blu-Ray Release Date Announced Following its acclaimed cinema release, STUDIOCANAL are excited to announce the release of Thomas Vinterberg’s intoxicating Oscar winner, ANOTHER ROUND, starring Mads Mikkelsen, on early EST 24th September 2021 and DVD, Blu-ray and Digital on 27th September 2021. Read Now Marvel Studios Announces Black Widow DVD and Blu-Ray UK Release Date Marvel Studios Announces Black Widow To Land Early On Digital (August 10th) and 4K, Blu-Ray and DVD September 13th. Read Now My Little Sister Gets October UK Release Date My Little Sister is due for a cinema release in the UK, on Friday 8th October 2021. Read Now Grimmfest Reveals Line-Up for 2021 Film Festival After a year of “home invasions” in the form of virtual screenings and online events, this October sees Grimmfest returning to the cinema at last. Read Now Helen Mirren Narrates Powerful Documentary Escape From Extinction Kaleidoscope Entertainment presents Escape From Extinction, a powerful feature documentary narrated by Academy Award winner Dame Helen Mirren, coming to selected cinemas from 17th September celebrating ‘Great Big Green Week’ (18-26 September). Read Now Supernova UK DVD and Blu-Ray Release Date Following critical acclaim and standout performances, STUDIOCANAL are excited to announce the release of the heartbreaking British love story SUPERNOVA, arriving on EST 24th September 2021 and DVD and Blu-ray on 27th September 2021. Read Now The Djinn UK Release Date The story follows a mute twelve-year-old, Dylan Jacobs, as he discovers a mysterious book of spells inside his new apartment. Read Now Come Play UK Digital Release Date Jacob Chase’s directorial debut feature COME PLAY tells the story of Oliver, a solitary autistic boy who comes across a creepy children’s story on his new tablet. Read Now 15m Giant Starfish in Leicester Square Ahead of UK Release of The Suicide Squad British actor Peter Capaldi (BBC’s Doctor Who, World War Z) ‒ who stars in THE SUICIDE SQUAD alongside Margot Robbie, Idris Elba and John Cena as genius scientist ‘Thinker’, was bravely photographed with the imposing creature Starro in London’s Leicester Square earlier today in celebration of the film’s UK release this coming Friday. Read Now West Side Story In Cinemas December 2021 From acclaimed director Steven Spielberg, the 2021 remake of West Side Story will be coming to cinemas in December 2021. Read Now The Last Job UK Digital and DVD Release Date Screen icon Richard Dreyfuss takes on The Last Job in a brand new, all-action thriller, that stars Modern Family’s Mira Sorvino as his daughter. This rip-roaring gangster movie hits the UK on DVD and digital this August from 101 Films. Read Now Rise of the Footsoldier Origins UK Cinema Release The eagerly-awaited RISE OF THE FOOTSOLDIER: ORIGINS, starring legendary leading man Vinnie Jones, is showing exclusively in cinemas from September 3, courtesy of Signature Entertainment. Read Now Random Acts of Violence UK DVD and Blu-ray Release Date Jay Baruchel writes, directs and stars in his horror debut Random Acts of Violence, which makes its UK Blu-ray debut from Acorn Media International in conjunction with Shudder, following its success on the streaming service. Read Now Spirited Away 20th Anniversary Special Edition SPIRITED AWAY COLLECTOR’S BOXSET WITH DVD & BLU-RAY DOUBLEPLAY AVAILABLE 27 SEPTEMBER 2021 Read Now A New World Order Premieres in UK 23 August Black Mirror meets A Quiet Place in gripping sci-fi thriller A New World Order from director Daniel Raboldt in his feature debut, which gets its UK premiere on DVD and digital 23 August 2021 from Reel 2 Reel Films. Read Now

Lochgoilhead Forever film review by UK film critic Chris Buick. Starring Liam Martin directed by Liam Martin. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Lochgoilhead Forever Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Chris Buick | Posted on: Mar 31, 2024 Directed by: Liam Martin Written by: Liam Martin Starring: Liam Martin Travelling with his father to finally clear out his late grandparent’s home in the Scottish Highlands, documentary filmmaker Liam Martin’s deeply personal and brave decision to document this pilgrimage back to Scotland offers a very brief but intimate window into an engaging and emotional father-son relationship where almost nothing is said but almost everything is felt. Lochgoilhead Forever is no doubt a brave venture from Martin given how open they are with such a personal story, but it’s one that will no doubt speak to many and judging from the well-deserved reaction the film has received, it already has. In part, it’s a brilliant study of how most parents eventually, in the eyes of their children, stop being perceived as almost infallible deities, instead just as flawed and misguided as everyone else. But what Lochgoilhead Forever is, more than anything else, is a story about the acceptance of that fact. Early on, we get to understand that this return to Scotland isn’t one that is going to necessarily bring to