Sugarcane

Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie’s SUGARCANE is an unflinching examination of the Canadian Indian residential school system and its multigenerational impact on Indigenous families. By intertwining survivor accounts, archival material, and investigative journalism, the film aims to uncover a dark chapter of systemic oppression and explore the lingering scars it has left on descendants. The result is a film that is deeply important, often powerful, but occasionally constrained by its own methodical approach.

The premise of SUGARCANE is deceptively straightforward: an investigation into the residential school system where Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and subjected to cultural erasure, abuse, and neglect. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the story is anything but simple. The film dives headfirst into survivor testimonies, which form the emotional backbone of the documentary. Their recollections—unflinching, raw, and deeply personal—serve as both an indictment of the system and a testament to their resilience.

The filmmakers deserve credit for giving space to the voices of survivors. Each testimony is presented with care and reverence, avoiding sensationalism while allowing the gravity of their experiences to resonate. Particularly moving is the story of a woman whose family line was nearly severed by her time in the schools, and yet who finds small acts of joy and resistance in the traditions she fought to reclaim. These moments are where SUGARCANE shines brightest, capturing the tension between pain and perseverance that defines the legacy of these institutions.

Visually, SUGARCANE opts for a restrained, almost meditative style. Archival footage and photographs are interspersed with sweeping shots of the Canadian wilderness, a stark juxtaposition that underscores the unnaturalness of the schools’ existence against the land’s timeless beauty. Mali Obomsawin’s score weaves through the narrative, subtle but evocative, enhancing the film’s emotional heft without overshadowing the voices at its core.

The documentary’s investigative elements add a compelling layer to its storytelling. Kassie and NoiseCat meticulously trace the system’s roots, revealing the governmental and religious complicity that allowed it to thrive. However, this methodical approach occasionally slows the film’s emotional momentum. The transitions between the personal and the procedural can feel jarring, and some segments lean too heavily on exposition, creating moments where the film risks losing its emotional grip.

One of SUGARCANE’s most striking achievements is its handling of intergenerational trauma. Through the lens of descendants, the documentary captures how the pain inflicted by residential schools reverberates through time. These stories add depth to the narrative, showing how systemic cruelty shapes identities and relationships across decades. Yet, they also offer glimpses of hope, as descendants work to reclaim what was stolen and rebuild fractured cultural connections.

While the film’s scope is undeniably ambitious, it occasionally struggles to balance its multiple threads. The meticulous detailing of systemic injustices is essential, but it sometimes overshadows the human stories that make the film so compelling. A tighter focus on a smaller group of individuals might have allowed for a more emotionally cohesive narrative without sacrificing the broader critique of the system.

SUGARCANE is at its most impactful when it lets the survivors’ voices guide the story. The moments where the camera lingers on their faces, capturing their pain, strength, and determination, are deeply moving. These scenes remind us of the personal cost of systemic oppression, grounding the documentary’s broader themes in lived experience.

It’s worth noting that SUGARCANE doesn’t offer easy resolutions. The film doesn’t pretend that the wounds inflicted by the residential school system can be healed with a single reckoning. Instead, it highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition, refusing to let its audience look away from the long road ahead. This unflinching honesty is one of the film’s greatest strengths, even as it leaves viewers with a heavy heart.

THE VERDICT

Ultimately, SUGARCANE is a powerful, if imperfect, exploration of a painful history that demands to be remembered. It succeeds in amplifying the voices of those who lived through the horrors of the residential school system and those who continue to grapple with its aftermath. While its investigative structure sometimes dulls its emotional edge, the film’s commitment to truth and justice ensures its place as an important, necessary work.

TED TAKES RATING - 6.2/10

SUGARCANE is now streaming on Disney+. Check out the latest trailer below.

Companion

COMPANION is a 2025 dark comedy written and directed by Drew Hancock (Blue Mountain State, Suburgatory). Zach Cregger, Raphael Margules, J. D. Lifshitz, and Roy Lee serve as producers.

A weekend getaway turns bloody and violent when a subservient android that's built for human companionship goes haywire.

The cast includes Jack Quaid, Sophie Thatcher, Harvey Guillén, Rupert Friend, Lukas Gage, Marc Menchaca, and Megan Suri.

COMPANION made its debut in theaters January 31st, courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

COMPANION seemed to be right up my alley especially considering many people were calling it M3GAN (our full review here) 2.0, which I absolutely loved, so I was very excited to check this out. I’m a sucker for a good sci-fi horror with a mix of dark humor, and COMPANION was all that and then some. This movie was so much fun to watch thanks to a very well-written screenplay with witty and thought-provoking dialogue, and the cast was just fantastic. Jack Quaid has been on an upward trajectory since he found success with the Amazon Prime series The Boys, and COMPANION serves as a great opportunity for him to shine in a lead role and he crushes it.

