Tuesday, 29 October 2024

REVIEW: 'Salem's Lot (2024 Film) - Starring Lewis Pullman

Salem's Lot is an atmospheric take on Stephen King's vampire classic, following writer Ben Mears as he returns to his hometown of Jerusalem's Lot, only to find it overrun by sinister forces. The film leans heavily on its moody visuals and solid performances, especially from Lewis Pullman and Makenzie Leigh, who bring a genuine sense of desperation to their characters. Faithful to King's novel, the story takes its time building suspense, aiming to evoke a slow-burning dread, though the pacing ends up feeling a bit sluggish. With a strong ensemble cast and well-done action sequences, the movie captures the eerie, small-town setting, creating a backdrop that feels both familiar and haunted.

However, despite the strong cast and final action-packed climax, the film's reluctance to fully embrace the horror feels like a missed opportunity. The scares are too tame for a modern horror audience, with key violent moments left off-screen, cutting away just as tension builds. The large number of characters and extended runtime add to the sense of drag, and while the climax delivers some excitement, the movie as a whole struggles to leave a lasting impact. For all its loyalty to the source material, Salem's Lot ultimately lacks the sharp bite fans might expect from a vampire story in 2024.

Full Review at

Monday, 28 October 2024

REVIEW: A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead on Xbox

A Quiet Place: The Road Ahead brings the intense, sound-driven horror of the film series to gaming with a unique survival experience. The game follows Alex Taylor, a pregnant college student, as she navigates a post-apocalyptic world full of aliens who hunt by sound, making every movement and breath a calculated risk. With a first-person perspective and innovative microphone-based sound mechanics, players are forced to be cautious, as even the slightest noise could spell doom. The visuals and sound design are fantastic, effectively immersing players in the eerie silence of abandoned landscapes. Anairis Quiñones' performance as Alex adds emotional depth, making the stakes feel personal and high.


Full Review at

Sunday, 27 October 2024

REVIEW: Terrifier 3 (2024 Slasher Film) - Starring David Howard Thornton and Lauren LaVera

Terrifier 3 takes Christmas horror to brutal extremes, combining twisted holiday cheer with intense, realistic gore that will shock even seasoned horror fans. Art the Clown's return, this time decked out in a Santa suit with a new accomplice in the possessed Victoria Heyes, adds a disturbing edge to the festive season as he terrorises Sienna and her brother Jonathan once again. The practical effects are a standout, with director Damien Leone delivering some of the most convincing and gruesome kills seen in recent horror, evoking the visceral style of vintage slasher films. Art's violent creativity and dark humour are on full display, making him both terrifying and morbidly entertaining, adding depth to his place among horror icons.

Sienna's journey is compelling as she grapples with survivor's guilt and the psychological scars left by past traumas. Her struggle to reconnect with Jonathan brings emotional depth to the film, grounding the horror in real personal stakes. Leone leans heavily into both dark humour and extreme violence, pushing the boundaries in ways that may be too intense for some but will be a thrill for hardcore fans of the genre. Terrifier 3 offers a bold, unflinching horror experience that leaves a lasting impression, cementing its place as one of the most daring entries in modern horror.

Full Review at

Thursday, 24 October 2024

The €61 Million Caritas Fraud - Fortune Teller Scandal

A fortune teller with alleged ties to a Bulgarian organised crime gang may have played a key role in the theft of €61 million from the Luxembourg charity Caritas. The charity's former chief financial officer (CFO), who is under investigation, had been consulting a psychic she found online. She confided personal and professional details to this clairvoyant, unknowingly passing on sensitive information about Caritas. It is alleged that the fortune teller passed this information to the crime gang, who used it to exploit the CFO's mental fragility and weaknesses in the charity's governance. Over five months, they managed to fraudulently transfer the funds while posing as Caritas' CEO.

Investigators discovered that more than 8,200 transactions were made, involving accounts across various countries. While some of the stolen funds have been traced to China, Hong Kong, and Lithuania, it is unclear if the money can be recovered. The Luxembourg public prosecutor has yet to fully confirm the involvement of the fortune teller but continues to investigate the "fraud against the president" scam. Requests for assistance have been sent to multiple countries as authorities work to untangle the web of fraudulent transactions.

