Action-Packed Saturdays Await on LEGEND This August

By Jon Donnis

This August, LEGEND is set to transform Saturday nights into a thrilling escapade of action, adventure, and mystery. The channel is premiering a line-up of action-packed films featuring Hollywood heavyweights, alongside the beloved anthology series, The Twilight Zone. Here's a sneak peek into the exciting premieres you can look forward to each Saturday this month.

Details in transmission order:

From Saturday 3 August @ 20:30 – THE TWILIGHT ZONE Season 3 (1961). *Channel Premiere

Residing in the world of fantasy and science fiction, The Twilight Zone has become the role model for TV anthologies, brilliantly exploring the foibles of humanity in metaphoric ways unseen in conventional drama.Casts have included Redford, William Shatner, Burt Reynolds, Robert Duvall, Dennis Hopper, Carol Burnett, James Coburn, Charles Bronson, Lee Marvin and Peter Falk The series were nominated for seven Emmy Awards and four Hugos and won three of each.

Saturday 3 August @ 21:00 – BUSHWICK (2017) *Channel Premiere

Lucy (Brittany Snow) discovers her neighborhood, Bushwick, is under attack by black-clad military soldiers. When she is attacked, ex-Marine Stupe (Dave Bautista) intervenes, and the two are thrown together. As America declares war on itself, Lucy and Snow must fight to make it out of Bushwick alive.

Saturday 10 August @ 21:00 – ARMED RESPONSE (2018) *Channel Premiere

When a team of highly trained operatives find the bloody corpses of a missing team in an isolated military compound, they begin investigating, but find themselves trapped inside. Soon encountering a strange supernatural phenomenon, it becomes clear that the compound itself is a sentient entity, harbouring deadly secrets of its own. Starring Blade's Wesley Snipes.

Saturday 17 August @ 22:50 – NIGHT HUNTER (2018) *Channel Premiere

On the hunt for an elusive serial rapist and murderer, battle-hardened cop Marshall (Henry Cavill) meets vigilante duo Cooper (Ben Kingsley) and Lara (Eliana Jones) as they trap online predators. But when Lara is kidnapped, the hunt for the perpetrator leads to deeper mysteries.

Saturday 24 August @ 21.00 – EDGE OF THE WORLD (2021) *Channel premiere

Starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers as Sir James Brook, the English adventurer who fought pirates and slavery to rule a kingdom in the jungles of Borneo in 1840. As he embarks on a lifelong crusade to end head-hunting, he is framed for murder and piracy charges. Also stars Dominic Monoghan.

TV: Sky 148 / Virgin 149 / Freeview 41 / Freesat 137

REVIEW: Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024 Action Film) - Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence

Review by Jon Donnis

"Bad Boys: Ride or Die," the fourth installment in the Bad Boys series, directed by Adil & Bilall, is a rollicking addition to the beloved buddy cop franchise. Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, the film continues the saga of Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, who this time are on a mission to clear the name of their late Captain Conrad Howard, posthumously accused of conspiracy.

Set four years after the events of "Bad Boys for Life," the story kicks off with Mike Lowrey marrying his physical therapist, Christine, only for the celebrations to be abruptly interrupted by Marcus suffering a mild heart attack. During his coma-induced vision of Captain Howard, Marcus is told it is not his time, a message that he interprets as a sign of invincibility upon waking. Their newfound mission begins with a shocking news report linking Captain Howard to cartel corruption, prompting the duo to embark on a journey to vindicate their mentor's reputation.

The plot thickens as they enlist the help of Captain Rita Secada and her new boyfriend, mayoral candidate Adam Lockwood, leading them to Mike's son, Armando Aretas. Armando, now imprisoned for Howard's murder, provides crucial information, revealing that Howard was close to exposing corruption, which led to his assassination. This revelation sets Mike and Marcus on a dangerous path, fraught with assassins, coded messages, and a high-stakes battle against deeply embedded corruption within federal and state law enforcement.

The chemistry between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence remains the film's cornerstone, their dynamic as entertaining as ever. Their comedic timing and on-screen camaraderie inject life into the movie, making it more than just another action flick. The film boasts a mix of humour, suspense, and explosive action sequences that are both visually impressive and thrilling to watch. One particularly innovative scene features a POV shot from the perspective of a gun holder, seamlessly transitioning between characters and adding a unique visual flair to the film.

