Thursday, 14 December 2023

REVIEW: The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (2023 Film) Starring Tom Blyth

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes takes audiences on a journey 64 years before the events of the original film, exploring the origins of the infamous President Snow. Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film offers a compelling origin story for the trilogy's main antagonist while delivering both familiar and fresh elements for fans of the franchise.

The film succeeds in building upon the established mythology of The Hunger Games, striking a balance between nostalgia for the original trilogy and introducing new, engaging content. It manages to please fans while expanding the world and lore of Panem.

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REVIEW: Only Wish on PC (Steam)

"Only Wish," the latest offering from the creators of "Broll," promised to take the "Only Up" genre to the next level with its captivating landscapes, innovative gameplay, and a plethora of unique features. Unfortunately, the game falls short of delivering on its potential due to persistent technical issues that hinder the overall experience.

The game opens with a sense of wonder, inviting players to explore mysterious doors concealing untold stories and secrets. The promise of diverse vehicles for exploration adds an extra layer to the traditional platforming genre, but this innovation is overshadowed by a critical flaw: the game consistently crashes for me after the initial opening, rendering it unplayable.

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Wednesday, 13 December 2023

REVIEW: Leave the World Behind (2023 Film) - Starring Julia Roberts, Ethan Hawke and Kevin Bacon

"Leave the World Behind," the 2023 American apocalyptic psychological thriller film, is a frustrating experience that falls short of its potential. Despite promising elements, the film is marred by a lackluster plot, numerous flaws, and an inconsistent focus that ultimately leaves viewers unsatisfied.

The plot follows Amanda Sanford (Julia Roberts), a misanthrope, and her family as they embark on an unplanned vacation to Long Island. The film takes a dark turn as they encounter a series of unsettling events, including a blackout, mysterious strangers, and the breakdown of technology. As chaos ensues, the family grapples with the realization that a political coup may be unfolding.

The film's strengths lie primarily in Julia Roberts' performance as Amanda Sanford. Her portrayal shows early promise but is unfortunately overshadowed by the film's political overtones. Mahershala Ali delivers an ok performance as G.H. Scott, but the stand out is Kevin Bacon who really should have been given a much bigger role.

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Tuesday, 12 December 2023

REVIEW: Leo (2023 American Film) - Starring Adam Sandler

Directed by the trio of Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, and David Wachtenheim, "Leo" is a 2023 American animated musical comedy that marks the second animated venture from Adam Sandler's production company, Happy Madison Productions. Starring Sandler in the titular role, the film unfolds an endearing story set in a fifth-grade classroom at Fort Myers Elementary School.

The plot kicks off when Leo the tuatara, voiced by Sandler, overhears his expected lifespan and is struck by the realization that time is running out for him to achieve his dream of visiting The Everglades. The narrative takes a twist with the arrival of Ms. Malkin, the strict substitute teacher, setting the stage for Leo's adventures and the challenges faced by the fifth-grade class.

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Monday, 11 December 2023

Interview with T. R. Napper - By David Kempf

T. R. Napper is a multi-award-winning science fiction author, including the prestigious Aurealis three times. David caught up with him for a chat.

When did you first see the original Alien?

After I'd read the Aliens tie-in novel by Alan Dean Foster, and watched Aliens the film. Which is to say, I can't precisely remember, as my most formative experience with the universe was the second film. I read the tie-in novel first, because I was too young to see Aliens, and my consolation prize was being allowed to read the novelisation.

So, it wouldn't have been until the 90s that I watched Alien. My only regret is I never got to see it fresh, uncomprehending the horror of what was about to happen during the chestburster scene at the dinner table on the Nostromo.

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Sunday, 10 December 2023

REVIEW: Wish (2023 Film) - A Lackluster Attempt at Disney Magic

Wish, the 2023 animated musical fantasy film from Walt Disney Animation Studios, falls disappointingly short of the enchanting storytelling and captivating magic that Disney is renowned for. Despite its promising premise, the film stumbles through a poorly written script, lackluster jokes, and a recycled feel that leaves viewers longing for the genuine Disney magic of the past.

