REVIEW: The Boogeyman (2023) Starring Sophie Thatcher, Chris Messina, Vivien Lyra Blair, and David Dastmalchian

Out now

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3EiJS6c

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3OTzLK4

Review by Jon Donnis

The Boogeyman, directed by Rob Savage and based on Stephen King's 1973 short story of the same name, presents a chilling tale of family trauma and supernatural terror. While the film may not fully capture the depth of its source material, it does a good job creating a haunting atmosphere and has strong performances all round from the cast.

The story revolves around the Harper family, particularly the two sisters, Sadie (Sophie Thatcher) and Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair), along with their therapist father, Will (Chris Messina). Struggling to cope with the sudden loss of their mother, the family's world becomes even darker when a disturbed man named Lester Billings (David Dastmalchian) enters their lives. The encounter sets off a series of unsettling events, as the family becomes entangled in the deadly grip of an evil entity known as "The Boogeyman."

The film succeeds in creating an expertly calibrated atmosphere of dread. The visual style is memorable, with haunting imagery that lingers even after the credits roll. The performances, particularly those of the young cast members, contribute significantly to the film's effectiveness. Sophie Thatcher as Sadie and Vivien Lyra Blair as Sawyer manage to convey a convincing mix of vulnerability and determination, anchoring the audience's emotional investment.

However, The Boogeyman does stumble in some areas. While the buildup of tension is masterfully executed, the payoff sometimes falls short. Director Rob Savage leans on jump scares and a thunderous score to deliver frights, occasionally relying on these conventional tactics rather than pushing the boundaries of the genre. The film walks the line between being effectively spooky and slipping into generic horror territory.

Additionally, the story's potential to delve deeper into the psychological trauma of the characters is left somewhat unexplored. The audience is given glimpses of the family's emotional struggle, but there's room for a more profound exploration of grief and its impact on their relationships.

In the end, The Boogeyman is a commendable attempt at bringing a classic horror story to life on the screen. While it might not fully realize the potential of its source material, it manages to deliver a satisfactory level of fright and suspense. With its memorable visuals and committed performances, it's a movie that will leave you checking the dark corners of your room. Just be prepared for a few bumps in the night that might feel a tad formulaic.

As far as supernatural horror films go, The Boogeyman earns its place as an intriguing addition to the genre. With some refinements in its storytelling and a willingness to experiment beyond the expected scares, it could have truly excelled. For now, it's a spine-tingling ride that leaves you pondering what might have been lurking under your bed all along.

I score The Boogeyman a solid 7/10

Out now

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3EiJS6c

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3OTzLK4

REVIEW: Minore (2023) from acclaimed director and visual effects maestro Konstantinos Koutsoliotas

Review By Jon Donnis

"Minore," from acclaimed director and visual effects maestro Konstantinos Koutsoliotas, is a true marvel in the realm of horror cinema. Drawing on his expertise from collaborations on iconic films like "Cabinet of Curiosities," "1917," and "Guardians of The Galaxy," Koutsoliotas delivers an authentically Greek masterpiece that seamlessly weaves terror, folklore, and spectacular effects into a nightmarish tapestry. I say authentic, as I am Greek, so you can trust me on that.

The film introduces us to sailor William, portrayed by the talented Davide Tucci, who sets foot on the shores of Greece with a mysterious purpose. Amidst the vibrant tavernas and lively locals, he forms a connection with Aliki (Daphne Alexander), a trained dancer who is reluctantly working as a waitress in the bustling town. Their pursuit of Teacher whose real name is Nikodimos (Meletis Georgiadis), a master of the bouzouki, becomes intertwined with an eerie mist that heralds the invasion of otherworldly monsters.

As the town plunges into chaos, the film transitions from romantic intrigue, a man searching for the father he never knew, could it be Teacher?, to a fight for survival. William and Aliki, joined by an eclectic group of locals, including the charismatic bar owner Pantelis (Christos Callow), must stand against the horrific creatures that emerge from the depths. What follows is an epic battle, encompassing everyone from musicians to tourists, as they unite to preserve their way of life.

The Good:

At the forefront of "Minore" lies its undeniable strengths. The horror special effects are nothing short of "magnificent fun", capturing the Lovecraftian essence of monstrous beings that creep out of the abyss. The tentacles, a recurring motif, are a testament to Koutsoliotas' prowess in creating eerie visuals that both awe and terrify. The creatures, with their weird eyes and multiple tentacles, evoke a deep-seated unease, adding an unforgettable layer to the film's atmosphere. Might also make you think twice the next time you sit down for calamari.

Each character that appears gets chance to tell a story, Teacher who sets an empty table for his late wife, a grandmother who dreams of her past, an so on.

