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The Mux film review by UK film critic Joe Beck. Starring Javier Caberiz, Heidi Kozak Haddad, Matisse Rose Haddad, Joe Tandberg directed by Benjamin Rider. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Mux Film Review average rating is 2 out of 5 Critic: Joe Beck | Posted on: Sep 15, 2023 Directed by: Benjamin Rider Written by: Benjamin Rider Starring: Javier Caberiz, Heidi Kozak Haddad, Matisse Rose Haddad, Joe Tandberg ‘The Mux’ is a bad trip of a film. Its priorities are so far set in the music, and how the beats guide its story, that it fails to tell a compelling, engaging story, and also fails to excel in any technical aspects. It’s a film made for the sole purpose of being a trippy experience, with story and filmmaking only an afterthought. The film centres around Rex (Javier Caberiz), a DJ who has become jaded from the cycle of fame and fortune that accompanies his profession. These are issues that could be part of a thoughtful exploration into the industry, the psyche attached to such fame, as well as addiction and multiple personality disorder. However, ‘The Mux’ is neither as deep or as profound as it thinks it is, or as it wants to be, and is instead a rather bland trip that, rather than leaving you enlightened will leave you bored and with a bad headache. Rex is, in all truth, a bit of a narcissistic asshole, acting as a voice for the film in his faux-profundity and philosophical blitherings. He is a character who thinks too highly of himself, believing himself to be the centre of attention, and stirring drama unnecessarily. He reflects the stereotypical portrayal of a pedantic artist amongst those, normally right-wing figures, who disdain the sort. As such his characterisation is alienating and he is a thoroughly difficult character to root for and gain any sort of connection with. This is characteristic of the weak writing throughout, with the script written by Benjamin Rider, which is further exemplified by further weak characterisations of supporting characters, and the stilted dialogue throughout. Supporting figures such as Samantha (Heidi Kozak Haddad), Joanne (Matisse Rose Haddad), and Borgen (Joe Tandberg), are all trivial figures who flow into and out of Rex’s life, lacking their own distinct personalities and failing to impact Rex, or the story, in a meaningful, compelling, or believable way. This poor writing is further compounded by the dialogue throughout, which is both stiff and stilted, with all characters speaking robotically and in a manner that no human does, feeling forced. This hinders the cast in particular, limiting their performances, though in truth, even without such an abject script there isn’t much to suggest that better performances could have been delivered, with all actors delivering their lines in such a monotonous manner. Benjamin Rider also directs to similar disappointing affect. The film follows all conventions laid down by previous and superior psychedelic cinema, with random bursts of colour and mindless pondering of reality all filmed so uninterestingly that ‘The Mux’ - meaning the multiplexer - is more likely to put you to sleep than make you believe you’ve had some kind of spiritual awakening. The film is shot without invention or creativity, with music, which is admittedly well mixed and designed, seemingly the priority over story or directorial inspiration. As such ‘The Mux’ is one trick pony, relying on its competent musical composition whilst all other elements - including those most important to a film (i.e. story and direction) - flounder in the background. It’s an incoherent trip of a film, one that leaves a sour taste in the mouth instead of the awakening that it too self-righteously believes it carries. About the Film Critic Joe Beck Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Mickey 17 film review by UK film critic Hope Madden. Starring Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo directed by Bong Joon Ho. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Mickey 17 Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Hope Madden | Posted on: Mar 6, 2025 Directed by: Bong Joon Ho Written by: Bong Joon Ho Starring: Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo People mainly familiar with filmmaker Bong Joon Ho’s Oscar-sweeping masterpiece Parasite may not know of his remarkable skill with a SciFi creature feature. Mickey 17 , then, will be an excellent primer. Robert Pattinson is the titular Mickey. Well, he’s a bunch of Mickeys, all 17 of them. Hoping to get away from some pretty bad fellas on Earth, Mickey signs up for a flight of space pioneers, but there’s a lot of competition to make the voyage and he has no skills so he signs on as an expendable: a clone who, for the betterment of