REVIEW: Storyblocks: The King (2024 Video Game) - On Nintendo Switch

Storyblocks: The King presents players with a serene blend of storytelling and puzzle-solving on the Nintendo Switch. Set in a peaceful medieval world, the game offers players the chance to guide a young dreamer on his path to becoming king. With its minimalist visuals and original soundtrack, the game creates an immersive atmosphere that invites players to shape their own narrative journey. However, sensitivity issues with the controls on the Switch Lite, coupled with a lack of clear instructions and challenge, detract from the overall experience. While the game's concept is promising, its execution falls short of delivering a fully engaging gameplay experience, leaving players wanting more depth and complexity.

Full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/04/review-storyblocks-king-2024-video-game.html

REVIEW: No Way Up (2024 Film) - Starring Sophie McIntosh, Will Attenborough, Jeremias Amoore, Manuel Pacific, Grace Nettle, Phyllis Logan and Colm Meaney

"No Way Up" presents a gripping survival thriller centered around a group of diverse characters stranded in the Pacific Ocean after a plane crash. Led by Sophie McIntosh's Ava, the daughter of a politician, and supported by solid performances from the cast, the film effectively captures the tension and desperation of their situation. Visually, the movie impresses with well-executed underwater sequences, despite its low budget, and maintains a tight pace throughout its brief runtime of just over an hour and a half.

While "No Way Up" embraces its B-movie roots and delivers on the thrills expected from the killer shark genre, it occasionally falters by taking itself too seriously and missing opportunities for humor. Additionally, some plot holes and lapses in logic may leave viewers frustrated. Despite these shortcomings, the film offers an entertaining ride for fans of the genre, earning a fair score of 7 out of 10 for its decent performances, impressive visuals, and overall suspenseful atmosphere.

Read Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/04/review-no-way-up-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Riddle of Fire (2024 Film) - Starring Skyler Peters, Phoebe Ferro, and Charlie Stover

On a quest to deliver a pie, three mischievous children embark on a woodland odyssey to battle a witch, outwit a huntsman, befriend a fairy, and become best friends forever in this charming debut from directing sensation Weston Razooli.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/04/review-riddle-of-fire-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024 Film) Starring Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Dan Stevens and Kaylee Hottle

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" directed by Adam Wingard and produced by Legendary Pictures is a pulse-pounding sequel in the MonsterVerse franchise. Set after the defeat of Mechagodzilla, the film sees Kong retreating to Hollow Earth while Godzilla maintains order on the surface. However, when an unidentified signal triggers a new threat, both Titans are drawn back into action. As Godzilla embarks on a journey to confront the source of the signal, Kong discovers a tribe of giant apes within the depths of Hollow Earth. With stunning visual effects and relentless action, Wingard delivers epic showdowns between Titans, though the film falls short in character development and storytelling depth.

Despite its shortcomings, "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" thrives on its blockbuster spectacle, offering audiences an exhilarating ride filled with awe-inspiring battles. While the human side of the narrative feels underdeveloped, the film compensates with breathtaking visuals and non-stop action. Fans of the MonsterVerse franchise will find plenty to enjoy in this adrenaline-fueled spectacle, making it a solid addition to the series.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-godzilla-x-kong-new-empire-2024.html

REVIEW: Ario (2024 Video Game) on Xbox

"Ario" plunges players into a realm besieged by nightmares, where a young hero named Ario embarks on a quest to rescue his missing mother and confront the dark forces threatening his homeland. With diverse movement options and combat techniques, players must master Ario's skills to navigate treacherous landscapes, battle demons and mechanical foes, and strategically defend against waves of enemies using tower defense mechanics. The game's captivating blend of medieval fantasy and retro steampunk aesthetics, coupled with Persian voiceovers for an authentic touch, creates an immersive world teeming with mythical creatures and mechanical wonders, reminiscent of classic platformers like the "Assassin's Creed" 2D games.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-ario-2024-video-game-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Immaculate (2024 Film) - Stars Sydney Sweeney

"Immaculate," directed by Michael Mohan and written by Andrew Lobel, is a chilling descent into the dark heart of religious fervor. Sydney Sweeney delivers a captivating performance as Sister Cecilia, whose journey to an Italian convent unravels a web of secrets and horrors that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. Mohan's meticulous attention to detail and skillful direction create an immersive atmosphere that heightens the sense of unease, culminating in a third act filled with shocking revelations and visceral scares. While the film occasionally relies on familiar horror tropes and an abundance of jump scares, its compelling narrative and standout performances make it a must-watch for fans of psychological horror.