I absolutely loved the story and how everything came together. Although you go in sort of knowing what to expect, COMPANION has a unique approach making it so viewers are engaged and excited to see what happens next. The film has sort of an ominous tone to it giving viewers the feeling that things are not going to end well. I commend Drew Hancock for putting together a screenplay that may seem simple at first glance but is actually complex and raises several questions as it relates to human behavior and AI. In many ways COMPANION is more about our faults as humans as it relates to urges and general greed than it is about why AI can be dangerous and unpredictable. Things really went off the rails quickly in the final act and I enjoyed every minute of it.

As much as I loved the story the cast was a huge reason why this movie was so good. I mentioned Jack Quaid earlier in the review but he is worth talking about again. I always seem to forget that he is the son of Dennis Quaid and Meg Ryan, but it is also good that he is forging his own path as an actor. I went down the IMDb rabbit hole a bit and realized that Randy Quaid, cousin Eddie from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, is the older brother of Dennis Quaid.

You may have known that already but I thought it was a fun fact. Getting back on track, Jack Quaid does such a great job as your typical sort of nerdy nice guy, but there is more to him than meets the eye as the story progresses. In my opinion Quaid has proven that he has the ability to play complex characters, and I can’t wait to see him in the upcoming action thriller Novocaine (preview and trailer here).

Starring alongside Quaid as his “companion robot” Iris is Sophie Thatcher, and the chemistry between the two is so good. Thatcher’s career has blown up as well as of late, making her mark with the Showtime series Yellowjackets which is fantastic if you haven’t seen it, as well as starring in recent horror films The Boogeyman (our full review here), and Heretic. Thatcher is a very talented actress, and I’m glad she is finally getting all of these opportunities to showcase her talents.

COMPANION serves as a really nice opportunity for her to show her versatility and I just loved her in this role. Harvey Guillén is absolutely hilarious as always, and I really liked Lukas Gage who is fresh from a chilling role in Smile 2. Guillén and Gage play a couple in the film and they are just so damn funny together. Gage is also involved in a really cool moment in the film that gave me Terminator vibes during the final act. Megan Suri is really good as Kat, and Rupert Friend makes his mark as Serge, a character initially perceived as the films primary antagonist.

Now I get the comparisons to M3GAN in terms of the focus on artificial intelligence, more specifically a robot that becomes very much intertwined in our personal lives, but as similar as the two films are they are also very different. In COMPANION we experience a more proven sort of AI much more engrained in everyday life compared to M3GAN who was essentially a trial run that did not go well.

In COMPSANION these “companion robots” seem to be about as commonplace as an iPhone, and what makes the story so interesting is just the fact that it is more about the characters taking advantage of AI than it is the dangers AI poses like it does in M3GAN. I honestly really liked the approach of both films, and I thought each was through provoking in its own way. I also thought M3GAN was a bit darker overall, with COMPANION finding a few more ways to really utilize the comedic element.

THE VERDICT

A violent and hilarious dark comedy horror film featuring a breakout performance from star Jack Quaid, Drew Hancock’s COMPANION is a creative and satisfying take on the future of AI. This movie is just so much fun and I honestly can’t wait to see it again. Be sure to grab a few friends and check COMPANION out in theaters sooner than later.

TED TAKES RATING - 9.4/10

COMPANION is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Flight Risk

FLIGHT RISK is a 2024 action thriller directed by Mel Gibson (Braveheart, Hacksaw Ridge), from a screenplay by Jared Rosenberg.

A pilot transports an Air Marshal accompanying a fugitive to trial. As they cross the Alaskan wilderness, tensions soar and trust is tested, as not everyone on board is who they seem.

The cast includes Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Dockery, and Topher Grace.

FLIGHT RISK made its debut in theaters January 24th, courtesy of Lionsgate Movies.

To be honest, when the first trailer dropped for FLIGHT RISK, I almost assumed it would be a direct to streaming movie. For one thing, the trailer sort of came out of nowhere, and I came across it when I was browsing trailers in general, as I often do. Once I watched the trailer, it just seemed a little bit low budget to me and limited with the overall setting. Now it’s obviously hard to ignore the fact that Mel Gibson directed the film or Mark Wahlberg‘s involvement, so either way I was intrigued. Once the official trailer dropped the marketing campaign really ramped up and you could tell that the movie was going to be a wide release. Plus at the end of the day, Mark Wahlberg is going to fill seats with his involvement regardless.

As I made my way to the theater, I was prepared to be disappointed considering my initial thoughts and the negative reviews from early screenings, but honestly, I was pleasantly surprised with this movie. FLIGHT RISK is a very linear thriller in the sense that it only has a few characters and everything takes place primarily in this small plane, but it still sucked me in and had a certain entertainment value that was unique in some way. Overall, the film had a big enough thrill factor to keep me engaged, but it also had a lot of humor that was sort of sprinkled throughout in these unexpected moments but still made you laugh, even though the tension was pretty high at the time.