the fore a host of fond and happy memories. In the film’s opening moments, the only time when Martin or anyone addresses the viewer directly, we are offered just enough of a baseline as to the history of the relationship at hand, one filled with its share of pain and sadness born out of anger, alcohol and the breakdown of family. But the film doesn’t dwell on the why or what was or could have been, what’s important is the what now, and from there Martin lets the film speak for itself. As they tend to the long-neglected house, leafing through old photos and gathering up chintzy old knick-knacks, it’s then through simple observation of Martin’s father we see that, despite everything, Martin and his father’s relationship is still one filled with love and affection for each other, even if it can never explicitly be said. It’s incredible how, through letting us simply see rather than tell, Martin is able to convey infinitely more about his and his father’s story than a million words ever could. But the film’s stand-out moments are in the father’s quiet reflections being back in this place, where his true emotions and mannerisms constantly belie his stubborn and adamant words. Again, it’s a film about acceptance, not just for Martin as to the man his father is, but for his father’s own pain and grief at the memories such a visit brings back to him, and one of if not the film’s most poignant touching moment that encapsulates it all is his father contemplating not letting the house go at all, his words reasoning that it would be a hassle for everyone, but we can see his eyes unable to hide a deep, wistful sadness and unwillingness to let it all go. Incredibly authentic and deftly made, Lochgoilhead Forever is like watching the final chapter of a long and interesting story that of course, makes you wish you knew more but more importantly, makes you feel simply grateful to Martin for deciding to share his story with us. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Chris Buick Documentary, Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Film news - Dirt Music Gets July Digital Release. Find out more at UK Film Review. Dirt Music Gets July Digital Release Chris Olson Tuesday, June 8, 2021 at 1:07:21 PM GMT+1 Dirt Music Coming to Digital Download 19th July Adapted by Gregor Jordan from Tim Winton's critically acclaimed novel of the same name, the film features an incredible cast including leading performances from Kelly Macdonald (Line of Duty), Garrett Hedlund (Tron: Legacy) & David Wenham (The Lord of the Rings). Dirt Music follows Georgie (Kelly Macdonald) who's barely holding it together these days without a drink. Once a nurse, now she’s trapped in White Point with local crayfish baron, Jim Buckridge (David Wenham) and his two sons. One hazy night she sees the lone figure of Lu Fox (Garrett Hedlund) appear in the mists of the bay. A long time ago he was a dirt musician, but now he survives as a poacher - an unwise choice given Jim’s iron-grip on the local fishing trade. Georgie is instantly drawn to Lu, and the pair begin an intense affair. What Georgie doesn’t realise is that the Foxes and the Buckridges have a long, murky history which just might rise to the surface. Dirt Music will be available on Digital Download from 19th July The King's Man UK Home Release Date Announced The Latest King’s Man Film Will be Available on Digital February 9 and 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-ray™ and DVD on February 21. Read Now BFI Future Film Festival announces 2022 Awards Jury and full programme Find out who the jury is for the 2022 BFI Future Film Festival. Read Now The Wonderful: Stories From The Space Station UK Release Date The Wonderful: Stories from the Space Station is a Dog Star Films production in association with Fisheye Films. Directed by Clare Lewins (I Am Ali, Kareem: Minority of One, The Lost Tapes of Memphis.). Read Now Redemption of a Rogue UK Cinema Release Date Read Now Cryptozoo Coming to Mubi This October Having made a splash at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, filmmaker Dash Shaw's upcoming fantasy animation Cryptozoo is a highly anticipated film coming to Mubi later this year. Read Now Another Round UK DVD And Blu-Ray Release Date Announced Following its acclaimed cinema release, STUDIOCANAL are excited to announce the release of Thomas Vinterberg’s intoxicating Oscar winner, ANOTHER ROUND, starring Mads Mikkelsen, on early EST 24th September 2021 and DVD, Blu-ray and Digital on 27th September 2021. Read Now Marvel Studios Announces Black Widow DVD and Blu-Ray UK Release Date Marvel Studios Announces Black Widow To Land Early On Digital (August 10th) and 4K, Blu-Ray and DVD September 13th. Read Now My Little Sister Gets October UK Release Date My Little Sister is due for a cinema release in the UK, on Friday 8th October 2021. Read Now Grimmfest Reveals Line-Up for 2021 Film Festival After a year of “home invasions” in the form of virtual screenings and online events, this