REVIEW: Turbo Sliders Unlimited (2024 Racing Game) - On PC (Steam)

Turbo Sliders Unlimited is a versatile and community-driven racing game that offers far more than traditional top-down racing. It allows players to create and share their own levels, vehicles, and game modes, making it a highly customisable and creative experience. The game supports both online multiplayer with up to 20 players and local split-screen with up to four, catering to a wide range of gaming styles. Its various game modes, such as racing, sumo, capture the flag, and weapon battles, provide endless ways to play, and the powerful level and vehicle editors ensure that user-generated content keeps the game fresh and engaging. The game's visuals are polished, and its flexibility in allowing players to host custom servers with unique rules adds significant depth.

However, the game does have some flaws. The overly complicated menu system can be frustrating to navigate, especially for casual players, and the lack of a simple control guide is a noticeable oversight. Additionally, the third-person camera view can trigger motion sickness, limiting the enjoyment for some players. Despite these issues, Turbo Sliders Unlimited remains a fun and feature-packed game with immense potential, particularly for those who enjoy customisation and community-driven content. With a few improvements, the game could easily reach its full potential.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/08/review-turbo-sliders-unlimited-2024.html

REVIEW: Gunner (2024 Movie) - Starring Luke Hemsworth and Morgan Freeman

Gunner (2024) attempts to capture the essence of an old-school action thriller but falls short due to its numerous flaws. Luke Hemsworth delivers a solid performance as Colonel Lee Gunner, a battle-hardened war veteran trying to protect his sons from a violent gang. Despite Hemsworth's commendable effort, the film is marred by its low budget, resulting in poor special effects and uninspired fight scenes. The plot, though reminiscent of classic black ops thrillers, lacks originality and relies on overused tropes, offering little in the way of suspense or innovation.

Morgan Freeman's brief appearance as the imprisoned kingpin Kendrick Ryker adds star power but feels underutilised, with Freeman on screen for barely ten minutes. The film's shortcomings, from its lacklustre screenplay to its subpar visual effects, make it a forgettable watch. Ultimately, Gunner struggles to rise above its limitations, leaving viewers with a film that is watchable but far from memorable.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/08/review-gunner-2024-action-thriller-film.html

REVIEW: Oddity (2024 Irish Horror Film) - Starring Carolyn Bracken, Gwilym Lee and Tadhg Murphy

"Oddity," Damian Mc Carthy's 2024 Irish horror film, delivers an eerie and unsettling experience centred on Darcy, a blind medium grieving her twin sister Dani's murder. The film builds tension through a careful blend of psychological suspense and supernatural horror, avoiding overt gore in favour of a more nuanced approach. The setting—Darcy's curio shop filled with cursed objects and a remote country house—enhances the atmospheric dread. Carolyn Bracken's dual performance as both Darcy and Dani is a standout, while Gwilym Lee portrays Ted with a mix of charm and malevolence. Though the plot may be predictable, the slow unraveling of Ted's dark secrets keeps the narrative engaging, and the film's reliance on suggestion over explicit horror adds to its deeply unsettling tone.

Despite the predictability of the story, "Oddity" is a strong horror entry, offering genuine scares through its haunting visuals and well-timed jump scares. The life-sized wooden mannequin, a key element in Darcy's quest for truth, is one of the most chilling aspects of the film, though it feels underused. The film excels in creating a tense atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll, proving that understated horror can be just as effective as more visceral fare. Although more could have been done with the mannequin, the film's strong direction and unsettling mood make it a compelling and memorable watch.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/08/review-oddity-2024-irish-horror-film.html

REVIEW: The Instigators (2024 Movie) - Starring Casey Affleck and Matt Damon

"The Instigators," directed by Doug Liman, is a heist comedy that benefits greatly from the chemistry between its leads, Matt Damon and Casey Affleck. Damon shines in a role that allows him to underplay his character's tough-guy persona, delivering dry humour that complements Affleck's portrayal of the unlucky ex-con, Cobby Murphy. The film is further enhanced by Hong Chau's performance as Dr. Rivera, whose unexpected involvement in the caper adds depth and warmth to the story. Despite these strengths, the film's plot treads familiar ground, offering a collection of genre tropes rather than any truly surprising twists.

