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Trespass film review by UK film critic Swati Verma. Starring Hema Varshini, Vikas Ravi directed by Tharun Venkituswamy Sarvanan. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Trespass Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Swati Verma | Posted on: Dec 7, 2022 Directed by: Tharun Venkituswamy Sarvanan Written by: Tharun Venkituswamy Sarvnan Starring: Hema Varshini, Vikas Ravi The title of the short film- Trespass means to enter someone’s land or property without permission or commit an offence against a person or a set of rules. The white font used for the name of the film has the connotation of purity, simplicity, and innocence that can be ruined by the act of trespassing. The writer and director of the short film Tharun Venkituswami Saravanan incorporates major life lessons in the script with the assistance of two young protagonists played by Hema Varshini and Vikas Ravi. The plot of Trespass revolves around a woman and her love interest. The latter is very interested in helping her organise the room and also stealing a chance to spend some quality time with each other. The white and grey colour palette utilised by the filmmaker in the film has the connotation of mixed emotions, a sense of uncertainty and indifference, highlighting the subject as well as the mood of the movie. The set design, lighting, dialogue, background music, costume, hair, and makeup has been kept natural to complement the simplicity of the screenplay. Trespass opens with a slightly shaking long shot establishing the character arc of the onscreen couple brilliantly. In terms of performance, Hema Varshini plays the female protagonist a student who is struggling to deal with studies and also being organised in life. The young actress works on body language, facial expressions, and voice modulation to communicate the chaos, friendship, love, etc effectively to allow continuity and smooth flow of the narrative. Vikas Ravi plays the role of the central character; a very supportive and loving partner who attempts to bring out the best in his girlfriend. Vikas portrays the calmness and the positive attitude required to combat all of life's issues and emerge victorious. Ravi understands the nuances of his character. He depicts the traits of an ideal boyfriend making it real and relatable for the audience. Both actors effectively showcase the coordination, chemistry, and bonds that help uplift the storyline assisting the viewers to better understand the small details of the intimate story. Trespass talks to its audience about the need to be organised so that one can create a healthy balance between professional and personal life and enjoy both aspects to the fullest. The short film reiterates the fact that gender roles shouldn’t be defined and should depend on what the situation demands. The cinematic piece discusses the importance of creating space for themselves and the effect of the same on the minds of people. The creative piece comments on the human behaviour of holding on to unnecessary things. Trespass advises the viewer that it is crucial to continuously clean up and filter mental stress for a better future for themselves and their loved ones. The film also talks about the significance of expression and the power of communication to lead a better lifestyle in the long term. Trespass successfully tells us the significance of finding a strong life partner who can become a huge support for each other allowing them the opportunity to grow together. About the Film Critic Swati Verma Short Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Brave-How the mountains changed my life film review by UK film critic Jason Knight. Starring Maria Granberg, Johnny Granberg, Noelle Grahn Sandin directed by Martin Sandin. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Brave-How the mountains changed my life Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Nov 26, 2023 Directed by: Martin Sandin Written by: Martin Sandin & Viktor Annerstål Starring: Maria Granberg, Johnny Granberg, Noelle Grahn Sandin A short documentary about a Swedish mountaineering enthusiast. The adventurous person mentioned above is Maria Granberg, whose many achievements include becoming the second Swedish woman to climb the north face of Mt. Everest. In this short film, she takes the viewer on a journey, explaining her passion for being on mountains, why she does it and what it takes to accomplish such a demanding venture. Part of the documentary consists of Maria being interviewed while in her home in Are, Sweden. As she speaks, she talks about her life, her childhood and how taking up this exciting sport has affected her life by making her see the world in other ways and appreciate its beauty more. There is footage of her working out at the gym, indicating that being a mountaineer is an activity that requires not just mental strength but also physical strength. There are also scenes that re-enact her childhood, with Noelle Grahn Sandin portraying Maria when she was a little girl and she is seen drawing inside her bedroom or walking in the countryside, providing an insight into Maria's personality. The