Wednesday 11 September 2024

REVIEW: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024 Film) - Starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O'Hara

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Review by Jon Donnis

"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," is the long awaited sequel to Tim Burton's 1988 cult classic, bringing back the darkly whimsical world of the afterlife with a vibrant energy that is both nostalgic and refreshingly inventive. With Michael Keaton reprising his role as the mischievous Betelgeuse, alongside Winona Ryder and Catherine O'Hara, it delivers a delightful blend of comedy, horror, and fantasy, all wrapped up in Burton's signature style. The film balances both modern elements and a deep connection to the quirky, gothic tone of its predecessor.


Keaton's Betelgeuse remains a riotous and unpredictable presence, embodying the same manic energy that made him an icon. Ryder, as the older, more world-weary Lydia, gives a layered performance, managing to bring both heartfelt emotion and deadpan wit. Catherine O'Hara is a joy to watch as the hilariously unhinged Delia, while Jenna Ortega, as Lydia's daughter Astrid, adds a fresh dynamic to the story, bridging the gap between new and old audiences.

The plot picks up decades after the original, focusing on Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder), now a host of a supernatural talk show, as she's once again drawn into the bizarre world of ghosts, ghouls, and, of course, Betelgeuse. The narrative, while fun, can feel a bit convoluted at times, with several overlapping storylines, Lydia's family drama, Astrid's discovery of the afterlife, and Betelgeuse's various antics, all jockeying for attention. However, the chaos feels fitting within this eccentric universe, even if it occasionally leaves the audience scrambling to keep up.


Tim Burton's direction is at its most playful here, delivering a visual feast of wacky special effects, superb animatronics, and a steady stream of macabre humour. The film excels in moments of pure spectacle and oddity, with the afterlife train station and the return of the iconic sandworms providing some of the standout set-pieces. The design and atmosphere echo the original film's offbeat charm, with enough grotesque details and imaginative twists to keep viewers engaged throughout.

However, some characters feel underused. Willem Dafoe's ghost detective Wolf Jackson and Monica Bellucci's Delores, Betelgeuse's vengeful ex-wife, are intriguing additions but don't get quite enough screen time to make a lasting impact. The plot's haphazard nature also leaves certain story arcs, like the subplot involving Lydia's boyfriend Rory, feeling somewhat thin, though his comeuppance provides a satisfying comedic payoff.


Tonally, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" stays true to its roots, mixing ghoulish fun with bursts of surreal humour. It's a film for fans of the original, those who revel in Burton's peculiar world and the mischievous antics of Betelgeuse. While it doesn't quite reach the instant cult status of the first film, it certainly captures enough of the magic to feel like a worthy sequel. For new viewers, its unique blend of comedy and horror might be a bit bewildering, but it's easy to get swept up in the film's giddy, irreverent spirit.

In the end, this is a film designed to entertain and to be enjoyed rather than taken too seriously. Burton, at his most mischievous, delivers a satisfyingly chaotic yet heartfelt tribute to his original creation. "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" may not reinvent the wheel, but it's a gloriously fun ride nonetheless, filled with nostalgia, inventive humour, and a few good scares.


Overall, it's an entertaining return to the weird and wonderful world of the afterlife, scoring a solid 8.5 out of 10. Fans of the first film will undoubtedly find plenty to love, while newcomers are likely to be charmed by its strange and endearing madness.

Out in cinemas NOW!

Monday 9 September 2024

COMPETITION: Win Cage of Gold (Vintage Classics) on Blu-ray

Cage of Gold

STUDIOCANAL is releasing a brand-new 4K restoration of Ealing Studios’ classic drama, CAGE OF GOLD (1950), that will be available to own on Blu-Ray, DVD and Digital from September 16. 

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on Blu-ray


Synopsis:
Directed by the great Basil Dearden (The Bells Go Down, The Gentle Gunman), this stylish postwar set crime drama starring Jean Simmons (Guys and Dolls, Spartacus), David Farrar (Black Narcissus, The Small Back Room), and James Donald (Gift Horse, The Bridge on the River Kwai), looking better than ever and complete with brand-new extras, is the newest addition to the ever-expanding Vintage Classics Collection.
 
“The drama of a girl threatened by her past!”

Post-war London; 1950. Judith Moray (Jean Simmons) leaves her fiancé; the kind doctor Alan Kearn (James Donald), when a dashing yet roguish old flame, Bill Glennan (David Farrar), reappears in her life. Before long, Anne is pregnant and a reluctant Bill marries her before abandoning her the very next day when he learns that her father cannot offer him financial support. 
 

