REVIEW: Cats and the Other Lives on XBOX

Today we have an unusual game, a point and click game that has been converted to Xbox, that features you in control of a cat within a narrative story.

The story is set after the passing of Bernard Mason, the family patriarch, all the remaining members of the Mason clan return to their childhood home one last time. In this unique game experience, players step into the paws of Aspen, the household cat, embarking on a captivating journey through the hopes, disappointments, and regrets of the enigmatic Mason family, spanning decades of their intricate narrative.

This game offers an interesting point-and-click play style that pays homage to the behaviours of everyday house cats from around the world. As Aspen, you'll explore the simple areas of the house, is this feline companion just a pet or does it harbour a more mysterious role in our lives.

The cat has no special powers or abilities, it is literally just a cat, the object of the game is to unravel the story of the Mason Family. You will listen in to conversations, solve puzzles, and in general do cat things like follow scents, chasing a mouse, causing chaos during family dinners and so on.

The game is rendered in 2D pixel style art.

Also, worth noting that a portion of the proceeds from "Cats and the Other Lives" is dedicated to funding medical operations for street cats.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/09/review-cats-and-other-lives-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: The Boogeyman (2023) Starring Sophie Thatcher, Chris Messina, Vivien Lyra Blair, and David Dastmalchian

The Boogeyman, directed by Rob Savage and based on Stephen King's 1973 short story of the same name, presents a chilling tale of family trauma and supernatural terror. While the film may not fully capture the depth of its source material, it does a good job creating a haunting atmosphere and has strong performances all round from the cast.

The story revolves around the Harper family, particularly the two sisters, Sadie (Sophie Thatcher) and Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair), along with their therapist father, Will (Chris Messina). Struggling to cope with the sudden loss of their mother, the family's world becomes even darker when a disturbed man named Lester Billings (David Dastmalchian) enters their lives. The encounter sets off a series of unsettling events, as the family becomes entangled in the deadly grip of an evil entity known as "The Boogeyman."

The film succeeds in creating an expertly calibrated atmosphere of dread. The visual style is memorable, with haunting imagery that lingers even after the credits roll. The performances, particularly those of the young cast members, contribute significantly to the film's effectiveness. Sophie Thatcher as Sadie and Vivien Lyra Blair as Sawyer manage to convey a convincing mix of vulnerability and determination, anchoring the audience's emotional investment.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-boogeyman-2023-starring-sophie.html

REVIEW: Minore (2023) from acclaimed director and visual effects maestro Konstantinos Koutsoliotas

"Minore," from acclaimed director and visual effects maestro Konstantinos Koutsoliotas, is a true marvel in the realm of horror cinema. Drawing on his expertise from collaborations on iconic films like "Cabinet of Curiosities," "1917," and "Guardians of The Galaxy," Koutsoliotas delivers an authentically Greek masterpiece that seamlessly weaves terror, folklore, and spectacular effects into a nightmarish tapestry. I say authentic, as I am Greek, so you can trust me on that.

The film introduces us to sailor William, portrayed by the talented Davide Tucci, who sets foot on the shores of Greece with a mysterious purpose. Amidst the vibrant tavernas and lively locals, he forms a connection with Aliki (Daphne Alexander), a trained dancer who is reluctantly working as a waitress in the bustling town. Their pursuit of Teacher whose real name is Nikodimos (Meletis Georgiadis), a master of the bouzouki, becomes intertwined with an eerie mist that heralds the invasion of otherworldly monsters.

As the town plunges into chaos, the film transitions from romantic intrigue, a man searching for the father he never knew, could it be teacher?, to a fight for survival. William and Aliki, joined by an eclectic group of locals, including the charismatic bar owner Pantelis (Christos Callow), must stand against the horrific creatures that emerge from the depths. What follows is an epic battle, encompassing everyone from musicians to tourists, as they unite to preserve their way of life.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-minore-2023-from-acclaimed.html

REVIEW: Strays (2023) - Starring Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx

"Strays," is a 2023 American comedy film directed by Josh Greenbaum, a riotous ride through the lives of some very unconventional furry friends.

For those who revel in off-colour humour and are comfortable with a liberal dose of crude jokes and sexual innuendos, this film is an absolute must-see. (Watch the trailer below and you will understand instantly the type of film this is.)

