REVIEW: Freelance (2023 film) - Starring John Cena, Alison Brie, Juan Pablo Raba, and Christian Slater

Director Pierre Morel and writer Jacob Lentz team up to deliver a delightful blend of action and comedy in the 2023 film "Freelance." The plot follows Mason Pettits, played by the charismatic John Cena, a retired Army Special Forces turned lawyer, who reluctantly finds himself back in the world of covert operations. While the storyline may not break new ground, the film's execution and Cena's signature style make it an entertaining ride from start to finish.

The film kicks off with Mason Pettits leading a mundane life as a lawyer, haunted by his past mission to assassinate Paldonian dictator Juan Venegas. When former comrade Sebastian Earle, portrayed by the reliable Christian Slater, offers him a high-paying personal security job, Mason's life takes a dramatic turn. The mission involves protecting disgraced journalist Claire Wellington, played by the talented Alison Brie, as she interviews Venegas in Paldonia.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-freelance-2023-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Pretty Girls Escape PLUS on PC (Steam)

Familiar readers of our site are likely aware of my track record with reviews from the "Pretty Girls" franchise, and today, I'm excited to delve into the 21st installment – Pretty Girls Escape PLUS. As is the tradition with these releases, the formula remains simple: take a classic game, give it a modern twist, introduce new gameplay elements, and sprinkle in some Japanese anime-style charm. It's a straightforward recipe that consistently delivers enjoyable experiences. Given my past positive reviews of Pretty Girls titles, the question remains: can Pretty Girls Escape PLUS uphold this trend? Read on to discover the answer.

Pretty Girls Escape PLUS serves as an enhanced edition of its predecessor, boasting new characters, stages, and revamped dressing room features.

The game itself, Pretty Girls Escape, falls into the escape block puzzle genre. Players navigate character blocks through challenges, aiming to clear stages by eliminating connected blocks of the same color. The strategic movement of blocks left and right guides the character blocks to the exit. Each stage introduces various obstacles, adding complexity to the puzzle-solving process. The goal? Achieve a high score by erasing as many blocks as possible with minimal moves.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/11/review-pretty-girls-escape-plus-on-pc.html

REVIEW: Pain Hustlers (2023 Film) Starring Emily Blunt and Chris Evans

"Pain Hustlers" unfolds as a masterfully woven narrative, expertly directed by David Yates and propelled by the intricate screenplay crafted by Wells Tower. The film immerses viewers into the tumultuous world of the pharmaceutical industry, shining a spotlight on the compelling journey of Liza Drake, a resilient single mother thrust into a morally complex environment.

At the film's core is a narrative that serves as a powerful reminder of the ethical dilemmas and dangers inherent in the pharmaceutical industry. Liza's journey, from a struggling single mother to a key player in a pharmaceutical company's pursuit of success, unfolds with a magnetic intensity. The film delves into the nuanced challenges faced by Zanna, a struggling start-up desperate for investors to propel its pharmaceutical product, Lonafen, into the market ahead of a planned IPO.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-pain-hustlers-2023-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Barton Lynch Pro Surfing on PC (Steam)

Barton Lynch Pro Surfing, developed by a dedicated indie team in Western Australia, is a breath of fresh air for surfing game enthusiasts who have been longing for a realistic simulation experience. However, this niche title might not be everyone's cup of tea.

The game earns praise for its stunning locations, diverse game modes, and a meticulous approach to simulating the art of surfing. The attention to detail in physics and the inclusion of legendary surfers contribute to the authenticity of the experience.

On the downside, the game feels a bit unpolished, with controls that might be challenging for newcomers. The absence of an arcade mode is a curious decision, limiting the appeal to a specific audience, mainly surfers or dedicated fans of the sport. The plethora of menus and options can be overwhelming, making it less accessible for casual players looking for a quick pick-up-and-play experience.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/11/review-barton-lynch-pro-surfing-on-pc.html

REVIEW: Dashing Through the Snow (2023 Film) - Starring Chris 'Ludacris' Bridges and Lil Rel Howery

"Dashing Through the Snow," directed by Tim Story, attempts to deliver a dose of Christmas cheer with a blend of fantasy and comedy. Unfortunately, despite its festive aspirations, the film falls miserably short of spreading any real holiday joy. The only saving grace comes in the form of some decent costumes; beyond that, the movie is a chaotic mess with a litany of flaws.

The film follows Eddie Garrick (Chris 'Ludacris' Bridges), a social worker haunted by a traumatic childhood incident involving a mall Santa. The plot takes an unexpected turn when Eddie encounters a man named Nicholas Sinter-Claus (Lil Rel Howery), who claims to be the real Santa. From there, the audience is dragged through a tired and poorly executed tale that attempts to mix elements of fantasy, comedy, and Christmas spirit.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-dashing-through-snow-2023-film.html

REVIEW: DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing on Xbox

DreamWorks All-Star Kart Racing bursts onto the Xbox scene, offering a delightful blend of familiar characters, whimsical tracks, and karting enjoyment. Taking inspiration from the classic Mario Kart series, the game doesn't revolutionize the karting genre but provides a satisfying journey with its share of quirks.

At the heart of the game is an ensemble cast of DreamWorks characters, featuring the likes of Shrek, Po, Tigress, and Boss Baby. Each character adds a unique flavor to the chaotic karting experience.

The array of karts, numbering 20 in total, invites players to personalize their rides with a plethora of parts and accessories. This customization feature adds depth to the gameplay, allowing players to showcase their style on the track.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/11/review-dreamworks-all-star-kart-racing.html

REVIEW: A Haunting in Venice (2023) - Starring Kenneth Branagh

"A Haunting in Venice" (2023) emerges as Kenneth Branagh's intricate directorial and production venture, marking his reprisal of the role of Hercule Poirot in the third installment of the series, succeeding "Death on the Nile" (2022). Loosely drawing inspiration from Agatha Christie's "Hallowe'en Party," this film ventures into uncharted territory, introducing a darker and spookier ambiance.

The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of 1947, portraying Poirot in retirement, now residing in Venice. The aging detective is drawn into an enigmatic Halloween soirée hosted at the palatial residence of renowned opera singer Rowena Drake (Kelly Reilly). What ensues is a labyrinthine tale interwoven with the echoes of wartime trauma, paranormal phenomena, and a perplexing murder that shatters the veneer of the Halloween festivities.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-haunting-in-venice-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Old Dads (2023 film) Starring Bill Burr, Bobby Cannavale and Bokeem Woodbine

"Old Dads," directed by Bill Burr, is a comedic gem that explores the challenges of navigating the modern world as three friends find themselves out of sync with changing times. Starring Burr, Bobby Cannavale, and Bokeem Woodbine, the film provides plenty of laughs and a refreshing commentary on contemporary sensitivities.

One of the film's strengths is Burr's promising debut as a filmmaker. Known for his sharp wit in stand-up comedy, Burr successfully translates his humor to the big screen, delivering a movie that feels like a classic comedy without tiptoeing around sensitive topics. The film revels in making fun of modern sensibilities, poking fun at woke culture, and satirizing entitled millennial stereotypes.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-old-dads-2023-film-starring-bill.html

REVIEW: The Puppetman (2023 Film) - Starring Alyson Gorske, Angel Prater, Kio Cyr and Cameron Wong

"The Puppetman," directed by Brandon Christensen, is a 2023 horror film that brings an intriguing mix of psychological thriller and supernatural horror to the screen.

One of the film's strengths lies in its unique premise, revolving around Michal (Alyson Gorske), the daughter of a notorious killer who claims to be controlled by an evil force. As the mysterious deaths unfold around Michal, the audience is taken on a suspenseful journey to unravel the truth behind her father's claims and the curse of The Puppetman. The ambiguity surrounding the protagonist's intentions adds an element of curiosity that keeps viewers engaged.

The film's strong points include its decent execution as a horror film, featuring interesting ideas and some well-crafted set pieces. When the horror starts getting to full speed, the audience is treated to two brutal kill sequences that are impressively shot, injecting life into the narrative. The third act manages to make up for pacing issues, delivering a gripping conclusion.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-puppetman-2023-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Deliver Us (2023 Film) - Starring Lee Roy Kunz, Maria Vera Ratti and Alexander Siddig

"Deliver Us," the 2023 religious horror film directed by Lee Roy Kunz and Cru Ennis, delivers a chilling and atmospheric take on the age-old battle between good and evil. With a solid score of 7 out of 10, the film successfully combines moody cinematography, practical gore effects, and an intriguing premise to create a compelling viewing experience.

In a Russian convent, Sister Yulia finds herself unexpectedly pregnant with twins, claiming their conception to be immaculate. Prophecies surround these siblings, destined to embody the Messiah and the Antichrist. In response to a perilous threat from the Vox Dei sect, Father Fox and Cardinal Russo journey to Saint Petersburg to safeguard Yulia. Faced with imminent danger, they relocate Yulia to Estonia.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-deliver-us-2023-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 on Xbox - (2023 Video Game)

Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 delivers a solid gaming experience and successfully builds upon its predecessor, offering a visually appealing and entertaining crossover fighting game for fans of Nickelodeon franchises.

One of the standout features of the game is its great graphics, bringing to life a diverse roster of recognizable characters from various Nickelodeon shows. This makes it an excellent choice for young kids, providing a fun and engaging experience. The control scheme is a notable improvement, maintaining familiarity while introducing innovative changes. The separation of charge attacks from light attacks enhances combo execution and adds variety to each character's moveset.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/11/review-nickelodeon-all-star-brawl-2-on.html

SHORT FILM REVIEW: Alleviate (2023) - Starring Darren Kent

'Living in the shadows of unthinkable loss, one man seeks solace from the one person who knows him best, his future self.'

Darren Kent lived with osteoporosis, arthritis, and a skin disorder before his death on 11 August 2023, at the age of 36.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/short-film-alleviate-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Police State (2023 Film) - A Revealing Exploration of Threats to Liberty by filmmaker Dinesh D’Souza

Dinesh D'Souza's documentary, "POLICE STATE," serves as a chilling exposé of government power abuses in the U.S., presenting a compelling narrative that delves into the potential risks of a one-party police state. Co-written and co-directed by the award-winning conservative author and filmmaker Dinesh D'Souza, the film skillfully intertwines historical context, eyewitness testimonies, and dramatic re-enactments to build a case against what is portrayed as a coordinated effort by Democrat Party leaders and federal bureaucrats to suppress political opposition.

The documentary commences with a striking reminder of historical one-party police states, drawing parallels to Nazi Germany, Stalinist Russia, and Mao's China. This impactful introduction lays the groundwork for the next 90 minutes, during which D'Souza scrutinizes the actions of Democrat Party leaders, federal agencies such as the FBI and the Department of Justice, and their apparent collaboration with the news media, big tech (Facebook and Twitter, pre-Elon Musk era), and wealthy donors.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-police-state-2023-revealing.html

REVIEW: Fingernails (2023 Film) - Starring Jessie Buckley and Luke Wilson

"Fingernails," the 2023 American science fiction romantic drama directed and co-written by Christos Nikou, largely propelled by the commendable performances of its lead cast members. The film takes a daring leap into the realm of unconventional storytelling, delving into a unique societal premise that involves a peculiar love test requiring the sacrifice of a fingernail. While the narrative unfolds with intriguing ideas and solid character portrayals, it occasionally falters, particularly for those anticipating a more extravagant science fiction spectacle.

The story follows Jessie Buckley's character, Anna, a school teacher who joins the Love Institute, a recently established company founded by Luke Wilson's character, Duncan. The institute's mission is to guide couples through relationship-strengthening exercises, ultimately leading them to pass the eccentric love test. The central conflict arises from the negative impact the test has had on relationships, causing an increase in breakups and divorces.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-fingernails-2023-film-starring.html

REVIEW: VISCO Collection on Xbox

The VISCO Collection is a delightful time capsule, preserving the essence of classic arcade gaming in a revitalized bundle of seven games. Each title holds its own unique charm, appealing to a wide spectrum of gaming preferences.

The range of genres covered is impressive, shoot 'em ups, fighting, shooters, sports simulations, and racing, ensures there's something for everyone. Andro Dunos stands out for its space shoot 'em up adventure, a true test of reflexes and skill. Meanwhile, Goal! Goal! Goal! resonates deeply with nostalgic sentiments, transporting players back to the days of arcade coin-drop matches.

Read Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/11/review-visco-collection-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Muzzle (2023) - Starring Aaron Eckhart

"Muzzle" is a gritty action-thriller that delves into the underbelly of Los Angeles, led by Aaron Eckhart's compelling portrayal of Jake Rosser, a troubled police officer navigating the aftermath of a tragic event involving his K-9 partner. Director John Stalberg Jr. and writer Carlyle Eubank present a sobering look at crime and corruption in the city, highlighting the resilience of an officer with a haunted past.

The film embarks with a powerful premise, capturing the raw emotional impact of loss and trauma through the death of Jake's K-9 partner, Ace. Eckhart's performance brings depth to Jake's character, a combat veteran battling PTSD and social isolation. The exploration of the protagonist's emotional turmoil sets a poignant tone that resonates throughout the narrative.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-muzzle-2023-starring-aaron.html

REVIEW: The Marvels (2023 Film) - Starring Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris and Iman Vellani

"The Marvels" is an exhilarating yet flawed addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, combining the stories of Carol Danvers, Monica Rambeau, and Kamala Khan. The film ambitiously weaves a tale of cosmic unrest and quantum entanglement that propels the heroes into an unexpected collaboration.

The plot navigates the fallout from the Kree civil war, threading together the fate of Hala, the Kree home planet, with the discovery of Quantum Bands that hold immense power. Amidst peace negotiations and rifts within the Kree and Skrull realms, a disruptive force threatens not just one world, but the stability of the universe itself. This upheaval triggers an entanglement between Danvers, Rambeau, and Khan, forcing them to swap locations and face each other's adversaries, compelling them into an impromptu alliance as 'the Marvels.'

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-marvels-2023-film-starring-brie.html

REVIEW: The Killer (2023) - Starring Michael Fassbender

"David Fincher's 'The Killer' plunges audiences into a gripping portrayal of a professional assassin, skillfully depicted by Michael Fassbender. The film's narrative prowess is evident, drawing viewers into a world of calculated precision and high-stakes tension.

With Fincher at the helm, the direction remains top-tier, enhanced by a stellar cast that weaves a story both smart and engaging. Fassbender's performance as the lead assassin elevates the film, delving into the psyche of a character navigating a dangerous profession with chilling expertise.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-killer-2023-starring-michael.html

REVIEW: Foe (2023) - Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Paul Mescal and Aaron Pierre

"Foe," directed by Garth Davis and adapted from Iain Reid's 2018 novel, presents an intriguing premise and commendable performances from its lead actors, but struggles to fully capitalize on its potential, resulting in a film that falls somewhere in the middle of the sci-fi psychological thriller spectrum.

Saoirse Ronan and Paul Mescal deliver strong performances as Henrietta (Hen) and Junior, a couple living in the desolate US Midwest of 2065, struggling with the scarcity of resources and the impact of new technology that allows AI to create indistinguishable copies of humans. The film's central idea arises when Junior is drafted into an otherworldly experiment, leaving Hen in the company of a potential AI replacement.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-foe-2023-starring-saoirse-ronan.html

REVIEW: schleich® DINOSAURS: Mission Dino Camp on Nintendo Switch

DINOSAURS: Mission Dino Camp is a fun, educational and engaging game that is perfect for young dinosaur fans. The game is set in a beautiful tropical forest that is home to a variety of dinosaurs, including velociraptors, brontosaurus, and T-Rexes. Players take on the role of Jack, a dinosaur research scientist who must explore the forest and rescue the dinosaurs from an erupting volcano amongst other things.

This is very much a jobs based game, your character will be given missions, like collecting herbs, or photographing a Dino, and then bring those to other workers, so a lot of going back and forth.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/11/review-schleich-dinosaurs-mission-dino.html

REVIEW: Dumb Money (2023) - Starring Paul Dano and Seth Rogen

"Dumb Money" is a 2023 American biographical comedy-drama film that dives into the extraordinary events of the GameStop short squeeze of January 2021, based on Ben Mezrich's book, "The Antisocial Network." The film has its moments of glory and delivers a brisk, biting comic tone with a touch of anger against Wall Street. The ultimate David vs. Goliath tale is portrayed with a smart and entertaining style, making it a finance-world docudrama worth watching.

"Dumb Money is based on the insane true story of everyday people who flipped the script on Wall Street and got rich by turning GameStop (yes, the videogame store) into the world's hottest company. In the middle of everything is regular guy Keith Gill (Paul Dano), who starts it all by sinking his life savings into the stock and posting about it. When his social posts start blowing up, so does his life and the lives of everyone following him. As a stock tip becomes a movement, everyone gets rich – until the billionaires fight back, and both sides find their worlds turned upside down."

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-dumb-money-2023-starring-paul.html

REVIEW: Sniper: G.R.I.T. - Global Response & Intelligence Team (2023) - Starring Chad Michael Collins, Ryan Robbins and Dennis Haysbert

"Sniper: G.R.I.T - Global Response & Intelligence Team" is the latest installment in the long-running "Sniper" franchise, and while it may not reinvent the wheel, it delivers what fans of the series have come to expect – action-packed thrills with some added humor.

"When an international terrorist cult threatens global political stability and kidnaps a fellow agent, Ace Sniper Brandon Beckett (Chad Michael Collins) and the newly-formed Global Response & Intelligence Team – or G.R.I.T. – led by Colonel Stone (Dennis Haysbert) must travel across the world to Malta, infiltrate the cult, and take out its leader to free Lady Death (Luna Fujimoto) and stop the global threat."

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/11/review-sniper-grit-global-response.html