Two years later, Jill - having been told that Bill is dead - marries Alan and they raise the child together. But when Bill suddenly re-appears, it can only mean trouble….
 
Produced by Ealing Studios, with moody cinematography from the great Douglas Slocombe, Jean Simmons' costumes were designed by Frederick Starke for her 21st birthday party and then reused in the film.

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/4dXjbnW

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Cage of Gold?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here
1. Closing date 23-09-24
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

Thursday 5 September 2024

REVIEW: Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In (2024 Film) - Starring Louis Koo, Sammo Hung, Richie Jen, Raymond Lam, Terrance Lau, Kenny Wong, Philip Ng, Tony Wu and German Cheung

Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In

Review by Jon Donnis

Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In is a wildly entertaining ride, filled with all the classic hallmarks of a Hong Kong martial arts epic, but with a modern flair. Directed by Soi Cheang and based on the City of Darkness novel and Chinese-language comics, it's got everything fans of the genre could want: fierce action, gritty atmosphere, and a narrative that really takes you into the heart of 1980s Hong Kong. The backdrop of the Kowloon Walled City is just perfect, it's like stepping into a lost era, with its claustrophobic alleyways and crime-ridden underworld, brought to life in all its chaotic glory.

"Following troubled youth Chan Lok-kwun as he accidentally enters the Walled City, discovers the order amidst its chaos, and learns important life lessons along the way."


Louis Koo steals the show as Cyclone, a crime lord with a heart of gold (well, at least some gold). His presence is magnetic, and the way he navigates both the moral greys of his position and the sheer madness around him is something special. The rest of the cast holds their own, too. Sammo Hung as Mr. Big is a chilling antagonist, though I couldn't help but miss some of the humour he brought to his roles back in the '80s. Richie Jen and Raymond Lam do a solid job, especially with the latter's portrayal of Chan Lok-kwun, a young man caught in a web of violence, revenge, and survival. The supporting characters, like Shin and Twelfth Master, add depth to the story, making sure it doesn't solely hinge on the main players.

The fight scenes, though, wow. Cheang has really outdone himself here. They're exhilarating, beautifully choreographed, and just brutal enough to keep you at the edge of your seat without veering into over-the-top gore. Sure, there are safety wires and some CGI enhancement, but the sheer artistry of the action more than makes up for it. It's not quite the raw, bone-breaking stunt work of classic Jackie Chan films, but in a way, it feels like a natural evolution. The fights are still spectacular, just in a different way. The film blends the old-school, hands-on, Hong Kong style with modern technical wizardry to create something that feels fresh yet familiar.


One thing that didn't quite hit the mark for me was the pacing. The plot, while engaging, tends to stretch itself thin, and at times, I found it a bit convoluted. There's a lot going on, and while it mostly holds together, it does teeter on the edge of being a bit much. That said, the narrative's heart, the conflict between loyalty, survival, and morality in a lawless city, remains compelling throughout. And the fact that the film manages to weave in moments of genuine humanity amidst all the chaos is a real feat.

The biggest surprise is how nostalgic it feels. Twilight of the Warriors is a love letter to 1980s Hong Kong cinema, both in its setting and its cinematic style. From the neon-lit streets to the grungy interiors of the Walled City, it captures the vibe of an era that's long gone but not forgotten. For someone who grew up watching those old martial arts flicks, it's a bittersweet experience. I found myself longing for the reckless stunts and raw energy of the past, but at the same time, I couldn't help but admire the technical polish and slick production values of this new generation.


In the end, Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In is a visually stunning, adrenaline-pumping thrill ride with enough heart to keep it from being just another action movie. It's got its flaws, sure, but if you're a fan of Hong Kong cinema, you'll appreciate the homage it pays to the classics while carving out its own space in the modern action scene. I'd give it a solid 9 out of 10.

Out Now on Apple TV - https://apple.co/4cTcUrV


Tuesday 3 September 2024

REVIEW: Trap (2024 Psychological Thriller Film) Starring Josh Hartnett and Saleka

Trap

Review by Jon Donnis

Trap is the latest psychological thriller to come from the mind of M. Night Shyamalan, an intriguing yet uneven addition to his filmography. Shyamalan, known for his penchant for plot twists, takes a different approach this time, crafting a cat-and-mouse game between a serial killer and the authorities, set against the unlikely backdrop of a pop concert. While the film has its moments of tension and solid performances, it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity, marred by predictability and an overemphasis on showcasing the director's daughter, Saleka Night Shyamalan.


