REVIEW: The Substance (2024 Movie) - Starring Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid

The Substance is a bold and grotesque satirical horror that explores the toxic obsession with youth and beauty in Hollywood. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, it follows Elisabeth Sparkle, a fading actress who resorts to a mysterious serum that creates a younger, more beautiful version of herself. Demi Moore shines in the role, bringing emotional depth to Elisabeth, while Margaret Qualley is captivating as her carefree, hedonistic alter-ego, Sue. The dynamic between the two personas intensifies as their relationship grows increasingly destructive, highlighted by stunning visuals, excellent prosthetic work, and a strikingly audacious style.

While the film succeeds in delivering shocking body horror and sharp commentary on the pressures of appearance, it can be overwhelming for some, with its reliance on grotesque imagery and extreme gore. The final act veers into absurdity, but the film's energy and boldness keep it engaging. As both a horror film and a critique of Hollywood's beauty standards, The Substance hits hard, even if it lacks some subtlety, making it an entertaining and bloody spectacle.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-substance-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Never Let Go (2024 Movie) - Starring Halle Berry

Never Let Go starts strong with an intriguing premise about a mother and her two sons isolated in the woods, living in fear of a supernatural force called "The Evil." Halle Berry delivers a standout performance as the paranoid and desperate mother, grounding the psychological tension that builds as one of her sons begins to doubt the reality of the entity. The film explores themes of faith, doubt, and family bonds, creating a chilling atmosphere early on with its eerie setting and unsettling dynamic between the characters.

However, as the story progresses, it becomes repetitive and loses its impact. The mythology surrounding The Evil becomes convoluted, and the attempts to unravel the mystery fall flat with an underwhelming, confusing ending. Outdated CGI and a script that overcomplicates itself diminish the tension, leaving the final act feeling rushed and unsatisfying. Despite Berry's strong performance, the film fails to maintain its initial promise, making it a middling effort in the survival horror genre.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-never-let-go-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Silent Hill 2 (2024 Game Remake) - On PS5

The 2024 remake of Silent Hill 2 by Bloober Team is a fantastic tribute to the original, successfully capturing the haunting atmosphere that made the 2001 version so iconic. With stunning visuals powered by Unreal Engine 5, the graphics truly immerse players in the fog-shrouded town of Silent Hill. The audio design is equally impressive, enhancing the eerie experience, especially with good headphones. The story follows James Sunderland as he returns to the town after receiving a letter from his deceased wife, Mary, exploring themes of grief and guilt. The modernised third-person camera and improved combat system make the gameplay feel fresh while maintaining the psychological tension that the series is known for.

However, some aspects of the remake may leave fans wanting more. While it expands the game with new areas and content, it loses some of the claustrophobic horror that defined the original, with more exploration and cutscenes potentially breaking the tension. The story, while compelling, can feel a bit thin, especially for those already familiar with it. Overall, this remake is a must-play for fans of psychological horror and serves as the definitive way to experience Silent Hill 2, earning a solid score of 8.5 out of 10.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/10/review-silent-hill-2-2024-game-remake.html

REVIEW: Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024 Film) - Starring Jack Kesy, Jefferson White and Adeline Rudolph

Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024) is a darker, horror-focused reboot that stays true to the comics, set in 1950s Appalachia where Hellboy and a rookie BPRD agent face witches and the sinister Crooked Man. Jack Kesy delivers a more grounded Hellboy, and the film's practical effects help create a gritty, eerie atmosphere. However, it's held back by budget limitations, with some pacing issues and a lack of character depth. While it may not win new fans, it should satisfy those who appreciate the horror elements and the faithfulness to the original source material.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-hellboy-crooked-man-2024-film.html

REVIEW: The Killer's Game (2024 Film) Starring Dave Bautista

The Killer's Game is a fun, action-packed comedy where Dave Bautista stars as Joe Flood, a hitman who mistakenly puts a hit out on himself after being wrongly diagnosed with a terminal illness. When he learns the truth, it's too late, and Joe must fend off a wave of assassins, while also trying to protect his ex-girlfriend, Maize, played by Sofia Boutella. The film is filled with over-the-top action sequences, inventive fight scenes, and dark humour. Though the plot is predictable and a bit silly, the movie thrives on its fast pace, great cast, and Bautista's charisma. Overall, it's an enjoyable and entertaining ride.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-killers-game-2024-action-comedy.html