The theater I was in consisted of mostly older people which wasn’t surprising to me as they are less likely to be swayed by critic review, plus like I said Mark Wahlberg‘s name alone would entice people. Throughout the film the entire audience was engaged and everyone even laughed out loud several times, and overall I felt like the experience was very positive.

Now the story itself is pretty run of the mill in the sense that we’ve all kind of seen it before, but I felt like they still handled it pretty well and focused on what mattered most in the film, which is the actors and the characters themselves. First and foremost I really liked Mark Wahlberg in what is a pretty unique role for him. He plays a very polarizing character who you despise pretty much right away, but you still can’t help but be entertained by and at times laugh at.

I also felt like his character was fairly complex because you could tell he was clearly a charismatic sociopath, but you also weren’t quite sure what his motives were or to what lengths he would go. To say he was a loose cannon would be an understatement for sure. I had mixed feelings early on from Topher Grace from That 70’s Show, but he grew on me towards the end of the movie and helped add a surprising emotional element. I thought Michelle Dockery was solid throughout the film.

From the opening scene FLIGHT RISK lacked the gritty feel I thought a film like this desperately needed which had me concerned. As things progressed this concern didn’t go away, at least not right away, but as the tone of the film became a bit more obvious I started to feel that much more immersed in what was taking place on-screen. I mean to be honest I can’t quite put a finger on the overall tone of the film, but by the end it worked. It feels a bit corny at times with some of the dialogue and the character interactions, but as ulterior motives are fleshed out things get to be a bit more grounded FLIGHT RISK really hits hard.

FLIGHT RISK is far from perfect but for me it was a very entertaining hour and 30 minutes, and I actually thought the film’s final act was thrilling and sort of ended exactly how it should have. The film also has some great visuals with some cool scenic shots of Alaska, which was a nice touch as well. If you want to pick this movie apart you certainly can, but for my money this is worth a trip to the theater.

THE VERDICT

A straight-forward thriller that packs a much bigger punch than I anticipated, Mel Gibson‘s FLIGHT RISK features Mark Wahlberg as an unhinged psychopath while carefully balancing tense action mixed with effective and timely comedic moments.

I honestly don’t have the energy for people who enjoy picking movies apart just so they can try and sound smarter than they really are, which in my opinion is about 90% of the critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Plus let’s be honest, Mel Gibson isn’t exactly universally loved in Hollywood. A movie like FLIGHT RISK is admittedly flawed and unapologetically simple, yet rewarding for viewers willing to give it a chance.

TED TAKES RATING - 6.5/10

FLIGHT RISK is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Wolf Man

WOLF MAN is a 2025 supernatural horror film directed and co-written by Leigh Whannell. A reboot of The Wolf Man (1941), Jason Blum serves as a producer through his Blumhouse Productions banner.

Family man Blake relocates from San Francisco to Oregon with his workaholic wife Charlotte and daughter Ginger after inheriting his childhood home, following the mysterious disappearance and presumed death of his estranged father. At the farmhouse, the family is attacked by a werewolf that claws Blake's arm. They barricade themselves inside the home, but soon Blake begins to transform, jeopardizing the safety of his wife and daughter.

The cast includes Christopher Abbott, Julia Garner, Matilda Firth, Sam Jaeger, Benedict Hardie, Ben Prendergast, Zac Chandler, Beatriz Romilly, and Milo Cawthorne.

WOLF MAN made its debut in theaters January 17th, courtesy of Universal Pictures.

I’m honestly not quite sure what I was expecting with WOLF MAN and although it is a bit of a mixed bag, I left the theater feeling pretty good about what I just watched. I am always excited for a film with an R-rating, and they did not hold back here. WOLF MAN is never boring which I appreciated, and it also has a big focus on the body horror element so I would prepare yourself if that makes you squeamish. Now I doubt that is the case considering you likely would not be seeing a movie like WOLF MAN if you were sensitive to a little blood and gore, but you never know.

The film is absolutely gorgeous at times with some great shots of rural Oregon, but the majority of the film is very dark which is the overall feel of the film. WOLF MAN does have a powerful emotional element centered around family and the ability to protect those we love. I liked the story overall but I did have some issues with the screenplay which I will touch on later in the review.

The cast was a big draw for me and I was pleased with the performances overall. Christopher Abbott has built quite a successful career since his days on the HBO series Girls. He took on a very complex character and I thought he did a really great job. Julia Garner, better known as Ruth in Ozark, plays his wife and I thought she was really good as well. I will say that I didn’t really feel the chemistry you would like to see between the leads, but it wasn’t that big of an issue. Young actress Matilda Firth plays the couples daughter and she was fine for the most part. In general I would say the cast was one of the primary bright spots for the film.