While "The Instigators" is enjoyable, with sharp dialogue, engaging character interactions, and well-executed action sequences, it ultimately feels like a safe, predictable entry in the heist genre. The stellar cast and Liman's directorial flair keep the film entertaining, but it doesn't push any boundaries or leave a lasting impact. It's a solid watch for a relaxed evening, though one can't help but wish the filmmakers had taken more risks to elevate it beyond a formulaic experience.
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REVIEW: Skincare (2024 Film) - Starring Elizabeth Banks and Lewis Pullman

"Skincare," directed by Austin Peters, is a glossy but ultimately shallow crime thriller that struggles to balance its mix of satire and suspense. Elizabeth Banks shines as Hope Goldman, a successful aesthetician whose life unravels after a series of attacks threaten her career and reputation. Despite Banks' compelling performance, the film's plot, which involves a rivalry with a fellow facialist and a web of harassment, quickly veers into melodrama. Though the setup teases an intriguing exploration of the beauty industry's darker side, the narrative fails to deliver anything deeper, relying instead on increasingly improbable twists and turns.

While the film boasts a sleek, 80s-inspired aesthetic and moments of dark comedy, its uneven tone and underdeveloped characters prevent it from becoming the sharp satire it could have been. The final act devolves into a predictable series of betrayals, and the rushed conclusion undermines the tension that was built earlier in the film. Despite its surface-level appeal and some entertaining moments, "Skincare" ultimately feels more like a missed opportunity than a truly impactful thriller.

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http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/08/review-skincare-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: The Union (2024 Movie) - Starring Halle Berry and Mark Wahlberg

"The Union," directed by Julian Farino, is a 2024 spy action comedy that blends espionage with romance and humour, featuring Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry in lead roles. The film follows Mike McKenna, a New Jersey construction worker thrust into the world of international intrigue when his high school sweetheart, now a secret agent, recruits him for a dangerous mission. Despite its intriguing premise and high production values, including well-crafted action sequences and visually appealing European settings, the film struggles with believability, as both Wahlberg and Berry appear visibly older than their characters' intended ages.

While the movie offers a slick, entertaining experience, it ultimately falls into the trap of predictability, with a script filled with clichés and characters that lack depth. The film's dialogue and plot developments are often formulaic, resulting in a watchable but ultimately forgettable action thriller. Despite the strong performances from its star-studded cast and impressive visual appeal, "The Union" doesn't quite manage to rise above the middle-of-the-road fare that has become typical of Netflix's action offerings.

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http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/08/review-union-2024-film-starring-mark.html

REVIEW: Jackpot! (2024 Film) - Starring Awkwafina and John Cena

"Jackpot!" is a 2024 action-comedy that presents an intriguing premise but ultimately falls short in execution. Directed by Paul Feig, the film follows Katie Kim, a struggling actress played by Awkwafina, who unexpectedly wins a high-stakes lottery in a future where anyone can legally claim her prize by killing her before sundown. She teams up with Noel Cassidy, an amateur lottery protection agent portrayed by John Cena, to survive the day. While the film features engaging performances from its leads and well-executed action scenes, it struggles to deliver on the comedic front, with many of the jokes falling flat and the satire feeling half-hearted.

Despite its strong cast and promising concept, "Jackpot!" suffers from a predictable and formulaic plot, which prevents it from fully realising its potential. The chemistry between Awkwafina and Cena is a highlight, but the film's lack of sharp humour and reliance on improvisation without a solid script leave it feeling underwhelming. Ultimately, "Jackpot!" is an entertaining yet forgettable experience, earning a score of 5 out of 10 for its missed opportunities and lacklustre delivery.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/08/review-jackpot-2024-action-comedy-film.html

REVIEW: JDM: Rise of the Scorpion (2024 Video Game) on PC (Steam)

"JDM: Rise of the Scorpion" is a visually striking prologue that introduces players to the world of "Japanese Drift Master" through the story of Hatori 'Scorpion' Hasashi. The game excels in its portrayal of the Japanese setting, with dynamic weather and day-night cycles that create an immersive racing environment. The manga-style storytelling adds a unique narrative element, enriching the overall experience. The sense of speed and adrenaline when racing is a highlight, supported by solid sound effects and decent music.