film also includes the strong bond that Maria has with her father, Johnny. As this is a documentary about mountaineering, there is a great deal of mountain climbing and many wonderful shots of snow-covered mountains, which are supported by Viktor Annerstal's stunning cinematography. A large part of the film is dedicated to Maria's attempt to reach the summit of Manaslu, Nepal in 2022 without the utilising supplemental oxygen, which she decided to do after she failed to achieve that the previous year. This part contains many aspects of this challenging activity: as she travels up Manaslu with her climbing expedition, the required gear are put into use such as tents, ropes, climbing gear and she films herself using her phone, talking about how things are going and commenting on the obstacles they are facing. Tragically, a fatal avalanche occurs at another part of the mountain, a terrible event whose presence in the documentary points out the dangers of mountaineering. Interestingly, when Maria is being interviewed and when her voice is used as voice-over, she talks in Swedish and when she is recording herself during the expedition, she talks in English. The reason for this alternation is not clear, which does no harm as having her communicate in more than one language makes the viewing more intriguing. This is a dramatic documentary that introduces the audience to an individual who follows her passion and enjoys a challenge and it offers an insight into the world of mountaineering. Bautifully shot and with a mesmerising score by Calle Wachtmeister, this is an admirable achievement. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film, Documentary < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Buscando Alma film review by UK film critic James Learoyd. Starring Carolina Gutierrez, Neher Jacqueline, Marc Anthony Samuel directed by Melissa Fisher. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Buscando Alma Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: James Learoyd | Posted on: Nov 20, 2024 Directed by: Melissa Fisher Written by: Melissa Fisher, Mair Flores Starring: Carolina Gutierrez, Neher Jacqueline, Marc Anthony Samuel Buscando Alma is a heartfelt dramatic short film about a trans Honduran-American woman called Cristina trying to reconnect with her mother Alma. Having been pulled apart against their will many years ago, the two characters pray that they can find their way back to one another. This is definitely one of the better short films I’ve had the pleasure of watching this year, and it exemplifies a kind of socially conscious – yet cinematically inventive – mode of movie making which we clearly need more of, and should also be seen by many (in a perfect world). It’s a story filled with hope, filmed and constructed with great skill. So, let’s dive deeper into why it works as well as it does. Telling a sensitive and nuanced story is not such a simple task, but through sincerity and craft, this movie makes it look easy. Specifically, the way in which the film represents feelings of anxiety, and a desire for acceptance and connection, feels incredibly authentic. It's a work filled with compassion and qualities which allow the audience to engage emotionally in every moment. Viewers will be particularly impressed by the story’s subtle yet effective dual-narrative structure, in which we also get to see the life of Cristina’s mother Alma in her day-to-day life. The fact that, for instance, we get to see Alma interact casually with others and perform the day’s chores really means that we get to know the character more intimately, and thus we care even more deeply. Both characters are yearning for that wonderful connection which they’ve lost through tragedy. Cristina’s identity as a trans woman leads to complex and perceptive emotional ideas which then also relates to family and memory, so it’s a great thing to see a drama truthfully and respectfully dealing with these very human concepts (as opposed to a film exploiting that topic simply as a story device or gimmick). It’s completely organic all the way through, and technically speaking, this is also top-notch filmmaking. To tell this story – dealing very much in the realm of subjective memory, and even spiritual connection – the filmmakers opted for a soft aesthetic. While using a spherical lens makes the images feel less conventionally ‘cinematic’ and more grounded in reality (and therefore expressing some level of a real-world narrative), its luscious soft focus then achieves a unique, dreamy mood; as if while our two main characters are present in the everyday, they’re preoccupied in their heads with memories and wishes. The gentle, balanced light and diffusion additionally creates a similar effect, and is also just pleasing to witness as an audience-member. A high-end production such as this also has crisp, flawless sound, and – rather amazingly – an original score which sounds terrific, and very much fits with the tone of the piece. All of these techniques are implemented in rather sentimental fashion (something which a cynical critic might knock), but it gets away with it because of the deepness of the characters and the reality of the issues at play. One can’t help but be swept up in the emotion, especially at its cathartic end. About the Film Critic James Learoyd Short Film, LGBTQ+ < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Paris, 13th District film review by UK film critic Christie Robb. Starring Lucie Zhang, Makita Samba, Noemie Merlant directed by Jacques Audiard. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Paris, 13th District Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Christie Robb | Posted on: Apr 13, 2022 Directed by: Jacques Audiard Written by: Jacques Audiard, Nicolas Livecchi, Lea Mysius Starring: Lucie Zhang, Makita Samba, Noemie Merlant Director Jacques Audiard’s Paris, 13th District is slow. Languorously slow. Like honey oozing off a comb. Like a flower unfurling. Like a relationship evolving over time. Audiard’s film, which he co-wrote with Nicholas Livecchi and Lea Mysius based on stories by graphic novelist Adrian Tomine, follows the intertwined lives of Emilie, Camille, Nora, and Amber over the course of a year, give or take. Friendships develop and wane. Love affairs start and end. All is shot in gorgeous black and white except for a bit that’s rather startling and in color. The cast members are stunning (Lucie Zhang as Emilie, Makita Samba as Camille, Noemie Merlant as Nora, and Jehnny Beth as Amber) and the camera delights in lingering over their often naked bodies. Their characters are complex and the actors play them with a realism and vulnerability that is frankly impressive. It’s a realistic portrayal of a set of modern relationships with all the ecstasy and ugliness that makes them complicated and exciting and worth having. The plot features dating apps, cam girls, death, real estate, cyberbullying, and MDMA. To say more about the story would wreck the experience of watching it and trying to anticipate how the characters’ lives will interconnect. About the Film Critic Christie Robb Theatrical Release, Digital / DVD Release, World Cinema < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Follow the Dead film review by UK film critic Jason Knight. Starring Luke Corcoran, Tadhg Devery, Marybeth Herron, Luke Collins, Christina Ryan directed by Adam William Cahill. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Follow the Dead Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Feb 8, 2023 Directed by: Adam William Cahill Written by: Adam William Cahill Starring: Luke Corcoran, Tadhg Devery, Marybeth Herron, Luke Collins, Christina Ryan Something terrible is taking place in Ireland. Could it be a zombie outbreak? The story takes place in Offaly county, where peculiar and violent incidents are taking place. Robbie (Corcoran), his sister Liv (Herron) and their cousins Chi (Devery) and Jay (Collins) all live in a house, in that area. As the community begins to panic over the incidents, things get further complicated by a group of vigilantes who believe that the events are a sign for revolution and by Robbie's former partner Kate (Ryan) who re-emerges back into his life. As the threat escalates, the four relatives attempt to keep things stable and get through the situation. This horror comedy tells a story about a zombie apocalypse through the perspective of two siblings and their two cousins. Although this feature is about the undead being unleashed, they are absent for the majority of the film. The screenplay focuses a lot on the lives of the main characters and the relationships they have with each other, particularly the relationship between Robbie and Kate. Pretty much the first half is about the heroes discussing the terrible things that are taking place and also their personal problems. It isn't until much later that the heroes encounter zombies and do battle. There is plenty of dark humour throughout, however there are also moments that are quite tender and moving. The characters are interesting and the most entertaining one is the cheerful but naive Chi, who constantly wears a robe. Robbie is a man who is deeply affected when Kate reappears and does not know how to handle it. Liv is trying to be an online celebrity and films events during the outbreak, hoping that uploading them will increase her polularity. Generally, the performances are strong and effective at being amusing or emotional. Commendations go to the make-up effects. The bloodied zombies look quite hideous, with their eyes having an unnatural bright colour. Praise also goes to composer Steven McKenna for the sinister score. This is more than just a zombie comedy film. It is a story about family values, reconciliation, self-discovery and obsession with internet fame. Fans of Shaun of the Dead are the ones who will most likely enjoy this feature the most. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