The plot centres on Cooper Abbott, a seemingly ordinary Philadelphia firefighter who is, in fact, a notorious serial killer known as "The Butcher." Played by Josh Hartnett, Cooper's dual life is explored in a compelling, if not entirely surprising, narrative. Hartnett's performance is one of the film's strongest aspects, bringing a believable and nuanced portrayal of a man teetering on the edge of sanity. His ability to convey a chilling calmness, even as his world unravels, keeps the viewer engaged, despite the story's occasional lapses in logic.

The film's setting, a concert by pop star Lady Raven, played by Saleka Night Shyamalan, a visually dynamic backdrop, though it often feels more like a vehicle for Saleka's singing than a genuine psychological thriller. Saleka's performance as Lady Raven is competent, and her character's fearless confrontation with Cooper adds an interesting layer to the plot. However, it is difficult to shake the sense that her role, and indeed the entire concert setting, was crafted more to showcase her musical talents than to serve the narrative. This detracts from the film's psychological depth, making certain sequences feel more like a music video than a tense thriller.

Saleka

The film's major flaw lies in its lack of a traditional Shyamalan twist. Fans of the director might feel let down by the fact that the film's central reveal, that Cooper is the Butcher, is given away in the trailer and is evident early in the film. This transparency robs the story of the suspense and surprise that Shyamalan's films are typically known for, leaving the narrative somewhat flat. Moreover, the screenplay occasionally veers into the implausible, particularly in the scenes where Lady Raven confronts Cooper. The idea that a petite pop star would fearlessly face down a serial killer stretches credulity, making these moments less convincing.

Jonathan Langdon, as Jamie the vendor, provides much-needed comic relief and delivers one of the film's standout scenes in the mid-credits sequence. His character, while minor, adds a refreshing layer of humour and humanity to the story. It's a pity he wasn't given more screen time, as his presence helps to balance the darker themes of the film.

"Trap" attempts to blend a psychological thriller with the glamour of a pop concert, but the execution is uneven. While the film has its strengths, particularly in Hartnett's performance and the general concept, it is let down by a predictable plot and the sense that it is, at times, more of a showcase for Saleka Night Shyamalan than a fully realised thriller. The lack of a true twist, along with some implausible plot elements, leaves the viewer wanting more in terms of both depth and suspense.


In the end, Trap is a decent thriller that entertains but doesn't quite hit the mark. It's a safe, if unremarkable, addition to Shyamalan's body of work, scoring a respectable 6.5 out of 10. For those who enjoy a straightforward thriller with a few moments of tension, it may suffice, but those looking for the signature Shyamalan twist and a more tightly woven narrative might come away disappointed.

NEWS: Netflix's Mantis (Working Title): A Spin-Off Set to Thrill in the Hired Killer Universe

Mantis

Image: Netflix Press

By Jon Donnis

Netflix has officially confirmed the production of Mantis (WT), an action-packed film that follows the titular character, Mantis, an ace assassin who returns to a now-collapsed hired killer industry after a long-awaited vacation. Upon his reentry into this anarchic world, Mantis finds himself facing off against two formidable figures: Jae-yi, his former fellow trainee and rival, and Dok-go, a retired legendary assassin. As they each pursue their own goals, the competition to claim the top spot among killers becomes a deadly game of skill, strategy, and survival.

Mantis (WT) is a spin-off set in the same hired killer universe as the 2023 Netflix film Kill Boksoon, which garnered significant attention after premiering at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival. While Kill Boksoon focused on the story of Gil Boksoon, a single mother trying to balance her life as a killer, Mantis (WT) shifts the spotlight to a new trio of assassins, each with their own complex motivations. This film promises to captivate audiences with its intense action sequences and intricate character dynamics, showcasing the fierce competition within this world of professional killers.

The screenplay for Mantis (WT) was co-written by Byun Sung-hyun, who directed Kill Boksoon and vividly portrayed the menacing contract killer industry in that film. Byun's collaboration with Lee Tae-sung, who served as an assistant director on Kill Boksoon and The King, marks a significant step for Lee as he makes his debut as a feature director with this highly anticipated film.