Despite the film's many strengths, there are moments where it falls short. The attempt to portray Smith and Lawrence as eternally youthful rebels feels somewhat forced, with their dyed hair and beards attempting to mask the reality of their advancing ages. This, at times, detracts from the authenticity of their characters, making some scenes feel like a nostalgic compilation rather than fresh, original content. Additionally, the charm that defined the original films has somewhat diminished, replaced by a more formulaic approach to action and comedy.

Nevertheless, "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" delivers what fans of the series have come to expect: a high-octane, entertaining ride that prioritises audience enjoyment over any deeper political commentary. It's a throwback to a time when blockbuster films were designed to entertain, and in that regard, it succeeds admirably.

In conclusion, "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" is a solid addition to the franchise, buoyed by the enduring appeal of its lead actors. While it may lack some of the original charm and innovation, it compensates with its engaging action and the undeniable chemistry of Smith and Lawrence. For fans of the series, it's a gratifying return to form. I give "Bad Boys: Ride or Die" a commendable 8 out of 10.

Out Now in Cinemas and also on digital.

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Sks4iL

Apple TV - https://apple.co/4cTfijs

COMPETITION: WIN JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS – PART THREE ON 4KUHD

JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS – PART THREE IS AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL DOWNLOAD OUT NOW AND ON 4K UHD + BLU-RAY LIMITED EDITION STEELBOOK ON 29TH JULY

To celebrate its release, we're giving one lucky winner a copy of Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths Part 3 4KUHD

Based on DC’s iconic comic book limited series ‘Crisis on Infinite Earths’ by Marv Wolfman and George Pérez, join DC Super Heroes from across the multiverse in the action-packed conclusion of the three-part DC animated film Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths – Part Three. The eagerly awaited film brings to a close the thrilling trilogy that marks the end to the Tomorrowverse story arc.

Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths – Part Three features returning popular voice cast members: Jensen Ackles (Supernatural, The Boys, The Winchesters) as Batman/Bruce Wayne, Emmy winner Darren Criss (The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, Glee) as Superman & Earth-2 Superman, Aldis Hodge (Straight Outta Compton, Black Adam) as Green Lantern/John Stewart, Meg Donnelly (Legion of Super-Heroes, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,) as Supergirl & Harbinger, and Stana Katic (Castle, Absentia) as Wonder Woman & Superwoman, along with Corey Stoll (Ant-Man, Black Mass) as Lex Luthor.The star-studded ensemble voice cast also includes Gideon Adlon as Batgirl, Ike Amadi as Martian Manhunter/J’Onn J’Onzz, Geoffrey Arend as Psycho Pirate/Charles Halstead, Troy Baker as The Joker & Spider Guild Lantern, Brian Bloom as Adam Strange & Sidewinder, Matt Bomer as The Flash, Ashly Burch as Nightshade & Queen Mera, Zach Callison as Earth-2 Robin & Robin/Damian Wayne, Kevin Conroy as Earth-12 Batman, Alexandra Daddario as Lois Lane, Brett Dalton as Bat Lash & Captain Atom, John Dimaggio as Lobo, Ato Essandoh as Mr. Terrific, Keith Ferguson as Doctor Fate & Two-Face, Will Friedle as Batman Beyond & Kamandi, Jennifer Hale as Hippolyta & Green Lantern Aya, Mark Hamill as Earth-12 The Joker, Jamie Gray Hyder as Hawkgirl & Young Diana, Erika Ishii as Doctor Light/Dr. Hoshi & Huntress, David Kaye as The Question & Cardonian Lantern, Matt Lanter as Blue Beetle, Liam McIntryre as Aquaman, Cynthia Kaye McWilliams as Dr. Beth Chapel & The Cheetah, Lou Diamond Phillips as The Spectre, Elysia Rotaru as Black Canary & Black Canary II, Matt Ryan as Constantine, Katee Sackhoff as Poison Ivy, Keesha Sharp as Vixen, Jimmi Simpson as Green Arrow, Jason Spisak as Blue Lantern Razer & Hayseed, Armen Taylor as The Flash/Jay Garrick, Gas Soldier & Executioner, and Dean Winters as Captain Storm.

Justice League Crisis on Infinite Earths – Part Three will be available on Digital Download on 16th July and will be available to purchase on 4K UHD + Blu-ray in limited edition steelbook packaging on the 29th July. 

