REVIEW: Migration (2024 Film) - Stars Elizabeth Banks

"Migration" invites viewers on a captivating expedition following a mallard family's remarkable voyage from New England to Jamaica. Helmed by [Director's Name] and crafted by Illumination, this animated comedy seamlessly weaves together endearing moments, comedic escapades, and breathtaking animation.

At the story's core is Mack Mallard, a prudent patriarch who, swayed by his wife Pam and spirited daughter Gwen, reluctantly agrees to lead his family on this extraordinary journey. Accompanied by Mack's dubious Uncle Dan, the Mallards embark on their migration, encountering a tapestry of trials and vibrant personalities throughout their odyssey.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-migration-2024-film-stars.html

REVIEW: Sunrise (2024 Film) Starring Alex Pettyfer, Crystal Yu, William Gao, Kurt Yaeger, Olwen Fouéré and Guy Pearce

"Sunrise," helmed by Andrew Baird and penned by Ronan Blaney, unfolds its horror narrative against the backdrop of a quaint blue-collar town nestled in the Pacific Northwest. The tale initiates with the emergence of a mythical forest entity dubbed Red Coat, reputed for its ability to confer immortality in exchange for grisly sacrifices. At its core, the plot delves into the clash between Joe Reynolds, a bigoted local tycoon portrayed by Guy Pearce, and the Lois, an Asian American family steadfastly refusing to yield their land to his greed.

The film commences with Reynolds' brutal slaying of Mr. Loi in a surge of fury sparked by the latter's refusal to succumb to his land-grabbing schemes. From there, the narrative unfolds, following Mrs. Loi, Yan, and their offspring as they navigate a treacherous terrain of intimidation and violence orchestrated by Reynolds in his relentless pursuit of their property. Amidst the chaos, a frail stranger named Fallon, embodied by Alex Pettyfer, materializes on their doorstep, prompting Yan to extend her healing touch. Fallon's arrival casts a veil of enigma over the Loi family's predicament, entwining them further in the web of Reynolds' mounting threats.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-sunrise-2024-film-starring-alex.html

REVIEW: Ultros (2024 Video Game) - On PC

"Ultros," crafted by Hadoque and brought to life by Kepler Interactive, immerses players in a captivating odyssey within a surreal world ensnared in a perpetual time loop aboard the mysterious vessel, the Sarcophagus. Awakening amidst this enigmatic landscape, players delve into a narrative that blurs the boundaries between reality and illusion, thrusting them into a mesmerizing tapestry of vivid hues, peculiar flora and fauna, and enigmatic encounters with the ship's lingering inhabitants.

Within "Ultros," gameplay centers on the player's quest to thwart the emergence of the titular demon, Ultros, ensnared within the vessel. The sprawling ship, overgrown and labyrinthine, becomes a dynamic playground where players confront alien adversaries, face off against bosses driven to madness by the temporal loop, and harness the potency of seeds acquired from interactions with the ship's denizens. These seeds enable players to cultivate nourishing plants, augmenting their capabilities and facilitating progress through the ever-evolving landscape.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/02/review-ultros-2024-video-game-on-pc.html

REVIEW: Bring Him to Me (2023 Film) Starring Barry Pepper, Jamie Costa, Liam McIntyre, Rachel Griffiths and Sam Neill

"Bring Him to Me" emerges as a gripping Australian crime saga, captivating viewers with its gritty narrative and relentless suspense. Directed and produced by Luke Sparke and penned by Tom Evans, the film delves deep into the murky moral waters of loyalty, betrayal, and survival within the criminal underworld.

Centered on a seasoned getaway driver, portrayed with raw intensity by Barry Pepper, the story unfurls as he becomes entangled in a perilous game orchestrated by a merciless crime lord. Entrusted with delivering a suspected traitor, compellingly portrayed by Jamie Costa, to the boss, the driver grapples with his own conscience amidst a hazardous journey fraught with unforeseen obstacles. As tensions escalate and loyalties waver, the very essence of trust is thrust into the spotlight, unveiling the true depths of human nature in the face of adversity.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-bring-him-to-me-2023-film.html

REVIEW: Next Goal Wins (2023 Film) - Starring Michael Fassbender

"Next Goal Wins" is a charming fusion of humour, emotion, and sports inspiration, skillfully guided by the visionary direction of Taika Waititi and a stellar ensemble. Drawing from the real-life narrative of Dutch-American coach Thomas Rongen's unlikely quest to uplift the American Samoa national soccer team from perpetual underdogs to potential World Cup contenders, the movie encapsulates the spirit of resilience with a mix of warmth and wit.

