Monday, 10 June 2024

REVIEW: F1 24 (2024 Video Game) On Xbox

"F1 24," the seventeenth entry in the Codemasters' Formula One series, and the official video game of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship, introduces some noteworthy updates while carrying forward the legacy of its predecessors. With licenses for the 2024 Formula One and Formula 2 championships, the game aims to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience for racing enthusiasts.

One of the standout features of F1 24 is the revamped career mode. This year's iteration transforms the mode into a role-playing experience, where every action on the track influences your driver's overall rating. This update marks the first major overhaul since 2016 and adds depth to the gameplay by allowing players to manage their career trajectory actively. Performing well can lead to secretive offers from other teams, though these clandestine meetings come with the risk of losing the trust of your current team if discovered.

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REVIEW: Sasquatch Sunset (2024 Film) - Starring Jesse Eisenberg

Get ready to venture into the depths of the forest for an extraordinary cinematic experience like no other. Directed by David Zellner and Nathan Zellner, "Sasquatch Sunset" embarks on an absurdist, epic, and downright hilarious journey alongside a family of Sasquatches, possibly the last of their enigmatic kind. Set against the backdrop of the misty forests of North America, these shaggy and noble giants find themselves on a collision course with the ever-changing world around them. From survival struggles to moments of poignant reflection, the film promises an unforgettable adventure through the eyes of these mythical creatures as they desperately try to find more of their kind..


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Tuesday, 4 June 2024

REVIEW: Darkness of Man (2024 Film) Starring Jean-Claude Van Damme

Interpol operative Russell Hatch (played by Jean-Claude Van Damme) witnesses the death of an informant during a seemingly routine raid. Years later, he becomes a father figure to Jayden, the informant's son, and finds himself protecting him from merciless gangs embroiled in an all-out turf war.

Bressack's stylish direction breathes fresh life into what could have been a typical action flick. While it doesn't reach Van Damme's best work, it allows the actor to showcase more than just his famous muscles. The film effectively defines a modern-day film noir experience, keeping viewers engaged. Fun cameo moments add to the intrigue.

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Friday, 31 May 2024

REVIEW: Atlas (2024 Film) - Starring Jennifer Lopez

Directed by Brad Peyton and written by Leo Sardarian and Aron Eli Coleite, "Atlas" is a 2024 science fiction action film that transports viewers to a tumultuous future where the boundaries between humans and artificial intelligence are tested in the most extreme circumstances. Set in 2043, the film opens with a catastrophic war led by a humanoid AI terrorist named Harlan, resulting in the deaths of 3 million people. This sets the stage for a gripping narrative that jumps ahead 28 years, introducing us to Atlas Shepherd, a brilliant data analyst with a profound distrust of AI technology. Atlas, portrayed by Jennifer Lopez, is on a mission to capture Harlan, now a fugitive hiding in the Andromeda Galaxy.

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2024/05/review-atlas-2024-film-starring.html

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Sunday, 26 May 2024

REVIEW: City Hunter (2024 Film) - Starring Ryohei Suzuki, Misato Morita, and Masanobu Andô

City Hunter, the 2024 Japanese live-action adaptation directed by Yuichi Satoh and written by Tatsuro Mishima, is a vibrant and action-packed tribute to Tsukasa Hōjō's manga. The film stars Ryohei Suzuki as Ryo Saeba, a private investigator who, along with his partner Hideyuki (Masanobu Andô), takes on a case to find a missing cosplayer. Their investigation leads them to a mysterious woman with superhuman abilities, and following a tragic attack that kills Hideyuki, Ryo teams up with Hideyuki's sister Kaori (Misato Morita) to uncover the truth. The film features visually stunning action sequences and strong performances, especially from Suzuki, who balances the comedic and detective aspects of his character well.