Yim Si-wan, known for his performances in Unlocked and Emergency Declaration, takes on the role of Han-ul, the skilled assassin better known as Mantis, who works for MK Ent. In Kill Boksoon, Mantis was mentioned by Cha Min-kyu as being on vacation, but now he returns to an industry in disarray, seeking new opportunities amid the chaos. Yim Si-wan, who has been widely praised for his role in The Merciless, is expected to bring depth and intensity to the character of Mantis, a creation of Byun Sung-hyun.

Park Gyu-young, star of Sweet Home and Celebrity, will portray Jae-yi, an exceptionally talented assassin who was once ousted from MK Ent. after falling out of favour with her superiors. Jae-yi, who shares a complicated history with Mantis, struggles with conflicting feelings towards him, both admiring and resenting his unmatched skills. Park Gyu-young is set to explore new dimensions in her acting career, tackling the emotional complexities of Jae-yi while also engaging in demanding action scenes that will showcase her versatility as an actress.

Adding to the film's powerful ensemble is Jo Woo-jin, known for his roles in Narco-Saints and Alienoid. Jo takes on the role of Dok-go, a retired legendary assassin and founding member of MK Ent. After stepping down from active duty, Dok-go took over as CEO following Cha Min-kyu's death, with the hope of bringing Mantis back into the fold. With Jo Woo-jin's seasoned acting skills, Dok-go's character is expected to be a formidable presence, adding layers of tension and intrigue to the film.

Mantis (WT) is being produced by SEE AT Film Co., LTD, the production company behind notable films such as Kill Boksoon, Love and Leashes, and Kingmaker. As the film gears up for production, expectations are high for this next chapter in the hired killer universe, with fans eagerly anticipating a new round of explosive action and gripping drama.

Friday 30 August 2024

PREVIEW: "The Baby Snatcher" – A Descent into Maternal Madness

The Baby Snatcher

By Jon Donnis

Prepare for a chilling ride into the depths of maternal despair and twisted obsession with The Baby Snatcher, the latest thriller from director Andrew Lawrence, known for his work on Frankie Meets Jack and Recess. Set to make its UK digital debut on 9 September, this Scatena & Rosner Films release promises to be a gripping and unsettling experience.


The film follows the intertwined lives of best friends Penelope (Adrienne Thomas, A Deadly Deed) and Eve (Jennifer Taylor, Shameless, Two and a Half Men), who share the joy of pregnancy at the same time. However, their bond is tragically broken when Eve suffers a devastating miscarriage. This loss triggers a downward spiral, leading Eve into a dark abyss of envy, fixation, and a thirst for revenge.


As Penelope and her husband Richie (Matthew Lawrence, Mrs. Doubtfire) embrace their pregnancy with happiness, Eve's grief festers into a dangerous obsession. The story takes a terrifying turn as Eve's jealousy drives her to commit horrifying acts, transforming the joy of impending motherhood into a nightmare of blood, horror, and mayhem.


If you're in search of a thriller that delves deep into the dark side of maternal instincts, The Baby Snatcher should be at the top of your watchlist. Don't miss its UK digital release on 9 September, courtesy of Scatena & Rosner Films.

Thursday 29 August 2024

PREVIEW: "The 13th Summer" (2024) – A Psychological Thriller Set to Chill

The 13th Summer

By Jon Donnis

Get ready for a tense, edge-of-your-seat ride as The 13th Summer brings its chilling brand of psychological thriller to digital screens this September. Directed by Tam Sainsbury (Perfect Messy Holiday), this Australian film delves deep into a sinister mystery, where the line between idyllic escape and dangerous entrapment blurs under the sun-drenched skies of a secluded beach.


Nathan Phillips (Snakes on a Plane) and Hannah Levien (Brand New Cherry Flavour) star as Ben and Vee, a couple at a crossroads following the breakdown of their marriage. Hoping to salvage their relationship, they head to their regular vacation spot, a quiet and remote beach house. But things take a dark turn when their expected companions, best friends Kate (Bec Hewitt, Home and Away) and Patrick (Jeremy Stanford, Relic), never arrive. Instead, they encounter Alex (Ben Turland, Neighbours), a mysterious British backpacker who claims to be staying in their house but remains vague about his presence there.

As days pass, tension mounts. The couple becomes entangled in a disturbing web of lies, mistrust, and eerie occurrences, with Alex's enigmatic presence driving a wedge between them. What begins as an awkward situation soon spirals into something far more dangerous, as sexual intrigue, manipulation, and unrelenting dread bubble beneath the surface. Sainsbury masterfully transforms the picturesque seaside into a backdrop of menace, where the beauty of nature is a stark contrast to the darkness lurking within.


