"Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom" is a delightful blend of high-fantasy drama and strategic intrigue, with a dash of stylish demon fashion thrown in for good measure. Set in a world where undead liche wizards and sharp-tailored demons roam, the film follows the headstrong paladin Remedios Custodio as she seeks help from the enigmatic King Ains Ooal Gown. What unfolds is a complex web of political maneuvering and unexpected alliances that keep viewers on their toes.Director Naoyuki Itô expertly weaves together themes of leadership, justice, and friendship amidst epic battle sequences that are more about finesse than gore. With its captivating visuals and nuanced characters, "Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom" manages to transcend the typical battle anime tropes to deliver a surprisingly sophisticated narrative.In this cinematic adventure that balances courtly dialogue with punchy action scenes, viewers are treated to a tale that hints at deeper philosophical questions while still delivering plenty of excitement. So grab your popcorn (and perhaps some demon couture) because "Overlord: The Sacred Kingdom" is an anime film worth bending the knee for – just make sure it's not to Skeletor with better politics!

"The Brutalist" is like a big, ambitious architectural project itself - sprawling and intricate, with layers of themes and emotions woven into its narrative. Brady Corbet's film explores the journey of architect László Tóth, brilliantly portrayed by Adrien Brody, as he navigates the complexities of realizing his artistic vision in post-war America.The movie grapples with weighty issues such as creativity, compromise, Jewish identity, and the immigrant experience while delving into the clash between artistry and commerce. Brody's performance as László is a tour de force, capturing both the exultation of success and the crushing blows of rejection with equal intensity.Corbet's direction is bold and meticulous, drawing us into László's world through stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail. The film unfolds like a grand epic, spanning decades and continents to paint a vivid portrait of one man's struggle against societal constraints.As László's dream project faces obstacles from both external forces and internal conflicts, "The Brutalist" becomes a searing critique of America's privileged class exploiting immigrant talent for their own gain. The supporting cast shines alongside Brody, particularly Felicity Jones as László's resilient wife Erzsébet and Guy Pearce as the ruthless benefactor Harrison Lee Van Buren.With Scott Walker’s haunting score adding depth to each scene and Lol Crawley’s cinematography capturing the essence of mid-century America with precision, "The Brutalist" immerses viewers in a world where artistry battles against power dynamics and personal demons.In conclusion, "The Brutalist" stands tall as a towering achievement in cinema - an intricate exploration of ambition, identity, and societal structures that leaves a lasting impact on those who dare to venture into its complex narrative landscape.

Small Things Like These is a poignant and resonant drama set in 1980s Ireland, where Cillian Murphy shines as Bill Furlong, a man whose encounter with the dark secrets of a convent shakes his quiet life to its core. The film delicately navigates themes of shame, institutional abuse, and societal complicity with nuance and emotional depth. Emily Watson delivers a chilling performance as Sister Mary, embodying the sinister presence of authority and secrecy within the walls of the Magdalene laundry. Director Tim Mielant captures the essence of the era through muted colors and subtle storytelling, creating a believable backdrop for Bill's moral dilemma. As Bill grapples with his conscience in a town steeped in silence and tradition, Small Things Like These unfolds as a moving tale of individual courage against entrenched injustice. Briilliantly acted and visually captivating, this film offers an intimate yet powerful exploration of personal integrity in the face of collective apathy.

"The Last Showgirl" is a poignant, dreamy, and glittering tale of faded glamour and resilience in the face of uncertainty. Pamela Anderson shines in her raw and beautiful portrayal of Shelley, a seasoned Las Vegas showgirl grappling with the imminent closure of the revue that has defined her life. Directed by Gia Coppola with a lyrical touch and contemplative tone, the film captures both the beauty and fractures in Shelley's world as she navigates strained relationships, fading dreams, and uncertain futures.The script by Kate Gersten delves deep into complex themes of womanhood, identity, sacrifice, and self-worth. Through Shelley's unwavering belief in the artistry of her work at Le Razzle Dazzle and her refusal to be objectified or pitied, Anderson brings depth to a character who embodies both vulnerability and strength. Supported by an ensemble cast including Kiernan Shipka as Jodie, Brenda Song as Mary-Anne, Dave Bautista as Eddie - all navigating their own struggles alongside Shelley - each performance adds layers to the narrative.Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a standout performance as Annette, offering comedic relief intertwined with moments of heartbreaking vulnerability. Her character's journey mirrors Shelly's in confronting aging out of roles centered on youth and beauty. As both women grapple with shifting identities in a world that values them less each day, their paths intersect in moments that are equal parts poignant and revelatory.While "The Last Showgirl" may lean heavily on mood over substance at times reminiscent of Coppola's cinematic influences like Sofia Coppola’s films; it ultimately succeeds in crafting an elegy to a bygone era while challenging societal norms around aging female performers. With its evocative visuals capturing Las Vegas' faded splendor juxtaposed against intimate character studies set amidst sequins and rhinestones galore,"The Last Showgirl" is not just about one dancer’s struggle but an exploration of resilience amid fleeting fame.In summary: The Last Showgirl sparkles with heartbreakingly beautiful performances from Anderson & company; it’s more than just tits & feathers - it’s an ode to resilience & self-worth wrapped up in sequined dreams worth savoring like fine champagne poured over shattered illusions.

"Bird," Andrea Arnold's latest venture into the gritty world of social realism, is a chaotic rollercoaster ride that blends tragedy with comedy, fantasy with reality, and absurdism with authenticity. The film follows Bug (Barry Keoghan), a tattooed single father immersed in a scheme involving hallucinogenic toad slime and his sharp but unhappy daughter Bailey (Nykiya Adams). As Bailey navigates her turbulent life full of dysfunctional relationships and teenage gang antics, she crosses paths with the enigmatic Bird (Franz Rogowski), leading to an unexpected friendship.Arnold's signature style permeates the film, capturing the raw emotions of her characters through handheld camerawork and intimate storytelling. While "Bird" may tread familiar territory in the realm of coming-of-age dramas set against bleak backdrops, it struggles at times to strike a balance between its grim realism and moments of whimsy. Keoghan delivers a captivating performance as Bug, despite some questionable parenting decisions, while Adams shines as the stoic yet resilient Bailey.With echoes of Arnold's previous works like "Fish Tank," "Bird" delves into themes of identity, belonging, and resilience amidst adversity. However, some may find the film teetering on cliché territory or stretching believability with its character dynamics and plot developments. Yet at its core, "Bird" offers audiences an energetic exploration of human connection in unlikely circumstances wrapped in Arnold's distinctive filmmaking sensibilities.In conclusion: With its blend of humor, heartbreak, and offbeat charm set against a backdrop of societal struggles and personal growths,"Bird" soars with compelling performances but occasionally falters under the weighty themes it attempts to juggle. Andrea Arnold delivers another poignant slice of life that may not be her greatest masterpiece but still showcases her talent for capturing raw human experiences on screen.