"Strange Darling" is a sly and self-aware thriller that deftly plays with audience expectations, much like its characters play their twisted games. Director JT Mollner crafts a film that keeps viewers on their toes, unfolding in non-linear fashion to reveal surprising twists and turns. With a retro vibe reminiscent of '70s cinema, the movie features standout performances from Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner as the enigmatic Lady and Demon. The chemistry between them is electric, pulling viewers into their dangerous dance of deception and desire. The film's cinematography by first-time cinematographer Giovanni Ribisi adds depth and texture to the story, capturing the gritty intensity of the characters' interactions. As the narrative explores themes of gender dynamics and toxic relationships, it subverts genre conventions with a cleverness that sets it apart from standard serial killer fare. With nods to classic thrillers and modern horror sensibilities, "Strange Darling" invites audiences to question their assumptions while keeping them riveted till the end. Intriguing, unpredictable, and visually striking, this cult classic in the making promises an experience that grows more satisfying with each viewing—a twisted love letter to those who dare venture into its dark embrace.

In "Greedy People," director Potsy Ponciroli creates a darkly comic thriller with an impressive body count that feels like a Coen Brothers rip-off. Set in a small island town, the film follows rookie cop Will and his sleazy partner Terry as they find themselves embroiled in a web of deception and murder after accidentally killing a woman and discovering $1 million in cash. The plot thickens with hitmen, shady characters, and escalating absurdities that lead to a high body count. The film boasts an impressive cast including Himesh Patel, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Traci Lords, Tim Blake Nelson, Lily James, Jim Gaffigan, Simon Rex, Nina Arianda, and Uzo Aduba. However, despite their efforts and the attempts at black comedy by screenwriter Mike Vukadinovich, "Greedy People" falls short of its ambitions. The blend of graphically brutal violence with deadpan humor often feels strained and lacks the necessary brazen stylization to fully embrace its absurdities. While Ponciroli demonstrated talent with his previous Western "Old Henry," this film struggles to maintain momentum amidst numerous subplots and unnecessary complexities. Ultimately, “Greedy People” greedily attempts to balance comedy and violence but falls short of creating a cohesive satire on greed and immorality in a small-town setting.

"Reagan" is a film that attempts to capture the life and legacy of Ronald Reagan, but falls short of providing an in-depth look into the man behind the presidency. Starring Dennis Quaid as Reagan, the movie spans from his Hollywood days to his time in the White House, touching on key moments in history such as the assassination attempt on Reagan and his famous speech at the Berlin Wall. However, despite Quaid's charismatic portrayal and some notable scenes, including Jon Voight as a KGB spy narrating Reagan's role in ending communism, the film fails to delve deeper into Reagan's character or provide real insight into his political impact. With rushed storytelling and glossing over controversies like Iran-Contra and AIDS crisis silence, "Reagan" ends up feeling more like a glowing commercial than a compelling biopic. While technically solid with impressive visuals of scenes filmed at the Reagan ranch, its reliance on nostalgia and lack of depth ultimately hinders its ability to truly capture the essence of this influential political figure. Overall, "Reagan" misses its mark in delivering a sharp, lively piece of cinematic entertainment about one of America's most iconic presidents. Rating: ⭐⭐ 1/2

"The Crow" returns to the big screen in a reimagined form that struggles to soar above its predecessor. Bill Skarsgård and FKA twigs lead this grim and gruesome reboot that attempts to add depth but ends up feeling convoluted and lacking heart. Director Rupert Sanders opts for style over substance, delivering a visually striking yet ultimately hollow experience. The film's attempt to modernize the cult classic falls short, borrowing elements from other films like "The Matrix" and "Joker" without establishing its own identity. While there are some cool moments and impressive action sequences, the lackluster chemistry between the leads and cringeworthy dialogue hinder the emotional impact of the story. Despite its graphic violence and attempts at allegorical storytelling, this remake remains trapped by its past, unable to break free and carve out a new legacy for itself. In trying to resurrect a beloved character, "The Crow" only serves as a reminder that sometimes dead really is better. Verdict: This crow fails to take flight, stuck in the shadows of its predecessor's glory days. (Note: The review has been crafted using excerpts from both provided reviews.)