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Wednesday, 23 October 2024

REVIEW: Smile 2 (2024 Film) - Starring Naomi Scott

"Smile 2" is a chilling follow-up to the original, centering on pop star Skye Riley, played by Naomi Scott, as she prepares for a major comeback tour. After witnessing the gruesome suicide of a drug dealer under the curse's influence, Skye's life quickly spirals into chaos. Haunted by terrifying hallucinations and eerie smiling figures, she becomes increasingly paranoid and isolated, leading to violent outbursts and disturbing encounters. Naomi Scott delivers a standout performance, portraying Skye's breakdown with raw intensity, while the film builds on the original's atmosphere of dread with even more elaborate scares and disturbing body horror.

Although the sequel offers a more intense and visually unsettling experience, it doesn't add much to the mythology of the curse, relying heavily on jump-scares and familiar plot devices from the first film. Still, it succeeds in creating a tense and horrifying atmosphere, with a final act full of mind-bending hallucinations and shocking moments. Director Parker Finn maintains the creepy, disturbing tone that made the first film successful, and Scott's performance elevates the film, making it a solid horror experience.

Full Review at

Tuesday, 22 October 2024

GAME REVIEW: Backyard Baseball '97 on PC (Steam)

Backyard Baseball '97 on Steam is a brilliant remaster that brings all the charm and simplicity of the original back to life, with a few modern touches like achievements, leaderboards, and cloud saves. Mega Cat Studios and Playground Productions have done a great job preserving the quirky characters, fun animations, and easy-to-pick-up gameplay, making it just as enjoyable for today's players as it was in 1997. The game's controls remain simple, relying on just a mouse and one button, making it accessible for younger players or those seeking a light, nostalgic experience. Pablo Sanchez is still the star, and the various modes like Pick-Up Play, Single Game, and Season offer a nice mix of casual and more involved gameplay.

While the remaster is perfect for those who grew up with it, newer players might find it a bit slow or overly simple compared to modern sports games. That said, it's clear the game is meant to be more about fun and nostalgia than fast-paced competition. The addition of Steam's Global Leaderboards offers a fresh competitive edge for those wanting to show off their skills, but overall, the game stays true to its roots.

Full Review at

Saturday, 19 October 2024

GAME REVIEW: Hot Wheels: Monster Trucks Stunt Mayhem on Xbox

Hot Wheels™ Monster Trucks Stunt Mayhem delivers on its visual promise with colourful, vibrant arenas and iconic monster trucks like Bone Shaker and Bigfoot. The gameplay is initially fun, with exciting stunts and chaotic crashes, but the novelty wears off quickly. Each truck has its own flashy signature move, but they lose their appeal after a few uses, and the lack of variety in the arenas makes the career mode feel repetitive. Additionally, while the trucks look great, they don't handle differently, making the gameplay feel shallow.

Unfortunately, the game's physics can be frustrating, with small obstacles throwing your massive truck off-course when you'd expect to smash through them. Certain features, like the upside-down loop, feel underwhelming, as you lose control once the camera cuts away. At £39.99, the game's content doesn't quite justify the price, and it would likely fare better as a cheaper title or part of Xbox Game Pass. Ultimately, it seems best suited for younger Hot Wheels fans, but lacks the depth to appeal to a broader audience.

Full Review at 

Friday, 18 October 2024

How to Make the Perfect Greek Cypriot Spanakopita "Spinach Pie"

Spanakopita

By Jon Donnis
Craving a taste of Cyprus? Spanakopita, a flaky, savoury pie filled with spinach and cheese, is a classic in Greek Cypriot cuisine. It's deliciously golden on the outside, soft and savoury on the inside, and surprisingly easy to make once you know how. Follow this simple guide to whip up your own perfect Greek Cypriot Spanakopita – perfect for lunch, dinner, or a cheeky snack!
What You'll Need
Before we jump into the steps, here's a quick rundown of what you'll need for this recipe:
Ingredients:
  • 500g fresh spinach (or frozen, if you're in a pinch)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 spring onions, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 200g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 200g halloumi cheese, grated (yes, halloumi – it's the Cypriot touch!)
  • 1 handful of fresh dill, chopped (you can also use dried if you can't find fresh)
  • 1 handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 250g filo pastry (you can buy this ready-made from the supermarket)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil or melted butter for brushing the filo
Step-by-Step: How to Make Spanakopita
Step 1: Prepping the Spinach
If you're using fresh spinach, give it a good wash and then wilt it down in a large frying pan or pot. This means cooking it on low heat for just a few minutes until it shrinks. Once wilted, place the spinach in a colander or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much water as you can. This step is really important because excess water will make your pastry soggy – and no one wants that!
If you're using frozen spinach, thaw it completely and make sure to drain any excess liquid.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
While the spinach is cooling down, heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and spring onions, sautéing them until they're soft and slightly golden. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Now it's time to bring all the filling ingredients together. In a large bowl, mix the drained spinach, sautéed onions, crumbled feta, grated halloumi, chopped dill, parsley, and the beaten eggs. Season with salt and pepper, but go easy on the salt – the feta and halloumi are already quite salty! Mix everything until it's nicely combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Filo Pastry
Grab a baking dish (around 20x30 cm is ideal) and lightly grease it with olive oil or butter. Lay down your first sheet of filo pastry, making sure the edges of the pastry overlap the sides of the dish. Brush the filo with some olive oil or melted butter, and then layer on another sheet of filo. Repeat this process, brushing each layer, until you've got about 6-8 sheets on the bottom.
Tip: Keep the filo you're not using covered with a damp tea towel so it doesn't dry out. Filo can be a bit fiddly!
Step 5: Add the Filling
Once your filo base is ready, pour the spinach and cheese mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Then, fold the overhanging filo back over the filling.
Step 6: Top It Off
Now, continue layering filo pastry sheets on top of the filling. Aim for another 6-8 sheets, brushing each with olive oil or melted butter as you go. Tuck the edges in nicely to create a neat parcel.
Step 7: Score and Bake
Before popping the Spanakopita in the oven, take a sharp knife and score the top layer of pastry into portions. This will make it easier to cut once it's baked and helps prevent the filo from cracking.
Pop the pie into a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) and bake for around 45 minutes to an hour, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Step 8: Let It Cool (If You Can Wait!)
Once your Spanakopita is beautifully golden, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. It'll make it easier to cut, and the filling will set a bit more. But if you're like me, you'll probably want to dive straight in while it's still warm!
Serving Suggestions
Spanakopita is delicious served on its own or with a side of fresh salad. It's also great as part of a larger mezze spread if you're feeling a bit fancy. And the best part? It's just as tasty cold, so any leftovers make a great snack or lunch for the next day.
Final Tips
  • Filo Fear? If working with filo pastry seems a bit daunting, don't worry. Just remember to brush each layer with oil or butter and work quickly so it doesn't dry out.
  • Freezer Friendly: You can freeze Spanakopita before baking it. Just assemble the pie, cover it tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to eat it, bake from frozen but give it a bit of extra time in the oven.
And there you have it – the perfect Greek Cypriot Spanakopita! Enjoy the flaky layers, savoury filling, and that irresistible combination of feta and halloumi. Once you've mastered this, you'll never look back!


Thursday, 17 October 2024

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

Monday, 14 October 2024

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

Saturday, 12 October 2024

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

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

Wednesday, 9 October 2024

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


Tuesday, 8 October 2024

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

Monday, 7 October 2024

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

Friday, 4 October 2024

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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Thursday, 3 October 2024

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.


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Tuesday, 1 October 2024

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

REVIEW: Carry-On (2024 Film) - Starring Taron Egerton

"Carry-On," released on Netflix in December 2024, is a fast-paced action thriller that delivers on its promise of high-stakes en...