The film's narrative revolves around Reggie, a naive Border Terrier, and his rocky relationship with his owner Doug, a drug addict with questionable motives. The story takes an unexpected turn when Reggie finds himself stranded and encounters a street-smart Boston Terrier named Bug. Joined by a cast of colourful canine characters, Reggie embarks on a journey that unveils the truth about his past and the mistreatment he endured.

The voice cast, led by Will Ferrell as Reggie, Jamie Foxx as Bug, and Isla Fisher as Maggie, delivers comedic brilliance that brings the dogs' personalities to life. The diversity of voices ensures each character is distinct and memorable.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-strays-2023-starring-will.html

REVIEW: Contraptions 3 on Nintendo Switch

Contraptions 3 continues the zany tradition of its predecessors, delivering a fun and imaginative puzzle-solving experience that fans of the series will appreciate. This game successfully combines creative contraptions and Rube Goldberg-style mechanics to entertain players with its unique challenges. However, while it offers simple and enjoyable graphics, it also carries some drawbacks that might hinder newcomers from fully embracing the eccentric charm.

The game features over 200 wacky puzzles spread across five distinct worlds, offering a substantial amount of content for puzzle enthusiasts to explore. Additionally, the ability to create custom levels and challenge friends to conquer them extends the game's replayability beyond its premade puzzles.

Each level tasks players with ridding the environment of monsters by crafting intricate contraptions. The core gameplay revolves around arranging objects in a way that triggers chain reactions, leading to the monsters' demise. Players can pause time to reposition, flip, or connect objects, allowing them to fine-tune their solutions before setting the contraption in motion. If executed correctly, a satisfying domino effect unfolds, leading to the monsters' ultimate defeat.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-contraptions-3-on-nintendo-switch.html

REVIEW: Mob Land (2023) - Starring John Travolta and Stephen Dorff

"Mob Land," starring John Travolta as Sheriff Davis, offers a suspenseful ride into the heart of a small town plagued by addiction and criminal schemes. The film excels in delivering unpredictable twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it an engaging and heart-pounding action thriller.

Travolta's portrayal of Sheriff Davis brings depth to the character of a man nearing retirement, grappling with personal health issues while trying to maintain law and order in a town overwhelmed by challenges. His genuine interest in the young mechanic Shelby, played by Shiloh Fernandez, adds a human touch to the narrative, creating a relatable anchor for the audience.

The film takes an intriguing turn when Shelby, drawn into a misguided criminal plan concocted by his reckless uncle Trey (Kevin Dillon), becomes entangled in a violent sequence of events. The unexpected shift in the plot adds a layer of intensity to the story, showcasing the consequences of seemingly easy money. Stephen Dorff's portrayal of Clayton, the revenge-seeking enforcer from the New Orleans mafia, is a standout performance. Dorff's character is given the best lines, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of the film and leaving a memorable impression.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-mob-land-2023-starring-john.html

Interview with Boo Rhodes

When did you first become interested in horror stories and movies?

In the early 70s I would sneak up with my brother and watch Bob Wilkins on Creature Features on KTVU channel 2. I was 6 the first time I watched Night of the Living Dead on Creature Features and loved it. I became a fan of horror movies for a long time after. It was only natural because in the States we really celebrated Halloween back then.

At the time I was reading book like Black Beauty because I was really into horses but I think I started liking fantasy when our teacher read The Hobbit to us when I was 11 and my mom, knowing that I loved the Salem's Lot miniseries, bought me Salem's Lot the book with pictures from the miniseries and after that I was hooked on horror books. I think I was 13 when that happened.

What gave you the idea for your channel and getting on YouTube?

You know, I'm not even sure how I found out about the channel URMAKER, but I was listening to him while getting a story ready to send to a magazine and I realized he had tens of thousands of subscribers and was probably making some decent money. I thought how easy it would be so I turned my stories into videos and then realized how difficult it was to get views. I was totally wrong but I enjoy the process and reading to people.

Not all of the stories I tell are mine, but one day I hope to have more time to put more stories of my own out there.

Full Interview at

http://www.mastersofhorror.co.uk/2023/08/interview-with-boo-rhodes-by-david-kempf.html

REVIEW: The List (2023) - Starring Halston Sage and Christian Navarro

"The List" delivers a delightful blend of cheeky humour, romance, and self-discovery that keeps the audience entertained from start to finish. Led by the charismatic duo of Halston Sage and Christian Navarro, director Melissa Miller Costanzo crafts a light-hearted and engaging romantic comedy that hits all the right notes.