For fans of atmospheric thrillers that delve into the human psyche, The 13th Summer promises a deeply unsettling experience. The film plays on the vulnerabilities of relationships, twisting them into a narrative fraught with paranoia and suspense. With the stakes rising, Ben and Vee must not only confront the fractures in their relationship but also fight to escape the looming threat that might claim both their lives.

Catch The 13th Summer on digital release starting 9 September, courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Films. Prepare to question who to trust in this sun-soaked psychological nightmare, where nothing is quite as it seems.

Wednesday 28 August 2024

REVIEW: Gunner (2024 Action Thriller Film) - Starring Luke Hemsworth, Mykel Shannon Jenkins, Yulia Klass, Grant Feely, Connor DeWolfe, and Morgan Freeman

Gunner

Review by Jon Donnis

Gunner (2024) is a film that attempts to blend the old-school action thriller vibe with a modern-day setting, but unfortunately, it falls short of delivering anything memorable. Written by Gary Scott Thompson and directed by Dimitri Logothetis, the film centres on Colonel Lee Gunner, played by Luke Hemsworth, who embarks on a camping trip with his two sons and their uncle. The plot quickly escalates when they unwittingly stumble upon a gang of violent bikers involved in a massive drug operation, setting off a predictable chain of events.


Luke Hemsworth gives a commendable performance as the hardened war veteran, embodying the rugged, no-nonsense action hero with ease. His portrayal is perhaps the film's strongest element, channelling the spirit of classic black ops thrillers where the protagonist's combat skills are the ultimate equaliser. However, despite Hemsworth's solid effort, the film struggles to rise above its numerous shortcomings.


Morgan Freeman's appearance as Kendrick Ryker, the imprisoned kingpin, is brief and feels like a missed opportunity. Freeman, undoubtedly cast to add gravitas and name recognition to the film, is on screen for barely ten minutes, leaving the audience wanting more from such a seasoned actor. His character's minimal involvement undermines the impact Freeman could have brought to the story.


The film's low budget is glaringly evident, particularly in the special effects and fight scenes. The visual effects are subpar, detracting from the action sequences rather than enhancing them. The screenplay also lacks imagination, leaning heavily on overused plot twists and familiar tropes that fail to surprise or engage. The narrative follows a well-worn path, offering little in the way of originality or suspense.


While Gunner has the makings of an intense action thriller, it is ultimately hampered by its unoriginal script and poor execution. It's the kind of film you might watch when there's nothing else available, but it's unlikely to leave a lasting impression. Despite a decent cast and a nod to old-school thrillers, Gunner fails to deliver anything beyond the ordinary. I would generously rate it a 5 out of 10.

Out Now on Digital - https://apple.co/3yMoUxJ

Tuesday 27 August 2024

REVIEW: Skincare (2024 Film) - Starring Elizabeth Banks and Lewis Pullman

Skincare

Review by Jon Donnis

Skincare is a curious mix of ambition and superficiality, one that initially appears to promise a cutting satire of the beauty industry but instead spirals into an uneven crime thriller. Directed by Austin Peters, this 2024 film paints a vividly modern portrait of Los Angeles' obsession with aesthetics and success, yet it falters when it tries to blend biting social commentary with a plot that drifts into melodrama. With a script that is often more concerned with its glossy surface than any meaningful depth, the film struggles to maintain cohesion in its tone, leaving the audience unsure of whether it's meant to laugh, cringe, or recoil in horror.

Elizabeth Banks carries the film with her portrayal of Hope Goldman, a high-powered aesthetician whose rise to fame and fortune is jeopardised by a series of calculated attacks on her personal and professional life. Banks' performance is captivating, portraying Hope as both sympathetic and unnervingly single-minded, teetering on the edge of a nervous breakdown as she fights to maintain her business and dignity. There's a magnetic quality to Banks' presence on screen, and despite the narrative's inconsistencies, she commands attention in every scene. Her ability to balance the desperation and determination of her character lends a sense of gravitas to what might otherwise have been a flimsy role. Her performance, however, is not enough to compensate for a script that fails to flesh out its themes beyond surface-level intrigue.


The film opens with a clever setup that feels deliciously promising, a bitter rivalry between two facialists, played out in the streets of a glittering, vanity-obsessed Los Angeles. The arrival of Angel Vergara (Luis Gerardo Méndez), Hope's rival, is a classic catalyst for the unraveling of her carefully curated life. Méndez is charming and aloof in his role, but his character is never fully developed beyond being a vague antagonist. This lack of depth is emblematic of the film's broader problem, though it teases at the dark underbelly of the beauty industry, it never delves into it with any real substance. Instead, the film veers into an absurd thriller, punctuated by increasingly improbable twists.