Order from https://amzn.to/4d3DQWC

For your chance to win a copy of Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths – Part Three on 4KUHD, simply answer the following question:

1. When is Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths – Part Three available on 4KUHD?

    a) 28th July

    b) 29th July 

    c) 30th July 

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 05-08-24

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.

REVIEW: The Exorcism (2024 Film) Starring Russell Crowe

Review by Jon Donnis

"The Exorcism" delivers a spine-chilling experience that delves into the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural. Directed by Joshua John Miller, this highly anticipated horror film stars Academy Award-winner Russell Crowe in a gripping role that is sure to leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

Russell Crowe takes on the role of Anthony Miller, a once-celebrated actor grappling with the remnants of his troubled past. While filming a supernatural horror movie, Miller begins to experience unsettling events that make him question his sanity. His estranged daughter, Lee, portrayed by Ryan Simpkins, is drawn into the turmoil, torn between fearing her father's relapse into old addictions and suspecting that something far more sinister is at work. As the plot thickens, Miller's descent into madness, or perhaps into the grasp of an otherworldly force, becomes increasingly palpable. The film masterfully intertwines the terror of personal demons with the horrors of the supernatural, creating a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally frightening.

Joining Russell Crowe and Ryan Simpkins is an impressive ensemble cast. Sam Worthington, known for his roles in "Avatar" and "Clash of the Titans," brings depth to the story, while Chloe Bailey, Adam Goldberg, and David Hyde Pierce round out the cast, each adding their own unique flair to the film. This combination of seasoned actors and fresh talent ensures a compelling and dynamic on-screen experience.

Joshua John Miller, acclaimed for his previous works in the horror genre, directs "The Exorcism" with a vision that pushes the boundaries of conventional horror storytelling. His direction brings a nuanced, atmospheric intensity to the film, blending psychological horror with supernatural elements.

With its unique premise, stellar cast, and chilling scares, "The Exorcism" is set to be one of the standout horror films of the year. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or simply looking for a thrilling cinematic experience.

While the film excels in many areas, including Crowe's flawless performance and the gripping, chilling, and surprisingly heartfelt narrative, it isn't without its flaws. The storyline lacks originality, often treading familiar ground within the horror genre. Additionally, the final third of the film feels somewhat rushed, with an extra 10 to 15 minutes potentially adding more depth and resolution.

Despite these shortcomings, "The Exorcism" is a film that will resonate with fans of religious-based horror. Its meta aspect, featuring an actor playing the part of a priest, adds an interesting layer to the story. Although it may not appeal to everyone, the film delivers some genuinely scary moments and showcases Crowe at his best.

Overall, I score "The Exorcism" a solid 8 out of 10. It has all the elements of a compelling exorcism film, and with Russell Crowe leading the cast, it provides a thoroughly engaging and terrifying cinematic experience.

Out in cinemas now

COMPETITION: Win Santa Sangre 4-Disc Limited Edition 4KUHD + Blu-Ray

Legendary filmmaker Alejandro Jodorowsky (El Topo, The Holy Mountain) is lauded by critics and cult cinema enthusiasts alike for his avant-garde, violently surreal, brilliantly original features. Now, one of his finest films, Santa Sangre, is set for brand-new release that will deliver an experience like never before.

And to celebrate we have a great competition for you and a copy on Limited Edition 4KUHD to give away.

Synopsis:

Hailed as “Extraordinary… mind-blowing” by The Guardian, “Visionary and haunting” by Rolling Stone and “A grand work of art, full of symbols and imagery that reach beyond language to something primal and original” according to AV Club, you can forget everything you have ever seen, as this modern masterpiece from director Alejandro Jodorowsky returns like never before, with more than eight hours of archival and all-new Special Features produced exclusively for this collection.

We meet Fenix, a young boy who has grown up in a circus in Mexico, where one day, he witnesses an unimaginably horrific incident… His mother, Concha, insane with rage, wreaks deranged revenge on her cheating husband. The young child, driven insane by the incident, is sent to an asylum where he must spend his childhood trying to overcome the devastating violence.

When the boy (played by the director’s son Axel Jodorowsky) reaches adolescence, he’s released into the care of his unhinged and vengeful mother. This sets off a chain of increasingly crazed and disturbing events that need to be seen to be believed in an outrageously nightmarish trip, that takes us back and forth between its twisted timelines and haunting, hallucinogenic landscapes.