Halston Sage shines as Abby, a bride-to-be whose fairy tale engagement takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her fiancé's tryst with a celebrity from his "free pass" list. Faced with heartache and a desire for distraction, Abby teams up with her vivacious best friend Chloe (played with comedic flair by Chrissie Fit) to embark on a comical quest of her own. The mission? Pursuing her own list of celebrity crushes, including the hunky action star Mac West (Rich Morrow), the suave Sexiest Man Alive Cooper Grant (Gregg Sulkin), and the enigmatic Grammy-winning rapper Avon (Will Peltz).

The film takes a refreshing approach by placing Abby in the heart of Hollywood, guided by her friend Sam (portrayed by Shelley Hennig), a savvy talent agent who pulls out all the stops to connect Abby with her celebrity idols. As Abby navigates the glitzy world of stardom, she encounters a series of laugh-out-loud situations that keep the film's comedic momentum flowing.

"The List" thrives on its humorous moments, seamlessly blending witty dialogue with physical comedy. The chemistry between the characters, particularly Abby and Chloe, adds an endearing layer to the story, making their escapades in pursuit of fame and romance both relatable and hilarious.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-list-2023-starring-halston-sage.html

REVIEW: Pretty Girls Klondike Solitaire PLUS on PC (Steam)

I have covered many of the "Pretty Girls" releases, by now you should know the routine, take a classic simple to play game, wrap it within the Pretty Girls universe, and job done.

"Pretty Girls Klondike Solitaire PLUS" from ZOO Corporation delivers a delightful twist on the classic game of solitaire, immersing players in an anime-inspired world with Klondike rules. With its charming anime-style graphics, easy-to-play gameplay, and impressive presentation, this title adds a fresh layer of excitement to the timeless card game.

The game offers a unique twist by incorporating 11 beautiful girl characters, each with their own distinctive personalities and stories. Engaging with them adds an element of intrigue as you progress through the solitaire challenges. The diverse cast of characters, from cool beauties to Tsundere personalities, enhances the gameplay experience and gives players an incentive to clear stages and unlock stylish costumes for the girls.

The various difficulty levels add a layer of challenge to the traditional Klondike solitaire game, but also rewards players with costume changes as they make progress. Dressing up the characters in various outfits adds a fun and rewarding aspect to the game, offering a creative outlet for players to express their style preferences.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-pretty-girls-klondike-solitaire.html

REVIEW: The Engineer (2023) - Starring Emile Hirsch

"The Engineer," an action thriller written by the talented Kostas Kondilopoulos and directed by Danny A. Abeckaser, thrusts its audience into the heart of the turbulent political landscape of the 1990s Middle East. This gripping film, driven by intense performances and a harrowing plot, paints a vivid portrait of relentless determination in the face of danger and desperation.

Emile Hirsch takes on the role of Etan, a rugged expat whose unwavering commitment to completing a ruthless mission is both admirable and unnerving. Teaming up with Israel's security agency, Etan's relentless pursuit of the elusive Engineer is portrayed well, with Hirsch capturing the character's inner turmoil and strained relationships with his superiors and comrades.

Angel Bonanni delivers a captivating performance as Avi, a seasoned hitman and interrogator driven by personal vengeance. His portrayal adds depth to the story, giving viewers a glimpse into his tragic background and the violent methods he employs. Avi's turbulent journey from the shadows of political manipulation to a quest for retribution is both gritty and emotionally charged.

The film's plot navigates the treacherous waters of the early 1990s peace negotiations between Israel and Palestine, where a series of suicide bombings threaten to derail the fragile progress. As Etan and Avi tread different paths to apprehend the mastermind behind the attacks, the film intensifies its grip, exploring the two men's distinct approaches to achieving their shared goal. The narrative weaves together the brutality of their methods with the broader political landscape, crafting a tense atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-engineer-2023-starring-emile.html

REVIEW: The Texas Chain Saw Massacre on Xbox

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre video game manages to capture the grim essence of the iconic 1974 film in an asymmetric multiplayer online horror title. The game is set just before the events of the original 1974 movie.  This hide and seek style game places players in the shoes of either the infamous Slaughter family or their desperate victims, promising a chilling experience that stays true to the source material.