How to Train Your Dragon (2025) film review by UK film critic Chris Olson. Starring Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler, Nick Frost directed by Dean DeBlois. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS How to Train Your Dragon (2025) Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Chris Olson | Posted on: Jun 9, 2025 Directed by: Dean DeBlois Written by: Dean DeBlois, Cressida Cowell, William Davies Starring: Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler, Nick Frost It’s been fifteen years since the first cinematic version of How to Train Your Dragon wowed audiences, with its vivid adaptation of the much-loved children's books from British author Cressida Cowell. Two more animated movies were released, along with numerous TV series, such as Rescue Riders. In 2025, audiences have been given a new adaptation to explore, this live-action remake from director Dean DeBlois (who was also integral in the original movies), begging the question: do we need this? The answer is yes. This is how live-action remakes should be done. A powerful translation of everything that was superb about the original, combined with all the benefits of using all of the actors (not just their voices) and incredible stunts, set pieces, and some seriously swirling camerawork. For those who don’t know the story of How to Train Your Dragon , it is set on a small island called Berk where a community of vikings live. Among them, is Hiccup (in this 2025 film played by Mason Thames), a calamity of a viking whose penchant for messing up has garnered him an unfavourable reputation on Berk. His father, Chief Stoick the Vast (a returning performance from Gerard Butler, who voiced the character previously), is desperately embarrassed by his son’s lack of ability when it comes to defending the village from the dragon pests, who blight their lives with stolen livestock and scorched huts. When an opportunity presents itself to Hiccup to prove his mettle, a downed Nightwing that, if killed, would bring our hapless hero-to-be fame and glory, Hiccup decides instead to show mercy and befriends the dragon he subsequently names Toothless. From there, the pair must navigate the growing hostilities between Vikings and dragons whilst creating their own incredible bond. From the opening scenes of Berk being attacked in the night to the end credits, this 2025 version of How to Train Your Dragon is almost a like-for-like action-remake and that’s really its only downfall. Whilst audiences, especially die-hard fans, will often be upset whichever way a filmmaker goes when remaking a film, there is nothing original on offer here - if you have seen the 2010 animated version, then you have seen this film. Only a few small tweaks have been made, such as Snotlout’s troubled relationship with his father being given more screen time. That being said, every frame of this movie is glorious. It looks and feels just like an adventure film should, with high-velocity action sequences throwing you into freefall set perfectly against poignant moments of Hiccup’s journey towards manhood. The trials that Hiccup and the other young recruits go through are brilliantly shot, creating an intense gauntlet for them to survive whilst in the presence of the always creatively rendered dragons. Butler is sturdy as the Chief, but it is Nick Frost’s depiction of Gobber, Hiccup’s quasi-guardian, that brings the most impressive performance in the film. Mason Thames and Nico Parker (the latter playing Astrid - Hiccup’s love interest) have a terrific chemistry, and their scenes together on Toothless’s back provide engaging moments. If such a gem of an animated film can be given this kind of live-action remake, it gives us hope that others can follow suit. Scorch the soulless cash-grabs and merchandise opportunities and give us this instead, a foray into danger and adventure that glides off the screen. About the Film Critic Chris Olson Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Snack Shack film review by UK film critic George Wfol. Starring Connor Sherry, Gabriel LaBelle, Mika Abdalla directed by Adam Rehmeier. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Snack Shack Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: George Wolf | Posted on: Mar 14, 2024 Directed by: Adam Rehmeier Written by: Adam Rehmeier Starring: Connor Sherry, Gabriel LaBelle, Mika Abdalla Four years ago, Adam Rehmeier’s Dinner In America arrived as a delightfully subversive 90s punk rock rom-com. Snack Shack finds the writer/director still navigating the 90s with hilarious R-rated delight, even as the punk rock ‘tude has been usurped by capitalistic dreams. It’s 1991 in small town Nebraska, and teen best friends A.J. (Conor Sherry) and Moose (The Fablemans ‘ Gabriel LaBelle) are coming hot into summer with some big plans. They score at the dog track, market their own homemade beer and are working more than enough angles to please the Gordon Gekko poster hanging on the wall. But then an unexpected new hustle presents itself. The boys’ older friend Shane (Nick Robinson) – who’s a bit of a local hero thanks to his service in Kuwait – is home to manage the local pool, and he gives the foul-mouthed young Gekkos a tip on how to win the city council’s summer contract for the poolside snack bar. Before long, business is booming, and that 75-cent upcharge for using ketchup to write “fuck” on a hotdog (a “fuckdog!”)is paying off big time. Will success go to their heads? Will A.J. earn enough cash for his Alaskan trek with Shane, AND earn the respect