As far as the technical elements are concerned, I thought WOLF MAN looked fantastic. Early on in the film it was more of the idea that the monster is scarier in the shadows which I love. Once you start to get a few good looks at the WOLF MAN it was pretty damn terrifying in my opinion. The special effects and make-up team deserve a ton of credit for all of the work that went into making sure everything looked as good as possible. I was also very impressed with the score which I thought really did a nice job setting the tone for the film.

I liked the story as a whole and felt like it did a nice job keeping viewers engaged while also adding a much needed emotional element to the film. I think it is safe to say that WOLF MAN is more of a drama thriller than it is a horror thriller, which is fine because it does manage to stick with that identity. The film also offers a solid backstory which makes the film feel a bit more immersive and also allows viewers the opportunity to connect with the characters.

I will say that I was a bit underwhelmed by certain aspects of the screenplay mainly because early on it felt rushed making for dialogue between characters that felt forced. It almost seemed to me like the writers felt it was necessary to dumb things down which really impacted the overall feel of the film. I will say that things did come together pretty well in the end making for what I thought was a satisfying final act. They also added a creative wrinkle as they made an effort to give viewers a glimpse of the perspective from the actual WOLF MAN which was pretty cool to see.

THE VERDICT

An intense horror thriller more than willing to take full advantage of its R-rating, WOLF MAN is held back by a weak screenplay but still offers top-tier visuals and enough blood and gore to satisfy genre fans. It could have been quite a bit better with a little fine tuning, but I was entertained and felt satisfied by the end which is always a win in my book. WOLF MAN may not win over casual viewers or those looking for a well-rounded story, but if you go in with an idea of what to expect I still think it is worth the price of admission.

TED TAKES RATING - 6.2/10

WOLF MAN is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Den of Thieves 2: Pantera

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA is a 2025 action crime drama film written and directed by Christian Gudegast. It is a direct sequel to the 2018 film Den of Thieves (our full review here), which Gudegast also wrote and directed.

Sheriff Big Nick O'Brien (Gerard Butler) continues his relentless pursuit for Donnie Wilson (O’Shea Jackson Jr.), who manages to escape to Europe and is scheming yet another heist.

The cast includes Gerard Butler, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Jordan Bridges, Swen Temmel, Elvin Ahmad, Yasen Zates Atour, and Salvatore Esposito.

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA made its debut in theaters January 10th, courtesy of Lionsgate Films.

I have seen Den of Thieves at least 15 times, and it is easily one of my favorite all-around heist thrillers. I was in the theater on opening day back in January 2018, and I bought the Blu-ray as soon as it hit the shelves. For me this is just one of those extremely re-watchable films that I love sharing with others. For some reason Gerard Butler always seems to find himself in some of my favorite action thriller films, with this and Law Abiding Citizen at the top of my list. Making a sequel has been talked about for years now and eventually I got to the point where I did not think it would happen. Thankfully the cinema Gods came through and finally delivered the next film a long 6 years later. So, was it worth the wait?! Keep reading to find out!

I was absolutely ecstatic for DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA, and I am happy to report that I left the theater with a smile on my face and the exciting notion that a trilogy is a very real possibility. Now I want to preface by saying that this film is a departure from the original in terms of overall feel and tone. Den of Thieves is more of a gritty heist thriller that relies more on gunfire and intense violence.

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA is a bit more methodical with a slow-burn feel even though it still fits the heist thriller mold. Its hard for me to outright say which movie I enjoyed more just because they are very different, but I can say that I loved them both and each film shines with their unique qualities. This film focuses more on the buildup to the big job so it requires a bit more patience, but I promise you the payoff is well worth it.

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA is on another level with the cinematography thanks to the beautiful European setting, and I was blown away more often than not. The film features some great shots throughout but it really shines during the intense car chase in the final act. At times I was so mesmerized by the sheer beauty of it all that it was almost a distraction from the action unfolding on-screen. A good problem to have, I promise. Back in the heyday of 90’s action movies the quality of a film was often defined by whether or not it had a great car chase, and let me just say that DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA checks that box.

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA continues the great character progression as we get to experience the relationship between Donnie and Big Nick really evolve in a way I personally wasn’t expecting. Big Nick is the ultimate badass with the toughest of exteriors, but the original film showed that he does have an emotional side to him. DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA builds on that and you really get to see another side of him which I thought was great.

The original film concluded with viewers questioning everything they thought they knew about Donnie, so in this film we get to see him in a completely different light. Donnie is incredibly intelligent, confident, resourceful, and in many ways a true chameleon in his chosen field. If Donnie is in the vicinity, you can bank on the fact that something worth stealing is nearby.