FILM REVIEW: Alien: Romulus (2024 Film) - Starring Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson and Archie Renaux

Alien: Romulus is a tense and atmospheric addition to the Alien franchise, directed by Fede Álvarez. Set between Alien and Aliens, it follows a group of young space colonisers who face off against xenomorphs on a derelict Weyland-Yutani research station. The film pays homage to the original while introducing fresh elements, particularly in its use of space and zero-gravity combat. Strong performances, especially from Cailee Spaeny, and a gripping final act keep the film engaging, though some horror tropes feel familiar. Overall, it's an exciting and well-executed return to the series.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-alien-romulus-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Killer Heat (2024 Film) - Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Shailene Woodley, and Richard Madden

Killer Heat is a moody, slow-burn crime mystery set in Crete, following private investigator Nick Bali (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) as he unravels the suspicious death of shipping magnate Leo Vardakis. Directed by Philippe Lacôte, the film embraces a classic noir style, focusing on family secrets, jealousy, and betrayal. While beautifully shot with Crete as a stunning backdrop, the film's slow pace and somewhat predictable twists may not appeal to everyone. Strong performances, especially from Gordon-Levitt and Shailene Woodley, make it a solid, atmospheric watch for fans of old-school detective stories.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-killer-heat-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Wolfs (2024 Film) - Staring George Clooney and Brad Pitt

Wolfs is an action-comedy that relies heavily on the star power and chemistry of George Clooney and Brad Pitt, whose banter and performances are the film's main highlights. Directed by Jon Watts, the movie follows two rival fixers who are forced to work together after a crime spirals out of control. While Clooney and Pitt make it entertaining, the predictable plot and lack of originality prevent the film from standing out. It's a fun, forgettable watch, offering mild amusement but little depth. Without its leading stars, Wolfs would struggle to hold attention. 

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http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-wolfs-2024-film-staring-george.html

REVIEW: #DRIVE Rally (2024 Game) - On PC (Steam)

"#DRIVE Rally" is a nostalgic yet modern arcade-style racing game that captures the spirit of 90s rally driving. With simple, clean graphics and a focus on point-to-point rallying, it delivers an accessible but challenging experience. The game shines through its unique car handling, where each vehicle has its own distinct feel, and its dynamic co-driver system adds emotional depth to the gameplay. The diverse environments, from sun-soaked deserts to icy wilderness, are beautifully designed, offering a fresh take on traditional racing settings.

Although it's still in Early Access, "#DRIVE Rally" already feels polished, with early bugs swiftly addressed by the developers. While the lack of competitive racing against other cars may be a drawback for some, the fun factor remains high, and the game's strong foundation hints at great potential for future updates. With engaging gameplay, a nostalgic atmosphere, and a promising roadmap ahead, it's a highly enjoyable rally experience that earns a solid 8 out of 10.

Read the full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/10/review-drive-rally-2024-arcade-rally.html

REVIEW: Subservience (2024 Film) - Starring Megan Fox and Michele Morrone

Subservience is a sci-fi thriller that explores familiar territory with the concept of AI turning against its human creators, but it manages to remain entertaining largely thanks to Megan Fox's performance as Alice, a humanoid robot turned menacing. Fox's portrayal brings a compelling mix of robotic detachment and growing obsession, driving the suspense as Alice's fixation on her family intensifies. Michele Morrone's role as the struggling father, Nick, complements her performance, but the film ultimately relies heavily on Fox to deliver its tension and thrills. The action is well-paced, particularly in the later stages when Alice's manipulations become more sinister, and the film maintains a sleek, visually appealing aesthetic throughout.

However, Subservience doesn't offer anything new to the AI-gone-rogue genre, rehashing familiar tropes without delving deeper into more complex themes. The plot, while serviceable, feels predictable, and the film misses opportunities to explore the ethical questions surrounding artificial intelligence. Though visually engaging and entertaining as a straightforward thriller, it lacks the originality that could make it stand out. Despite these shortcomings, the film delivers enough tension and excitement to hold viewers' attention, with Fox's strong performance elevating an otherwise formulaic story.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/10/review-subservience-2024-film-starring.html