of his parents (David Costabile and Gillian Vigman, both priceless)? And what about Brooke, the hot new lifeguard (Mika Abdalla)? Could she actually come between these hometown homies? You’ll know where some of this is going, but Rehmeier’s script delivers foul, horny hilarity, and outstanding turns by both Sherry and LaBelle stand out in a letter perfect ensemble. The time stamp is again spot on, with Rehmeier’s freewheeling style crafting an infectious mashup of The Way Way Back, Superbad and Project X . And most importantly, Rehmeier captures that zest for life on the cusp of adulthood without a whiff of pandering or condescension. The boys will do some growing up during this one crazy summer, and the film will grow up with them. Slowly, parents don’t seem quite as lame, the hijinx aren’t as silly and some important lessons about love, sex, death and friendship hang in the air just long enough to hit just hard enough. Fuckdogs are still funny, though, homie, just like a surprise punch to the nuts. About the Film Critic George Wolf Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Beyond film review by UK film critic Patrick Foley. Starring Tamara Mark, Ian Mark. Harry Mark directed by Thiago Dadalt. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Beyond Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Patrick Foley | Posted on: May 23, 2022 Directed by: Thiago Dadalt Written by: Thiago Dadalt, Dru Miller Starring: Tamara Mark, Ian Mark. Harry Mark Whilst the world gradually gains a better understanding of autism, and more and more stories are represented in film and television like Atypical and Please Stand By, most people still have yet to grasp the realities of the spectrum and the demands placed on families as a result. Thiago Dadalt’s Beyond documents a year in the life of one family, and shows the highs and lows they experience. The documentary, produced by Dru Miller, tells the story of Tamara Mark, a former dancer and actor who left behind dreams of stardom to care for her sons Ian and Harry when their father left the family. Both Ian and Harry are non-verbally autistic and have recently had to adapt to a new stage of life as they have become adults, resulting in a withdrawal of much of the support they have relied upon. The family take each day as it comes and handle both the challenges and joyous moments, as Tamara tries to rally support for adults with autism – with a dream of building a community in which they can thrive. What makes Beyond such an affecting film is the level of intimacy the director achieves with the Mark family. The film hits a perfect balance of bringing its audience into the families lives without us ever feeling like an intruder. The scenes shot in the family’s home are raw, authentic, and unimpacted by the presence of a camera. Thiago Dadalt’s crew are ghosts in the film’s most touching moments – showing a trueness that is both heart-breaking and heart-warming, such as in a scene in which one of the sons relies on a typing board to communicate a tooth pain that the family have been unable to treat. Tamara Mark is the viewer’s window into the family, and her remarkable life story is a worthy entry point into all 3 lives. Her past as an actor and dancer is examined, as is her revelation as to her true purpose upon the death of her mentor and the birth of her children. Her new goal of a community in which people with autism can live their lives together, with proper support to allow for their independence invigorates the documentary and fulfils its purpose – to provide something ‘beyond’ your own abilities as an individual. Indeed, the battle against an uncaring and unsuitable system that simply does not cater for the needs of families like the Marks is presented in such a way that audiences will share the frustration and despair Tamara herself, as well as the full team she relies upon to raise her boys feel. The aforementioned dental problem ends up requiring multiple treatments, which mean multiple hirings of a team just to get Harry to the hospital and multiple excessive dental bills. Shining a light on these difficulties, that most would never comprehend, adds to the film’s noble purpose without ever coming across as preachy. And whilst Tamara’s ambition of a mini-city community may feel lofty, it is hard to argue by the film’s end that it is not a worthwhile cause. Watch Patrick Foley's review of Beyond below or on the UK Film Review YouTube Channel! About the Film Critic Patrick Foley Digital / DVD Release, Indie Feature Film, Documentary < All Reviews Next Film Review >