Full review at http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-immaculate-2024-film-stars.html

REVIEW: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024 Film) - Starring Mckenna Grace, Paul Rudd, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Ernie Hudson

"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" revives the beloved franchise with a thrilling sequel that combines nostalgia with fresh storytelling. Directed by Gil Kenan and co-written with Jason Reitman, the film follows the veteran Ghostbusters teaming up with new recruits to combat a chilling threat in New York City. Led by standout performances from Mckenna Grace as Phoebe Spengler and supported by a stellar ensemble cast, the movie balances mystery, comedy, and supernatural intrigue with ease, delivering a gripping narrative filled with twists and turns.

Visually stunning with top-notch special effects, "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" immerses audiences in a world where the supernatural feels both eerie and captivating. While some may find it slightly reliant on past glories, the film ultimately earns a solid 8.5 out of 10 for its great cast, thrilling action, and seamless blend of old and new elements, ensuring the Ghostbusters franchise is back in good hands for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-ghostbusters-frozen-empire-2024.html

REVIEW: FAR: Lone Sails (PC Video Game)

In "FAR: Lone Sails," developed by Okomotive, players embark on a captivating journey through a beautifully desolate post-apocalyptic world. As the sole operator aboard a massive vehicle, you're tasked with navigating through landscapes that bear the scars of a forgotten civilization, all while managing the intricate systems that keep your vessel moving forward.

The gameplay mechanics in "FAR: Lone Sails" are nothing short of brilliant. From the moment you take control, every action feels purposeful and immersive. As you traverse the side-scrolling environments, you must interact with various stations and mechanisms within your vehicle, from fueling the boiler to repairing damage and extinguishing fires, and even choosing when to raise or lower the sail, that you will add to your vehicle as you play. This level of detail creates a deeply engaging experience, where every decision has tangible consequences for your journey.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-far-lone-sails-pc-video-game.html

REVIEW: Road House (2024 Film) - Starring Jake Gyllenhaal

"Road House" (2024), directed by Doug Liman, revitalizes the cult classic with a modern twist, featuring Jake Gyllenhaal as the troubled former UFC fighter Elwood Dalton. Anchored by Gyllenhaal's compelling performance, the film delivers a mix of adrenaline-fueled action and genuine emotion as Dalton navigates the chaotic world of a Florida Keys roadhouse. While the movie embraces its campy nature and offers entertaining spectacle, it occasionally falters with excessive CGI in fight scenes and struggles to surpass the legacy of the original 1989 film. 

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-road-house-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Stunt Paradise (2024 Video Game) on Xbox

Developed by BrineMedia, "Stunt Paradise" sets out to deliver an adrenaline-fueled experience in the realm of extreme driving and heart-stopping stunts. As a fan of the Trials franchise, the game immediately resonates with its familiar yet refreshing take on the genre, substituting motorbikes with cars while maintaining the arcade-style essence.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-stunt-paradise-2024-video-game.html

REVIEW: Imaginary (2024 Film) - Starring DeWanda Wise

"Imaginary" emerges as a chilling exploration of childhood innocence and the horrors lurking within repressed memories, skillfully directed and produced by Jeff Wadlow and the Blumhouse team. Led by DeWanda Wise's captivating portrayal of Jessica and Pyper Braun's compelling performance as Alice, the film delves into the sinister implications of imaginary friends, blurring the lines between fantasy and malevolent reality. As Jessica's past resurfaces and Alice's innocent games take a dark turn with the enigmatic Chauncey Bear, portrayed with eerie authenticity by Dane DiLiegro, "Imaginary" masterfully builds tension through well-paced storytelling, effective jump scares, and immersive character development.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-imaginary-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Damsel (2024 Film) - Starring Millie Bobby Brown

"Damsel" weaves a captivating tale of dark fantasy and adventure, skillfully directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo and penned by Dan Mazeau. At its core lies the story of Elodie, brought to life with remarkable depth by Millie Bobby Brown, who embarks on a treacherous journey after accepting a marriage proposal from a charming prince. Little does she know, her betrothal is a ruse to settle ancient debts owed by a royal family.

Thrown into a harrowing predicament, Elodie finds herself imprisoned in a cavern alongside a fire-breathing dragon, voiced with haunting allure by Shohreh Aghdashloo. As she grapples with survival, Elodie's character undergoes a compelling transformation, evolving from a naive maiden to a resilient heroine driven by sheer determination.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-damsel-2024-film-starring-millie.html

REVIEW: Megamind vs. the Doom Syndicate (2024 Film) - Starring

"Megamind vs. the Doom Syndicate" attempts to continue the story of the beloved supervillain-turned-superhero with mixed results. While Keith Ferguson brings a new energy to the role of Megamind and the introduction of new characters adds freshness to the narrative, the film ultimately falls short in several key areas. The plot feels underdeveloped and lacks excitement, relying on recycled jokes and tired tropes from the original film. The absence of the original voice cast further detracts from the experience, with the replacements failing to capture the essence of the characters. Additionally, the animation quality is disappointing, especially considering the advancements in animation technology since the original film's release. Overall, "Megamind vs. the Doom Syndicate" struggles to live up to the legacy of its predecessor.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-megamind-vs-doom-syndicate-2024.html

REVIEW: FIFINE Gaming USB Headset - A Top-Tier Gaming Experience

The FIFINE Gaming USB Headset emerges as a formidable contender in the realm of gaming peripherals, offering a blend of style, performance, and versatility that caters to the needs of discerning gamers. Quickly becoming an esteemed name in the audio industry, FIFINE has once again demonstrated its prowess with this headset, equipped with features designed to elevate gaming experiences to new heights.

The headset boasts a sleek and modern design, a testament to FIFINE's attention to aesthetics. Its solid build quality inspires confidence, ensuring durability that withstands the rigors of extended gaming sessions. The adjustable headband adds to its allure, allowing users to achieve a customized fit for unparalleled comfort, a crucial aspect for uninterrupted immersion in gaming marathons.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-fifine-gaming-usb-headset-top.html

REVIEW: Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024 Film) - Starring Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis and Dustin Hoffman

Kung Fu Panda 4 reunites audiences with the lovable Po, voiced by the comedic talent Jack Black, embarking on yet another uproarious journey packed with martial arts antics and heartfelt moments. Helmed by director Mike Mitchell, this new chapter stays true to the franchise's spirit while introducing fresh challenges and characters to captivate viewers.

The story follows Po's unexpected ascent to the role of Spiritual Leader in the Valley of Peace, a position he feels unprepared for. His quest to embrace this newfound duty becomes tangled with the arrival of the villainous sorceress Chameleon, brilliantly brought to life by Viola Davis. Chameleon's shape-shifting abilities pose a serious threat as she aims to snatch Po's Staff of Wisdom and unleash chaos upon the world.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-kung-fu-panda-4-2024-film.html

REVIEW: The Outlast Trials (2024 Video Game) On Xbox

"The Outlast Trials" delves deep into the realms of psychological horror, immersing players in the chilling atmosphere of the Cold War era and the ethically dubious experiments orchestrated by the Murkoff Corporation. Serving as a prequel to the renowned Outlast series, the game thrusts players into a harrowing world where survival hinges on quick thinking, strategic planning, and unwavering courage.

At its core, the plot of "The Outlast Trials" offers a gripping examination of the human psyche under extreme circumstances. Players become unwitting subjects of the nefarious Murkoff Corporation, subjected to twisted experiments engineered to manipulate their minds. Against a backdrop of distrust and exploitation, the narrative unfolds, compelling players to grapple with moral dilemmas as they navigate through a labyrinth of horror.

Full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-outlast-trials-2024-video-game.html

REVIEW: Spaceman (2024 Film) - Starring Adam Sandler

"Spaceman," helmed by Johan Renck and penned by Colby Day, masterfully intertwines retro-futuristic visuals with deep psychological introspection amid the vast expanse of outer space. Adam Sandler delivers a gripping performance as Czech astronaut Jakub Procházka, embarking on a perilous mission to unravel the mysteries of the Chopra cloud beyond Jupiter. Alongside him, Carey Mulligan shines in her portrayal of Lenka, Jakub's wife, as their fractured relationship adds emotional weight to the narrative. Amidst the solitude of space, Jakub encounters Hanuš, a telepathic extraterrestrial entity brought to life with haunting resonance by Paul Dano's voice.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-spaceman-2024-film-starring-adam.html

REVIEW: Land of Bad (2024 Film) - Starring Liam Hemsworth, Russell Crowe, Luke Hemsworth, Ricky Whittle, and Milo Ventimiglia

"Land of Bad" plunges headfirst into familiar terrain for action movie enthusiasts, yet it skillfully maneuvers through its tropes with a top-notch cast and gripping moments of tension. Directed by William Eubank and scripted by David Frigerio, the film sweeps audiences on a tumultuous journey through the South Philippines, seamlessly blending explosive action with suspenseful twists.

At its core lies Russell Crowe's portrayal of Reaper, an experienced Air Force drone pilot thrust into the tumult of a botched rescue operation. Crowe imbues Reaper with layers of complexity, his weathered demeanor concealing a deep sense of duty and resolve. His performance lends gravitas to the film, grounding it amidst the chaos of gunfire and explosions.

Full Review at 

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-land-of-bad-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Ricky Stanicky (2024 Film) - Starring Zac Efron, Jermaine Fowler, John Cena and Andrew Santino

"Ricky Stanicky" is a hilarious comedy that pays homage to the irreverent humor of early 2000s films. Directed by Peter Farrelly, the movie tells the absurd yet uproarious story of Ricky Stanicky, a fictional character invented by three childhood friends to evade the consequences of a prank gone awry.

At the center of the narrative are Dean (played by Zac Efron), JT (portrayed by Andrew Santino), and Wes (brought to life by Jermaine Fowler), who, two decades later, still lean on Ricky Stanicky as their go-to excuse for their immature behavior. However, when their significant others demand to meet this elusive figure, the trio recruits the help of the washed-up actor "Rock Hard" Rod (played by John Cena) to give life to Ricky Stanicky.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-ricky-stanicky-2024-film.html

Exposing the Truth: A Skeptical Biography of Spiritualist Medium Helen Duncan

Helen Duncan, a controversial figure in the world of spiritualism, gained notoriety for her claims of communicating with the dead during séances. Born in 1897 in Scotland, Duncan rose to prominence in the mid-20th century as a purported medium, attracting believers and skeptics alike with her supposed ability to summon spirits from the beyond.

Duncan's séances often involved theatrical performances, complete with eerie voices, floating objects, and other supernatural phenomena. Her ability to provide personal information about deceased loved ones convinced many of her authenticity, leading to a devoted following among those seeking solace and closure.

Full article at

http://www.badpsychics.com/2024/03/exposing-truth-skeptical-biography-of.html

REVIEW: Northern Comfort (2024 Film) Starring Timothy Spall

"Northern Comfort" invites audiences into a tumultuous journey as a group of individuals grappling with their fear of flying find themselves stranded in Iceland after a harrowing flight. Directed by Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson in his English language debut, the film delves into the chaos that ensues when a test flight gone awry leaves the characters marooned in a luxurious Icelandic hotel as a fierce storm threatens to cancel all flights out of the country.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-northern-comfort-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Double Blind (2024 Film) - Starring Millie Brady

"Double Blind," directed by Ian Hunt-Duffy, is a gripping sci-fi thriller with horror elements that takes audiences on a nerve-wracking journey into the consequences of a failed drug trial.

The premise of the film is both intriguing and terrifying. The idea that falling asleep means certain death adds a palpable sense of urgency and dread to the story. The isolated medical facility serves as a claustrophobic backdrop, intensifying the feeling of isolation and desperation among the characters.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-double-blind-2024-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Nightingale (2024 Video Game on PC) - A Journey Through Mystical Realms

Nightingale, crafted by Inflexion Games, transports players to a captivating Victorian-era gaslamp fantasy world, amidst the aftermath of a catastrophic event on Earth. Acting as interdimensional voyagers navigating the ruins of society, players undertake a quest to reach the sanctuary of Nightingale, nestled within the mysterious "Faewilds." Procedural generation ensures that each expedition is a unique odyssey, promising diverse landscapes and encounters to uncover.

Central to Nightingale's allure are its intricate survival mechanics. Players must scrounge for sustenance, seek respite to replenish their strength, and gather resources to fashion vital tools and gear. From fashioning rudimentary bedrolls to inventing gliding umbrellas reminiscent of Mary Poppins, the crafting system exhibits both ingenuity and ease of use. Combat is a fluid affair, presenting a range of options from close-quarters melee to ranged firearm engagements, against an array of creatures, some passive until provoked.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-nightingale-2024-video-game-on.html

REVIEW: Dune: Part Two (2024 Film) - StarringTimothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård, Dave Bautista, Zendaya, Charlotte Rampling, and Javier Bardem

"Dune: Part Two" stands as a monumental cinematic achievement, building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor with meticulous detail and profound storytelling. Once again, Denis Villeneuve showcases his mastery of the craft, delivering a visually stunning and thematically rich epic that mesmerizes audiences from its opening moments to its powerful conclusion.

Continuing where the first installment left off, "Dune: Part Two" intricately weaves a narrative tapestry that delves into the complexities of power, religion, and destiny. At its heart lies the journey of Paul Atreides, who finds himself thrust into the center of Arrakis' volatile political landscape. Timothée Chalamet's portrayal of Paul is nothing short of captivating, capturing the character's internal struggles and evolution with a depth and nuance that keeps viewers spellbound.

Full Review at

https://beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-dune-part-two-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Lisa Frankenstein (2024 Film) - Starring Kathryn Newton

"Lisa Frankenstein" is a thrilling fusion of horror and humor, masterfully crafted by Diablo Cody and Zelda Williams. Set in the nostalgic 1980s, the story follows Lisa, a lonely teenager coping with her mother's tragic death, and her unexpected love interest, the revived Victorian-era corpse dubbed the Creature.

The film excels in its seamless integration of horror and comedy. From the whimsically eerie resurrection of the Creature to the sharp and witty dialogue, "Lisa Frankenstein" captivates viewers with its blend of scares and laughs, ensuring an entertaining experience from beginning to end.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/03/review-lisa-frankenstein-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Helldivers 2 (Helldivers II) on PC

Helldivers 2 explodes onto the gaming scene, delivering an electrifying third-person shooter experience that will keep players at the edge of their seats. Crafted by Arrowhead Game Studios and backed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, this sequel takes the beloved Helldivers concept and catapults it to unprecedented levels of excitement.

In this adrenaline-pumping adventure, players assume the roles of elite soldiers charged with safeguarding Super Earth against extraterrestrial threats. The game's core revolves around promoting peace, liberty, and Managed Democracy by embarking on chaotic and explosive missions across a hostile galaxy. Whether solo or with up to four comrades in multiplayer mode, the spirit of teamwork thrives as players strategize and unleash havoc upon their foes.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/03/review-helldivers-2-helldivers-ii-on-pc.html

REVIEW: Code 8: Part II (2024 Film) - Starring Robbie Amell and Stephen Amell

"Code 8: Part II" immerses viewers back into the gritty realm of Lincoln City, where the tension between the powered and law enforcement reaches new heights. Under the direction of Jeff Chan, this sequel picks up the story of Connor Reed, expertly portrayed by Robbie Amell, as he grapples with the shadows of corruption looming over the city.

Connor, now eking out a living as a janitor, strives to distance himself from his criminal history. Yet, when Pavani (Sirena Gulamgaus) bears witness to her brother's unjust demise at the hands of corrupt cops, Connor is thrust back into a world of moral ambiguity and peril. With Pavani marked as a target by those desperate to conceal their sins, Connor must navigate treacherous waters to shield her from harm, all while confronting the ghosts of his own past.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-code-8-part-ii-2024-film.html

REVIEW: Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake (2024 Video Game) - On Xbox

The remake of "Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons" presents an emotionally rich and visually striking adventure that entrances players with its compelling narrative and inventive gameplay elements. Set in a fantastical realm teeming with mystery and peril, the game chronicles the odyssey of two siblings as they embark on a mission to cure their ailing father by pursuing the legendary "Water of Life." Amidst traversing captivating landscapes and confronting diverse trials, players must concurrently maneuver both brothers, leveraging their unique strengths and capabilities to surmount challenges and unravel puzzles.

A standout aspect of the game is its distinctive control mechanism, wherein each brother is independently directed using separate thumbsticks and triggers. This pioneering feature, originally introduced in the 2013 original, retains its groundbreaking essence in the remake, fostering immersion and collaboration within the gameplay. The narrative seamlessly intertwines with the controls, enabling players to deeply connect with the emotional journeys of each brother, culminating in a poignant and unforeseen conclusion.

Read full review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2024/02/review-brothers-tale-of-two-sons-remake.html

REVIEW: Madame Web (2024 Film) - Starring Dakota Johnson

"Madame Web" descends into the abyss of disappointment, failing spectacularly in its attempt at superhero cinema. Its plot, a tangled web of confusion, leaves audiences adrift without a lifeline. The film's narrative, a mishmash of clichés from a betrayed past in Peru's jungles to forced psychic powers and an intricate prophecy, offers no solace to viewers seeking coherence.

Read full review at

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

REVIEW: The Iron Claw (2024 Film) - Starring Zac Efron

"The Iron Claw" masterfully captures the tumultuous journey of the Von Erich family, icons in professional wrestling, blending triumphs with tragedies. Under Sean Durkin's direction, and with Zac Efron at the helm, the film delves deep into themes of masculinity, familial legacy, and the unwavering pursuit of success amidst adversity.

Efron's portrayal of Kevin Von Erich is truly exceptional, portraying a man weighed down by his family's past yet resolute in forging his destiny. His performance forms the heart of the film, imbuing it with profound depth and emotion that lingers well beyond the final scenes.

Full review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/02/review-iron-claw-2024-film-starring-zac.html