Michael Fassbender excels in his portrayal of Thomas Rongen, infusing the maverick coach with both magnetism and complexity as he tackles an almost insurmountable challenge. His performance serves as the film's anchor, drawing viewers in with its depth and charm. Supported by a talented cast including Oscar Kightley, Kaimana, and Elisabeth Moss, the movie is elevated by their heartfelt portrayals, adding layers of emotional depth to the story.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-next-goal-wins-2023-film.html

REVIEW: Air Force One Down (2024 Film) Starring Katherine McNamara

"Air Force One Down" sweeps viewers into a turbulent voyage aboard the iconic presidential aircraft. Young Secret Service agent Allison Miles, portrayed with grit by Katherine McNamara, finds herself plunged into a nerve-wracking ordeal. Tasked with safeguarding President Dallas Edwards (played by Ian Bohen) during a vital mission to seal an oil deal with the fictional Eastern European nation of Astovia, Allison's maiden assignment becomes a trial by fire when a paramilitary faction, led by a renegade general (portrayed by Rade Serbedzija), launches a violent hijacking.

McNamara's depiction of Allison Miles infuses the character with a captivating mix of strength and sincerity, serving as a magnetic focal point amid the chaos unfolding aboard Air Force One. Her journey is not merely one of physical prowess but also of emotional fortitude as she grapples with the weight of protecting President Edwards, despite her personal reservations about him.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-air-force-one-down-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Miller's Girl (2024 Film) - Starring Martin Freeman and Jenna Ortega

"Miller's Girl" presents a compelling exploration of controversial subjects, skillfully portrayed by Jenna Ortega and Martin Freeman. Written and directed by Jade Halley Bartlett, the film delves into the complexities of a student-teacher dynamic, blurring boundaries between guidance and attraction.

The narrative follows Cairo Sweet (Jenna Ortega), a young literary enthusiast, as she becomes embroiled in a complex relationship with her high school creative writing teacher, Jonathan Miller (Martin Freeman). Assigned a project that sparks their connection, Cairo and Miller must confront personal challenges while grappling with the ethical implications of their bond.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-millers-girl-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Dead Man´s Diary (2024 Video Game) on Playstation 5

Dead Man's Diary, the narrative-driven survival adventure game from TML-Studios, ventures into the post-apocalyptic realm with promising visuals and an immersive premise. Launched on PlayStation 5 after its initial stumble on other platforms, the game aims to deliver a captivating experience amidst a desolate world.

Visually, Dead Man's Diary shines on the PlayStation 5, boasting stunning environments ranging from eerie forests to desolate ruins, all powered by the Unreal Engine 5. The graphical prowess sets an immersive backdrop for players to delve into the game's narrative.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/02/review-dead-mans-diary-2024-video-game.html

REVIEW: Wanted Man (2024 Film) - Starring Dolph Lundgren and Christina Villa

"Wanted Man" unfurls as a pulse-pounding action-packed thriller, running just shy of 80 minutes. Dolph Lundgren takes the helm as Johansen, a seasoned detective whose old-school tactics have fallen out of favor within the department. Assigned with the mission of bringing back a crucial witness, Rosa, portrayed by Christina Villa, from Mexico, Johansen finds himself plunged into a perilous game of pursuit.

The tension escalates when Johansen realizes that the murders of two DEA agents, witnessed by Rosa, are merely the beginning. Ensnared in a maze of deception and treachery, Johansen must navigate the perilous landscapes on both sides of the border, where adversaries lie in wait at every corner. As they uncover the truth behind the assaults, Johansen and Rosa stumble upon a shocking revelation: the culprits aren't just ordinary criminals but are actually tied to American forces.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-wanted-man-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Argylle (2024 Film) - Starring Bryce Dallas Howard

"Argylle," helmed by the talented Matthew Vaughn, is a riveting blend of espionage, humor, and surprising turns. Bryce Dallas Howard delivers a compelling performance as Elly Conway, an introverted spy novelist whose fictional tales start mirroring reality when she uncovers that her books are foreshadowing the actions of a sinister organization, the Division.