The Freedoms film review by UK film critic Patrick Foley. Starring Mark Garvey directed by Mark Garvey. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Freedoms Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Patrick Foley | Posted on: Jan 17, 2022 Directed by: Mark Garvey Written by: Mark Garvey Starring: Mark Garvey Believe me when I say, that it’s meant as a compliment to director Mark Garvey’s The Freedoms that it enticed a spectrum of emotions from me when I watched it – and the majority of these were not positive. Yet upon completion, this project’s multi-layered, genre-bending originality left me pondering its true nature and message in a way that few films accomplish. Estranged brothers Callum and Simon discover that their late father had a link to legendary artist Hettie Entwistle. They meet a follower of hers, Kitty Von Abrams, who informs the brothers of Entwistle’s uncompleted masterpiece – ‘The Freedoms’ – a series of activities based on questionable pseudoscience, designed for self-discovery. Callum’s revelation that he has the same hereditary condition as his father convinces Von Abrams to turn her work over to the brothers, with the condition that they must complete Entwistle’s tasks – no matter the cost. The Freedoms is an enigmatic faux-umentary, played totally straight by director Mark Garvey, who (along with the rest of his crew) plays himself in the film. The production quality of supposedly intimate filming, along with the clear manufacturing of certain scenes and situations, give the game away to any insightful viewer – but even those who question what they are presented with will be kept guessing as to exactly where the film is going, and what it is trying to accomplish. The film’s actual aim is kept close to the chest until the very end. It is an ending that fundamentally alters any first-time watcher’s perceptions of the film, and viewers may find it confusing, hilarious, genius, treacherous, spiteful, stupid or more. For me, the ending left me with great relief that my major problems with the film – that being a failure to challenge certain, ahem, questionable beliefs – is an actual part of the overall experience. It is a powerful and provocative ending, and regardless of your opinion, it is much better than a boring one. Callum and Simon’s relationship is deconstructed throughout the film and is the emotional core. An overview is provided as to their rift at the beginning, though more could have been done to establish the bond the pair held with their father which is the impetus for their quest. The pair have a difficult task to convincingly portray real subjects of a documentary, though certain moments (such as the ‘altar’ scene) do successfully come across as raw and legitimate. Other times, their supposedly unscripted reactions manifest as anything but. And certain revelations about their darkest secrets feel meaningless – and one of Callum’s comes across as distasteful and unearned. Viewers will warm to the pair over the movie, but their stories do not really align with the themes of the film. The film does meander into a repetitive pattern throughout its 100 minutes runtime. There’s only so many times viewers can watch Von Abrams’ conduit instruct the brothers on their task, only for one of the pair to react sceptically, before resolving themselves to participation. Many of the tasks seem pointless, and their relation to the brother’s greater mission of discovery is tenuous. This fails even to fit with the film’s ultimate revelation – and several plot holes are the result. It’s hard to discuss The Freedoms without spoilers, given its perspective-shifting end. However, it is nothing if not provocative. And whether it is avant-garde performance art, a profound statement on spiritual freedom, or one big joke is all open to question. It’s not an easy film to settle an opinion on, and for this it is welcome. About the Film Critic Patrick Foley Digital / DVD Release, Indie Feature Film, Documentary < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Film news - Random Acts of Violence UK DVD and Blu-ray Release Date. Find out more at UK Film Review. Random Acts of Violence UK DVD and Blu-ray Release Date Chris Olson Monday, July 26, 2021 at 4:57:33 PM UTC 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. Fan favourite Jesse Williams (Cabin in the Woods) leads in this gore-filled slasher as his own creation is bought to life by a fan hell-bent on committing Random Acts of Violence in increasingly gruesome murders. The film will be released on Blu-ray, DVD and on digital to download and keep on 23 August 2021. Comic book creator Todd Walkley (Williams – Grey’s Anatomy), his wife (Jordana Brewster – Fast and the Furious), assistant (Niamh Wilson –Saw III) and best friend (Jay Buchel – This is the End, Sorcerer's Apprentice) are heading to NYC Comic Con when bad things start to happen – a lot of people are getting murdered. It soon becomes clear that a crazed fan is using his “SLASHERMAN” comic as inspiration for the killings. As the bodies pile up, and Todd’s friends dropping like flies, he is forced to face the killer and put an end to his notorious comic. Will Todd be able to stop the spree or will he fall victim to his own creation? Get in on some Random Acts of Violence. 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

