Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" combines the visionary director's love for monster stories with a reimagining of Mary Shelley's classic tale. In this interpretation, del Toro dives deep into the complexities of father-son relationships, creation, and madness. With Oscar Isaac as the brilliant yet egotistical Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as the innocent but superhuman creation, the film explores themes of innocence, rage, and failed protection. Mia Goth shines as Elizabeth, offering sharp wit in a world consumed by hubris and tragedy.The gothic grandeur displayed in every frame is a signature of del Toro's artistry, with elaborate production design and lush costumes creating an immersive visual experience. Alexandre Desplat’s epic score adds to the cinematic spectacle that unfolds over 149 minutes filled with empathy, anguish, rage, and regret. While not without its flaws or moments of exhaustion due to its ambitious scope, "Frankenstein" ultimately emerges as a beautiful addition to del Toro's canon—a tale that may not be a masterpiece but possesses undeniable soul.In this tale of mad science and monstrous yearning brought to life on screen by one of cinema’s most imaginative storytellers,"Frankenstein" is an electrifying exploration that proves monsters are not always what they seem—and sometimes it takes more than bolts in one’s head to truly understand what it means to create life from death.

"After the Hunt" is a tangled web of academic intrigue, sexual accusations, and moral ambiguity set within the halls of Yale University. Julia Roberts shines as Alma Imhoff, a philosophy professor with hidden secrets and a coldly compelling presence. The film delves into themes of social justice and sexual morality, offering sharp dialogues and complex characters that keep viewers engaged. However, the narrative struggles with contrivances and unanswered questions that can leave audiences scratching their heads.Director Luca Guadagnino crafts a visually dark and foreboding atmosphere while tackling hot-button issues like cancel culture and gender dynamics in academia. The cast delivers strong performances, with Andrew Garfield standing out as Alma's colleague Hank caught in a he-said/she-said situation with student Maggie (Ayo Edebiri). As the plot twists unfold, alliances are tested, egos clash, and moral certainties crumble.Despite its ambitious scope and provocative subject matter, "After the Hunt" falters in maintaining coherence and depth in its storytelling. Guadagnino's critique of academia as a breeding ground for egotism and insular thinking is evident but muddled by convoluted subplots and thinly developed characters. While the film raises intriguing questions about power dynamics on campus, it ultimately falls short of delivering a satisfying resolution to its intricate narrative threads.In the end, "After the Hunt" is an enigmatic blend of psychological drama, social commentary, and mystery that offers moments of tension but struggles to tie its thematic threads together cohesively. With stellar performances from its cast but uneven execution in its storytelling approach, this film may leave viewers intrigued yet ultimately unsatisfied with its unresolved complexities. It's an ambitious effort that aims high but misses the mark when it comes to delivering a truly impactful cinematic experience.

"The Astronaut" takes viewers on a journey that starts off promising but ultimately crash lands in a mixed bag of thrills and spills. Kate Mara's Captain Sam Walker navigates a mysterious world where levitating eggs and unexplained ailments set the stage for a psychological sci-fi drama. As the film unfolds in a sleek yet remote safe house, Laurence Fishburne adds gravitas while Gabriel Luna brings soul to Sam's troubled marriage. However, pacing issues and a rushed ending leave audiences craving more depth and resolution. Despite its potential, "The Astronaut" fails to soar to great heights, making it feel like an immersive experience cut short before reaching its full potential. Stick the landing? More like missed the mark.