The dynamic between Hope and Jordan, played by Lewis Pullman, adds a layer of suspense, though it becomes predictable as the film progresses. Pullman exudes an understated menace as Jordan, initially appearing as a helpful friend but slowly revealing himself to be something more sinister. However, his character's motivations remain murky, and the eventual revelations of his character are underwhelming. The film hints at psychological complexity but never commits to exploring it fully, leaving its characters to feel more like archetypes than real people with rich inner lives.


Stylistically, "Skincare" feels like a love letter to 1980s thrillers, with its sleazy yet glamorous aesthetics and retro-infused soundtrack. There's a slickness to Peters' direction that matches the film's subject matter, the pursuit of physical perfection and the hollow glamour that comes with it. The neon-lit scenes and chic wardrobe choices for Banks give the film an alluringly superficial sheen, but like a poorly made serum, the film ultimately fails to penetrate deeper. This glossy exterior feels like a deliberate choice, highlighting the disconnect between appearance and reality, but it also serves to distance the audience emotionally from the characters' plights.

For all its glossy fun, Skincare falls short of being a truly sharp satire. It flirts with ideas of societal pressure, greed, and vanity, but these ideas remain largely undeveloped. By the time the film reaches its final act, the plot unravels in a disappointingly predictable way. The tension that Peters builds early on dissipates, replaced by a rushed conclusion that feels more like a series of shock tactics than a thoughtful resolution. The film could have benefitted from deeper exploration into the psychological implications of Hope's predicament, but instead, it resorts to a familiar narrative of betrayal and revenge.


Despite these flaws, there are moments of entertainment to be found. The film's pacing is generally brisk, and there are enough plot twists to keep viewers engaged, even if they ultimately lack impact. There's a darkly comic undercurrent running through the film that, when it works, lends a self-aware edge to the more ridiculous moments. However, the film often stumbles when trying to balance these tonal shifts, leaving audiences unsure of whether they should be laughing or taking the tension seriously.

Ultimately, "Skincare" is a missed opportunity. Elizabeth Banks' stellar performance and the film's aesthetic appeal are undeniable, but they aren't enough to salvage a story that feels disjointed and, ironically, shallow. What begins as a promising satire of the beauty industry devolves into a standard thriller that lacks bite. While the film might offer some short-lived pleasures with its twists and turns, it doesn't leave a lasting impression. The end result is a film that, much like the skincare products it critiques, looks good on the surface but lacks any real staying power. I score Skincare a disappointing 6 out of 10.

In Cinemas Now!

Saturday 24 August 2024

COMPETITION: Win A Greyhound of a Girl on Blu-ray

A Greyhound of a Girl

Dazzler Media presents the uplifting animated film, A Greyhound of a Girl, available to own on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Download from 26th August. Starring the voices of BAFTA winner Sharon Horgan and Oscar nominee Brendan Gleeson, it's adapted from the book by award-winning author Roddy Doyle.

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on Blu-ray


Synopsis:
In this beautifully animated story of love and family, filled with joy and laughter, we join four generations of women as they take a glorious and life-affirming journey together. When unexpected news leads them to embark on a trip, they gain the opportunity to reconnect and learn more about each other. 
 
Eleven year old Mary has an insatiable passion for cooking, and dreams of becoming a great chef. Her grandmother, Emer, with whom she has a very special bond, encourages her to make this dream come true. But every path has its obstacles, and facing them turns into quite an adventure. 
 
Starring the voice talents of BAFTA winner Sharon Horgan (Bad Sisters, Catastrophe), Oscar nominee Brendan Gleeson (Paddington 2, The Banshees of Inisherin), Charlene McKenna (Vienna Blood, Bloodlands) and Rosaleen Linehan (The Personal History of David Copperfield, The Matchmaker), this moving, tender film is based on the acclaimed book by award-winning author Roddy Doyle (The Commitments).  
 

A Greyhound of a Girl has screened to acclaim at a variety of prestigious festivals including the European Film Awards, Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, Shanghai International Film Festival and Chicago International Children’s Festival. 

Dazzler Media presents A Greyhound of a Girl on Blu-ray, DVD and Download-to-Own from 26th August 

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Z1yTtx

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here
1. Closing date 09-09-24
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.