The film features more of a buddy comedy vibe between the two leading men which is a different overall tone compared to the original, and I really enjoyed this new direction. Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr. have undeniable chemistry which is a big reason why this film works so well, and will likely be the reason why they greenlight a 3rd film. Plus Christian Gudegast has yet again proven his ability to create a certain level of complexity and likability to his characters which keeps audiences guessing, and more importantly wanting more. I personally enjoyed the entire supporting cast, and a well deserved shoutout to actress Evin Ahmad who was fantastic and absolutely gorgeous here.

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA opens with an exciting heist that the rest of the film is connected to similar to the original, but as I said it is more of a slow-burn in comparison. But rest assured, even though the overall feel is a bit different this is still a fantastic heist thriller that kept me on the edge-of-my-seat right up until the final seconds. Also the soundtrack was fantastic as expected, and I personally loved the song that came on in the final seconds of the film which just added to my excitement and need for another Den of Thieves film.

THE VERDICT

A beautifully shot and smartly written follow-up to the gritty 2018 heist thriller, DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA succeeds with a more methodical approach and an exhilarating final act. Bottom line, this movie was a blast to see in theaters and one that I can easily recommend. Be sure to check out the original Den of Thieves if you haven’t already, now streaming on HBO Max.

The talented trio of writer/director Christian Gudegast and actors Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr. are an absolute force to be reckoned with, and I can’t wait for the inevitable 3rd film.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.3/10

DEN OF THIEVES 2: PANTERA is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Nosferatu

NOSFERATU is a 2024 supernatural gothic horror film written and directed by Robert Eggers (The Witch, The Lighthouse). Following Werner Herzog's Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979), it is the second remake of the 1922 film written by Henrik Galeen and directed by F. W. Murnau, which in turn is an "unauthorized and unofficial" adaptation of Bram Stoker's 1897 novel Dracula. Filming primarily took place in and around Prague between February and May 2023.

A gothic tale of obsession between a haunted young woman and the terrifying vampire infatuated with her, causing untold horror in its wake.

The cast includes Bill Skarsgård, Lily-Rose Depp, Nicholas Hoult, Aaron-Taylor Johnson, Emma Corrin, and Willem Dafoe.

NOSFERATU made its debut in theaters December 25th, courtesy of Focus Features.

NOSFERATU was high on my must-see list for awhile for a few reasons, first I am just a horror guy so the genre always entices me, and second I have been a big fan of writer and director Robert Eggers ever since his 2016 horror film The Witch (full review here). Eggers has a unique vision and a great feel for the horror genre, and his early success allowed him the opportunity to deliver the epic revenge thriller The Northman (our full review here). Needless to say I was hopeful he would deliver with NOSFERATU, and he did not disappoint.

NOSFERATU is a powerful film and an instant classic for the genre in my personal opinion. Everyone knows the story of Dracula, or at least a version of it, but the reality is that the origin of this evil being is as dark as his intentions. I have not read Bram Stoker’s 1987 novel Dracula, which led to several films featuring the main character of his creation, but to say that his name will live on forever would be an understatement.

Now NOSFERATU is a reimagining of the 1922 film as I mentioned in the intro, but it also openly admitted to not being a direct representation of the novel. The story itself was made to be a bit more compact and in my opinion more intimate, and Robert Eggers did not hold back when he attempted to bring this classic film to the big-screen more than 100 years later. To be honest I couldn’t think of a better person to have written and directed this film, and his overall talent is absolutely showcased with this project.

NOSFERATU has everything film lovers look for; top-tier acting, incredible cinematography, an immersive feel, a fantastic score, and more than anything that lasting impression that viewers leave the theater with. I can’t stop thinking about that powerful final scene which had me on the edge of my seat gripping the armrest. Eggers knows how to wow audiences and he delivered yet again with NOSFERATU. Bill Skarsgård is easily one of the more talented actors working today, and he was equally chilling and amazing as Count Orlok. Lily-Rose Depp, the daughter of the great Johnny Depp, was a pleasant surprise in the lead role of Ellen Hutter.

Starring alongside Depp as her husband Thomas was Nicholas Hoult, and he continues to impress me as an actor. Aaron-Taylor Johnson co-stars as Friedrich Harding, a friend and confidant of Thomas. I am big Aaron-Taylor Johnson fan and I thought he was really good here as well. He recently starred in Kraven the Hunter (our full review here) as well. If you have yet to see him in Tom Ford’s Nocturnal Animals (our full review here), you need to get on that ASAP. NOSFERATU also stars Emma Corrin and Willem Dafoe who were both great as well. I mean what is Dafoe not in these days? That guy is killing it.

THE VERDICT

Brilliantly acted and featuring truly mesmerizing visuals, Robert Eggers’ NOSFERATU is an ambitious take on the gothic horror classic that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on viewers. I genuinely enjoyed this film and I can confidently say that it will be even better after a second viewing thanks to such a high level of attention to detail. Be sure to see NOSFERATU in theaters to ensure you experience it the way it was meant to be seen.