The story revolves around Asha, a 17-year-old girl in the kingdom of Rosas, whose pursuit of uncovering the truth behind the wishes granted by King Magnifico leads to a series of lackluster events. The plot, though initially promising, suffers from rushed storytelling, an underdeveloped villainous arc, and a predictable resolution that fails to deliver the emotional impact expected from a Disney film.

One of the film's saving graces is the animation, which, at times, showcases the quality expected from Disney Animation Studios. The anthropomorphic ball of light named Star and the talking animals bring moments of charm, but these are not enough to salvage the overall lackluster experience.

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Thursday, 7 December 2023

REVIEW: Lady Ballers (2023 Film) - Starring Jeremy Boreing, Daniel Considine and Billie Rae Brandt

Director Jeremy Boreing takes a bold leap with "Lady Ballers," a sports comedy that dives into the rarely explored territory of men participating in women's sports. Set against the backdrop of a once a great coach's quest for redemption, the film successfully blends humour with satire, making it a standout comedy in 2023.

The plot follows Coach Rob Gibson, played convincingly by Jeremy Boreing himself, whose life takes a comedic turn after a divorce and a career setback. The narrative gains momentum when Rob reconnects with his former star point guard, Alex Cruise, portrayed by the charismatic Daniel Considine. Together, they embark on a mission to reunite their state championship basketball team, with an unexpected twist of competing against women in track and field.

One of the film's strongest points is its ability to tackle a sensitive and controversial topic with humor. "Lady Ballers" succeeds in delivering laugh-out-loud moments while satirizing the absurdities of the situation. The script, despite its low budget and a cast with limited acting experience, stands out with well-executed comedic timing and genuine performances.

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Wednesday, 6 December 2023

REVIEW: Make Way on PC (Steam) - A Thrilling Twist on Classic Racing with Endless Creativity

Make Way brings a refreshing twist to the classic top-down multiplayer racing genre, providing an exhilarating and endlessly creative experience for players on the PC via Steam.

The game's standout feature is its unique track-building mechanic. Before each race, players contribute to constructing the course by selecting track pieces from an onscreen selection. This innovative approach ensures that every race is a new challenge, offering a dynamic and ever-changing gameplay experience. The ability to add new track pieces after each round adds an exciting layer of complexity, resulting in a final large course that keep players on their toes to the very end, all while earning points by reaching checkpoints and hopefully finishing first.

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Tuesday, 5 December 2023

REVIEW: Your Lucky Day (2023 Film) - Starring Angus Cloud, Elliot Knight and Jessica Garza

Your Lucky Day," the 2023 action thriller directed by Daniel Brown, takes audiences on a heart-pounding journey into the dark underbelly of the American dream. The film boasts an ensemble cast led by the late Angus Cloud, delivering a riveting performance that adds an extra layer of poignancy to the already intense narrative.

The plot unfolds in a seemingly ordinary convenience store, but as the characters' lives intersect over a winning lottery ticket, the atmosphere shifts from mundane to menacing. The ensemble cast, including Elliot Knight, Jessica Garza, and Mousa Hussein Kraish, skillfully portrays a group of individuals brought together by chance, only to find themselves entangled in a deadly hostage situation.

Angus Cloud's portrayal of the enigmatic Sterling is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the actor's talent that left audiences mourning the loss of a promising star. The chemistry among the cast members elevates the tension, creating a sense of urgency that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

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Monday, 4 December 2023

REVIEW: It's a Wonderful Knife (2023 Film) - Starring Jane Widdop and Joel McHale

"It's a Wonderful Knife" delivers a thrilling and blood-soaked spin on the classic Christmas film, presenting viewers with a unique combination of horror, comedy, and holiday cheer. Directed by Tyler MacIntyre and written by Michael Kennedy, the film manages to strike a delicate balance between gruesome kills and heartfelt moments, offering a fresh take on the beloved genre.

The plot follows Winnie Carruthers (Jane Widdop), who, a year after thwarting a psychotic killer on Christmas Eve, finds herself in an alternate reality after wishing she had never been born. In this nightmare parallel universe, Winnie discovers the dire consequences of her absence, with the killer returning to wreak havoc once again. To set things right, she teams up with the town misfit, portrayed by Justin Long, to identify the murderer and return to her own reality.

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Sunday, 3 December 2023

REVIEW: Candy Cane Lane (2023 Film) - Starring Eddie Murphy

Directed by Reginald Hudlin and penned by Kelly Younger, "Candy Cane Lane" is a 2023 American Christmas comedy that blends holiday magic with a twist. Starring Eddie Murphy as Chris Carver, the film weaves a tale of family, Christmas decorations, and unexpected challenges.

The plot follows Chris Carver, a skilled woodworker struggling to win his neighborhood's annual Christmas decoration contest. Facing unemployment, he stumbles upon a Christmas store, unwittingly making a Faustian bargain with Pepper, an evil Christmas elf. As Chris and his family navigate slapstick shenanigans to collect the "five golden rings" from the Twelve Days of Christmas, the film delivers a mix of laughter, magic, and heartfelt moments.

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Saturday, 2 December 2023

REVIEW: Speed Or Death - A Promising Concept with Room for Improvement

Speed Or Death on Nintendo Switch offers a unique twist to the racing game genre, prioritizing survival over sheer speed. The game challenges players to navigate through apocalyptic scenarios, from monster-infested cities to dodging dragon breath and escaping alien invasions. Unlocking different cars adds variety to the gameplay, creating an unpredictable and thrilling experience.

The graphics, while not groundbreaking, provide a visually appealing backdrop to the chaotic landscapes. The concept of surviving the apocalypse while racing is undeniably fun and keeps players engaged. However, there are notable drawbacks. Some players may find the cars lacking in speed, impacting the sense of urgency and excitement. The menu layout is less than intuitive, particularly concerning car options and default settings like automatic gears.

Car handling leaves room for improvement, with a smoother and more responsive control system needed to enhance the overall gaming experience. Additionally, the game lacks clarity on its ultimate goal, whether it's reaching a finish line or driving until a time limit expires. The absence of an on-screen map makes navigating the apocalyptic landscapes challenging.

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Friday, 1 December 2023

REVIEW: In the Land of Saints and Sinners (2023 film) - Starring Liam Neeson

"In the Land of Saints and Sinners," directed by Robert Lorenz and featuring Liam Neeson in the lead role, delivers a gripping Irish action thriller that effectively blends Neeson's signature tough-guy persona with a compelling narrative set against the stunning backdrop of 1970s Donegal. With a solid supporting cast and engaging cinematography, the film stands out in the crowded genre, despite some formulaic elements.

The plot revolves around Finbar Murphy (Liam Neeson), a former assassin trying to distance himself from a shadowy past. Employed by local figure Robert McQue (Colm Meaney) as a hitman, Finbar's life takes a dark turn when terrorists enter the picture, threatening the peace of his quiet coastal town. Drawn into a dangerous game, Finbar must confront his own secrets to protect his community.

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Wednesday, 29 November 2023

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.

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Tuesday, 28 November 2023

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.

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Sunday, 26 November 2023

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.

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Friday, 24 November 2023

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.

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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.

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Tuesday, 21 November 2023

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.

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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.

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Sunday, 19 November 2023

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.

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Saturday, 18 November 2023

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.

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Friday, 17 November 2023

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Tuesday, 14 November 2023

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.

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Monday, 13 November 2023

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.


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Sunday, 12 November 2023

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.

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REVIEW: Funko Fusion (2024 Video Game) on Xbox

"Funko Fusion" is an action-adventure game that celebrates pop culture by bringing together over 60 characters from more than 20...