The main idea of the game is that three Slaughter Family players have to try to murder four helpless victim players, where as their job is to simply escape. The various playable characters all have their own unique stats and abilities to help them to either find the victims, or to escape the killers.

The job of the killers is to secure the area, make sure electric fences are turned on, doors are locked, traps set etc, and of course trying to kill the victims. The Cook character has the ability to add extra padlocks to doors and can use enhanced hearing to locate Victims, Johnny has a tracking ability, and Hitchhiker can lay down traps. You also need to feed blood to Grandpa, who is sat on a rocking chair in a different location each time you play, when given blood he uses a sonar sweep to highlight moving victims for a time.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-texas-chain-saw-massacre-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Blue Beetle (2023) - Starring Xolo Maridueña

The film endeavours to soar with its impressive visual effects, seamlessly bringing to life the formidable armoured suit of the titular character. These visual spectacles, coupled with a competent soundtrack, contribute to an initial promise of an engaging cinematic experience.

However, beneath the surface lies a narrative riddled with discord. While the visual effects may shine, the choreography of action sequences often defaults to predictable CGI-laden skirmishes that lack the ingenuity necessary to truly captivate the audience.

A major stumbling block lies in the overt socio-political agenda that permeates the story, rendering it a veritable soapbox for "woke" messaging. The film's attempt to grapple with social issues and incorporate these themes into the characters' motivations often comes across as contrived and heavy-handed, overshadowing the underlying narrative.

Moreover, the film struggles with character depth and nuance. Almost every non-white character is depicted through the lens of victimhood, which curtails the opportunity for genuine character growth and complexity. Regrettably, this decision leads to a shallowness that hampers the film's emotional resonance.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-blue-beetle-2023-starring-xolo.html

REVIEW: The Monkey King (2023) - Starring Jimmy O. Yang and Bowen Yang

"The Monkey King" is a 2023 animated family film directed by Anthony Stacchi that attempts to bring the classic Chinese folktale to a contemporary audience. While it has its share of pros, including well-voiced characters, a blend of classic and modern storytelling, moments of humour, and a lively energy, the film also stumbles in certain areas, resulting in a mixed cinematic experience.

One of the standout features of the movie is the voice cast, with notable performances from Jimmy O. Yang as the Monkey King and Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Lin. The characters come to life through their voices, adding depth and charisma to the narrative. The film's soundtrack complements the action well and enhances the emotional moments.

The martial arts scenes in the film are well-choreographed and add an exciting dimension to the story. They capture the essence of the Monkey King's legendary prowess and add an element of thrill for both young and older audiences. The attempt to distil the complex centuries-old tale into a quirky folktale that appeals to children is commendable and does result in some enjoyable moments for the target audience.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-monkey-king-2023-starring-jimmy.html

REVIEW: Astro Flame: Starfighter - Xbox

Astro Flame Starfighter takes players on an exhilarating journey through the stars, offering a captivating blend of classic scrolling shooter gameplay and modern 3D graphics. Released on various platforms, including Xbox, this game promises a nostalgic yet cutting-edge experience that will leave players engaged and enthralled.

In Astro Flame Starfighter, players assume the role of a skilled spaceship pilot, venturing through 15 levels of intense, action-packed gameplay. The game's allure lies not only in its challenge but also in its stunning visual effects that amplify the immersive experience. Each encounter with relentless enemies becomes a visually impressive spectacle, and the satisfaction of eliminating them is truly gratifying.

The title excels at offering a range of features that enhance the gameplay. Upgrades to the spaceship and weaponry provide a strategic layer to the adventure, empowering players to face off against powerful bosses guarding each level. The game's various difficulty levels, along with the ability to toggle auto fire on/off, accommodate players of all skill levels. The 2.5D perspective and the freedom to move around the screen add depth to the gameplay, while the health bar system and the option to shoot down enemy projectiles enhance the tactical dimension.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-astro-flame-starfighter-xbox.html

REVIEW: The Expanse: A Telltale Series on Playstation

The Expanse: A Telltale Series takes players on an engaging narrative journey through the uncharted territories of space, and while it offers a compelling experience, a few aspects prevent it from reaching the highest ranks of interactive storytelling.

Deck Nine Games, renowned for its work on the Life is Strange franchise, brings its expertise to the fore in The Expanse. The game thrives on the tried-and-true Telltale formula of decision-making, but with a novel twist: it places paramount importance on relationship-building and exploration. As a single-player game, it hands the reins of destiny over to the player, creating a personalized experience.

The game shines the brightest in its moments aboard the Artemis, where conversations serve as the linchpin for significant narrative progress. What sets The Expanse apart, however, is its sandbox-style salvaging segments. These segments elevate decision-making beyond binary life-or-death choices, allowing players to truly shape the story through their actions. This is where Telltale's promise of consequential decisions finds its truest expression, and it's a welcome evolution in the studio's approach.

Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-expanse-telltale-series-on.html

REVIEW: Wonderwell (2023) - Starring Rita Ora and Carrie Fisher

I suppose I should do an Oasis reference here, but I am guessing every other critic on the planet has already done it, so I will give it a miss.

"Wonderwell" is a heartwarming family film that delivers solid entertainment for all ages. While the storyline may not break new ground in terms of originality, it manages to captivate its audience with its charming characters, imaginative world and impressive visual effects.

One of the film's notable aspects is its inclusion of the late Carrie Fisher, who graces the screen with her final presence in what is sadly a small role. Her appearance, alongside popstar Rita Ora, adds a touch of nostalgia and interest to the long-awaited fantasy film.

At its core, "Wonderwell" follows the journey of Violet (Kiera Milward), a young girl with an insatiable curiosity that sets her apart from her family, and who believes she is a witch. The film kicks off in Italy, where Violet's yearning for familial closeness leads her to bake cookies infused with a magical spell of togetherness. As the story unfolds, her sister Savannah (Nell Tiger Free) becomes the chosen face of a renowned fashion mogul, Jana (Rita Ora). The film interweaves these narratives, showcasing the challenges and aspirations of both Violet and Savannah.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-wonderwell-2023-starring-rita.html

REVIEW: Heart of Stone (2023) Starring Gal Gadot

"Heart of Stone," directed by Tom Harper and written by Greg Rucka and Allison Schroeder, is a 2023 American spy action thriller that attempts to captivate with its espionage intrigue and action-packed sequences. Distributed by Netflix, this film follows the footsteps of classic spy franchises like James Bond, while giving it a fresh twist by placing the always entertaining Gal Gadot in the lead role as Rachel Stone, a skilled operative on a mission that blurs the line between loyalty and revenge.

The film opens in the stunning Italian Alps, where an MI6 team embarks on a high-stakes operation to extract a potential asset. The plot takes unexpected turns as Stone, portrayed convincingly by Gal Gadot, reveals her true affiliations as a member of Charter, a covert organization with its own secrets and agendas. This revelation sets the stage for a series of thrilling encounters that lead the audience on a roller-coaster ride of espionage and danger.

The casting choices bring depth and charisma to the characters. Jamie Dornan's portrayal of Parker, a double agent with a personal vendetta, adds layers to the narrative, while Alia Bhatt shines as Keya Dhawan, a young savant hacker entangled in the web of espionage. The ensemble cast, including Sophie Okonedo, Jing Lusi, and more, each contribute to the film's dynamic energy.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-heart-of-stone-2023-starring-gal.html

Ayvianna Snow takes center stage in a slew of upcoming movies:

The versatile performer and reigning queen of horror, Ayvianna Snow, known for her roles in films like "LOLA," "White Colour Black," "Black Lake," "Barun Rai And The House On The Cliff," "Hollow," and "The Lockdown Hauntings," is set to make a triumphant return with a lineup of highly anticipated new movies. Among them are "How To Kill Monsters" and "Punch," both set to premiere at this month's FrightFest, as well as the upcoming film "Wrath of Dracula."

More at

http://www.mastersofhorror.co.uk/2023/08/ayvianna-snow-takes-center-stage-in.html

REVIEW: The Collective (2023) - Starring Lucas Till and Ruby Rose

"The Collective," directed by Tom DeNucci and penned by Jason James and Matthew Rogers, takes audiences on a journey into the morally complex world of a righteous assassin organization determined to dismantle an impervious human trafficking ring operated by formidable billionaires. While the film follows a formulaic pattern common to direct-to-video thrillers, it manages to deliver moments of intrigue and action that should keep you engaged.

The story revolves around a group of skilled assassins, known as The Collective, led by the authoritative Liam (Don Johnson). Their mission: to eliminate the seemingly untouchable individuals who profit from heinous crimes. The plot introduces Sam (Lucas Till), a rookie assassin whose skills are put to the test through a cleverly staged mission. As Sam is reluctantly assigned to a desk job, he quickly yearns for more meaningful action. His desire to contribute actively to the cause propels him into a dangerous investigation involving the elusive human trafficker Miro Lindell (Paul Ben-Victor), aided by enforcers Daisy (Ruby Rose) and Nikita (Mercedes "Sasha Banks" Varnado).

Despite adhering to a conventional narrative template, "The Collective" offers glimpses into the characters' minds and motivations. Sam's analytical approach (which was instantly remind you of his previous acting role of MacGyver), is showcased well in a scene where he discusses an assassination mission with Hugo (Tyrese Gibson), providing insight into his strategic thinking. While the film treads the familiar path of a novice stepping up and defying orders to achieve justice, it does manage to add depth to its protagonist's development.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-collective-2023-starring-lucas.html

REVIEW: Spectrolite on Xbox

Spectrolite offers a fresh and distinctive approach to first-person platformers, delivering a blend of immersive atmospheric levels and adrenaline-pumping timed challenges. The game introduces reimagined traditional platforming mechanics, enhanced with powerful abilities that bring a new level of precision to the genre.

Players will appreciate the expansive hand-crafted levels, each thoughtfully designed with diverse environments and accompanied by an original soundtrack that complements the gameplay experience. Additionally, the game's tight and precise controls ensure a responsive and smooth gameplay feel.

For those seeking an extra thrill, Spectrolite presents bite-sized time trials that provide an opportunity to compete globally on leaderboards. Players can measure their skills against others and strive to improve their personal records in this mode.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-spectrolite-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Cobweb (2023) - Starring Lizzy Caplan, Woody Norman, Cleopatra Coleman and Antony Starr

"Cobweb," directed by Samuel Bodin in his directorial debut and written by Chris Thomas Devlin, is a chilling and creepy 2023 American horror film that delves into the eerie and unsettling realms of a young boy's tormented existence. With a standout cast and an intriguing plot, the film manages to weave together psychological horror and supernatural elements in a way that should keep you on the edge of your seat.

Lizzy Caplan delivers a strong performance as Carol, a mother grappling with her son's disturbing experiences. Antony Starr's portrayal of Mark, the emotionally distant and potentially abusive father, adds depth to the family dynamics. Cleopatra Coleman as Miss Devine and Woody Norman as the tormented young boy Peter round out the cast with exceptional performances that anchor the story in a sense of unease.

The plot revolves around Peter, a socially isolated 12-year-old who suffers from bullying at school and parental neglect at home. Peter's life takes a haunting turn when he becomes entangled with an enigmatic presence named Sarah, who claims to be trapped within the walls of his home. The film masterfully builds tension as the lines blur between Peter's imagination and a sinister reality.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-cobweb-2023-starring-lizzy.html

REVIEW: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem - Starring Micah Abbey, Shamon Brown Jr., Nicolas Cantu, and Brady Noon

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem" bursts onto the screen as a thrilling and dynamic reboot of the iconic franchise, delivering a nostalgic nod to the past while introducing exhilarating new elements. Directed by Jeff Rowe, this seventh instalment in the theatrical Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series captures the essence of the beloved characters while breathing new life into their adventures.

The voice cast is the film's beating heart, with each actor embodying their characters with flair and dedication. Micah Abbey's Donatello radiates wisdom and resourcefulness, while Shamon Brown Jr.'s Michelangelo injects the film with charisma and humour. Nicolas Cantu as Leonardo effortlessly portrays the leadership and honour of the group, and Brady Noon's Raphael balances strength with impulsiveness. Ayo Edebiri as April O'Neil brings intelligence and determination to her role, making her a standout addition to the Turtles' circle.

The story kicks off with a bang as TCRI executive Cynthia Utrom (Maya Rudolph) sends her strike force after the rogue scientist Baxter Stockman (Giancarlo Esposito), setting off a chain of events that leads to the Turtles' emergence. The film skilfully blends action, humour, and heartfelt moments as the Turtles navigate their identity as mutants and their desire for a normal life. The tension between their longing for acceptance and their duty as heroes provides a compelling emotional arc that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-teenage-mutant-ninja-turtles.html

REVIEW: Soulcatcher (2023) - Starring Piotr Witkowski, Jacek Koman, Michal Burdan and Jacek Poniedzialek

"Soulcatcher," directed by Daniel Markowicz, delivers an interesting and explosive experience that combines the adrenaline-pumping excitement of classic action with intriguing sci-fi elements. Clocking in at 1 hour and 38 minutes, this Polish-language film, distributed by Netflix, takes audiences on a ride of intense fights, heart-stopping explosions, and a dash of futuristic technology.