October sees Grimmfest returning to the cinema at last. Read Now Helen Mirren Narrates Powerful Documentary Escape From Extinction Kaleidoscope Entertainment presents Escape From Extinction, a powerful feature documentary narrated by Academy Award winner Dame Helen Mirren, coming to selected cinemas from 17th September celebrating ‘Great Big Green Week’ (18-26 September). Read Now Supernova UK DVD and Blu-Ray Release Date Following critical acclaim and standout performances, STUDIOCANAL are excited to announce the release of the heartbreaking British love story SUPERNOVA, arriving on EST 24th September 2021 and DVD and Blu-ray on 27th September 2021. Read Now The Djinn UK Release Date The story follows a mute twelve-year-old, Dylan Jacobs, as he discovers a mysterious book of spells inside his new apartment. Read Now Come Play UK Digital Release Date Jacob Chase’s directorial debut feature COME PLAY tells the story of Oliver, a solitary autistic boy who comes across a creepy children’s story on his new tablet. Read Now 15m Giant Starfish in Leicester Square Ahead of UK Release of The Suicide Squad British actor Peter Capaldi (BBC’s Doctor Who, World War Z) ‒ who stars in THE SUICIDE SQUAD alongside Margot Robbie, Idris Elba and John Cena as genius scientist ‘Thinker’, was bravely photographed with the imposing creature Starro in London’s Leicester Square earlier today in celebration of the film’s UK release this coming Friday. Read Now West Side Story In Cinemas December 2021 From acclaimed director Steven Spielberg, the 2021 remake of West Side Story will be coming to cinemas in December 2021. Read Now The Last Job UK Digital and DVD Release Date Screen icon Richard Dreyfuss takes on The Last Job in a brand new, all-action thriller, that stars Modern Family’s Mira Sorvino as his daughter. This rip-roaring gangster movie hits the UK on DVD and digital this August from 101 Films. Read Now Rise of the Footsoldier Origins UK Cinema Release The eagerly-awaited RISE OF THE FOOTSOLDIER: ORIGINS, starring legendary leading man Vinnie Jones, is showing exclusively in cinemas from September 3, courtesy of Signature Entertainment. Read Now Random Acts of Violence UK DVD and Blu-ray Release Date Jay Baruchel writes, directs and stars in his horror debut Random Acts of Violence, which makes its UK Blu-ray debut from Acorn Media International in conjunction with Shudder, following its success on the streaming service. Read Now Spirited Away 20th Anniversary Special Edition SPIRITED AWAY COLLECTOR’S BOXSET WITH DVD & BLU-RAY DOUBLEPLAY AVAILABLE 27 SEPTEMBER 2021 Read Now A New World Order Premieres in UK 23 August Black Mirror meets A Quiet Place in gripping sci-fi thriller A New World Order from director Daniel Raboldt in his feature debut, which gets its UK premiere on DVD and digital 23 August 2021 from Reel 2 Reel Films. Read Now

The Railway Children Return film review by UK film critic Brian Penn. Starring Jenny Agutter, Sheridan Smith, Beau Gadsdon, Austin Hayes, Kenneth Aikens directed by Morgan Matthews. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Railway Children Return Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Brian Penn | Posted on: Jul 17, 2022 Directed by: Morgan Matthews Written by: Daniel Brocklehurst, Jemma Rodgers Starring: Jenny Agutter, Sheridan Smith, Beau Gadsdon, Austin Hayes, Kenneth Aikens When the Railway Children was released in 1970 the adjectives poured like water from a tap. Charming, evocative and heart-warming could have been invented for this classic directed by Lionel Jeffries and starring Jenny Agutter. A touch over half a century later the sequel finally arrives on the big screen. Like the original it's a love letter to a bygone age and radiates with goodness. The key elements have been retained as the story picks up during the Second World War. The logical reference point alights on evacuees arriving in the village of Oakworth from a bomb damaged Manchester. Bobbie (Jenny Agutter) is now in middle age and a grandmother. Her daughter Annie (Sheridan Smith) is the school headmistress and together they form a welcoming party at the picturesque station. However, the excitement of city kids seeing the countryside is tempered by a harsh new reality. As local residents are prompted to make a choice three siblings are left behind because people cannot feed three mouths. Led by eldest sibling Lily (Beau Gadsdon) they vow to stay together. Predictably Bobbie convinces Annie to take them in. Grandson Thomas (Austin Hayes) welcomes the company of new playmates as they quickly adapt to country life. The children begin to explore local railway tracks and find US serviceman Abe (Kenneth Aikens) hiding in a disused railway carriage. Abe has deserted amidst racial tensions and harsh treatment from the Military Police. But how will the children react to this new discovery? With the basic ingredients it's difficult to get this film wrong. Director Morgan Matthews uses the spectacular West Yorkshire landscape and