The story bursts into action with an exhilarating train ambush, immediately setting the tone for an unpredictable journey. Sam Rockwell dazzles as Aidan, the suave and mysterious spy who swoops in to save Elly, leading her through the perilous landscape of espionage. The dynamic between Howard and Rockwell propels the plot forward, keeping viewers hooked as they untangle the secrets surrounding Elly's true identity and the enigmatic Masterkey.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-argylle-2024-film-starring-bryce.html

REVIEW: Lift (2024 Film) - Starring Kevin Hart

"Lift," directed by F. Gary Gray and penned by Daniel Kunka, boasts an A-list ensemble led by Kevin Hart as Cyrus, the brain behind daring heists. Despite its stellar cast and promising premise, the film struggles to leave a lasting impression.

The tale unfolds with Cyrus masterminding two audacious thefts: nabbing a prized Van Gogh in London and orchestrating the faux kidnapping of N8, a prominent NFT artist, in Venice. Their goal? To boost N8's NFTs' value using the proceeds from the stolen artwork. However, their plans take a sharp turn when Interpol agent Abby Gladwell (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) uncovers evidence linking Cyrus's crew member Denton (Vincent D'Onofrio) to the heist. Instead of facing charges, the crew is coerced by Abby's superior, Commander Huxley (Sam Worthington), into aiding the capture of billionaire Lars Jorgenson (Jean Reno). Jorgenson is scheming a colossal stock manipulation alongside hacking group Leviathan.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-lift-2024-film-starring-kevin.html

MastersOfHorror - Interview with Jaime Johness

Jaime is a medically retired zoologist–with lupus–who writes to deal with life's hells and pain. Horror is the preferred genre, but she's written a bit of everything. (You can find her work at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, iTunes, Smashwords, and more.) Readers should always make sure to leave reviews for their favorite authors/books. It's important to help them be seen in the algorithms these days.

Read interview at

http://www.mastersofhorror.co.uk/2024/02/interview-with-jaime-johness-by-david.html

Cunk’s Quest for Meaning - Coming to BBC Two

Following the worldwide acclaim of "Cunk on Earth," the intrepid documentarian Philomena Cunk (portrayed by Diane Morgan) returns with her most audacious undertaking yet: a cosmic expedition in pursuit of the ultimate truth – the meaning of life.

As humanity grapples with existential questions amidst a rapidly changing world, Cunk's Quest for Meaning promises to delve into the depths of philosophy, science, and human existence itself. In this extended special for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, Philomena will tackle a plethora of profound concepts, from Quantum Physics to Existentialism, Nihilism to Hedonism, and everything in between. Alongside exploring the mysteries of the universe, she will scrutinize the lives and legacies of history's greatest thinkers and innovators, offering her unique insights into their contributions – and perhaps a few witty asides about inspirational kitchen decor.

Read full article at

http://www.jonn.co.uk/2024/02/cunks-quest-for-meaning-coming-to-bbc.html

And Did Those Feet... with Alan Partridge comes to the BBC

In the eagerly anticipated documentary series, 'And Did Those Feet... with Alan Partridge,' viewers embark on a journey alongside the beloved broadcaster as he reintegrates into British life after a stint in Saudi Arabia. Initially conceived as a documentary chronicling his return to Norwich, the narrative swiftly evolves into a deeply personal exploration as Alan grapples with unexpected feelings of emptiness and discontentment.

As Alan confronts this emotional turbulence head-on, viewers witness his quest for understanding and enlightenment, with a newfound determination to share his insights with the nation. What unfolds is not just a tale of homecoming, but a poignant examination of mental health, particularly among middle-aged individuals like himself.

Read full article at

http://www.jonn.co.uk/2024/02/and-did-those-feet-with-alan-partridge.html

Greg Davies returns for a 3rd series of The Cleaner on BBC One

Greg Davies returns as the beloved crime scene cleaner, Paul 'Wicky' Wickstead, in the eagerly anticipated third series of The Cleaner.

Armed with his trusty box of cleaning supplies, Wicky dives into six new crime scenes, encountering a colorful array of characters and situations. From tackling the aftermath of a lighthouse mishap in Northern Ireland to navigating the complexities of a reunion with a long-lost friend, Wicky's adventures promise to be as eventful as ever. Meanwhile, the reappearance of Ruth Edwards (Zita Sattar) adds an unexpected twist to Wicky's personal life, leaving him grappling with a new domestic arrangement.

Read full article at 

http://www.jonn.co.uk/2024/02/greg-davies-returns-for-3rd-series-of.html

Guz Khan’s BBC Three comedy Man Like Mobeen set to return to Small Heath for fifth series

The acclaimed comedy series Man Like Mobeen, which earned a BAFTA nomination, is set to return for its highly anticipated fifth season, as announced by the BBC. Writers and co-creators Guz Khan and Andy Milligan have been given the green light to extend the series to six episodes, which will air on BBC Three and iPlayer.

Guz Khan reprises his role as the beloved lead character Mobeen, whose antics left viewers on the edge of their seats with the cliff-hanger ending of season four. Fans have eagerly awaited the resolution to Mobeen's fate, and with the new season, they can expect even more excitement and humour.

Read the full article at

http://www.jonn.co.uk/2024/02/guz-khans-bbc-three-comedy-man-like.html

REVIEW: The Island (2024 Film) - Starring Michael Jai White and Gillian White

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Caribbean, 'The Island' plunges viewers into an electrifying narrative of revenge and action. Michael Jai White takes center stage as Mark, a seasoned LAPD officer whose past and present collide when a merciless cartel leader, Manuel, portrayed with chilling intensity by Eduardo Costa, commits a horrifying act of violence on the island where Mark spent his formative years.

The brutal murder of bartender Akeem, played by Tristan Duncan, at the hands of Manuel serves as the catalyst for Mark's quest for vengeance. This senseless act not only fuels Mark's rage but also reopens old wounds, as he grapples with the tragic loss of his infant child and the strained relationship with his ex-wife, Akilah, portrayed by Michael's real-life spouse, Gillian White.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-island-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: The Great Rebellion: A Nostalgic Blast into Cyberpunk Europe

"The Great Rebellion" bursts onto the scene as a lively fusion of nostalgic gameplay and dystopian narrative, beckoning players into a cyberpunk Europe ripe with defiance against technocratic rule. Developed by Kvltgames, this PC (Steam) gem encompasses elements of a 2D platformer, twin-stick shooter, and rogue-like adventure, whisking gamers away to the year 2085, where every pixel radiates retro allure.

Amidst the backdrop of authoritarianism and digital aspirations, players step into the shoes of a rebel thrust into the heart of an uprising against oppressive forces. The storyline unfolds amidst a tumultuous world bent on ensnaring humanity within the confines of blockchain and digital immortality. Tasked with navigating dynamically generated levels, players encounter a fresh array of challenges, allies, and weaponry with each playthrough.

Full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/02/review-great-rebellion-on-pc-steam-by.html

REVIEW: Badland Hunters (2024 Film) - Starring Ma Dong-seok

"Badland Hunters" plunges viewers into the rugged, adrenaline-soaked terrain of post-apocalyptic Seoul. In Heo Myung-haeng's directorial debut, this South Korean dystopian action film offers a rollercoaster ride of excitement, though not without a few rough patches.

At the heart of the story is Nam-San, portrayed with conviction by Ma Dong-seok, a seasoned wasteland hunter, and his steadfast companion Choi Ji-wan, brought to life by Lee Jun-young. Together, they brave the harsh landscapes, scavenging for essentials to sustain their struggling community. But when Su-na, played with daring by Roh Jeong-eui, falls into the clutches of the nefarious Dr. Yang Gi-su, played adeptly by Lee Hee-joon, the stakes skyrocket, propelling Nam-San and his allies into a perilous mission to rescue her.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-badland-hunters-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on Xbox

"Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown" marks a triumphant comeback for the esteemed franchise, weaving together an intricate blend of captivating action, complex puzzles, and time-manipulating adventure that grips players from the outset. This latest chapter introduces Sargon, a spirited warrior from The Immortals clan, embarking on a perilous quest to the cursed city of Mount Qaf to rescue the abducted Prince Ghassan.

In "The Lost Crown," gameplay mechanics are finely tuned to deliver a symphony of agility and strategy. Players navigate Sargon through intricate landscapes, mastering a repertoire of acrobatic maneuvers, from nimble jumps to graceful slides, seamlessly integrated into the 2.5D side-scrolling platformer format. Armed with a formidable pair of blades, Sargon confronts adversaries with swift strikes and well-timed parries, charging his Athra's Glow to unleash devastating abilities upon his foes.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/02/review-prince-of-persia-lost-crown-on.html

REVIEW: The Tiger's Apprentice (2024 film) - Starring Henry Golding

In "The Tiger's Apprentice," viewers are whisked away into the extraordinary life of Tom Lee, a Chinese-American teenager thrust into a world of magic and destiny. Voiced with commanding presence by Henry Golding, the mythical tiger Hu becomes Tom's mentor as he grapples with his newfound identity as a Guardian, sworn to protect humanity from the encroaching darkness personified by the sinister Loo, masterfully portrayed by Michelle Yeoh.

Brandon Soo Hoo's portrayal of Tom Lee brims with a potent mix of determination and vulnerability, capturing the essence of a young hero coming into his own. Alongside him, Lucy Liu's enigmatic Nü Kua and Sandra Oh's steadfast Mistral enrich the story, each character adding layers to the intricate tapestry of this mystical realm. Together, they embark on a journey filled with peril and discovery, navigating the challenges of their intertwined fates with courage and resilience.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-tigers-apprentice-2024-film.html

REVIEW: The Painter (2024 Film) - Starring Charlie Weber

"The Painter" beckons viewers into a gripping narrative where the tranquility of an artist's life collides head-on with the tumult of a clandestine past. Charlie Weber embodies the enigmatic Peter Barrett, a former CIA operative who seeks solace in the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest after a tragic incident shattered his world. However, peace remains an elusive dream when a teenage girl, Sophia (Madison Bailey), claims to be his long-lost daughter, unraveling a web of deception and danger.

Director Kimani Ray Smith, alongside writer Brian Buccellato, masterfully weave a tale where every brushstroke of action is layered with intrigue and suspense. As Peter grapples with the sudden intrusion into his secluded existence, the arrival of heavily armed agents catapults him back into a world he thought he had left behind. With lethal precision honed by years of CIA training, Peter confronts his assailants, setting off a heart-pounding chase through the rugged wilderness.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-painter-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Role Play (2024 Film) Starring Kaley Cuoco

"Role Play" takes audiences on a rollercoaster journey through the seemingly idyllic lives of Emma and Dave Brackett, played by Kaley Cuoco and David Oyelowo. Directed by Thomas Vincent and penned by Seth Owen, this action-comedy flick weaves together elements of domesticity, espionage, and humor in a cocktail that's equal parts thrilling and amusing.

At first glance, Emma and Dave appear to have it all, a picturesque suburban home, two adorable kids, and stable careers. However, beneath the facade of marital bliss, cracks begin to form as they find themselves mired in the monotony of routine. To inject some excitement into their relationship, they decide to celebrate their anniversary with a bit of role play, a seemingly harmless endeavor to reignite the spark.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-role-play-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: I.S.S. (2024 Film) Starring Ariana DeBose, Chris Messina, John Gallagher Jr., Masha Mashkova, Costa Ronin, and Pilou Asbæk

"I.S.S." presents an intriguing premise set against the backdrop of escalating tensions on Earth, as astronauts aboard the International Space Station find themselves entangled in a struggle for control amidst a global crisis. Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite orchestrates a tense atmosphere, amplified by stellar performances from the cast, particularly Ariana DeBose's portrayal of Dr. Kira Foster.

In the near future, aboard the International Space Station, tensions escalate dramatically as a global conflict erupts on Earth. Caught in the turmoil, American and Russian astronauts find themselves thrust into a high-stakes struggle when they receive directives from their respective governments: seize control of the station at all costs.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-iss-2024-film-starring-ariana.html

REVIEW: Dakar Desert Rally (2024 Video Game) - On Xbox

Dakar Desert Rally, developed by Saber Interactive, promised to be the ultimate off-road rally racing adventure, and with its expansive open world and diverse vehicle lineup, it certainly has the potential to be a standout title in the genre. However, the road to greatness is currently marred by some significant bumps and potholes.

Let's start with the positives. The game is visually stunning, with impressive graphics that bring the vast, open-world terrain to life. The seasonal and dynamic weather effects add a layer of realism, making each race a unique and challenging experience. The sound effects contribute to the immersive atmosphere, enhancing the overall gameplay, and I quite like the music too.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/01/review-dakar-desert-rally-2024-video.html

REVIEW: The Book of Clarence (2024 Film) Starring LaKeith Stanfield

"The Book of Clarence," written and directed by Jeymes Samuel, takes a bold leap into the realm of biblical comedy with a unique premise centered around a struggling man named Clarence in A.D. 33 Jerusalem. While the film showcases moments of humor, a talented ensemble cast, and an intriguing blend of genres, it struggles to find a cohesive identity, falling short of the satirical brilliance seen in classics like "The Life of Brian."

The film unfolds in three distinct "Books," each reminiscent of old-Hollywood style title-lettering, adding a touch of nostalgia to the storytelling. LaKeith Stanfield leads the cast with a dual role as Clarence and his cynical twin brother Thomas, delivering decent performances throughout the film. The ensemble cast, including Omar Sy as Barabbas, Anna Diop as Varinia, RJ Cyler as Elijah, and others, adds depth to the characters and contributes to the film's comedic moments.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-book-of-clarence-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Night Swim (2024 Film) - Starring Wyatt Russell, Kerry Condon, Amélie Hoeferle, and Gavin Warren

Bryce McGuire's directorial debut, "Night Swim," attempts to plunge audiences into a chilling pool of supernatural horror with its intriguing premise and suspenseful atmosphere. While the film succeeds in creating some genuinely eerie moments and showcasing commendable performances from its cast, it struggles to break free from the constraints of its linear and somewhat predictable plot.

The narrative unfolds in 1992 as a young girl's quest to retrieve a toy boat from her family's pool takes a terrifying turn. Fast forward to the present day, and the Waller family, portrayed convincingly by Wyatt Russell, Kerry Condon, Amélie Hoeferle, and Gavin Warren, becomes entangled in a nightmarish web, compelled to retire early due to a degenerative illness, ex-baseball player Ray Waller relocates with his wife and two children to a new residence. Optimistic about the backyard swimming pool offering both recreation for the kids and therapeutic benefits for himself, Ray's hopes are dashed when a sinister secret from the house's history releases a malevolent force, plunging the family into a harrowing abyss of inescapable terror.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-night-swim-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Gray Dawn (2023 Video Game) on Xbox

"Gray Dawn," developed by Romanian independent game studio Interactive Stone, ventures into the horror genre with a distinctive religious theme. Set on Christmas Eve in 1920, players assume the role of Father Abraham, unraveling a mysterious plot involving the disappearance of altar boy David and allegations of child murders. The game combines survival horror gameplay with psychological elements, presenting a narrative-driven experience.

The gameplay immerses players in a first-person perspective, exploring eerie environments, solving puzzles, and collecting images of Christ to shape the story's outcome. Voice-overs, subtitles, and optional recordings enhance the storytelling, providing depth to the narrative. While the game balances walking simulator elements with engaging puzzles, the absence of a persistent villain may leave some longing for a more intense horror experience.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/01/review-gray-dawn-2023-video-game-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Mean Girls (2024 film) - Starring Angourie Rice and Reneé Rapp

In 2024, the iconic teen comedy "Mean Girls" makes a triumphant return to the big screen, this time infused with the vibrant energy of a musical under the direction of Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr. The screenplay, penned by Tina Fey, adapts her original 2004 comedy, which was inspired by Rosalind Wiseman's book "Queen Bees and Wannabes." This new rendition follows the storyline of Cady Heron's foray into North Shore High School, navigating the treacherous world of high school cliques and the notorious Plastics.

Sixteen-year-old Cady Heron, portrayed by Angourie Rice, emerges from a homeschooling life in Kenya to face the challenges of North Shore High School. The film integrates the contemporary landscape of social media and mobile technology into the narrative, successfully modernizing the tale while retaining its essence. Cady's entanglement with the Plastics, Regina George (Reneé Rapp), Gretchen Wieners (Bebe Wood), and Karen Shetty (Avantika), sets the stage for the drama to unfold.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-mean-girls-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: The Bricklayer (2024 Film) - Starring Aaron Eckhart and Nina Dobrev

Director Renny Harlin brings audiences a familiar yet engaging action thriller in "The Bricklayer," featuring a strong cast led by Aaron Eckhart and Nina Dobrev. The film revolves around a rogue former CIA agent, Radek, played convincingly by Clifton Collins Jr., who disrupts international relations by framing the CIA for a series of assassinations. To clear their name, the agency must enlist the help of Steve Vail (Aaron Eckhart), a retired operative with a rebellious streak and exceptional skills.

The plot, based on the novel by former FBI agent Paul Lindsay, follows a predictable trajectory with a few twists and turns. The story's lack of flexibility and somewhat non-evolving characters contribute to its formulaic nature. However, the film compensates for these shortcomings with its intense action sequences, reminiscent of both Jack Ryan and Jack Reacher, offering fans of the genre an entertaining bullet-riddled adventure.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/01/review-bricklayer-2024-film-starring.html