While City Hunter offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the manga and anime, its exaggerated Japanese comedic elements may not appeal to everyone. Some humor might be perceived as misogynistic, potentially alienating more progressive viewers. Despite this, the film succeeds in delivering an engaging and energetic experience, with a solid cast and faithful homage to the original material. Although it doesn't quite surpass the charm of the 1993 Jackie Chan version, it stands as a commendable adaptation, earning a solid 8.5 out of 10.

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REVIEW: Indika (2024 Video Game) for Xbox

Indika," a 2024 third-person, story-driven adventure game by Odd Meter, immerses players in a surreal and darkly humorous world. The story follows a young nun, Indika, who embarks on a journey with the devil himself, leading her beyond her monastery's walls into a series of events reminiscent of Dostoyevski and Bulhakov's novels. The game's narrative is its strongest asset, exploring profound themes of religion and authority with striking imagery and a peculiar sense of wit. While the linear gameplay may limit exploration, the mix of 3D environments and 2D pixel art mini-games provides visual variety and depth to the storytelling.

Despite a slow start and relatively easy puzzles, Indika captivates with its compelling narrative and unique atmosphere. The game's high-quality graphics, especially during dream sequences, and complementary audio enhance the experience. The voice acting adds depth to the characters, making their interactions more engaging. With its thought-provoking story and memorable dark humor, Indika is a standout title that invites multiple playthroughs. It is a must-play for fans of story-driven games, earning a solid 8 out of 10.

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Tuesday, 21 May 2024

REVIEW: Cash Out (2024 Film) - Starring John Travolta

Cash Out (2024), directed by Ives and written by Dipo Oseni and Doug Richardson, is a straightforward American action film starring John Travolta as Mason Goddard, a retired thief drawn back into the game by his brother's ill-conceived bank robbery plan. The heist goes awry, trapping the thieves inside the bank with hostages and surrounded by law enforcement, including Mason's former lover, negotiator Amelia Deckard (Kristin Davis). Despite its predictable plot, the film benefits from Travolta's charismatic performance, which elevates it above typical B-movie fare.

While the action sequences and pacing are solid, Cash Out suffers from plot holes and a lack of sufficient suspense, making it less thrilling than it could be. The supporting cast, including Lukas Haas and Quavo, deliver adequate performances, though their characters are underdeveloped. Despite these flaws, the movie provides a decent 90 minutes of entertainment, particularly for fans of the genre and Travolta. Overall, it's a watchable film that earns a generous 7 out of 10.

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Wednesday, 15 May 2024

REVIEW: Knox Goes Away (2024 Film) - Starring Michael Keaton

Knox Goes Away (2024) is a compelling American crime thriller that showcases Michael Keaton's prowess both in front of and behind the camera. As his second directorial venture, Keaton delivers a poignant narrative penned by Gregory Poirier, weaving together an emotionally charged and unpredictable story. Keaton stars as John Knox, a seasoned hitman who, upon being diagnosed with a rapidly progressing form of dementia, seeks to make amends and secure his family's future.


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Wednesday, 8 May 2024

PREVIEW: Soulmask (2024 Video Game) on PC

Embark on an epic journey of survival with Soulmask, the highly anticipated video game from CampFire Studio and Qooland Games. Scheduled for an early access launch on June 18th, 2024, Soulmask promises to redefine the genre with its gripping narrative and immersive gameplay experience.

Set in a vast open-world environment, Soulmask plunges players into a world teetering on the brink of chaos. As a survivor fleeing from a deadly sacrificial ritual, you stumble upon an ancient artifact known as the Soulmask. This mystical mask holds untold power, reshaping the very fabric of reality and forever altering the world you once knew.

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Sunday, 5 May 2024

REVIEW: Arcadian (2024 Film) - Starring Nicolas Cage

"Arcadian," directed by Ben Brewer and starring Nicolas Cage, offers a gripping blend of action and horror set in a post-apocalyptic world. The film centers on Paul (Cage) and his twin sons, Thomas and Joseph, navigating a dangerous landscape where terrifying creatures emerge at night to prey on the living.

One of the film's strongest aspects is its emotional authenticity, presenting a family dynamic that feels genuine amidst the chaos. Cage delivers a subdued yet compelling performance as a father determined to protect his sons at all costs. Jaeden Martell and Maxwell Jenkins also shine as the teenage twins, each bringing depth to their respective characters.

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Sunday, 28 April 2024

REVIEW: Parallel (2024 Film) - Starring Danielle Deadwyler, Aldis Hodge and Edwin Hodge

"Parallel" is a gripping sci-fi thriller that delves into the mysteries of alternate realities. Directed by Kourosh Ahari and written by Aldis and Edwin Hodge along with Jonathan Keasey, the film follows Vanessa (Danielle Deadwyler) as she grapples with the loss of her child. Seeking solace at her family's lake house with her husband, Alex (Aldis Hodge), and his brother, Martel (Edwin Hodge), Vanessa's world is turned upside down when she encounters a parallel version of herself. As she navigates through multiple universes, Vanessa must confront the possibility that these parallel gates hold the key to either freeing her from her grief or trapping her forever.

"Parallel" shines in its minimalist approach, focusing on storytelling and strong performances rather than flashy visuals. Deadwyler, Hodge, and Hodge deliver compelling performances, holding the audience's attention throughout. While the film's plot may be complex at times, its twists and turns keep viewers on the edge of their seats, prompting them to question the nature of reality. Despite some weaknesses in the dialogue and writing, "Parallel" is a thought-provoking thriller that will leave audiences pondering the mysteries of the universe long after the credits roll.

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Saturday, 27 April 2024

REVIEW: Boy Kills World (2024 Film) - Starring Bill Skarsgård and Famke Janssen

"Boy Kills World" is a wild rollercoaster ride of action, comedy, and revenge, directed by Moritz Mohr in his feature directorial debut. With a star-studded cast led by Bill Skarsgård, the film delivers a joyfully creative and gleefully violent experience that is sure to entertain fans of hardcore action and dark comedy alike.

The plot follows Boy, portrayed by Skarsgård, a deaf-mute man seeking vengeance against the deranged matriarch, Hilda Van Der Koy, played menacingly by Famke Janssen, who murdered his family, leaving him orphaned and voiceless. Trained in martial arts by a mysterious shaman, Boy teams up with a ragtag resistance group to enact his bloody campaign of revenge. Along the way, he is accompanied by his inner voice, provided by H. Jon Benjamin, which adds a quirky and humorous layer to the narrative as he bickers with the ghost of his deceased sister.

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Friday, 26 April 2024

REVIEW: Abigail (2024 Film) - Starring Alisha Weir, Melissa Barrera and Dan Stevens

"Abigail," directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, is a delightful blend of horror, comedy, and campiness, reimagining the classic "Dracula's Daughter" with a modern twist. The film follows a group of kidnappers who unknowingly abduct a 12-year-old vampire, setting off a series of events that are both terrifying and amusing.

One of the film's strongest points is its ability to take a seemingly limited premise and turn it into an unpredictable and thoroughly entertaining experience. From start to finish, viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, never quite sure what twist or turn the story will take next. The filmmakers have crafted an intense, well-filmed, and utterly entertaining work that is sure to delight horror fans.

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REVIEW: Paperman: Adventure Delivered (2024 Video Game) - Xbox

"Paperman: Adventure Delivered" is a charming 3D co-op platformer that follows the journey of Paperman and his team as they embark on a quest to retrieve stolen mail and defeat a greedy dragon. With colorful worlds to explore, secrets to uncover, and golden letters to collect, players are in for an exciting adventure filled with fun and challenges.

In celebration of their one millionth delivery, Paperman's post office decides to send out special golden letters to their most loyal customers. However, when a greedy dragon steals all the mail, including the golden letters, Paperman and his team must embark on an adventure to retrieve them. With the dragon's ancient magic threatening their mission, Paperman and his team must do everything in their power to reclaim the stolen mail and ensure it's delivered.

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REVIEW: Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes (2024 Video Game) - On Xbox

"Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes" marks a triumphant return to the classic JRPG genre, delivering a captivating experience that seamlessly blends nostalgic charm with innovative gameplay mechanics. Developed by Rabbit and Bear Studios and published by 505 Games, this title immerses players in the sprawling continent of Allraan, where political intrigue, magic, and war intertwine to shape a richly crafted narrative.

The story of "Eiyuden Chronicle" unfolds against the backdrop of a diverse world populated by humans, beastmen, elves, and desert dwellers. The discovery of rune-lenses, magical artifacts that amplify power, has led to the rise of the Galdean Empire, whose relentless pursuit of dominance threatens to plunge the land into chaos. Players embark on an epic journey as Seign Kesling, a promising imperial officer, and Nowa, a humble villager, whose fateful encounter sets them on a path fraught with peril and discovery. The narrative deftly explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the consequences of power, inviting players to unravel the mysteries of Allraan while forging their own destinies.

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Saturday, 20 April 2024

REVIEW: Civil War (2024 Film) - Starring Kirsten Dunst and Nick Offerman

"Civil War," directed by Alex Garland, falls short of its promising premise, delivering a dull and underwhelming viewing experience. Despite the backdrop of a nation torn apart by civil strife, the film focuses primarily on the ethical dilemmas faced by a group of journalists led by renowned war photographer Lee Smith, played by Kirsten Dunst.

The lack of compelling storytelling, depth of characters, and exploration of the conflict's ideologies make "Civil War" a missed opportunity. While the incorporation of real-life footage depicting the violence perpetrated by radical far-left anarchists adds some interest, it's not enough to salvage the film from its overall lackluster execution. I score "Civil War" a poor 3 out of 10.

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REVIEW: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants on Xbox

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Arcade: Wrath of the Mutants for Xbox is a delightful throwback to classic beat 'em up arcade gaming. Developed by Cradle Games and Raw Thrills, this 2024 port of the 2017 arcade game faithfully captures the essence of the TMNT franchise. With simple controls, vibrant graphics, and the original voice actors from the show reprising their roles, the game offers a nostalgic gaming experience for fans.

Players can battle through six stages, including iconic locations like Dimension X and Coney Island, and take on 13 boss battles, including encounters with the notorious Shredder. The addition of four-player local co-op adds to the fun, making it an ideal choice for fans of the franchise and classic arcade gaming alike. While its simplistic nature may not appeal to everyone, TMNT: Wrath of the Mutants is a must-have for those looking for a fun and entertaining beat 'em up experience, earning a strong 8.5 out of 10.

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Friday, 19 April 2024

REVIEW: The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024 Film) - Starring Henry Cavill, Eiza González, Alan Ritchson and Alex Pettyfer

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is a rollicking adventure that boldly reimagines WWII history through the lens of Guy Ritchie's signature style. Set in 1941, the film follows the creation of a top-secret special forces unit under Winston Churchill's directive, led by the charmingly roguish Gus March-Phillips (Henry Cavill). As Operation Postmaster unfolds, viewers are treated to a whirlwind of humor, suspense, and explosive action, with a stellar cast including Eiza González and Alan Ritchson infusing the proceedings with charisma and energy. While the plot may follow a predictable path and character development takes a backseat to the frenetic pace, "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" more than makes up for it with its infectious spirit and irreverent take on wartime heroics, earning it a solid 8 out of 10.

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Tuesday, 9 April 2024

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.

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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.

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Wednesday, 3 April 2024

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.

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Sunday, 31 March 2024

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.

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Friday, 29 March 2024

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.

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Thursday, 28 March 2024

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.






Wednesday, 27 March 2024

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.

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Monday, 25 March 2024

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.

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Friday, 22 March 2024

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. 

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Tuesday, 19 March 2024

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.


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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.

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Sunday, 17 March 2024

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.

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REVIEW: Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024 Film) - Starring Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Jim Carrey and Keanu Reeves

"Sonic the Hedgehog 3" delivers an action-packed and entertaining experience, successfully building on the strengths of its pred...