hopelessly romantic aura of steam trains to great effect. Added to a wholesome story of children finding friendship and teaching the adults a thing or two along the way, it feels like a comfortable armchair. The army-treating-black-recruits-like-the-enemy storyline has appeared many times before, so doesn't break any new ground. But then again it doesn't need to as there are recurring themes in all period dramas. As a coherent piece it finds its range very quickly and draws strong performances from a highly talented cast. Jenny Agutter provides continuity while Sheridan Smith ensures familiarity; but it's the kids that really stand out in this film, particularly Beau Gadsdon, who delivers a strong performance as the vulnerable and stubborn Lily. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Brian Penn Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Neutopia film review by UK film critic Lawrence Bennie. Starring Laurie Duncan, David Schall, Deanna Orlando directed by Kane Wilson. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Neutopia Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Lawrence Bennie | Posted on: Aug 8, 2024 Directed by: Kane Wilson Written by: Kane Wilson Starring: Laurie Duncan, David Schall, Deanna Orlando How far will technology go? Forty years ago with The Terminator , James Cameron blasted the concept of a world ravaged by artificial intelligence across the screen. Four decades on and, suddenly, the rise of AI is prevalent in the news and social media. The wonders are there, but so are the warnings and in Kane Wilson’s excellent Neutopia , we see some chilling answers to the questions of the limits of artificial intelligence. In the year 2034, the government are pushing for 'Neutopia' - a society where humans and artificial intelligence are harmonised in the mind. Londoners are now linked to the Artificial Intelligence Network (AIN), as a result of a mandatory brain implant known as the Neural Connect. For Myles (Laurie Duncan), it is not enough. He needs more. The solution? ‘Perfect Overdrive’. Described as “artificial intelligence selective consciousness”, it programs whatever is asked of it. And, with a high-stakes business presentation looming, it seems to be just what Myles needs right now.. Wilson’s vision of 2030’s inner-city London may not be a borderline dystopia, but its dark, gritty and its domination by technology has left it soulless. Here, data has replaced drugs in the criminal underworld; Myles’ addiction is not to illegal substances, but to bootlegged artificial intelligence software - or, perhaps more aptly, mindware. When he finds no food for dinner, or for the dog, there’s a simple solution. He just needs to say ‘Perfect Overdrive’ and tell it what he needs. In 2024, we have to wonder how far we are becoming dependent on technology. In the 2034 of Neutopia, that question has long since passed. Wilson presents a society not so much technologically-driven as it is technologically-ridden; Myles’ mental and physical world is completely dependent on AI. Independent action and thought have vanished from his life. Whenever there’s a problem, he calls on Perfect Overdrive. Predictably, things soon go awry and Myles’ over-reliance on his integrated AI brings his world crashing down around him. But, perhaps that’s the point. We need to see Myles’ Faustian downfall coming. It would be somewhat worrying if we didn’t. Beginning with a somewhat ironic, yet nonetheless foreboding, Terminator -style credits sequence, Wilson strikingly jumps to a setting entirely different from what we might expect at this point and, indeed, from what we see in the rest of the film. Myles is sat lifelessly, staring blankly out into a beautiful, sun-filled garden. In his hand, he clutches a child's snow-globe, the only thing which seems to trigger some sign some of life back into him. Wilson then flashes back to begin Myles' story. We may have started with a nod to The Terminator but, structurally, Wilson's film plays out more like Citizen Kane - the image of the snow-globe to set up the mystery, the flashback, the rise and fall of the protagonist and the pay-off resolving the enigma of the opening scene. At the film's end, visited by his daughter, the catatonic Myles is unable to respond; his eyes are a deathly blank stare, his mind presumably melted from the melding of his brain with Perfect Overdrive. Glancing at the globe, beneath Myles' dead gaze, something begins to happen. The memory of a moment. A feeling. The credits roll. Neutopia presents a disquieting vision of the very near future - one where the world isn't unnecessarily ruled by AI, but where the independence of an individual has become subservient to it. Yet, its quietly powerful ending, suggests a chance of hope and the power of humanity above anything artificial. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Lawrence Bennie Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