TED TAKES RATING - 9.1/10

NOSFERATU is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Kraven the Hunter

KRAVEN THE HUNTER is a 2024 superhero action thriller film directed by J.C. Chandor (A Most Violent Year), from a screenplay by Art Marcum, Matt Holloway, and Richard Wenk, based on the Marvel Comics character created by Stan Lee.

Kraven's complex relationship with his ruthless father, Nikolai Kravinoff, starts him down a path of vengeance with brutal consequences, motivating him to become not only the greatest hunter in the world, but also one of its most feared.

The cast includes Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ariana DeBose, Fred Hechinger, Alessandro Nivola, Christopher Abbott, and Russell Crowe.

KRAVEN THE HUNTER made its debut in theaters December 13th, courtesy of Sony Pictures Entertainment.

KRAVEN THE HUNTER was at a disadvantage before it even hit theaters as it was delayed several times going all the way back to January 2023. The 4th and final release date of December 13th, 2024, finally stuck and I had an opportunity to see what this film had to offer. Now I will start by saying I went in with fairly low expectations for obvious reasons and I will say that I wasn’t completely dissapointed. Overall KRAVEN THE HUNTER was what I expected, which was a flawed yet still entertaining R-rated superhero flick.

This is an origin story of course which I thought was great because I honestly went in knowing nothing about this character from the Spider-Man universe. I thought they did a nice job setting the stage for the character by utilizing flashbacks and it all came together pretty well overall. The story has a strong emotional element as it relates to the bonds of family and the dysfunction we are forced to navigate throughout our lives.

I really liked how Kraven served as the protector of animals which led to some satisfying action sequences. I thought the cast was solid, particularly Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Kraven, and Russell Crowe as his crime boss father. Plus to say that Taylor-Johnson looked the part would be an understatement, that dude is a beast. The majority of the supporting cast was just okay for the most part and mostly forgettable. I will say that the ending felt a bit rushed and out of left field which was too bad because I liked the overall setup that got us there.

The screenplay was very much lacking in many ways and the less-than-great special effects certainly didn’t help, but the biggest complaint for me would be the fact that they really didn’t take full advantage of the R-rating. It just never had that moment where you were like damn, let’s go9! And I feel like a movie like this needs that. Now I know it can be a slippery slope especially when you are trying to attract the largest audience possible, but in my mind when you have the R-rating you need to have a gritty feel that sets you aside from the PG-13 superhero films. KRAVEN THE HUNTER has some intense fight sequences and some very violent kills which were great, but I just never felt like it pushed the envelope or ever felt as intense as I would have liked it to have been. In my opinion you need to go big or go home when it comes to having an R-rating.

THE VERDICT

Although it suffers from a watered-down screenplay and mediocre special effects, KRAVEN THE HUNTER is still a fun and entertaining R-rated origin story worth occupying 2-hours of your time. Although it could have been much better, the fact that I didn’t leave the theater feeling disappointed felt like a win for me, and if you can keep your expectations in check KRAVEN THE HUNTER does just enough in my opinion.

TED TAKES RATING - 5.3/10

KRAVEN THE HUNTER is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Gladiator II

GLADIATOR II is a 2024 epic historical drama film directed and co-produced by Ridley Scott. Serving as a sequel to Gladiator (2000), the film was written by David Scarpa. It was produced by Scott Free Productions in association with Red Wagon Entertainment for Paramount Pictures.

Several decades after the events of Gladiator (2000), Lucius—the grandson of Rome's former emperor Marcus Aurelius and son of Lucilla—lives with his wife and child in Numidia. Roman soldiers led by general Marcus Acacius invade, forcing Lucius into slavery. Inspired by the story of Maximus, as depicted in the original 2000 film, Lucius resolves to fight as a gladiator while opposing the rule of the young emperors Caracalla and Geta.

The cast includes Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger.

GLADIATOR II made its debut in theaters November 22nd, courtesy of Paramount Pictures.

Even though the original GLADIATOR came out 24 years ago, somehow the movie hasn’t aged a day when it comes to top-tier cinema. I gave it a re-watch recently and the technical elements alone are just on another level. That movie is simply an all-time classic right up there with Mel Gibson’s Braveheart, and it was part of why I fell in love with movies at such a young age. When they first announced GLADIATOR II I had to do a double take, surely they weren’t attempting to follow-up such an amazing film.

Once I confirmed that was in fact the case, I was honestly nervous about watching the trailer. I just didn’t think they would be able to pull it off. Long story short the trailer intrigued me and I knew I would be planted in front of the big screen on opening day. So, was it worth it or did Hollywood fail yet again at attempting to re-create the magic of a classic film? Keep reading to find out!

GLADIATOR II was absolutely fantastic and was honestly as good as I could have hoped a sequel would be. The original took my breath away with the overall scale, beautiful cinematography, and incredible acting, and all of the above was back yet again for the sequel film. The opening scene transported me back to the formidable days of the Roman Empire, and you surely don’t have to wait long for the films first massive battle.