Take a mind-melting journey into the wild, the weird and the severely shocking with Santa Sangre, a true original, must-watch movie.

Order from Amazon at https://amzn.to/3zRz14p

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Santa Sangre?

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 05-08-24

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.

COMPETITION: Win Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy on 4K

ANCHORMAN: THE LEGEND OF RON BURGUNDY will celebrate its 20th anniversary this year and Paramount Home Entertainment will mark the occasion by releasing the absurdly hilarious, star-studded comedy on 4K Ultra HD™ for the first time ever on August 5, 2024. The Collector’s Edition will include both 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray ™ discs, with a theatrical poster, Ron Burgundy’s notebook, and collectables including a Channel 4 sticker, art cards and more.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on 4K Ultra HD!

Released in cinemas on July 9, 2004, ANCHORMAN: THE LEGEND OF RON BURGUNDY marked the feature directorial debut of Adam McKay and was written by McKay and Will Ferrell, who stars as the titular, moustachioed hero.  The film features a veritable pantheon of comedic talent, including Christina Applegate, Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner, and Fred Willard, along with a cavalcade of cameos. Set in the 1970s, it tells the ridiculously funny story of a testosterone-filled newsroom threatened by the arrival of an ambitious female anchor.   Endlessly quotable and enduringly hilarious, ANCHORMAN: THE LEGEND OF RON BURGUNDY is widely considered to be one of the greatest comedies of all time.

Synopsis:

There was a time before cable when the local anchorman reigned supreme... Enter the hard-hitting world of the 1970s local TV news, where Ron Burgundy (Will Ferrell) and his loyal Channel 3 News Team (Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, David Koechner) are San Diego's #1 rated news source.  All is well in their male-dominated world of news until beautiful, rising-star reporter Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate) turns it all upside down. Sparks don't just fly, they ignite an all-out war between the two perfectly coiffed anchorpersons. In a job where it pays to keep a straight face, Anchorman is the comedy that makes it almost impossible to stop laughing.

Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy Arrives on 4K Ultra HD™ for the first time from August 5th 2024

Order from Amazon at https://amzn.to/4cRrHnT

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy?

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 05-08-24

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.

More Details about the release:

The 20th Anniversary 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray set includes the remastered theatrical version of the film in sparkling 4K Ultra HD, plus two Blu-ray Discs with more than two hours of legacy bonus content, including cast auditions, deleted scenes, bloopers, an “Afternoon Delight” music video, and much, much more.  In addition, fans can enjoy both the theatrical and extended cuts of the film on Blu-ray, as well as WAKE UP, RON BURGUNDY: THE LOST MOVIE, a 92-minute film featuring outtakes and unused storylines from the original movie. Bonus content is detailed below:

Blu-ray Disc 1

    • Theatrical and Extended versions of the film branched

    • Commentary by Adam McKay, Will Ferrell, Lou Rawls, Andy Richter, Kyle Gass, Paul Rudd, David Koechner, and Christina Applegate

    • Deleted & Extended Scenes

    • Bloopers

    • “Afternoon Delight” Music Video

    • ESPN SportsCenter Audition – Ron Burgundy

Blu-ray Disc 2

    • Wake Up Ron Burgundy: The Lost Movie

    • Intro-Commentary with Will Ferrell and Aaron Zimmerman

    • PSA

    • Award Speech

    • Raw Footage “Good Takes”

    • “Afternoon Delight” Recording Session

    • Interviews

    • Specials

    • Cast Auditions

    • Table Read 6/2/03

    • Rehearsals

    • Playback Video

    • Commercial Break

    • Trailers

Anchorman: The Legend Of Ron Burgundy Arrives on 4K Ultra HD™ for the first time from August 5th 2024

REVIEW: Twisters (2024 Action Thriller Film) - Starring Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos

Review by Jon Donnis

Twisters is the latest American disaster film is a thrilling standalone sequel to the 1996 classic "Twister." Directed by Lee Isaac Chung with a screenplay by Mark L. Smith from a story by Joseph Kosinski. This film follows the story of Kate Cooper, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, a former storm chaser now studying storm patterns from the safety of New York City. Haunted by a traumatic tornado encounter during her college years, Kate is drawn back to the open plains by her friend Javi, portrayed by Anthony Ramos, to test a groundbreaking new tracking system.

Upon returning to storm-chasing, Kate encounters Tyler Owens, a charming and reckless social media superstar played by Glen Powell. Tyler thrives on documenting his daring storm-chasing adventures with his lively crew, pushing the limits for more dangerous and thrilling content. As the storm season reaches its peak, Kate, Tyler, and their respective teams face unprecedented and terrifying weather phenomena. They find themselves in a perilous situation as multiple storm systems converge over central Oklahoma, leading to a battle for survival.

The film boasts a strong cast with Daisy Edgar-Jones delivering a compelling performance as the cautious yet determined Kate. Glen Powell's portrayal of the charismatic Tyler adds a dynamic contrast, embodying the thrill-seeking spirit of a modern-day storm chaser. Anthony Ramos brings depth to his role as Javi, adding a layer of emotional connection to Kate's journey. Supporting roles from Brandon Perea, Maura Tierney, Harry Hadden-Paton, and others round out a well-chosen ensemble.

"Twisters" excels as a perfect summer blockbuster, capturing the allure of storm chasing with high-energy performances and jaw-dropping action set pieces. The film's visual effects are spectacular, depicting the destructive power of tornadoes with stunning realism. While the CGI may sometimes feel too polished, it contributes to the overall immersive experience, making the audience feel as if they are right in the midst of the storm.

One of the film's strengths is its ability to avoid relying heavily on nostalgia, choosing instead to introduce new characters and fresh narratives. This approach allows "Twisters" to stand on its own while still paying homage to its predecessor. The film also sidesteps political issues such as climate change, focusing purely on delivering a thrilling and entertaining experience.

However, some viewers might find that "Twisters" lacks the charm of the original "Twister." The polished CGI, while impressive, may not evoke the same sense of tangible danger and authenticity that practical effects achieved in the 1996 film. Nonetheless, as a summer blockbuster, "Twisters" achieves its goal of providing a fun, adrenaline-pumping experience.

Twisters is a successful sequel that brings the excitement of storm chasing to a new generation. While it may not capture all the nuances of the original, it stands out with its captivating action sequences, engaging performances, and a fresh storyline. With its blend of high stakes, a budding romance, and very cool country music, "Twisters" is an enjoyable summer film that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. I was pleasantly surprised by the film and would score it a strong 9 out of 10.

Out in cinemas NOW!

REVIEW: My Spy: The Eternal City (2024 Action Comedy Film) Starring Dave Bautista and Chloe Coleman

Review By Jon Donnis

"My Spy: The Eternal City," directed by Pete Segal, is a delightful sequel to the 2020 hit "My Spy," bringing back the dynamic duo of Dave Bautista as JJ and Chloe Coleman as Sophie. The film continues their adventures with a fresh, humorous, and heartwarming narrative set against the stunning backdrops of Italy.

The plot kicks off with Sophie's high school choir securing an enviable gig to tour Italy, culminating in a grand performance for the Pope in Vatican City. This trip becomes the perfect pretext for JJ to bond with his new stepdaughter, Sophie. What begins as an idyllic chaperoning duty quickly escalates into a thrilling escapade as JJ and Sophie find themselves embroiled in a terrorist plot with catastrophic implications. The narrative cleverly juxtaposes the serene beauty of Venetian canals, Florence's picturesque bridges, and Rome's historical splendour with the high-stakes tension of espionage.

Dave Bautista shines as JJ, adeptly blending his tough-guy persona with a softer, more vulnerable side that comes to the fore in his interactions with Sophie. Bautista's comedic timing is impeccable, and his ability to handle both action and comedy with ease makes him a joy to watch. Chloe Coleman continues to impress as Sophie, balancing youthful exuberance with surprising maturity and intelligence. Their on-screen chemistry is the heart of the film, delivering both laughs and touching moments.

The supporting cast adds layers of humour and charm, with Kristen Schaal and Ken Jeong reprising their roles as Bobbi and David Kim, respectively. Their comedic contributions are bolstered by newcomers Anna Faris, Craig Robinson, and Flula Borg, each bringing their unique flair to the ensemble. The interactions between these characters add a delightful complexity and energy to the film.

One of the film's standout features is its use of Italy as a backdrop. The picturesque locations not only serve as eye candy but also enrich the narrative, making the setting almost a character in itself. The film takes full advantage of Italy's scenic beauty, providing a feast for the eyes as the story unfolds amidst iconic landmarks and vibrant streets.