The Gospel of Dating film review by UK film critic James Learoyd. Starring Michael Orlando Peters, Rachel Brooks, Nicole Pringle directed by Khiray Richards. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Gospel of Dating Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: James Learoyd | Posted on: Mar 9, 2026 Directed by: Khiray Richards Written by: Khiray Richards Starring: Michael Orlando Peters, Rachel Brooks, Nicole Pringle The Gospel of Dating , written and directed by Khiray Richards, is a new feature-length comedy about a church which requires further funding and exposure following a period of economic lapse during Covid lockdown. The church’s bishop (played by Michael Orlando Peters) eventually agrees to help produce a church- based dating show which would involve his Christian community. We then follow a series of individuals as they search for love, and experience some amusing, often ridiculous hijinks involving the production of the show. This is a niche, flawed but not unentertaining dramedy – ostensibly aimed at a religious audience. I’ve never seen a Christian sex-comedy, and I doubt you have either, dear reader – but many hilarious moments in this film come very close to that territory (my favourite moment in the whole runtime is a riotous vibrator joke). What I’m trying to get at is that this piece is not so staunchly traditional, and in fact explores some engaging modern relationship dynamics. In terms of the picture’s construction, The Gospel of Dating is a technical success. The audio and soundtrack are an example of this project’s refinement. The on-location sound is properly captured; the foley is carefully done; and the music is implemented to create an appropriately humorous sensibility. The cinematography, while not outstanding, offers a pleasing use of focus – complemented by a cinematic, high-quality colour-grade. You could argue that there is an overuse of Steadicam in this movie, and not enough clear, static wide shots, or even especially striking closeups. The reason being is that the constant use of Steadicam means that the visual aspects of depth and composition feel intangible and non-committal. I like the fact that our protagonist of the bishop must learn a few important lessons about acceptance and social modernity; however, this may rub many up the wrong way, as it did for this critic at first. There’s one truly horrific scene in which condescendingly sinister music plays and the bishop hatefully says the phrase “pronoun people”. Even if the film eventually confronts this prejudice – arguing that “salvation doesn’t have a label” – and even discusses the contradictions of “traditional value”, it takes its time to do so and comes across as condescending. Nevertheless, for better or worse, what this scenario offers is an accurate portrayal of America’s dire political climate. Especially in relation to the depiction of the TV executive whose malignant motives aim to maintain a conservative, regressive image whilst still making wider-reaching profit. There’s also an element of capital ‘R’ Realism here in that it is inherently fascinating to make a movie focusing on the financial struggles of institutions – even when the overall feel of the piece is frequently one of absurdism. At its core, The Gospel of Dating is getting at something economically relevant. For non-Christians like myself, a film such as this is not something one would commonly seek out for casual viewing purposes. Yet the movie’s offering of a clean aesthetic, a comforting and consistent tone, as well as plenty of genuine laughs means that this picture may provide entertainment beyond its target-audience. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic James Learoyd Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Trigger Happy film review by UK film critic Rachel Willis. Starring Tyler Poelle, Elsha Kim directed by Tiffany Kim Stevens. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Trigger Happy Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Rachel Willis | Posted on: Feb 27, 2025 Directed by: Tiffany Kim Stevens Written by: Daniel Moya, Tiffany Kim Stevens Starring: Tyler Poelle, Elsha Kim Unhappy George (Tyler Poelle) has a plan. Miserable at work, miserable at home, George needs a change. His chosen method for changing his life becomes a madcap adventure of sorts in director Tiffany Kim Stevens’s film, Trigger Happy . Since misery loves company, George isn’t alone in his dissatisfaction. George’s wife, aspiring actor Annie (Elsha Kim), is as annoyed with George as he is with her. Several others express their frustrations and despairs in various ways as well. Thankfully, Stevens isn’t interested in making us miserable. Rather than wallow with unhappy characters, we watch as George, Annie, and their friends find ways to improve their circumstances through torrid affairs, spouse murder fantasies, and hilarious professional accomplishments. Of course, because none of the characters are honest with each other, or even themselves, misunderstandings abound. What could