Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein" is a grandiose and visually stunning interpretation of the classic tale, where the lines between creator and creation blur in a macabre dance of ambition and consequence. With meticulous attention to detail, del Toro crafts a world where monsters are not just born but also made by their circumstances. The film explores themes of fatherhood, legacy, and the existential quandaries faced by those thrust into existence without consent.Oscar Isaac shines as Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant yet tormented scientist whose obsession with conquering death leads him down a dark path paved with hubris. Jacob Elordi portrays the creature as a sensitive soul grappling with his monstrous nature while yearning for companionship in a world that rejects him. Mia Goth adds depth as Elizabeth, caught in the crossfire of familial drama and forbidden desires.Del Toro's signature gothic aesthetic is on full display, from lavish sets to exquisite costumes that transport viewers to an elaborate world teeming with both beauty and horror. Alexandre Desplat's haunting score elevates the emotional intensity of each scene, while gruesome visuals underscore the film's exploration of violence and mortality.Despite its sprawling runtime, "Frankenstein" remains captivating throughout, offering a fresh perspective on Shelley's timeless tale through del Toro's distinctive lens. While not without flaws or inconsistencies in its characterizations, the film ultimately succeeds in delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll. Delving into themes of creation gone awry and humanity stripped bare, "Frankenstein" emerges as an ambitious ode to monsters – both literal and metaphorical – lurking within us all.

"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.