science, subjects himself daily to every conceivable new threat so science can better prepare the non-expendables. Chief among the unexpendable on this colonizing mission are the commander, vainglorious attention whore Kenneth Marshall (Mark Ruffalo), and Lady to his Macbeth, Ylfa (Toni Collette). Joining Mickey onboard are his best friend, con-man extraordinaire Timo (Steven Yeun, playing delightfully against type) and the love of his many, many lives, Nasha (Naomi Ackie, Blink Twice ). Pattinson’s a hilarious, self-deprecating charmer, a man who believes he somehow deserves his fate. Fates. Through him the filmmaker employs absurd, sometimes even slapstick humor to satirize our own current fate. Beautifully (and characteristically), all of this is in favor of the reminder that our humanity requires us to be humane. There’s great tenderness in this film, though it competes with sharp satire and fun action. But what fuels every scene, however lunatic or sweet or absurd, is the heat of Bong’s rage. His more than capable ensemble—from the sycophant scientist (Cameron Britton) to the ego-stroking puppet master (Daniel Henshall) to the guy forever dressed as a mascot (Tim Key) and on and on—brings every enraged idea to vivid, remarkable, too-close-to-home life. Weaving sensibilities and ideas present in Snowpiercer , Okja , The Host as well as any number of clone movies, Mickey 17 could feel borrowed. It doesn’t. Like the best science fiction, it feels close enough to reality to be a bit nightmarish. About the Film Critic Hope Madden Theatrical Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Sileo (2025) film review by UK film critic Jason Knight. Starring Nate Goodwyn directed by Demeter Lorant. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Sileo (2025) Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: May 20, 2025 Directed by: Demeter Lorant Written by: Demeter Lorant Starring: Nate Goodwyn A short animated sci-fi film from Hungary, written and directed by Demeter Lorant and starring Nate Goodwyn. Set in the future, the story takes place in a world inhabited primarily by robots. The main character is Geff-325520BD, a robot whose role is that of a fixer unit, repairing broken core units inside a factory called ''Sileo''. Geff performs his objectives with great efficiency, however, every once in a while he malfunctions and parts of him need to be replaced. Concerned that one day this will cause him to lose his identity, Geff sets out to locate those who created him and hopefully understand what he is. The graphics deserve commendations and are arguably one of the highlights of this seven-and-a-half-minute long film. Lorant worked on the animation and the computer animation looks great, creating a world dominated by technology. Futuristic buildings are to be seen, along with machines and forms of biological such as trees, birds and fish. As for the hero, Geff, his appearance resembles WALL-E, from the 2008 animated sci-fi feature of the same name. The rich sound effects are another element that stands out. Regarding the story, it is intriguing and suspenseful, combining sci-fi with road movie and supported by narration provided by Goodwyn. This short presents a future where humanity and biological life in general has been replaced by Artificial Intelligence. AI is a major theme here, with the screenplay exploring what this kind of technology is capable of, suggesting that it has the ability of self-awareness, curiosity and to learn. This film is quite interesting and thoughtful. However (from the critic's perspective at least), the ending comes across as puzzling, it does not seem to effectively communicate what is taking place. Even if some viewers find the end to be unlcear, that does not overshadow the creativity that was put into making this thought-provoking short, neither does it make one forget about the themes that it explores about AI and self-discovery. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film, Animation, World Cinema < All Reviews Next Film Review >

April Skies film review by UK film critic Patrick Foley. Starring Svandis Dora Einarsdottir, Sara Hagno, Pauline Nyrls directed by Pascal Payant. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS April Skies Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Patrick Foley | Posted on: Oct 11, 2022 Directed by: Pascal Payant Written by: Pascal Payant Starring: Svandis Dora Einarsdottir, Sara Hagno, Pauline Nyrls In a brilliantly inventive and explorative film that crosses a continent, Pascal Payant’s April Skies mixes styles and genres to tell three, intertwining stories that address pain, loss, grief and reconciliation. The film follows gravely-ill Parisian Zoe (Pauline Nyrls), recently bereaved Icelander Lara (Svandis Dora Einarsdottir) and severely depressed Swedish singing superstar Liv (Sara Hagno) who are all wrestling with difficult recent news. As each tackle confusing, challenging and tormenting elements of their grief, their seemingly disparate lives are slowly revealed to be interlinked – as one pivotal event ricochets across Europe. April Skies is both experimental and tightly woven. Payant’s film covers three stories which take place in separate European cities, and brilliantly mixes the storytelling and design of each one to match cinema from the same locale. Zoe’s story in Paris features tropes of classic French cinema – with regular fourth-wall breaking from its two characters and exploration of a nihilistic outlook in the face of death. Meanwhile Lara and Liv’s stories have a distinct Scandi-style, with bleak grey skylines the backdrop for arguments with ghosts of the past. Mixing the storytelling makes each character’s journey feel distinct, and distinguishes events that occur across separate locales and timelines. There are some rare moments where it does not serve the story – Zoe’s conversations with the audience can feel jarring after long spells within the other plotlines – but for the majority of the film, Payant’s experimental approach is a success. The stories themselves are intimate, believable and personal. Zoe’s frustration with her friend Estelle (Sophie Mousel) and her attempts at cheering her up touches on the complexity and guilt that comes with the burden of a life-altering illness. Lara’s anger at her recently departed father for his absence in her life, and his post-death attempts to connect with her are driven by the truth that the departed are not always perfect – and those hurt by them don’t always find it easy to forgive their faults in life. And Liv’s journey from depression, through self-pity, and finally strength in addressing her regrets at how she treated her former manager show what death can teach those left behind. By portraying various different stages of grief and responses to loss, the film manages to address a range of themes that will leave the audience both reflective, and with a therapeutical sense upon viewing. There are a few hiccups – some of the linkages between the stories can be seen a mile off, and certain actions of characters seem to run contrary to revelations audiences have already been parlay to. These are ultimately minor faults which don’t undermine the bigger picture of the story, or the thematic exploration that the director undertakes. Add in a unanimously fantastic cast, stunning visuals and inventive camerawork and production, and April Skies is a worthy, original watch. If its creative mixing of European cinema-styles is not enough to engage its viewers, an engaging, multi-faceted plot surely will. About the Film Critic Patrick Foley Theatrical Release, Digital / DVD Release, Indie Feature Film, World Cinema < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Life Eternal film review by UK film critic Jason Knight. Starring Griffin Pautu, Ashley Bell directed by Michael Winter. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Life Eternal Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Aug 27, 2024 Directed by: Michael Winter Written by: Michael Winter Starring: Griffin Pautu, Ashley Bell A young man relives the happiness that he experienced with his deceased partner. By combining reality with fantasy, this emotional short animated film tells a story about a youth named Isaac (Puatu), who struggles greatly after he loses his beloved Ava (Bell). Over the course of six minutes, this film takes the viewer on a journey, exploring Isaac's devastating state and the wonderful memories that he has of Ava. The narrative begins with Ava in bed at a hospital, having Isaac by her side during her final moments. After she passes, a broken Issac returns home. Some time later, his house is filled with boxes and he is unshaven and unkempt, probably because he is too sad to be concerned about his appearance. He then imagines (most likely dreams) that Ava is visiting him and the two embark on a fantastic journey that starts with the two of them flying in the night over buildings, before suddenly ending up in a film theater, where they proceed to watch scenes that depict significant experiences from their relationship, including how they met at school, how they spend time together and moved in together. The short begins with the theory that a book being finished means that a part of a person's life has ended and flowers inside a vase are shown withering. These two occurrences appear to symbolise the end of a happy period and the end of a life and in regard to the story, that would be the end of Issac's time with Ava and the end of her life. Loss and grief are arguably the two main elements that this film explores and the impact