REVIEW: Avatar: The Last Airbender: Quest for Balance

Avatar: The Last Airbender: Quest for Balance invites fans to relive the captivating adventure of the original animated series, embracing the elements and exploring the diverse world of Avatar. The game's art style is striking, adopting a delightful cell shading graphics design that brings the Avatar universe to life in an immersive 3D side scrolling type platform and adventure experience.

One of the game's strengths lies in its versatility of play. Players can either embark on the journey solo, switching between iconic characters or team up with a friend for an engaging two-player co-op experience. The mechanics play smoothly, making it easy for players to navigate through the game and enjoy the adventure in their preferred way.

However, the game does fall short in terms of variety and depth. The levels, while visually appealing, often follow a repetitive pattern with relatively small maps and similar quests. The quests, whether main or side, can become predictable, leading to a sense of monotony. Additionally, the camera viewpoint occasionally hinders puzzle-solving, limiting the player's perspective and complicating certain challenges.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-avatar-last-airbender-quest-for.html

REVIEW: Gran Turismo (2023) - Starring Archie Madekwe

"Gran Turismo" takes a thrilling spin through the world of motorsport, chronicling the journey of Jann Mardenborough from a Gran Turismo gamer to a professional race car driver. Neill Blomkamp's directorial prowess shines through in this biographical sports drama.

Bringing to life the remarkable true tale of an unconventional trio of underdogs: a determined gamer from a working-class background (portrayed by Archie Madekwe), a past-his-prime race car driver (played by David Harbour), and an optimistic motorsport executive (played by Orlando Bloom). Their collective journey is an audacious gamble, pitting them against the pinnacle of the sports world.

The film impresses with speedy action and a feel-good underdog narrative, capturing the essence of a solid racing movie. The racing sequences are expertly crafted, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience, especially during the climactic 24-hour race in France. Blomkamp's direction adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling, creating a surprisingly genuine and satisfying climax.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-gran-turismo-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Expend4bles (2023) AKA The Expendables 4 - Starring Jason Statham, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren and Randy Couture

Expend4bles, the fourth electrifying chapter in The Expendables saga, rekindles the essence of classic action films, delivering a turbocharged cinematic experience. Headlined by a stellar ensemble cast including action icons like Jason Statham, Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, and an array of new talents, the film doesn't skimp on the explosive action sequences and bone-crushing confrontations that fans have come to expect.

Jason Statham's performance as Lee Christmas stands out, bringing depth and intensity to his character, especially in the realm of knife combat. The film shines with its relentless action, boasting memorable set pieces that embrace the franchise's reputation for exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping sequences.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-expend4bles-2023-starring-jason.html

REVIEW: Bottoms (2023) - Starring Rachel Sennott, Ayo Edebiri, Ruby Cruz and Havana Rose Liu

"Bottoms" is a 2023 American satirical teen sex comedy film directed by Emma Seligman, and it certainly makes a bold and unconventional statement.

One of the film's strengths lies in its audacious and humorous take on various themes. "Bottoms" stands out as a satirical critique of victimization, violence, and even itself. The exaggerated and absurd situations it presents create a unique and somewhat absurd comedic experience.

Rachel Sennott and Ayo Edebiri deliver commendable performances in their respective roles, adding depth to the characters they portray. Emma Seligman's direction also deserves credit for managing the film's unconventional narrative.

However, "Bottoms" does have its share of drawbacks. It's apparent that the film carries a particular agenda, which may not resonate with everyone. The casting choices seem driven by a checkbox mentality, which can detract from the authenticity of the characters and their interactions. This emphasis on being "woke" at times overshadows the potential for the film to become an instant classic.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-bottoms-2023-starring-rachel.html

REVIEW: The Retirement Plan (2023) - Starring Nicolas Cage

Director and writer Tim Brown delivers a punchy 2023 American crime thriller, "The Retirement Plan," featuring a stellar cast and a plot that keeps you at the edge of your seat. Nicolas Cage's charismatic performance stands out, as well as the underlying theme of family bonds and redemption.

The story follows Ashley (Ashley Greene) and her young daughter Sarah (Thalia Campbell), caught in a perilous criminal conspiracy. Seeking refuge and aid, Ashley turns to her estranged father, Matt (Nicolas Cage), a retired government assassin known as "the sneak." The film kicks off with an air of mystery surrounding Cage's character, seamlessly transitioning from the sunny Cayman Islands to the gritty world of crime.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-retirement-plan-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: NASCAR Arcade Rush on Xbox

NASCAR Arcade Rush, published by GameMill Entertainment, delivers a pulse-pounding arcade racing experience that will ignite the engines of both racing enthusiasts and casual gamers. Buckle up, hit the gas, and prepare for a thrilling adventure through reimagined versions of NASCAR's most legendary racetracks.

