REVIEW: The Legend of Heroes: Trails through Daybreak (2024 Video Game) - On Playstation

"The Legend of Heroes: Trails Through Daybreak," developed by Nihon Falcom and released in 2024 for the PlayStation, is a remarkable addition to the beloved "Trails" series. This action role-playing game introduces players to a new story arc set in the Calvard Republic, a nation grappling with rapid economic growth and societal unrest in the year 1208. The game's protagonist, Van Arkride, is a 24-year-old who operates Arkride Solutions Office, taking on morally ambiguous jobs that often place him at the crossroads of legality. His work as a "Spriggan", a fixer navigating the grey areas of the law, sees him cooperating with a variety of factions, including the police, mafia, and mysterious groups with their own hidden agendas.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/07/review-legend-of-heroes-trails-through.html

REVIEW: The Garfield Movie (2024 Animated Movie) - Starring Chris Pratt

"The Garfield Movie" (2024) is a charming animated adventure that revitalises the classic comic strip character for a new generation. Voiced by Chris Pratt, Garfield's signature laziness and sarcasm are brought to life in a story where he and his beagle friend Odie are abducted and taken to an abandoned mall. They are rescued by Garfield's estranged father, Vic (voiced by Samuel L. Jackson), who needs to pull off a heist at Lactose Farms to save himself from the vengeful Persian cat Jinx (Hannah Waddingham). The plot explores themes of forgiveness and family while delivering a fun and engaging heist adventure.

The film excels with its high-quality animation and a heartwarming storyline that balances action and humour, making it a perfect choice for young children and families. Although Chris Pratt's portrayal of Garfield may not surpass Bill Murray's iconic voice acting from the 2004 film for long-time fans, it is still an enjoyable and entertaining experience. The movie's visual appeal and playful narrative ensure that it resonates well with a younger audience, while the story's emotional depth and humour provide enough to keep adults engaged as well.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-garfield-movie-2024-animated.html

REVIEW: A Quiet Place: Day One (2024 Film) - Starring Lupita Nyong'o

"A Quiet Place: Day One," directed by Michael Sarnoski and based on a story by John Krasinski, serves as a prequel to the earlier films in the series. The film stars Lupita Nyong'o as Samira, a terminally ill woman who becomes entangled in the early stages of an alien invasion in New York City. Samira, reluctantly participating in an outing, is caught in the chaos when extraterrestrial creatures attack. The plot follows her struggle for survival alongside a group of other survivors, navigating the deadly silence required to avoid detection by the sound-sensitive invaders. Nyong'o's performance is a highlight, bringing depth to her character amid the crisis.

While the film maintains the franchise's trademark tension and impressive visual effects, it diverges into a more character-driven drama, which might not appeal to all fans. The narrative occasionally lags, suggesting a tighter runtime could have been beneficial. Despite the shift in focus, the horror elements feel less intense compared to its predecessors. Other characters lack the development needed to create strong emotional connections, making the overall experience less impactful. Nevertheless, "A Quiet Place: Day One" remains a commendable addition to the series, primarily held together by Nyong'o's compelling portrayal of Samira.

Read the full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-quiet-place-day-one-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024 Movie) - Starring Owen Teague and Freya Allan

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" (2024), directed by Wes Ball and written by Josh Friedman, continues the franchise with a compelling story set generations after Caesar's reign. The film follows Noa, a young chimpanzee from a falconry-practicing clan, who embarks on a transformative journey after his village is destroyed, his father is killed, and his clan is abducted. The visual effects are exceptional, creating an immersive world where apes are the dominant species and humans live in the shadows. The narrative successfully balances action with deeper themes of leadership, survival, and identity, featuring strong performances, particularly by Owen Teague as Noa and Kevin Durand as the ambitious bonobo monarch Proximus Caesar.

Despite its strengths, the film has its flaws, such as an overlong runtime that could have benefited from tighter editing and a lack of the shocking twist that defined the original 1968 film. William H. Macy's character, Trevathan, feels somewhat out of place, not adding significant value to the story. Nonetheless, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning entry in the series, addressing contemporary issues through its allegorical narrative while delivering the epic action and drama fans expect.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-kingdom-of-planet-of-apes-2024.html

REVIEW: NeoSprint on PC (2024 Video Game Released on Steam)

NeoSprint, Atari's modern revival of the classic "Sprint" series, brings back the nostalgic thrill of arcade racing with vibrant graphics, precise controls, and a variety of game modes. The game captures the essence of its predecessors while adding contemporary features, including a customizable track builder and multiple biomes, enhancing the visual and gameplay experience. Players can switch between classic top-down and dynamic camera angles, offering different perspectives as they master drifting and drafting techniques across various pre-made and user-generated tracks. The Campaign Mode, Grand Prix, Obstacle Courses, and Time Trials provide ample solo content, while the multiplayer mode allows up to eight players to race together, ensuring hours of chaotic fun.

However, the track-building mode can be somewhat cumbersome, requiring precise placement of track pieces within a limited grid area, which might frustrate players seeking creative freedom. Despite this minor drawback, NeoSprint's overall execution is impressive, with nine customizable car types and the ability to share and rank tracks within the community, ensuring endless replayability. NeoSprint successfully merges nostalgic appeal with modern enhancements, making it a must-play for both fans of the original series and new players seeking an engaging arcade racer.

Read full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/07/review-neosprint-on-pc-2024-video-game.html

REVIEW: Despicable Me 4 - Starring Steve Carell

"Despicable Me 4" marks a delightful return for Gru and his Minions, delivering humor and heart in a way that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. The plot centers on Gru's high school reunion, where he encounters his old rival, Maxime Le Mal, now transformed into a cockroach hybrid with a sinister plan involving Gru's son, Gru Jr. The film excels with its top-notch animation, vibrant voice cast, and energetic pace, featuring standout performances by Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig. The addition of characters like Maxime, voiced by Will Ferrell, and Valentina, voiced by Sofia Vergara, adds fresh dynamics to the franchise.

Despite moments where the film feels more like a series of skits than a cohesive story, "Despicable Me 4" succeeds in its primary mission of making audiences laugh, especially its young target audience. The Megaminions' chaotic antics provide some of the funniest scenes, showcasing the series' strength in slapstick humor and visual gags. While adults might find the plot somewhat predictable, the film's charm, witty dialogue, and engaging action sequences ensure it remains a fun and entertaining family movie. 

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-despicable-me-4-starring-steve.html

REVIEW: Space Cadet (2024 Movie) - Starring Emma Roberts

"Space Cadet" (2024), directed by Liz W. Garcia, is a light-hearted comedy aimed at young audiences, particularly girls aged 9 to 14. The film follows Tiffany "Rex" Simpson, played by Emma Roberts, who dreams of going to space but finds herself struggling with life's challenges. With the help of her best friend Nadine (Poppy Liu), Rex's embellished application lands her in NASA's astronaut training program. Despite being out of her depth, Rex uses her quick wits and determination to stand out, catching the attention of NASA directors Pam (Gabrielle Union) and Logan (Tom Hopper). The film celebrates the power of being yourself and following your dreams, offering a visually appealing and whimsical experience for its target demographic.

However, the film suffers from an uninspired screenplay, with jokes that often fall flat and a narrative that remains predictable. While Emma Roberts and her co-stars bring energy and likability to their roles, the script frequently leaves them mimicking comedy rather than truly performing it, resulting in a somewhat flat comedic experience. The straightforward plot and lack of deeper emotional engagement might leave older viewers craving more substance. Nonetheless, "Space Cadet" is a charming and uplifting film for young viewers, making it an enjoyable outing for families with children who dream of the stars.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-space-cadet-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024 Film) Starring Eddie Murphy, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Taylour Paige

"Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" is a triumphant return to the beloved action-comedy series, showcasing Eddie Murphy's timeless charm and wit as Axel Foley. Directed by Mark Molloy and written by Will Beall, Tom Gormican, and Kevin Etten, this fourth installment blends the old with the new, as Axel teams up with his estranged daughter Jane (Taylour Paige) and her ex-boyfriend Detective Bobby Abbott (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) to uncover a conspiracy. The film successfully balances action and comedy, with impressive stunts and a brisk pace that keeps the audience engaged. The return of familiar faces like Judge Reinhold, John Ashton, Paul Reiser, and Bronson Pinchot adds a nostalgic touch that fans of the original films will appreciate.

Despite its strengths, the film does have some flaws. Murphy's portrayal of Axel as still being in his 30s is somewhat unconvincing, and the absence of his famous laugh is noticeable. However, these minor issues do not overshadow the overall enjoyment of the film. The character development, particularly with Jane, and the chemistry between the cast members provide emotional depth and modern relevance. "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F" captures the essence of the original series while setting the stage for potential future sequels, making it a must-watch for long-time fans and new audiences alike.

Read full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-beverly-hills-cop-axel-f-2024.html

REVIEW: The Fall Guy (2024 Film) - Starring Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt and Hannah Waddingham

David Leitch's "The Fall Guy," written by Drew Pearce, reimagines the 1980s TV series with a blend of action, comedy, and romance. Ryan Gosling stars as Colt Seavers, a Hollywood stunt performer whose career ends abruptly after an accident. Eighteen months later, he is drawn back into the industry to find missing action star Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and save the overbudget production of "Metalstorm," directed by his ex-girlfriend Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt). The film's heart lies in the chemistry between Gosling and Blunt, who bring charisma and depth to their roles. The action sequences, a hallmark of Leitch's direction, are thrilling and creative, with behind-the-scenes bloopers adding a unique touch.

Despite its strengths, "The Fall Guy" isn't without flaws. The script could benefit from tighter writing, as grandiose stunts sometimes overshadow character development and plot coherence. Nevertheless, the film's tongue-in-cheek approach to Hollywood stereotypes and its homage to stunt performers offer a refreshing perspective. The modern rendition of the "Unknown Stuntman" song and numerous cameos add layers of nostalgia and fun, making it a highly entertaining film that celebrates the unsung heroes of Hollywood.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-fall-guy-2024-film-starring-ryan.html

REVIEW: Parkitect: Deluxe Edition (2024 Theme Park Sim) on Xbox

Parkitect: Deluxe Edition brings the classic amusement park simulation experience to Xbox, complete with all extra DLCs. Its vibrant graphics and decent sound effects beautifully capture the joyful spirit of theme parks. Designing and building roller coasters is particularly enjoyable, offering a great sense of achievement. The game is also more accessible to newcomers due to its streamlined management approach.

However, the transition from PC to console is not without challenges. The control system, though overhauled for gamepads, feels unintuitive and cumbersome. Tasks like building hidden underground tubes and the lacklustre tutorial for roller coaster construction can be frustrating. While Parkitect: Deluxe Edition retains the charm of classic tycoon games, it falls short on consoles and is best enjoyed on a PC. 

For the full review, check out 

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/07/review-parkitect-deluxe-edition-2024.html

REVIEW: Reunion (2024 Film) Starring Billy Magnussen, Jillian Bell and Jamie Chung

"Reunion," directed by Chris Nelson, is a 2024 American comedy mystery film featuring Lil Rel Howery, Billy Magnussen, and Jillian Bell. The plot revolves around a high school reunion that turns deadly when the host, Mathew Danbury, is found murdered amidst a snowstorm that isolates the guests. The ensemble cast navigates a web of past grievances and motives, with each actor bringing a unique flair to their roles. Despite the intriguing setup and atmospheric tension, the film struggles with uneven pacing and a reliance on improvisation, which sometimes detracts from the narrative cohesion.

While "Reunion" offers some genuinely funny moments and a charismatic cast, its resemblance to the TV show "The Afterparty" and the improvisational approach leave it feeling somewhat unoriginal and disjointed. The film could have benefited from a stronger script to support the comedic elements. Nevertheless, it explores themes of nostalgia and the lingering impact of high school dynamics effectively, making it an entertaining, if not particularly memorable, watch. 

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/07/review-reunion-2024-film-starring-billy.html

The Mechanics Behind Seance Room Tricks: A Skeptical Examination

The seance room has long been a place of intrigue and mystery, where spiritualist mediums claim to bridge the gap between the living and the dead. Despite the dramatic and often convincing displays of supernatural phenomena, a skeptical examination reveals a range of tricks and illusions that explain these occurrences without invoking the paranormal. This article will explore some of the common techniques used by mediums to create the illusion of spirit activity, such as making spirit trumpets fly, manifesting apparitions, and creating the effect of disembodied hands.

Full Article at 

http://www.badpsychics.com/2024/07/the-mechanics-behind-seance-room-tricks.html

REVIEW: Sting (2024 Film) - Starring Ryan Corr, Alyla Browne and Penelope Mitchell

"Sting," directed and written by Kiah Roache-Turner, delivers a chilling creature feature centered on Charlotte, a 12-year-old girl who discovers a rapidly growing spider named Sting from a mysterious object. Alyla Browne's strong performance as Charlotte is a highlight, effectively portraying a rebellious yet resourceful child. The film's visual effects, particularly the detailed design of the spider, successfully tap into primal arachnid fears, creating genuine moments of suspense and horror as the creature evolves from a tiny pet to a monstrous predator.

However, "Sting" falls short in some areas, lacking the lasting impact of classic spider horror films like "Arachnophobia" (1990) and the entertaining absurdity of "Big Ass Spider" (2013). The film misses opportunities to inject humor into its inherently absurd premise, and the underutilized exterminator character provides only brief comic relief. Despite these flaws, "Sting" manages to deliver solid thrills and chills, making it a decent choice for a one-time watch, especially for fans of creature features and those who enjoy spider-induced scares.

Read the full detailed review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-sting-2024-film-starring-ryan.html

REVIEW: Seed of Life (2024 Video Game) on PS4

Seed of Life is an action-adventure puzzle game from MadLight that successfully immerses players in the hauntingly beautiful world of Lumia. Playing as Cora, the last survivor on a dying planet ravaged by alien invaders, you must navigate through a semi-open world filled with mysteries, dangers, and intricate puzzles to activate "The Seed" and restore life to the planet. The game's visuals and soundtrack are captivating, creating an atmospheric experience that enhances the exploration of its richly imagined environments. The hands-off approach to guidance allows for a rewarding sense of discovery, although this might not appeal to players who prefer more direction.

Despite its strengths, Seed of Life's transition from PC to consoles comes with notable drawbacks. The voice acting for Cora is subpar, and issues with precision jumping can lead to frustration. Additionally, the inability to adjust graphical settings on PlayStation 4 affects performance and can induce motion sickness, marking a step down from the customizable PC version. While the game retains its core appeal with engaging gameplay and imaginative design, the lack of significant improvements since its original release is disappointing. Nonetheless, it remains a solid and enjoyable experience for fans of action-adventure and puzzle genres.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/06/review-seed-of-life-2024-video-game-on.html

Harry Houdini: The Magician Who Exposed Psychics and Mediums

Harry Houdini, born Erik Weisz on March 24, 1874, was a Hungarian-born American illusionist and stunt performer, widely known for his sensational escape acts. While Houdini's contributions to the world of magic are well-celebrated, his fervent crusade against psychics and mediums, particularly those claiming to communicate with the dead, remains a remarkable facet of his life.

Full article at

http://www.badpsychics.com/2024/06/harry-houdini-magician-who-exposed.html

REVIEW: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024 Film) - Stars Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, directed by George Miller, is a gripping prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road that delves into the backstory of Imperator Furiosa. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the film follows young Furiosa's journey from her abduction by the warlord Dementus to her transformation into a powerful warrior. Anya Taylor-Joy's compelling performance adds emotional depth to the narrative, which is driven by intense action sequences and a rich, epic scope.

While the film is visually striking, it doesn't quite match the innovative intensity of its predecessor and suffers from a slightly excessive runtime. Chris Hemsworth's portrayal of Dementus, hindered by an unconvincing prosthetic nose, is another drawback. Despite these issues, Furiosa offers an emotionally involving story and thrilling action, making it a solid and satisfying addition to the Mad Max franchise.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-furiosa-mad-max-saga-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Teardown: Ultimate Edition (2024 Video Game) on Xbox

"Teardown," developed and published by Tuxedo Labs, masterfully combines sandbox creativity with intricate puzzle-solving in a destructible voxel-based environment. Set in the fictional Löckelle Municipality, the game follows the owner of a struggling demolition company entangled in a series of high-stakes heists and investigations. Players must strategically plan and execute missions with upgradable tools and vehicles, creating a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience. The narrative, told through emails, adds depth to the demolition antics, culminating in thrilling confrontations and unexpected plot twists.

The recent Folkrace DLC expands the game's horizons with intense destruction derby-style racing, adding new maps and vehicle customization. Beyond the main campaign, Teardown offers diverse modes like Sandbox, Creative, and various challenges, ensuring endless replayability. The voxel-based destruction mechanics are exceptionally satisfying, and the game's extensive modding community further enhances its longevity. Despite an initial learning curve, Teardown stands out for its innovative gameplay and the sheer fun of creative destruction.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/06/review-teardown-ultimate-edition-2024.html

REVIEW: Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey II (2) (2024 Film) - Starring Scott Chambers, Tallulah Evans and Ryan Oliva

"Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey II," directed by Rhys Frake-Waterfield, is a thrilling and brutal sequel that surpasses its predecessor in every way. With a deeper storyline, improved visuals, and more inventive kills, the film skillfully blends psychological horror and intense action. Scott Chambers shines as Christopher Robin, confronting his dark past while facing the murderous rampage of Pooh and his savage friends. Despite taking itself a bit too seriously and some budget-related visual effects limitations, the film offers a relentless and entertaining ride for horror fans. This dark reimagining of childhood nostalgia earns a solid 8.5 out of 10.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-winnie-pooh-blood-and-honey-ii-2.html

REVIEW: IF (2024) - Starring Cailey Fleming, Ryan Reynolds and Steve Carell

"IF," directed by John Krasinski, is a heartwarming 2024 live-action animated fantasy comedy that follows twelve-year-old Bea, played by Cailey Fleming, as she navigates her father's illness and discovers a hidden world of forgotten imaginary friends. With the help of Cal, portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, Bea embarks on a magical journey to reunite these friends with their original companions, highlighting the enduring power of childhood memories. Despite some visual effects flaws, the film's imaginative storytelling, heartfelt performances, and emotional depth make it a captivating family film that resonates with both children and adults. I rate it a strong 8 out of 10.

Full Review at 

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-if-2024-starring-cailey-fleming.html

MOVIE REVIEW: Snow Valley (2024) - Starring Barbara Crampton, Cooper van Grootel and Tom Williamson

"Snow Valley," directed by the late Brandon Murphy, is a 2024 psychological thriller about a couple's terrifying ski weekend disrupted by supernatural events. The film's remote lodge setting creates atmospheric tension, though its initial focus on romance and skiing may test viewers' patience. Barbara Crampton delivers a standout performance as Ellen, adding depth despite limited screen time. While the supernatural elements provide genuine thrills, the film suffers from pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, and a rushed ending. Despite these flaws, "Snow Valley" offers a decent viewing experience for fans of B-movie horror, showcasing Murphy's creative potential and earning a generous 7 out of 10.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-snow-valley-2024-starring.html

REVIEW: Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game - On Xbox

Killer Klowns from Outer Space: The Game, developed by IllFonic and Teravision Games, is a whimsical and thrilling asymmetrical survival horror game based on the 1988 cult classic film. In 15-minute matches, three players control Klowns aiming to trigger the Klownpocalypse by capturing humans, while seven players control humans striving to escape through various routes using collected items. With five unique maps and diverse character classes, the game excels in humor, impressive graphics, and engaging multiplayer dynamics. Despite some gameplay bugs and balancing issues, the developers are addressing these problems, making it a fun and polished experience that earns a solid 7.5 out of 10, especially appealing to fans of the genre.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/06/review-killer-klowns-from-outer-space.html

REVIEW: Inside Out 2 (2024) - Starring Amy Poehler, Maya Hawke and Kensington Tallman

"Inside Out 2" is a compelling and visually stunning sequel that continues the story of Riley Andersen, now a 13-year-old navigating adolescence. Directed by Kelsey Mann, the film introduces new emotions like Envy, Ennui, Embarrassment, and Anxiety, providing a nuanced exploration of complex feelings, particularly Anxiety. While it doesn't reach the emotional depths of the original, it remains intelligent and entertaining, blending humor, heart, and beautiful animation. Despite some noticeable casting changes, "Inside Out 2" recaptures the charm of its predecessor, making it a highly recommended family film that resonates with both young and older audiences. This sequel stands out as a rare gem in Pixar's recent offerings, earning a strong 9 out of 10.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-inside-out-2-2024-starring-amy.html

REVIEW: F1 24 (2024 Video Game) On Xbox

"F1 24," the seventeenth entry in the Codemasters' Formula One series, and the official video game of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship, introduces some noteworthy updates while carrying forward the legacy of its predecessors. With licenses for the 2024 Formula One and Formula 2 championships, the game aims to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience for racing enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of F1 24 is the revamped career mode. This year's iteration transforms the mode into a role-playing experience, where every action on the track influences your driver's overall rating. This update marks the first major overhaul since 2016 and adds depth to the gameplay by allowing players to manage their career trajectory actively. Performing well can lead to secretive offers from other teams, though these clandestine meetings come with the risk of losing the trust of your current team if discovered.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/06/review-f1-24-2024-video-game-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Sasquatch Sunset (2024 Film) - Starring Jesse Eisenberg

Get ready to venture into the depths of the forest for an extraordinary cinematic experience like no other. Directed by David Zellner and Nathan Zellner, "Sasquatch Sunset" embarks on an absurdist, epic, and downright hilarious journey alongside a family of Sasquatches, possibly the last of their enigmatic kind. Set against the backdrop of the misty forests of North America, these shaggy and noble giants find themselves on a collision course with the ever-changing world around them. From survival struggles to moments of poignant reflection, the film promises an unforgettable adventure through the eyes of these mythical creatures as they desperately try to find more of their kind..

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-sasquatch-sunset-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Darkness of Man (2024 Film) Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme

Interpol operative Russell Hatch (played by Jean-Claude Van Damme) witnesses the death of an informant during a seemingly routine raid. Years later, he becomes a father figure to Jayden, the informant's son, and finds himself protecting him from merciless gangs embroiled in an all-out turf war.

Bressack's stylish direction breathes fresh life into what could have been a typical action flick. While it doesn't reach Van Damme's best work, it allows the actor to showcase more than just his famous muscles. The film effectively defines a modern-day film noir experience, keeping viewers engaged. Fun cameo moments add to the intrigue.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/06/review-darkness-of-man-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Atlas (2024 Film) - Starring Jennifer Lopez

Directed by Brad Peyton and written by Leo Sardarian and Aron Eli Coleite, "Atlas" is a 2024 science fiction action film that transports viewers to a tumultuous future where the boundaries between humans and artificial intelligence are tested in the most extreme circumstances. Set in 2043, the film opens with a catastrophic war led by a humanoid AI terrorist named Harlan, resulting in the deaths of 3 million people. This sets the stage for a gripping narrative that jumps ahead 28 years, introducing us to Atlas Shepherd, a brilliant data analyst with a profound distrust of AI technology. Atlas, portrayed by Jennifer Lopez, is on a mission to capture Harlan, now a fugitive hiding in the Andromeda Galaxy.