"My Spy: The Eternal City" excels in delivering action-packed sequences that are both thrilling and visually spectacular. The choreography of the action scenes is impressive, ensuring that they are both dynamic and coherent. Coupled with a steady stream of genuinely funny moments, the film maintains a brisk and entertaining pace throughout.

However, the film is not without its shortcomings. It does occasionally fall into the trap of predictability, with certain plot points feeling rather formulaic and reminiscent of other action comedies. The narrative can sometimes feel like it was crafted by an algorithm, ticking all the expected boxes without venturing into truly original territory. This lack of unpredictability might be a letdown for some viewers looking for more nuanced storytelling.

My Spy: The Eternal City is a thoroughly enjoyable addition to Amazon Prime's library. It may not break new ground in the genre or sweep the award circuits, but it offers a solid, entertaining experience that will undoubtedly resonate with its audience. Fans of Dave Bautista and the original film will find plenty to love, from the breathtaking Italian landscapes to the heartfelt familial bonding and the well-executed comedy and action sequences. I give "My Spy: The Eternal City" a solid 7.5 out of 10, celebrating it as a fun, feel-good film that delivers exactly what it promises.

Out Now on Amazon Prime at https://amzn.to/3LrW7Rs

REVIEW: Longlegs (2024 Horror/Thriller Film) - Starring Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage

Review By Jon Donnis

"Longlegs" is a 2024 American horror thriller film written and directed by Osgood Perkins that takes viewers on a suspenseful and eerie journey. Set against the bleak backdrop of 1970s and 1990s Oregon, the film weaves a chilling narrative involving FBI agent Lee Harker, portrayed by Maika Monroe, as she hunts down a mysterious occultist serial killer known as Longlegs, played with unnerving intensity by Nicolas Cage.

The plot begins in the 1970s with a young girl enticed by a mysterious voice, leading to a disturbing encounter with the pale-faced Longlegs. Fast forward to the 1990s, and the narrative follows Lee Harker, a newly recruited FBI agent who exhibits an uncanny intuition, hinting at possible clairvoyance. This unique ability thrusts her into the decades-spanning case of brutal murder-suicides, each leaving behind cryptic, satanic messages signed "Longlegs." These gruesome crimes revolve around families with 9-year-old daughters, their murders occurring around the children's birthdays, forming an occult symbol on a calendar, save for one missing date.

As Lee delves deeper, aided by her sceptical supervisor Agent Carter (Blair Underwood), they unearth a doll with a metal orb inside, leading to violent psychic flashes and eerie experiences. The supernatural elements intensify as Lee suspects that these dolls, distributed by Longlegs, possess a malevolent energy that drives the fathers to commit the heinous acts. The tension mounts as hints of Longlegs' intimate knowledge of Lee's past surface, creating an unsettling connection between the hunter and the hunted.

The performances in "Longlegs" are exceptional. Maika Monroe's portrayal of Lee Harker is compelling, capturing both her vulnerability and determination. Nicolas Cage delivers one of his most memorable roles as Longlegs, his presence both magnetic and menacing. The supporting cast, including Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt, and Kiernan Shipka, contribute significantly to the film's depth and tension.

Visually, "Longlegs" is a masterpiece. Perkins creates a world that is both beautiful and terrifying, from the peculiar architecture of Harker's house to the eerie uniformity of suburban streets. The atmosphere of dread is palpable throughout the film, gripping the viewer in a vice of unease that persists long after the credits roll.

However, the film is not without its flaws. While Perkins excels at crafting mood and atmosphere, "Longlegs" sometimes feels like it relies too heavily on Cage's unique brand of madness to carry the horror. Despite the chilling ambiance, some viewers might find the film lacking in genuine scares, with the horror elements taking a backseat to the procedural aspects of the narrative.

Longlegs is a gripping thriller that excels in creating a haunting atmosphere and a lingering sense of dread. While it may not deliver the visceral scares expected from a traditional horror film, it more than compensates with its psychological intensity and superb performances. It's a film that creeps into your mind and stays with you, a testament to Perkins' craftsmanship and the stellar cast. I rate "Longlegs" a solid 7.5 out of 10, a commendable effort that offers a unique blend of supernatural mystery and psychological thriller.

Out Now in Cinemas and

Coming soon on Apple TV - https://apple.co/469Wiur