From the get-go, NASCAR Arcade Rush captivates with lightning-fast, high-octane gameplay that stays true to the spirit of NASCAR while injecting an arcade twist. The full-contact, wheel-to-wheel racing, combined with jaw-dropping jumps, nitro boosts, and unexpected surprises, keeps players at the edge of their seats. This game manages to strike a decent balance between being approachable for all and catering to die-hard NASCAR fans.

One of the standout features is the reimagination of iconic NASCAR tracks such as Talladega Superspeedway, Daytona International Speedway, Darlington Raceway, and more. The reengineered versions of these tracks deliver a fresh, imaginative take on familiar locales, adding an exhilarating dimension to the gameplay.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-nascar-arcade-rush-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: NASCAR Arcade Rush on Xbox

NASCAR Arcade Rush, published by GameMill Entertainment, delivers a pulse-pounding arcade racing experience that will ignite the engines of both racing enthusiasts and casual gamers. Buckle up, hit the gas, and prepare for a thrilling adventure through reimagined versions of NASCAR's most legendary racetracks.

From the get-go, NASCAR Arcade Rush captivates with lightning-fast, high-octane gameplay that stays true to the spirit of NASCAR while injecting an arcade twist. The full-contact, wheel-to-wheel racing, combined with jaw-dropping jumps, nitro boosts, and unexpected surprises, keeps players at the edge of their seats. This game manages to strike a decent balance between being approachable for all and catering to die-hard NASCAR fans.

One of the standout features is the reimagination of iconic NASCAR tracks such as Talladega Superspeedway, Daytona International Speedway, Darlington Raceway, and more. The reengineered versions of these tracks deliver a fresh, imaginative take on familiar locales, adding an exhilarating dimension to the gameplay.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-nascar-arcade-rush-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Office Race (2023) Starring Joel McHale and Beck Bennett

Office Race, a 2023 comedy film, pleasantly surprises by defying the expectations typically associated with direct to television comedies. While it may initially seem like just another run-of-the-mill comedy, the movie delves deeper into its characters and themes, striking a balance between all out comedy and funny drama.

The story follows Pat Cassidy (Beck Bennett), a typical corporate worker with little ambition and a strong aversion to running, who unexpectedly finds purpose in long-distance marathon running. The plot takes an unexpected turn when his workplace rival, Spencer (Joel McHale), coerces him into participating in a charity marathon, leading to a series of twists and personal revelations.

Joel McHale and Beck Bennett deliver commendable performances, embodying their characters' dynamics with skill. The film's tone is light-hearted, avoiding excessive cheesy one-liners or outdated humour often found in the comedy genre. Instead, it focuses on a variety of characters, each contributing to the story in their unique ways.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-office-race-2023-starring-joel.html

REVIEW: Golf Evolution Simulation on PC (Steam)

Today I decided to check out indie game Golf Evolution Simulation, a gaming experience that boasts an impressive lineup of Golf Series cars.

Golf Evolution Simulation offers a grand total of 30 missions for players to complete. The game unfolds within a vast city, featuring two expansive continents for exploration.

Unleash your creativity by tailoring and personalizing your vehicles to your heart's content. On the Stunt Test and Fun Zone map, you can subject your vehicles to a myriad of thrilling experiences, from soaring through the air to sliding down ramps, all in the name of pure fun.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-golf-evolution-simulation-on-pc.html

REVIEW: Elevator Game (2023) - Starring Megan Best and Gino Anania

Elevator Game, directed by Rebekah McKendry, takes audiences on a nerve-wracking journey into the supernatural. The film begins with a compelling scene, cleverly utilizing shots of Becki (Megan Best) navigating the elevator's buttons and the underlying machinery, setting an ominous tone. As the story unfolds, a mysterious entity known as The 5th Floor Woman comes into play, thrusting the plot into a realm of horror.

Becki's disappearance leaves her socially awkward teenage brother, Ryan (Gino Anania), desperate for answers. Uncovering that she had played 'The Elevator Game' before vanishing, he resolves to follow her footsteps and find out the truth. Ryan intertwines his fate with a group of YouTubers led by Chloe (Verity Marks), exploring the supernatural. The film delves into the Elevator Game, a ritual attempting to traverse dimensions, adding an exciting layer to the narrative.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-elevator-game-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Heavy Duty Challenge on Xbox

"Heavy Duty Challenge" attempts to immerse players into the challenging world of off-road truck trials, offering an authentic simulation of the experience. The game is grounded in real-life locations and provides modding support with an in-game level editor, adding a layer of customization and creativity. It does a good job in its authentic representation of off-road driving and the detailed simulation of truck mechanics, offering a wide selection of licensed trucks and interactive cabin views.

The positives of "Heavy Duty Challenge" lie in its official licensed content by Europa Truck Trial, offering 12 real licensed trucks with interactive cabin views and supporting both steering wheel and gamepad controls for a more immersive experience.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-heavy-duty-challenge-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Aporia (2023) - Starring Judy Greer

"Aporia" is a curious blend of sci-fi and drama that takes an unconventional approach to time travel. While it may not be the sweeping time-travel epic some might expect or even perhaps want, the film manages to captivate with its strong performances from the lead actors.