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/05/review-atlas-2024-film-starring.html

Full Review at

REVIEW: City Hunter (2024 Film) - Starring Ryohei Suzuki, Misato Morita, and Masanobu Andô

City Hunter, the 2024 Japanese live-action adaptation directed by Yuichi Satoh and written by Tatsuro Mishima, is a vibrant and action-packed tribute to Tsukasa Hōjō's manga. The film stars Ryohei Suzuki as Ryo Saeba, a private investigator who, along with his partner Hideyuki (Masanobu Andô), takes on a case to find a missing cosplayer. Their investigation leads them to a mysterious woman with superhuman abilities, and following a tragic attack that kills Hideyuki, Ryo teams up with Hideyuki's sister Kaori (Misato Morita) to uncover the truth. The film features visually stunning action sequences and strong performances, especially from Suzuki, who balances the comedic and detective aspects of his character well.

While City Hunter offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the manga and anime, its exaggerated Japanese comedic elements may not appeal to everyone. Some humor might be perceived as misogynistic, potentially alienating more progressive viewers. Despite this, the film succeeds in delivering an engaging and energetic experience, with a solid cast and faithful homage to the original material. Although it doesn't quite surpass the charm of the 1993 Jackie Chan version, it stands as a commendable adaptation, earning a solid 8.5 out of 10.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/05/review-city-hunter-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Indika (2024 Video Game) for Xbox

Indika," a 2024 third-person, story-driven adventure game by Odd Meter, immerses players in a surreal and darkly humorous world. The story follows a young nun, Indika, who embarks on a journey with the devil himself, leading her beyond her monastery's walls into a series of events reminiscent of Dostoyevski and Bulhakov's novels. The game's narrative is its strongest asset, exploring profound themes of religion and authority with striking imagery and a peculiar sense of wit. While the linear gameplay may limit exploration, the mix of 3D environments and 2D pixel art mini-games provides visual variety and depth to the storytelling.

Despite a slow start and relatively easy puzzles, Indika captivates with its compelling narrative and unique atmosphere. The game's high-quality graphics, especially during dream sequences, and complementary audio enhance the experience. The voice acting adds depth to the characters, making their interactions more engaging. With its thought-provoking story and memorable dark humor, Indika is a standout title that invites multiple playthroughs. It is a must-play for fans of story-driven games, earning a solid 8 out of 10.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/05/review-indika-2024-video-game-for-xbox.html

REVIEW: Cash Out (2024 Film) - Starring John Travolta

Cash Out (2024), directed by Ives and written by Dipo Oseni and Doug Richardson, is a straightforward American action film starring John Travolta as Mason Goddard, a retired thief drawn back into the game by his brother's ill-conceived bank robbery plan. The heist goes awry, trapping the thieves inside the bank with hostages and surrounded by law enforcement, including Mason's former lover, negotiator Amelia Deckard (Kristin Davis). Despite its predictable plot, the film benefits from Travolta's charismatic performance, which elevates it above typical B-movie fare.

While the action sequences and pacing are solid, Cash Out suffers from plot holes and a lack of sufficient suspense, making it less thrilling than it could be. The supporting cast, including Lukas Haas and Quavo, deliver adequate performances, though their characters are underdeveloped. Despite these flaws, the movie provides a decent 90 minutes of entertainment, particularly for fans of the genre and Travolta. Overall, it's a watchable film that earns a generous 7 out of 10.

Read full more detailed review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/05/review-cash-out-2024-film-starring-john.html

REVIEW: Knox Goes Away (2024 Film) - Starring Michael Keaton

Knox Goes Away (2024) is a compelling American crime thriller that showcases Michael Keaton's prowess both in front of and behind the camera. As his second directorial venture, Keaton delivers a poignant narrative penned by Gregory Poirier, weaving together an emotionally charged and unpredictable story. Keaton stars as John Knox, a seasoned hitman who, upon being diagnosed with a rapidly progressing form of dementia, seeks to make amends and secure his family's future.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/05/review-knox-goes-away-2024-film.html