However, the game suffers from unrefined driving mechanics, particularly in drifting and crash detection. The drifting, which should be a central feature, feels awkward and is hampered by abrupt, immersion-breaking collisions. While these flaws detract from the gameplay, "JDM: Rise of the Scorpion" remains an intriguing glimpse into what could become a standout racing title. As a free prologue, it's worth exploring, with the hope that the full game will address these issues and realise its potential.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/08/review-jdm-rise-of-scorpion-2024-video.html

REVIEW: The Exit 8 (2024 Video Game) on PC (Steam)

"The Exit 8" by Kotake Create is an atmospheric walking simulator that expertly blends psychological horror with puzzle-solving. Set in a Japanese metro station passageway, the game draws players into an unsettling environment where reality seems to distort. The simple objective of spotting anomalies in the station's layout becomes a deeply immersive and nerve-wracking experience, heightened by the game's realistic graphics and meticulous attention to detail. The looping mechanic and the presence of a passer-by acting as a timer add layers of tension, making even small decisions feel weighty and stressful.

Despite its strengths, "The Exit 8" is a short experience, with a playtime of around 20 minutes for those who navigate the anomalies correctly. This brevity, while contributing to the game's intense atmosphere, also limits its replayability. However, the game succeeds in creating a memorable and impactful experience through its focused design and ability to evoke a profound sense of discomfort, ensuring it lingers in the player's mind long after completion.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/08/review-exit-8-2024-video-game-on-pc.html

REVIEW: Borderlands (2024 Film) - Starring Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart and Jamie Lee Curtis.

"Borderlands," directed by Eli Roth, delivers a visually captivating experience that faithfully recreates the chaotic and colourful world of the popular video game series. Cate Blanchett shines as Lilith, bringing depth to her role as a bounty hunter with a mysterious past. The film's visual style, reminiscent of the games' distinctive cel-shaded aesthetic, immerses viewers in the bizarre landscape of Pandora. The chemistry between Lilith and Tiny Tina, played by Ariana Greenblatt, adds emotional weight to the film, while the action sequences and humour capture the essence of the game's irreverent tone. However, the film's reliance on insider references and gaming culture may alienate those unfamiliar with the source material.

While "Borderlands" succeeds in translating the game's frenetic energy to the screen, its heavy reliance on fan service limits its broader appeal. The film's humour and narrative, though entertaining, often feel excessive and may confuse or disconnect non-gamers. Despite its occasional tonal inconsistency, "Borderlands" stands as one of the better video game adaptations, offering an enjoyable, if somewhat niche, cinematic experience. Fans of the game will likely appreciate its loyalty to the source material, while others may find it harder to engage with its over-the-top, tongue-in-cheek approach.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/08/review-borderlands-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Creatures of Ava (2024 Video Game) - On Xbox

"Creatures of Ava" offers a refreshing twist on the open-world adventure genre, inviting players to explore the vibrant planet Ava as Vic, a young researcher dedicated to saving its wildlife from a mysterious infection called "the withering." The game's narrative, crafted with the help of Rhianna Pratchett, is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, exploring themes of environmental stewardship and empathy. The lush, hand-painted art style and evocative soundtrack create an immersive world, filled with diverse ecosystems and over 20 unique creatures. The gameplay centres around a non-violent approach, where players use a special flute to soothe and cleanse infected creatures, emphasizing the importance of conservation and understanding.

The game excels in creating a rich and interconnected world, with well-designed biomes that are a visual delight. However, minor issues such as inconsistent voice acting and occasional camera problems can detract from the experience. Despite these flaws, the game's engaging side quests and innovative mechanics, like the photography system reminiscent of the Pokémon Pokédex, provide plenty of depth and replayability. "Creatures of Ava" is a beautifully crafted and imaginative adventure that offers a unique blend of exploration and puzzle-solving, encouraging players to connect with and protect the natural world of Ava.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/08/review-creatures-of-ava-2024-open-world.html