almost be described as comedic hijinks occur, except they’re a little too bloody to be truly called hijinks. Stevens, co-writing with Daniel Moya, pens dialog with a strange, melodic poetry that gives it a musical quality, adding a level of surrealism to the film. George’s increasing frustrations play well with this quality. Adding to Trigger Happy ‘s uncanniness is the slyly revealed reality of George’s world, which isn’t quite the same as ours. It’s not obvious at first, but as the film progresses, more hints are dropped. And as the title of the movie suggests, guns abound (not so different from our world in that way). Each person in George’s world is compelling in their own unique way. Though some play a bigger part in George’s misery than others, none of the ancillary characters feel unnecessary. From his coworkers to his boss, to the friendly shop owner, each person has a place in George’s orbit. Still, it’s Annie, as both his antagonist and his wife, who has the most commanding presence in George’s life. It’s easy to love and loathe both characters. Trigger Happy is, overall, a winning parody about the miseries of everyday living. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Rachel Willis Digital / DVD Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Kill 4 Love film review by UK film critic Joe Beck. Starring Pratiksha Kadur, Dacotah Ateah, Darnelle David directed by Hugh Liu. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Kill 4 Love Film Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Critic: Joe Beck | Posted on: Nov 2, 2022 Directed by: Hugh Liu Written by: Hugh Liu Starring: Pratiksha Kadur, Dacotah Ateah, Darnelle David There are moments of ‘Kill 4 Love’ which capture both the heart and the mind, often when it is at its most grounded, however, it constantly tries to reach for the moon, without ever realising just how good it is down on earth. Generally, films, especially amateur shorts, should be praised for having grand ambitions of lofty concepts, but sometimes the opposite is true. ‘Kill 4 Love’ is one such case, partially because what it aims to achieve isn’t all too impressive in the first place. We are first introduced to a man, credited only as ‘The Ex’ and played by Dacotah Ateah, coming off the call with who we presume to be his girlfriend. We can tell right away that he’s supposed to be morally weaker. Why? He smokes weed, talks in far too a carefree manner and is lounging on a sofa more comfortably than we would like. Though Hugh Liu, who both writes and directs, characterisation is easy to grasp, it is too plain and plays far too closely to stereotypes that those who smoke weed abuse their partners. Though we don’t see him abuse his partner, Cynthia (Pratiksha Kadur), her passive nature whilst around him, and the fact that she appears to stick by him despite receiving sparing amounts of love is supposed to hint that way. At the very least, their relationship is full of neglect and without much love. Therefore, we presume that the film will focus on the aftermath of the positive pregnancy test, flashed up with a background of a foggy motorway at the outset of the film. This is all rather dull, containing weak characters and even weaker writing. However, the other side of the film, depicting what appears to be a budding relationship between Cynthia and ‘The Boy’, played by Darnelle David, feels genuinely heartfelt, at least at first, and fills us with that warm fuzzy feeling we get when watching a plausible love depicted on screen. Kadur and David have good physical chemistry, and their voiceovers are surprisingly well-written. Problems start to emerge, however, when the voiceovers are ditched for actual conversation, at which point the writing, and consequently the acting, falls apart. Lines like ‘I just hope our friendship stays the same way…..platonic’ leaves the actors with little to work with and make the pair seem strained and uncomfortable more than anything. The dialogue is robotic and worsens when the two strands - revolving around Cynthia’s relationships with ‘The Ex’ and ‘The Boy’ - intertwine. Nevertheless, whilst Liu’s writing is abject, his direction has moments of sheer brilliance. Firstly, to successfully capture Kadur and David’s physical chemistry, an arguably harder feat than capturing vocal chemistry, is impressive. But more than that, he successfully captures everyone’s desire to be wanted and to feel connected in our desperately hectic, fast-paced world. There are fleeting moments which feel like a Wong Kar-wai film, and the speed ramping, combined with an excellent soundtrack demonstrates his abilities as both director and editor. However, a bad script catches up to anyone eventually, and it doesn’t take long for that to really drag ‘Kill 4 Love’ down. Hugh Liu is hopefully a director we see more of in the future, but the writing should be left to someone else. Buy UKFR Banner Space About the Film Critic Joe Beck Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >