Category: REVIEWS

Framed, 2017 – ★★

Though the movie is a bit of a mess, I appreciate the effort they put into using practical effects. It’s rough around the edges, but the effects add a layer of gritty charm to the chaos.

Rebel Ridge, 2024 – ★★★

By now, you know exactly what to expect from a Saulnier film, with familiar themes and pacing throughout. While it’s solid, it might be time for him to shake things up and try something different.

Sleep Tight, 2011 – ★★★

The film features one of the creepiest main characters I’ve encountered in years, making for an unsettling watch.

Open Grave, 2013 – ★★

The film feels stretched thin, with a plot that might have been more effective as a 30-minute segment in an anthology. There’s simply not enough substance to justify its full-length runtime.

Trap, 2024 – ★★

True to Shyamalan’s style, the film starts strong with a compelling setup but suffers from a flawed ending and characters making unrealistic choices. Its overly long runtime further weakens the story, stretching it beyond its welcome.

Borderlands, 2024 – ★★

The movie isn’t nearly as bad as some might suggest, though the casting choices leave much to be desired. With little humor outside of Claptrap’s antics, it struggles to capture the spirit of the original material.

Triangle of Sadness, 2022 – ★★★

The film features intriguing characters and a wildly unpredictable plot that keeps you guessing at every turn. It’s a refreshing experience where the story takes unexpected directions you could never foresee.

The Mutilator, 1984 – ★★★

I clearly remembered the catchy theme song from a previous viewing, but the rest of the film, especially *that* one shocking kill, had slipped my mind. Its memorable moments, while sparse, still manage to leave an impression.

The Green Inferno, 2013 – ★★

Revisiting this film, I still find the dialogue and attempts at humor lacking, but it excels visually and maintains a brisk pace. Its striking cinematography keeps the experience engaging despite its flaws.

Longlegs, 2024 – ★★★★

The film is incredibly creepy and tense, making for a gripping experience best enjoyed with no prior knowledge. Nicolas Cage delivers a standout performance worthy of at least an Oscar nomination.

Death Game, 1977 – ★★★★

This 70s grindhouse gem is criminally underseen, deserving far more recognition for its bold storytelling. Sondra Locke and Colleen Camp deliver wildly unhinged performances that truly steal the show.

The Outlaws, 2017 – ★★★

The compelling performances by Ma Dong-seok and Yoon Kye-sang elevate the film, making it an engaging experience from start to finish. Their strong presence has me eager to check out the other films in this series.

Oddity, 2024 – ★★

The film treads familiar ground, offering nothing we haven’t seen countless times before. The unsatisfying ending only adds to the overall disappointment.

Alien: Romulus, 2024 – ★★★★

Initially, I was torn between giving it 1 or 4 stars, but after some thought, it definitely deserves 4 stars for capturing the 1970s retro-futuristic aesthetic perfectly. Alvarez’s bold direction and commitment to the style make it a standout entry in the series.