The story revolves around Sophie, portrayed convincingly by Judy Greer, who is still grieving the loss of her husband Mal, played by Edi Gathegi, due to a tragic accident. The unexpected entry of Mal's best friend, Jabir, a physicist with a vendetta, adds an intriguing twist to the narrative. Payman Maadi's portrayal of Jabir is commendable, making the character both complex and relatable.

The concept of time travel in "Aporia" is unique in that it's more of a plot device than the central theme. Jabir's homemade time machine, while visually interesting, doesn't offer the traditional time-travel experience but rather serves as a means to explore themes of vengeance, regret, and the consequences of altering the past. Basically, Jabir can use the machine to send particles back in time, and using say the details of a photograph, GPS coordinates etc, he can send back the proverbial bullet and shoot someone in history, therefore changing it forever. And only Sophie and Jabir have memories of the original timeline.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-aporia-2023-starring-judy-greer.html

REVIEW: King of Killers (2023) - Starring Alain Moussi, Kevin Grevioux, and Stephen Dorff

"King of Killers" delivers a visceral punch of adrenaline, bringing together the talents of Alain Moussi, Kevin Grevioux, and Stephen Dorff in a bloody spectacle that action aficionados will relish. This thriller, adapted from Darkstorm Comics, marks Grevioux's directorial debut, and it's clear he knows how to create intense, action-packed sequences.

At the heart of the story is Marcus Garan, brilliantly portrayed by Alain Moussi. As a hitman for the enigmatic Xane, played by the ever-suave Stephen Dorff, Marcus is known for his ruthless efficiency. However, what sets this film apart is Marcus's dual life, juxtaposing his deadly profession with his loving family. This unique aspect adds depth to his character and gives viewers someone to root for beyond the typical anti-hero.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-king-of-killers-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: The Last Voyage of the Demeter (2023) Starring Javier Botet

"The Last Voyage of the Demeter" takes audiences on a chilling journey that successfully resurrects the classic tale of Dracula with a fresh and haunting perspective. Directed by André Øvredal and penned by Bragi F. Schut Jr. and Zak Olkewicz, this 2023 supernatural horror film navigates the treacherous waters of horror with a blend of atmospheric dread and savage surprises.

The film's premise revolves around the ill-fated voyage of the merchant ship Demeter, led by the capable Corey Hawkins as Clemens, a doctor who unwittingly joins the doomed crew. A standout performance comes from Aisling Franciosi as Anna, a stowaway enslaved by the sinister Dracula, portrayed with eerie mastery by Javier Botet. The cast, including Liam Cunningham as Captain Elliot and David Dastmalchian as first mate Wojchek, delivers solid performances that anchor the film.

One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to create a thick atmosphere of dread. From the moment the Demeter sets sail from Varna, Bulgaria, to its eventual arrival on the British coast, viewers are enveloped in an aura of impending doom. The cinematography and sound design work in tandem to maintain a sense of unease throughout the film.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-last-voyage-of-demeter-2023.html

REVIEW: The Equalizer 3 (2023) - Starring Denzel Washington

"The Equalizer 3" delivers exactly what fans of the franchise have come to expect - a powerhouse performance by Denzel Washington, gripping action sequences, and a relentless pursuit of justice. While it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, it stays true to its roots and offers a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.

Denzel Washington reprises his role as Robert McCall, and once again, he dominates the screen with his commanding presence. McCall is a character who is both intimidating and endearing, and Washington's performance effortlessly balances these qualities. He is a force to be reckoned with, taking on the Sicilian Mafia with a vengeance that's almost cartoonish in its intensity.

"Finding himself surprisingly at home in Southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends' protector by taking on the mafia."

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/09/review-equalizer-3-2023-starring-denzel.html

REVIEW: Cats and the Other Lives on XBOX

Today we have an unusual game, a point and click game that has been converted to Xbox, that features you in control of a cat within a narrative story.

The story is set after the passing of Bernard Mason, the family patriarch, all the remaining members of the Mason clan return to their childhood home one last time. In this unique game experience, players step into the paws of Aspen, the household cat, embarking on a captivating journey through the hopes, disappointments, and regrets of the enigmatic Mason family, spanning decades of their intricate narrative.

This game offers an interesting point-and-click play style that pays homage to the behaviours of everyday house cats from around the world. As Aspen, you'll explore the simple areas of the house, is this feline companion just a pet or does it harbour a more mysterious role in our lives.

The cat has no special powers or abilities, it is literally just a cat, the object of the game is to unravel the story of the Mason Family. You will listen in to conversations, solve puzzles, and in general do cat things like follow scents, chasing a mouse, causing chaos during family dinners and so on.

The game is rendered in 2D pixel style art.

Also, worth noting that a portion of the proceeds from "Cats and the Other Lives" is dedicated to funding medical operations for street cats.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-cats-and-other-lives-on-xbox.html