is quite deep. However, the joy of remembering the good times is also significantly evident, providing an uplifting mood in an otherwise sad story. Ignoring the serious themes and looking at the hand-drawn animation, the film is a pleasure to watch. The animation does not contain much detail, yet the wonderful use of colours results in gorgeous visuals, proving the creative abilities of Lighthead Studio. This film would certainly not be as impactful without the addition of the music by Sarah Mac and Marc Hoad. Consisting mainly of wonderful piano melodies, the score is melancholic and beautiful and establishes a mood that supports the scenes rather effectively. This is a painful but beautiful story that explores the sadness that is caused by loss, however it also points out that memories can allow the people who have passed away to be with their loved ones forever. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Short Film, Animation < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Eco-Hack! film review by UK film critic Chris Buick. Starring Tim Shields, Frank Guercio, Dr. Kristin Berry, Sara Hanner directed by Brett Marty, Josh Izenberg. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Eco-Hack! Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Chris Buick | Posted on: Oct 2, 2023 Directed by: Brett Marty, Josh Izenberg Written by: Brett Marty, Josh Izenberg Starring: Tim Shields, Frank Guercio, Dr. Kristin Berry, Sara Hanner Tim Shields, a conservation biologist based in the Mojave desert in California, loves reptiles, tortoises perhaps most of all. The Mojave was once home to an abundant population of these shelled creatures but, as is becoming a familiar theme these days, these numbers have dwindled dramatically in recent years. Unwilling to “no longer be passive and simply watch the end of the show”, Eco-Hack showcases Shields’ ingenious and creative ways to step in and try and help. How, you might ask. Well, while there are some causes that are difficult for Shields to directly challenge such as climate change and increasing human population, there is one threat that Shields feels he can do something about; ravens. Because if the viewer didn’t know before, they will soon learn from co-directors Joshua Izenberg and Brett Marty’s short but compelling documentary that besides being perhaps the smartest of all birds, ravens present a very real threat to tortoises, especially those who have yet to reach an age where they can protect themselves, and Shields is determined to tip the scales the other way. Eco-Hack is not only a film that looks to serve as an inspiration for others to act, or at the very least start thinking, but also a dedication to those already looking to make a difference. At the centre of this uniquely fascinating documentary of one man’s mission to make a difference is a well-crafted and balanced film championing the tireless efforts of its subject. Thankfully, just to be clear, Shields’ methods only ever mean to deter and never harm, Shields himself a believer that more can be learned from these birds by discouragement and observation rather than complete removal. Complete with his own guy-in-the-chair Frank who outfits him with everything from spray-traps loaded into super-realistic looking, 3D printed fake tortoises to high-powered lasers used to disperse large flocks and countless other gadgets, Tim’s mission is one of endless ingenuity and determination, and Eco-Hack showcases that very well. Izenberg and Marty also do well to make sure their film doesn’t feel one-note, neither presenting such a topic as mere doom-and-gloom or as a completely light-hearted affair, but rather finding just the right balance of the in-between. A celebration of nature, yet also a reminder of its fragility, managing to hit home the heart-breaking numbers forcing the hands of people like Shields to finally step in rather than be simple observers. Eco-Hack does take its subject matter seriously but allows the audience the space to smile through it as well. And with Shields as its very likeable and inspiring subject, the film does what it should in showcasing him and his work front and centre. Short yes, but nothing short of an inspiring film of ingenuity, tenacity and belief in making a difference. About the Film Critic Chris Buick Short Film, Documentary < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Cha film review by UK film critic Patrick Foley. Starring Thomas B. Tran, Joy Sung Kim, Sean Gougeon directed by Xiwen Miao. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Cha Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Patrick Foley | Posted on: Feb 6, 2022 Directed by: Xiwen Miao Written by: Xiwen Miao Starring: Thomas B. Tran, Joy Sung Kim, Sean Gougeon It was barely a footnote in the news cycle that incidents of anti-Asian hate crimes significantly rose during the early days of the pandemic. Xiwen Miao’s Cha tells a story of one family’s experience, and the lasting impact it has on them. Jiho (Thomas B. Tran) lives with his grandmother (Joy Sung Kim) in a small American town. He is second-generation Korean, and spends his time learning about his heritage from his grandma whilst the pair run a fruit stall from their home. But as the pandemic hits, Jiho begins to notice that people around the town treat them differently – and an attack on their home leaves him with a desire to stand up for his family, and his culture. Cha is a powerful short story about the embracing of heritage in the face of intolerance, and the importance of family in discovering who we are. Having grown up in the United States, Jiho’s connection to his Korean roots is reliant upon his grandmother’s teachings. The pair bond over language and tradition, with the young man eager to learn. However, Jiho possess modern views and sensibilities around race, and differs from his grandmother in how he wants to react when the family are victims of a racist attack on their home. The film demonstrates that both modern and traditional values are essential in finding our true selves – and Jiho’s determination to reconcile these elements of his life make the film a celebration of Asian culture, despite the scenes of adversity the family face. Thomas B. Tran and Joy Sung Kim share indelible chemistry, and their on-screen family relationship completely convinces. Tran brings a curiosity to Jiho – both surrounding his Korean heritage, and his growing awareness of racism around him. It is clear from Tran’s performance that he is torn between his respect for his grandmother and his frustration at their treatment in the world. Joy Sung Kim is magnificent as the grandmother herself, whose gentle exterior contains the hidden layers of a long-lived life. Her reluctance to speak around her military background is an ambiguous mystery – and Kim’s expression when questioned by Jiho is enough to engross viewers as to her story. The film features stunning cinematography and production. Wide shots on an idyllic lake upon which Jiho and his grandmother sit builds a sense of Americana into the film, showing that their immigrant story is as American as anyone else’s. Director Xiwen Miao allows shots to linger on both leads, pulling the audience into their world and experiences more personally than many films accomplish. A chase scene after one of the attacks on the family’s home features frantic and distressing pace and lighting – echoing scenes from the horror genre and implying that the attackers have monstrous qualities. The film is boldly political, and unafraid to directly use very relevant hateful phrases and quotations popularised by right-wing groups and politicians (you can probably guess which one…). It is important to see filmmakers reflecting the uglier sides of society in their work, and given that the film aims to raise awareness around anti-Asian racism, unequivocal clarity on these issues serves its purpose well – even if some of the dialogue feels a little forced at times to include these. Cha is a powerful experience – both harrowing and life-affirming at times but affecting throughout. This short film is an important watch, both for entertaining and educational reasons. About the Film Critic Patrick Foley Digital / DVD Release, Short Film, World Cinema, Film Festival < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Where the Devil Roams film review by UK film critic Hope Madden. Starring John Adams, Toby Poser, Zelda Adams directed by John Adams, Toby Poser, Zelda Adams. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Where the Devil Roams Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Hope Madden | Posted on: Dec 1, 2023 Directed by: John Adams, Toby Poser, Zelda Adams Written by: John Adams, Toby Poser, Zelda Adams Starring: John Adams, Toby Poser, Zelda Adams There is macabre beauty in every frame of Where the Devil Roams , the latest offbeat horror from the Adams family. The film was co-directed and co-written by its three lead actors – Toby Poser, John Adams and Zelda Adams – who are also a family. The same team made last year’s Hellbender and 2020’s The Deeper You Dig , among others. Like their earlier efforts, Where the Devil Roams concerns itself with life on the fringes, rock music, and the family dynamic. Their latest follows a sideshow act, a family. They perform unusual songs sung by their daughter Eve (Zelda Adams), who is, outside of these songs, entirely mute. But the act isn’t bringing in much lately, and as they move from town to town, sometimes Maggie’s temper or sense of justice means blood – even limbs, on occasion – will be spilled. The family’s lived-in quality benefits the film. As they move from farmhouse to farmhouse, sideshow to riverbend, their tics and quirks meet acceptance born of familiarity. It not only anchors the bizarre nature of the film in authenticity, but creates a tenderness that makes you root for the family no matter their actions. Poser continues to be a force. She compels your attention, carving out a character that’s vulnerable and strong, insecure, brutish and tender. The ensemble convinces, particularly the sideshow performers, but the film’s most enduring charm is its vintage portrait look. It’s a gorgeous movie, the filmmakers creating the beautifully seedy atmosphere ideal to the era and setting. Where the Devil Roams feels expansive and open, but like anything else in the sideshow, that’s all trickery. There’s more happening in this film than they let on, which is why the final act feels simultaneously “a ha!” and “WTF?!” You won’t see it coming, but in retrospect, it was there all along. About the Film Critic Hope Madden Digital / DVD Release, Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Groomed film review by UK film critic Patrick Foley. Starring Danielle Lyn, Angelo Reyes, Amor Owens directed by Angelo Reyes. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Groomed Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: Patrick Foley | Posted on: Sep 18, 2023 Directed by: Angelo Reyes Written by: Mary J. Dixon, Angelo Reyes Starring: Danielle Lyn, Angelo Reyes, Amor Owens Angelo Reyes’ Groomed – a drama short based on the real-life story of trafficking survivor Tanya Street – is a difficult and daunting film that imperfectly but authentically realises the disturbing pathways many young women find themselves dragged down that lead to a life of abuse and violence. Maria (Danielle Lyn) flees home after a fallout with her parents, finding herself having to survive on her own. She falls in love with Ricardo (Reyes), an older boyfriend who manipulates her into sleeping with a friend for money in order for them to pursue a life together. But as time passes, Maria is forced into more and more acts of prostitution, until her entire sense of self and worth have been destroyed as she sees no way out of the life she feels trapped in. Groomed makes for an interesting comparison with the recently released Sound of Freedom - the Qanon and Trump supported action that also focuses on human trafficking. Both are based on true stories, but Groomed ’s portrayal of the sinister, personal and manipulative methods that faux-boyfriend types utilise to coerce trusting partners into a life of sexual slavery is a much more common and regular crisis than the supposed rings of paedophiles who act as antagonists of Alejandro Monteverde’s feature. Groomed shows that trafficking usually starts much closer to home – and this personal account of inspiration Tanya Street’s experience acts as a much more relevant and complex exploration of the issue as a result. Whilst the story itself is affecting, the film itself has some significant storytelling flaws that its powerful message cannot deflect from. The short runtime means that the relationship between Maria and Ricardo is seriously condensed, essentially acting out over the course of a single scene. This means there is no chance for any sort of chemistry to develop between the pair, and Maria’s decision to follow her supposed boyfriend’s lead to a place she does not want to go does not feel fully developed or comprehensible. As the film progresses, other issues arise – such as the finale in which Maria is able to escape her controllers with ridiculous ease. Whilst the scenes themselves are clearly meant to be symbolic of real events and a metaphor for the act of good Samaritans, the events in the film’s world fail to align with the reputation of the characters that have been created and portray Maria as someone who never thought of an easy and straightforward escape. The acting is lacklustre and below par for even a lower-budget film. The majority of the cast provide wooden and stunted delivery of their lines, and never match the required anguish, anger or intensity of the situation their characters find themselves in. Some of this is a result of scripting issues as well as the shorter runtime which never really allows proper development to take place, but the basics of delivery and performance could have been ironed out much more thoroughly. Groomed has a lot of rough edges and deficiencies, but brings to life an emotional and difficult story relatively well. Trafficking and slavery make for an incredibly difficult topic, and the director manages to portray issues and realities around this in a respectful and authentic way. About the Film Critic Patrick Foley Digital / DVD Release, Short Film, World Cinema < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Tangled Up in Christmas film review by UK film critic Wiliam Curzon. Starring Molly Flanagan, Tess Rianne Sullivan, Jonathan Cahill directed by Michael Joseph Nelson. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS Tangled Up in Christmas Film Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Critic: William Curzon | Posted on: Dec 1, 2025 Directed by: Michael Joseph Nelson Written by: Molly Flanagan, Michael Joseph Nelson Starring: Molly Flanagan, Tess Rianne Sullivan, Jonathan Cahill Tangled Up in Christmas follows Elizabeth (Molly Flanagan) when she returns home for the annual Christmas charity event at her parents’ home, with her sister Sam (Tess Rianne Sullivan). Elizabeth is reeling from a complicated relationship with her husband, Frank (Jonathan Cahill). Both sisters must learn to work together to ensure the event goes as planned, or Christmas will be ruined. Adopting a wholesome narrative from its holiday setting and the theme of sisterhood, writer/director Michael Joseph Nelson suitably sets the tone for what one would generally come to expect from a piece of filmmaking such as this. The film includes incredibly well-implemented Christmas needle drops with a cosy vibe, creating a heartwarming atmosphere reminiscent of a family Christmas. The musical score is whimsical and consistently fits the tone throughout the entire runtime. While the camerawork isn't anything that groundbreaking, it is competently shot for this specific genre of film and the themes it tackles. Michael Joseph Nelson and Marcelo Sansevieri’s edit is seamless throughout, with suitably placed transitions into different sequences. Some scenes may overstay their welcome; however, this is more a result of thinly stretched dialogue rather than formal decisions. The momentary use of black and white photography is also an effective decision within a sequence of surrealism. The film takes a rather steady pace to flesh out the character dynamics between Elizabeth and Sam, which brings strengths and detriments during the prolonged second act. While there's not much to chew on thematically, the narrative is entirely anchored by their relationship and the chemistry-laden cast of characters. The supporting characters, at times, can unfortunately feel one-dimensional in their characterisation, and some of the line deliveries can feel robotic and clumsy in their execution. It can also be challenging to engage with the supporting characters due to their limited depth, but their chemistry with the leading players always keeps the narrative grounded and natural. The central performances from Molly Flanagan and Tess Rianne Sullivan are incredibly endearing, and they display a profound level of nuance and love for one another. Flanagan, in particular, has incredible comedic timing, and the film rests entirely on their sisterhood dynamic. While Elizabeth does possess a rather manipulative personality to get Sam to come with her to their parents’ home, it's hard not to care about the character, thanks to Molly Flanagan’s performance. Unfortunately, the narrative can become deeply unengaging throughout the second act, primarily due to the stagnant planning of the charity event and a forced central romance that doesn't fully resonate, despite Molly Flanagan and Michael Joseph Nelson’s heartwarming chemistry. The prolonged buildup, however, thankfully feels earned as the conclusive moments of the story wrap up the central driving point of the narrative in an emotionally satisfying manner, leaving the viewer with a profound message of acceptance of where you are in life currently, even with its pitfalls. It’s a family-friendly piece of entertainment that may appeal to a broader target audience for annual viewing around the holiday season. Tangled Up in Christmas is a cosy and wholesome piece of filmmaking with a lovely Christmas setting built on a compelling set of performances from Molly Flanagan and Tess Rianne Sullivan. While it may suffer from some pacing issues in the second act and a central romance that doesn't fully land, it's competently directed by Michael Joseph Nelson and leaves the viewer with a loving sense of fulfilment in the acceptance of the complicated nature of their dysfunctional family. About the Film Critic William Curzon Christmas, Digital / DVD Release < All Reviews Next Film Review >

By the Grace of... film review by UK film critic Jason Knight. Starring Dylan Reid, Laith Khalifeh, Grainne Ortlieb, Whitney Masters directed by Dylan Reid. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS By the Grace of... Film Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Jan 1, 2022 Directed by: Dylan Reid Written by: Dylan Reid Starring: Dylan Reid, Laith Khalifeh, Grainne Ortlieb, Whitney Masters A young man discovers that he has a devastating disease and decides to make a film that will explore what life is like living with his condition. This moving drama is an autobiographical work by Reid, who was motivated to make this feature after he himself was diagnosed with Huntington's Disease, a rare inherited disease that develops cognitive, movement and psychiatric disorders. The average lifespan after diagnosis is between ten to thirty years and currently, there is no cure. A significant number of the cast and crew was made up of Reid's friends. The film begins with Reid, who plays himself, receiving the fateful diagnosis and the audience observes him as he tries to get on with his life. The symptoms will begin to take over in approximately ten years and the discovery that he has this disease is not a complete surprise as his late mother also suffered from the same condition and he knew there was a high possibility that he would inherit it from her. He spends a great deal of time with his friends, including Lucas (Khalifeh) and Emily (Masters) and comes up with the idea to make a movie that will show how Huntington's Disease has affected his life. He also starts a romantic relationship with a friendly and joyful young woman named Lizzie (Ortlieb), however he conceals his illness from her, as he does not want people to suffer by watching what he will be going through in the future. Reid comes across as a likeable, intelligent and selfless individual, who treats people with respect and is very brave regarding how he handles his condition, by keeping his head up and carrying on being creative and sociable. He is surrounded by supportive people who care deeply for him, nevertheless it is heartbreaking knowing that he will be going through awful times. The viewer follows him as he works with friends on the film, writes the script, holds casting sessions, visits a pastor and carries on dating Lizzie. The atmosphere is rather emotional throughout and there are moments that show the strength of friendship and the desire to make significant achievements in life. There are several scenes that take the style of documentary filmmaking and they include friends of Reid (his real-life friends) looking into the camera and talking about how they felt when they learned about his diagnosis. Their faces are filled with emotion and it is clear that the news affected them heavily. Watching them share their thoughts is quite dramatic. Reid directs well and the cinematography by Henry Zaballos looks beautiful. Paul Cherry and Karsten Osterby make a great contribution with the dramatic score. This multi-award-winning film is a rather personal project, one that reflects the director's own life. It will most likely move the audience by introducing them to an individual who is forced to deal with some of the hardest realities of life but who is also strong and has tons of support from the people around him. It also raises awareness of Huntington's Disease and offers a viewing experience that will probably remain with the audience for a long time. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Indie Feature Film < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Trailers for movies coming out in February 2020. Watch these exciting film trailers and find out what to watch in cinemas in Feb this year. February Movie Trailers Arguably the most important month in the film calendar, these February Movie Trailers should whet the appetite of any cinemagoer looking for some essential viewing before the all-important Oscars. Often, the first couple of months of a new year are chock-a-block with movies that are shoe-ins for nominations and wins. Whilst this page might include an array of trailers of films coming out in February, they may not all be award-winning material, such is the fantastic variety of film. If you want to stay up to date with our trailers, follow us on Facebook (link in the footer) where we upload and promote them regularly. You can even leave a comment if you are feeling particularly brave/troll-y. As with all our content, any help spreading the good word is much appreciated. So if you can share this with your digital pals, and tag us wherever possible, we would be oh-so-thankful. And if you don't think February movie trailers are the kind of thing you can share with your friends, family, and followers then maybe create a brand new profile to do so. This could allow you to reinvent yourself! Create a new identity! You could give yourself that nickname you always dreamed of...think about it. Anyway, we digress, enjoy these movie trailers for films coming to cinemas in February 2020! Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn Movie Trailer Emma Movie Trailer Sonic the Hedgehog Movie Trailer Like a Boss Movie Trailer Back to MOVIE TRAILERS