Furthermore, "Minore" embraces its Greek roots with unparalleled authenticity. The movie perfectly captures the essence of a small coastal town, its people, music, and traditions. The bouzouki melodies and rebetiko soundtrack imbue the film with an unmistakable local flavour, creating an immersive experience that transports the audience to the heart of Greece, and personally takes me back to many a night sat in such places.

In many ways a lot of this film is more about the local Greeks, and if you stopped watching before the monsters turn up, the film would be decent in its own right.

A special shout out to the grandmother character, she is epic, and the scene with a therapist had me laughing out loud, I wont spoil it, but it was horror comedy at its best!

The Bad:

While "Minore" excels in its visual storytelling, some instances of dodgy CGI do surface. However, these minor shortcomings are easily overshadowed by the film's grandeur and narrative prowess.

Overall:

"Minore" is a cinematic marvel that effortlessly combines Greek authenticity, some really fun visual effects, and a haunting musical score. Koutsoliotas' deft direction transports viewers into a realm where the ordinary collides with the extraordinary, resulting in a blood-soaked tapestry of fantasy, folklore, and dark humour. Despite minor CGI hiccups, "Minore" stands tall as a unique and mesmerizing monster movie that pays homage to its heritage while carving its own niche in the horror genre. With its nightmarish creatures, gallant battles, and echoes of Greek tradition, "Minore" is an experience that should not be missed by fans of horror and cinematic artistry alike, and although you might think I would be biased being Greek, trust me I will always be the biggest critic of any film that uses Greek culture, and I loved it.

I score Minore a very strong 9/10.

Keep an eye on the site for release information, coming soon!

REVIEW: Strays (2023) - Starring Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx

"Strays," is a 2023 American comedy film directed by Josh Greenbaum, a riotous ride through the lives of some very unconventional furry friends. 

For those who revel in off-colour humour and are comfortable with a liberal dose of crude jokes and sexual innuendos, this film is an absolute must-see. (Watch the trailer below and you will understand instantly the type of film this is.)

The film's narrative revolves around Reggie, a naive Border Terrier, and his rocky relationship with his owner Doug, a drug addict with questionable motives. The story takes an unexpected turn when Reggie finds himself stranded and encounters a street-smart Boston Terrier named Bug. Joined by a cast of colourful canine characters, Reggie embarks on a journey that unveils the truth about his past and the mistreatment he endured.

The voice cast, led by Will Ferrell as Reggie, Jamie Foxx as Bug, and Isla Fisher as Maggie, delivers comedic brilliance that brings the dogs' personalities to life. The diversity of voices ensures each character is distinct and memorable.

The Good

"Strays" brings a unique blend of humour to the screen, weaving together the misadventures of a lovable but misguided Border Terrier named Reggie and his motley crew of fellow strays. The film's standout feature is its ingenious use of CGI to make the dogs talk, effortlessly bridging the gap between human dialogue and canine antics. The film's real dogs, impressively trained, contribute to the authenticity of their characters and lend a heartwarming touch to the story.

The Bad

While the film's humour hits home for many, it's worth noting that "Strays" doesn't hold back on the more distasteful and raunchy elements. The abundance of milking jokes, in particular, might leave some viewers wondering if they've milked that joke a bit too much. Additionally, the film's explicit jokes and sexual content could easily be a turn-off for those seeking a more family-friendly experience. Furthermore, the film's light-hearted approach to animal abuse might be unsettling for some, as it skirts a sensitive topic.

Final Thoughts

"Strays" is a bold and unapologetic comedy that caters to a specific audience willing to embrace its raunchy adult humour and absurd situations. With impressive CGI, skilled dog training, and an ensemble cast that infuses life into their canine counterparts, the film's quirks and charms make it an entertaining experience. Just be prepared for the wild ride of humour and vulgarity, as "Strays" dares to venture into territories that might make some viewers blush or cringe. If you're up for it, though, you're in for a hilariously memorable escapade with Reggie and his furry companions.

I score Strays a solid 8/10

Out now in cinemas. And on digital soon at https://apple.co/3ssWBkh

REVIEW: Mob Land (2023) - Starring John Travolta and Stephen Dorff

Review By Jon Donnis

"Mob Land," starring John Travolta as Sheriff Davis, offers a suspenseful ride into the heart of a small town plagued by addiction and criminal schemes. The film excels in delivering unpredictable twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it an engaging and heart-pounding action thriller.

Travolta's portrayal of Sheriff Davis brings depth to the character of a man nearing retirement, grappling with personal health issues while trying to maintain law and order in a town overwhelmed by challenges. His genuine interest in the young mechanic Shelby, played by Shiloh Fernandez, adds a human touch to the narrative, creating a relatable anchor for the audience.

The film takes an intriguing turn when Shelby, drawn into a misguided criminal plan concocted by his reckless uncle Trey (Kevin Dillon), becomes entangled in a violent sequence of events. The unexpected shift in the plot adds a layer of intensity to the story, showcasing the consequences of seemingly easy money. Stephen Dorff's portrayal of Clayton, the revenge-seeking enforcer from the New Orleans mafia, is a standout performance. Dorff's character is given the best lines, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of the film and leaving a memorable impression.

However, one of the film's drawbacks lies in the dialog for John Travolta's character. At times, the lines provided for Sheriff Davis feel weak and fail to capture the essence of the character. Instead, it is Dorff's Clayton who shines with his sinister and compelling dialogues, elevating the tension of the scenes he's in.

As the story unfolds, "Mob Land" delves into the dark underbelly of crime, with Clayton's involvement leading to a series of gruesome murders. The film effectively portrays the spiral of events that transform Shelby from a simple mechanic to Clayton's reluctant assistant in these brutal acts. The menacing presence of Clayton, brought to life by Stephen Dorff's performance, adds a layer of fear and unease that grips the audience until the very end.

In conclusion, "Mob Land" delivers an engaging and suspenseful experience with its unpredictable plot twists and heart-pounding action. John Travolta's portrayal of Sheriff Davis, while occasionally hindered by weaker dialogues, still adds emotional weight to the narrative. The film's standout performance comes from Stephen Dorff, whose portrayal of Clayton injects the story with a chilling intensity. For fans of gritty thrillers with a touch of the unexpected, "Mob Land" is a movie worth watching, earning a solid rating of 7.5/10.

Out Now on Digital at

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3OPREcI

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3R0Jz7X

REVIEW: The List (2023) - Starring Halston Sage and Christian Navarro

Review by Jon Donnis

"The List" delivers a delightful blend of cheeky humour, romance, and self-discovery that keeps the audience entertained from start to finish. Led by the charismatic duo of Halston Sage and Christian Navarro, director Melissa Miller Costanzo crafts a light-hearted and engaging romantic comedy that hits all the right notes.

Halston Sage shines as Abby, a bride-to-be whose fairy tale engagement takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her fiancé's tryst with a celebrity from his "free pass" list. Faced with heartache and a desire for distraction, Abby teams up with her vivacious best friend Chloe (played with comedic flair by Chrissie Fit) to embark on a comical quest of her own. The mission? Pursuing her own list of celebrity crushes, including the hunky action star Mac West (Rich Morrow), the suave Sexiest Man Alive Cooper Grant (Gregg Sulkin), and the enigmatic Grammy-winning rapper Avon (Will Peltz).

The film takes a refreshing approach by placing Abby in the heart of Los Angeles, guided by her friend Sam (portrayed by Shelley Hennig), a savvy talent agent who pulls out all the stops to connect Abby with her celebrity idols. As Abby navigates the glitzy world of stardom, she encounters a series of laugh-out-loud situations that keep the film's comedic momentum flowing.

"The List" thrives on its humourous moments, seamlessly blending witty dialogue with physical comedy. The chemistry between the characters, particularly Abby and Chloe, adds an endearing layer to the story, making their escapades in pursuit of fame and romance both relatable and hilarious.

Director Melissa Miller Costanzo, known for her work on "All These Small Moments," maintains a breezy and engaging pace that allows the characters' dynamics to shine. The writing by Rob Lederer and Steve Vitolo, veterans of successful TV comedies like "Black-ish," "Crowded," and "Hot in Cleveland," inject the film with quick wit and comedic surprises that keep the audience hooked.

What truly elevates "The List" is its ability to strike a balance between comedy and heart. As Abby inches closer to her dreams of celebrity encounters, her path crosses with Jake (Christian Navarro), a local waiter with aspirations of his own. Navarro's portrayal of Jake adds depth and sincerity to the film, offering a grounded counterpoint to the glitzy world of celebrity pursuits.

While "The List" embraces some familiar rom-com tropes, it does so with a knowing wink and a fresh perspective. The film ultimately celebrates the journey of self-discovery, friendship, and the unexpected twists that life often throws our way.

In conclusion, "The List" earns its 7 out of 10 rating for its engaging blend of humour, romance, and genuine emotion. With a charming cast, well-timed comedic moments, and a touch of heart, the film showcases the power of laughter and connection in the face of life's surprises. It's a delightful escape into a world where dreams are pursued, love blossoms unexpectedly, and laughter prevails.

Out now on digital
Apple TV - https://apple.co/3qLLySK

Amazon - https://amzn.to/3QSRm7z