The film wastes no time in plunging viewers into its chaotic world. Private military contractors Kiel (Piotr Witkowski) and Piotr (Michal Burdan) embark on what seems like a routine extraction mission in a remote corner of Poland. However, their plans go awry when they're attacked by seemingly deranged civilians. The action escalates when Piotr succumbs to the same frenzied state and turns against his own brother, forcing Kiel to make a gut-wrenching decision.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-soulcatcher-2023-starring-piotr.html

REVIEW: Meg 2: The Trench - Starring Jason Statham, Wu Jing, Sophia Cai, Page Kennedy, Sergio Peris-Mencheta, Skyler Samuels and Cliff Curtis

Directed by Ben Wheatley, "Meg 2: The Trench" takes audiences on a thrilling and heart-pounding deep-sea adventure, delivering a captivating blend of science fiction and action. The film is a sequel to the 2018 hit "The Meg," and it successfully builds upon the suspenseful premise of its predecessor.

The story transports viewers five years after the events of the first film, introducing us to the now-seasoned diver Jonas Taylor, portrayed brilliantly by Jason Statham. Taylor's involvement in fighting environmental crimes meshes seamlessly with his role in exploring the uncharted depths of the Mariana Trench. The film kicks into high gear when a malevolent mining operation jeopardizes the mission, thrusting Taylor and his team into a desperate battle for survival against the formidable Megalodons.

The cast's performances are commendable, with Statham reprising his role with the perfect mix of toughness and vulnerability. Wu Jing as Jiuming Zhang brings depth to his character, and Sophia Cai as Meiying Zhang shines as Jonas' step-daughter, adding emotional resonance to the film. The ensemble, including Page Kennedy, Sergio Peris-Mencheta, Skyler Samuels, Cliff Curtis, and Sienna Guillory, contributes to the film's dynamics and tension.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-meg-2-trench-starring-jason.html

REVIEW: Side Decide on Nintendo Switch

"Side Decide" is a labour of love brought to life by solo developer Brendan Votano, operating under the studio name Blue Volcano. Four years of dedication and an idea that took root nearly eight years ago have culminated in a delightful puzzle game that graced the Nintendo Switch on August 3rd.

Boasting an equilibrium between serenity and challenge, "Side Decide" stands as a testament to the developer's commitment and creativity. The game's aesthetics draw inspiration from wooden blocks, evoking a sense of nostalgia that resonates deeply. This simplicity doesn't just manifest in the visuals, but also extends to the gameplay, making it accessible and engaging for players of various skill levels.

A standout feature of "Side Decide" is its tranquil musical score, one that gracefully adapts to the player's progress. This harmonious soundscape serves as a companion on the puzzling journey, enhancing the immersive experience and adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-side-decide-on-nintendo-switch.html

REVIEW: Insidious: The Red Door (2023) - Starring Ty Simpkins, Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Andrew Astor, Steve Coulter, Joseph Bishara, Whannell, Angus Sampson, and Lin Shaye

Insidious: The Red Door takes the audience on a chilling journey into the depths of supernatural horror, skilfully crafted by director Patrick Wilson in his directorial debut. As the fifth instalment in the renowned Insidious franchise, the film weaves a sinister tale of forgotten memories, familial strife, and the malevolent forces lurking in the shadows.

Set nine years after the events of Insidious: Chapter 2, the film introduces us to a fractured world where Josh Lambert's haunting past is concealed within his repressed memories. Portrayed by Patrick Wilson, Josh navigates a life marred by divorce, loss, and strained relationships. The demise of his mother Lorraine sets the stage for a series of unnerving encounters that delve into the heart of unresolved family dynamics.

The narrative escalates when Josh's son, Dalton, played by (Ty Simpkins), unwittingly draws a foreboding image of the titular red door, a portal to the eerie realm known as The Further. As the spectral events unfold, it becomes evident that the legacy of this red door extends beyond mere superstition. Josh's confrontation with the vengeful spirit of his long-lost father unveils layers of emotional turmoil, fusing the supernatural with deeply rooted familial conflicts.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-insidious-red-door-2023-starring.html