Everything just looked and sounded absolutely amazing, and I was on the edge-of-my-seat for the entire two and a half hours. I seriously didn’t want the movie to end, but what had me most excited was how well it connected to the original film. GLADIATOR II was created with the same heart and soul of the original, and that alone put it on another level. This is must-see cinema, simple as that.

The seamless transition for the screenplay from the first film really stood out to me, and I loved all of the little nuances that connected the two as well. You really need to re-watch the original to truly appreciate all of the amazing things they did, but even if you don’t have time going back and watching it after seeing GLADIATOR II will have a similar effect. This film is heart beating out of your chest exciting, but it also perfectly captures the emotional element that made the original film so great.

You will genuinely care for these characters right from the start, and once you start understanding the connection to the original, you will be totally invested. I really liked how they hinted at certain things but it took some time for you to really understand everything. I just thought they did a fantastic job bringing it all together. Plus who doesn’t love a story about good versus evil where literally the fate of the world hangs in the balance?! GLADIATIOR and GLADIATOR II will forever be joined as one in cinema history, and that is exactly how it should be.

A big selling point for the original GLADIATOR was the cast of course, and they did not cut corners with the sequel. Connie Nielsen returns but new cast members include Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, and Fred Hechinger. It was a bit weird seeing Hechinger in this role after just watching him in Thelma (our full review here), which is a testament to just how good he was. The entire cast was amazing, but my two favorite performances belonged to Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal.

Both played such complex and intriguing characters which made it so much more enjoyable as you learned more about what they stood for and ultimately what their allegiances were. They didn’t share a ton of time on-screen together, but the time they did have was excellent thanks to such natural chemistry. Although some will argue they were a bit over-the-top and somewhat goofy at times, I was personally impressed with Quinn and Hechinger as the films primary antagonists. Denzel Washington was amazing as well which I’m sure surprises literally nobody.

I have to touch on the technical elements because GLADIATOR II was incredible in that department. First and foremost, if you don’t see this movie in the theater on the biggest screen possible you are doing yourself a massive disservice. The entire film is just a clinic from a technical perspective, and the escape a cinematic experience like this provides is really unlike anything else.

Whether you come for the massive scale, the intense action, the incredible sound, the jaw-dropping costume and set design, or the cinematography that is sure to leave you speechless, GLADIATOR II has something for everyone. I was constantly just in awe of what I was experiencing, and to be honest I was tempted to just stand up and clap. GLADIATOR II is why we go to the movie theater in the first place, simple as that.

THE VERDICT

A massively immersive cinematic triumph that does the original justice in every conceivable way, GLADIATOR II is incredibly entertaining and absolutely demands to be seen in the theater. Director Ridley Scott has yet again crafted another gem of a film that audiences will be enjoying for years to come. Do yourself a favor and see GLADIATOR II on the biggest screen possible as soon as you can, you can thank me later.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.7/10

GLADIATOR II is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Terrifier 3

TERRIFIER 3 is a 2024 Christmas horror slasher film written and directed by Damien Leone. It stars Lauren LaVera, Elliott Fullam, David Howard Thornton, and Samantha Scaffidi, who reprise their roles from prior films. The film is a sequel to TERRIFIER 2 (our full review here), and is the fourth feature-length film to include the Art the Clown character.

Art the Clown (David Howard Thornton) is set to unleash another round of chaos on the unsuspecting residents of Miles County as they peacefully drift off to sleep on Christmas Eve.

TERRIFIER 3 made its debut in theaters October 11th.

Let me just say I have a ton of respect for Damien Leone for everything he’s done with the TERRIFIER films. He said in an interview recently that several studios reached out to finance his latest film, but he turned them down knowing they would limit his creative freedom and decided to self-finance instead. I feel like that is commendable and just says a lot about his artistic integrity. Now I reviewed TERRIFIER 2 recently and I’ll say it right now because I didn’t pull any punches, and simply put I thought it was a complete disappointment and a slap in the face to the first film.

So naturally I was hesitant as I made my way to opening night for TERRIFIER 3, but I needed to see for myself if Leone would be able to successfully redeem himself. Well ladies and gentlemen, I bring sunshine on this cloudy day because TERRIFIER 3 is not only a huge improvement over the 2nd film, it is a creative and boundless horror thriller film that will absolutely leave a mark.

TERRIFIER 3 feels like a horror film right from the opening sequence which was huge for me. Viewers that are disturbed easily will already be in for some sleepless nights ten minutes into the film. Art the Clown is creepy as always, but for my money Victoria is the most terrifying character thanks to some incredible work from the Makeup Department. I was getting some serious Evil Dead vibes from her and just felt like her appearance was the pure embodiment of horror. As a huge slasher fan I am really liking the similarities to past slasher franchises including the initial traumatic incident in the earlier films and ensuing relentless pursuit of the original intended victim as Art the Clown hunts Sienna. 