Piggy film review by UK film critic Hope Maden. Starring Laura Galan, Carmen Machi, Irene Ferreiro directed by Carlota Pereda. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Piggy Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Hope Madden | Posted on: Oct 4, 2022 Directed by: Carlota Pereda Written by: Carlota Pereda Starring: Laura Galan, Carmen Machi, Irene Ferreiro Mean girls are a fixture in cinema, from Mean Girls to Carrie , Heathers to Jawbreaker to Napoleon Dynamite and countless others. Why is that? It’s because we like to see mean girls taken down. Writer/director Carlota Pereda wants to challenge that base instinct. But first, she is going to make you hate Maca (Claudia Salas), Roci (Camille Aguilar) and Claudia (Irene Ferreiro). In one tiny Spanish town, the three girls make Sara’s (Laura Galán, remarkable) life utterly miserable. Like worse than Carrie White’s. And though Sarah’s relationship with her mother (Carmen Machi) is a rose garden compared to the one Carrie shares with her wacko mom, things could be better. Sarah’s mom veers from unobservant to dismissive to defensive. Even when she’s trying to be helpful, that aid comes with a heaping dose of insensitivity. But it’s those pretty, skinny high school girls whose contempt nearly kills Sarah. In a scene that’s difficult to forget, cruelty blossoms into something brutal and horrifying as Sarah tries to take advantage of a nearly empty swimming pool. Traumatized by the afternoon, a dazed Sara makes a choice that she will wrestle with for the balance of the film. Pereda doesn’t present a simple, single reason for what Sarah does. Or, more to the point, does not do. In this scene and all others, the filmmaker complicates every trope, all the one-dimensional victim/hero/villain ideas this genre and others feast on. Redemption doesn’t come easily to anyone. Pereda also seamlessly blends themes and ideas from across the genre, upending expectations but never skimping on brutal, visceral horror. Much of that horror would feel unearned were it not for substantial performances from every member of the cast. But Sarah is the most complicated character by far, and Galán performance is a reckoning. She’s utterly silent for long stretches, Sarah trying to make herself invisible. It’s in those still moments that Galán shines most fiercely. Piggy is a tough watch, there’s no doubt. It’s also a ferocious and stunning piece of horror cinema. About the Film Critic Hope Madden Theatrical Release, World Cinema < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Saw X film review by UK film critic Hope Madden. Starring Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith directed by Kevin Greutert. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Saw X Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Hope Madden | Posted on: Sep 29, 2023 Directed by: Kevin Greutert Written by: Josh Stolberg, Pete Goldfinger Starring: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith Whenever someone states specifically that they do not like horror movies, there is a better than average chance they’ll namedrop Saw as what’s wrong with the genre. Of course, the Saw franchise is not really that typical of horror, especially today. But you wouldn’t know that if you didn’t like horror, would you? And to be fair, most of the films in the series are awful. James Wan’s 2004 original was clever and grim. But then a sequel came out every Halloween, each less clever and more grim until they became lazy, threadbare embarrassments. And then in 2021, an infusion of money and star power threatened to turn the tide with the refocused Spiral , which was so bad it felt more like a parody than a retooling. So why bother with the tenth installment, Saw X ? Badass poster That AMC ad Yes, some marketing genius got behind this episode in a big way, but how’s the movie? If you hate the Saw films, Saw X will not convert you. If you don’t, it’s probably the best since Wan’s original. Director Kevin Greutert, who directed the mediocre-at-best Saw VI , is back working with franchise writing regulars Josh Stolberg and Pete Goldfinger (responsible for two of the worst: Spiral and Jigsaw ). Also returning, Tobin Bell as John Kramer. You may know him better as Jigsaw, but he spends the majority of the film as the tender if zealous life coach, if you will. Series favorite Shawnee Smith returns as acolyte Amanda Young, and suddenly you may be wondering if there is anything fresh or new about the tenth episode. Yes and no. Though the tenth installment, the timing of this film would technically be the third in the cinematic timeline (after 2017’s unbearable Jigsaw , followed by the 2004 original). John’s no novice when it comes to traps, but he takes a break – may indeed have a complete change of heart – when he finds a miraculous clinic that may be able to cure his terminal brain cancer. It turns out to be an elaborate con. Can you guess what happens when you con Jigsaw? It ain’t good. But the movie’s not bad. It is bloody AF, with organs and limbs and eyeballs and brains, self-mutilation, others-mutilation, general nastiness and an abundance of bad behavior. Saw X spends nearly half its runtime leading up to the carnage with John (except for one fake-out early trap) in a kind of character study that doesn’t really pan out because we don’t dig very deep. Worse, Smith is painfully underused. It’s not the reawakening it may want to be, but for fans of the franchise, it’s finally an installment worth watching. About the Film Critic Hope Madden Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >