"SPEAK NO EVIL" REVIEW: Christian Tafdrup's "Speak No Evil" takes audiences on a seemingly harmless vacation that quickly turns into a nightmare reminiscent of "Midsommar." The film brilliantly explores the dangers of politeness and compliance, as two families' desire to be good guests leads them down a path of terror. With wickedly sophisticated writing and a slow-burn pace, the movie lures viewers in with cringe-comedy moments before escalating to gruesome and chilling heights. The clever use of music adds to the tension, with eerie silence heightening the suspense during harrowing sequences. The cast delivers strong performances, capturing the gradual descent into darkness as boundaries are crossed and civility gives way to ruthlessness. As the violence unfolds in brutal fashion, viewers are left with a haunting final image that encapsulates the nightmarish vacation experience portrayed in "Speak No Evil." Overall, this dark journey is well worth taking for those who enjoy suspenseful horror films that delve into human behavior under duress. With its blend of humor, tension, and terror, "Speak No Evil" offers an unsettling exploration of what happens when social niceties lead to dire consequences. Available now in select theaters and streaming exclusively on Shudder - it's a trip you won't soon forget!

"The Killer’s Game" is like a bizarre concoction of a hitman, doctors, love, and contract killings all wrapped up in one messy yet strangely entertaining package. Dave Bautista flexes his muscles as Joe Flood, a hitman who decides to put out a hit on himself after receiving a misdiagnosis from his doctor. The film mixes action with quirky black humor and brutal fight sequences that push the boundaries of an R rating. With an ensemble cast including Ben Kingsley's hilarious accent and Terry Crews' bumbling assistant killer, the film tries to deliver laughs amidst the chaos. While the European locations and Bautista's unorthodox charm add some flair, "The Killer’s Game" ultimately feels tired and predictable, leaving you checking your watch for that inevitable cliché line about hating the game."

"My Old Ass" is a delightful romp through time that brings together older and younger versions of the same Canadian woman, played with charm and wit by Aubrey Plaza and Maisy Stella. Director Megan Park's spin on the time-travel comedy genre is refreshingly different, eschewing traditional tropes for a more grounded exploration of youth, mistakes, and growing up. Plaza's cynical yet endearing portrayal of elder Elliott pairs perfectly with Stella's radiant energy as the carefree young Elliott. While the film occasionally teeters into sentimentality, it ultimately delivers a heartfelt message about coming to terms with our choices and embracing who we are. With a mix of humor, wisdom, and some shroom-induced antics thrown in for good measure, "My Old Ass" is a spirited comedy that reminds us that maybe we don't need all the answers as we journey through life. It's a joyous ride worth taking as we navigate the twists and turns of growing up. In short: "My Old Ass" is like stumbling upon your past self while tripping on mushrooms - weirdly wonderful, surprisingly insightful, and ultimately an enjoyable trip down memory lane.

"The Critic" is a film that delves into the power dynamics and moral ambiguities of the world of theatre criticism in 1930s London. Ian McKellen shines as Jimmy Erskine, a ruthless and erudite theater critic at The London Chronicle whose position is threatened when the paper's new owner, David Brooke (played by Mark Strong), seeks to change the publication's direction. McKellen's portrayal of Jimmy as a manipulative yet intriguing character drives much of the narrative, with Gemma Arterton, Alfred Enoch, and other talented cast members adding depth to the story. The film explores themes of power, manipulation, and morality in a darkly comic manner, presenting Jimmy as a complex figure navigating personal and professional challenges amidst rising fascism. While McKellen delivers a standout performance filled with wit and depth, the overall execution falls short in fully developing its characters and relationships. The script by Patrick Marber provides sharp dialogue but lacks substantial emotional resonance beyond Jimmy's individual struggles. Director Anand Tucker creates an atmospheric setting with fog-choked London streets that add to the dramatic tone of the film but sometimes overshadow character development. Despite strong performances from the ensemble cast, including notable turns from Arterton and Strong, "The Critic" struggles to balance its histrionic drama with thoughtful exploration of its themes. Overall, "The Critic" offers glimpses of brilliance through McKellen's portrayal of an unapologetically bold critic facing personal turmoil amid societal upheaval. However, its narrative shortcomings prevent it from fully realizing its potential as a compelling examination of power dynamics in both artistry and politics. In cinemas from 13 September starring Ian McKellen, Gemma Arterton Mark Strong Ben Barnes Alfred Enoch Romola Garai Lesley Manville Directed by Anand Tucker Rated 15 Runtime: 95 mins

"Reality Winner, the film, is a sharp and intriguing exploration into the life of its titular character - a whistle-blower who exposed government deceit at great personal cost. Directed by Susanna Fogel and co-written by Kerry Howley, the movie delves deep into Winner's journey from childhood through her consequential decision to leak classified information. Emilia Jones shines as Reality, capturing her complex personality with both intensity and relatability. The film cleverly weaves in fourth-wall breaks and cheeky voiceovers to engage the audience in Reality's world. While some moments feel slightly contrived, overall, Winner successfully balances entertainment with illumination. The narrative skims through pivotal moments in Reality's life with crisp dialogue and vibrant narration, painting a compelling picture of her disillusionment and eventual act of defiance. Supporting performances from Zach Galifianakis and Connie Britton add depth to the story, highlighting familial dynamics amidst political turmoil. Winner doesn't shy away from showcasing Reality's flaws alongside her strengths, creating a nuanced portrayal of a woman caught in moral ambiguity. With its blend of humor, defiance, and introspection, the film ultimately triumphs as an entertaining yet thought-provoking take on a modern-day hero."