Art the Clown is seriously deranged to the point where I could see Jason, Michael, Freddy, and Leatherface getting together to discuss the fact that he really needs to rein it in. I mean, Jason’s rampage is warranted thanks to a tragic drowning incident, plus you can just stay away from Crystal Lake and you’re good. Art the Clown is running around town ripping peoples faces off and proceeding to point and laugh like a deranged child. Fucked up doesn’t even scratch the surface with this dude. So yeah, after seeing TERRIFIER 3 I feel comfortable saying that Art the Clown has earned his place as a horror icon deserving of his own section at Spirit Halloween.

TERRIFIER 3 is a very, very, very messed up movie, so if that’s what you were hoping for it definitely delivers and then some. Leone has proved his willingness to push the envelope time and time again, and somehow he always finds a way to up the ante. I won’t spoil anything as per usual, and I know that most people are referencing the shower scene as the ultimate “shock and awe” moment in the film, but I’ll dare to be different by pointing to a scene that involves Victoria pleasuring herself with a knife while Art tortures a victim. You read that correctly, just brace yourself.

Art the Clown is known for having fun with his victims, and to say that he seems to really enjoy ruining Christmas for children everywhere would be an understatement. Also it was oddly satisfying watching him walk around wearing the goofy holiday sunglasses. So yeah, if you’re taking your children to see this movie you have serious issues and I’d probably start saving for therapy now.

After the trainwreck that was TERRIFIER 2 the bar was set pretty low but I was actually impressed by the acting this time around. David Howard Thornton is nothing short of incredible in his portrayal of Art the Clown yet again, I mean just give this dude whatever awards you can for a role like this. He’s just on another level. I touched on Victoria’s character briefly played by Samantha Scaffidi, and I just thought she was amazing. In many ways she served as the female Art the Clown balancing out the fact that he is non-verbal and she has just as many screws loose.

Bottom line, if I came across Victoria I’m Usain Bolt in the other direction. I was disappointed in Lauren LaVera’s portrayal of Sienna in TERRIFIER 2, but she was able to redeem herself here. I wasn’t very impressed with Elliott Fullam as Jonathan Shaw yet again but thankfully he had a much smaller role in this film. I thought the entire supporting cast was solid and a massive improvement over TERRIFIER 2, and shoutout to makeup and special effects legend Tom Savini in his cameo as a bystander.

I was disappointed in Lauren LaVera’s portrayal of Sienna in TERRIFIER 2, but she was able to redeem herself here. I wasn’t very impressed with Elliott Fullam as Jonathan Shaw yet again but thankfully he had a much smaller role in this film. I thought the entire supporting cast was solid and a massive improvement over TERRIFIER 2, and shoutout to makeup and special effects legend Tom Savini in his cameo as a bystander. Speaking of special effects TERRIFIER 3 is in a league of its own as expected, specifically when referring to make-up and some of the most creative and jaw-dropping horror effects you will experience on the big-screen. Damien Leone is a mastermind when it comes to the horror slasher genre, and needless to say he knows his way around blood and gore. I was skeptical of the direction of the franchise after the 2nd film, but I had a blast with TERRIFIER 3.

THE VERDICT

Absolutely deranged and brutally violent with more of a horror slasher feel, yet super creative and surprisingly funny at times, Damien Leone’s TERRIFIER 3 solidifies Art the Clown as a formidable horror icon.

As a horror fanatic with a deep appreciation for the slasher genre in particular, my faith in the TERRIFIER films has been redeemed. You need to be messed up in the head to truly appreciate this franchise, but with that being said it is undeniable that Leone knows what fans want and he will stop at nothing to deliver the goods. TERRIFIER 3 sets the stage perfectly for a 4th entry that will likely close out this hard-hitting franchise, and I can’t wait for it.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.1/10

TERRIFIER 3 is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Joker: Folie à Deux

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX is a 2024 American jukebox musical psychological thriller film directed by Todd Phillips (THE HANGOVER) from a screenplay he co-wrote with Scott Silver. Loosely based on DC Comics characters, it is the sequel to JOKER (2019), which Phillips had also wrote and directed. Joaquin Phoenix reprises his role as the Joker, with Lady Gaga as his love interest, Lee Quinzel. Zazie Beetz and Leigh Gill also reprise their roles, while Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Steve Coogan, and Harry Lawtey join the cast. It is produced by Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Joint Effort and was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.

JOKER was conceived as a standalone film, although Warner Bros. intended the film to launch a DC Black film series. Phillips expressed interest in making a sequel, which entered development in June 2022, with Gaga and Beetz joining later that year. Principal photography took place in New York City, Los Angeles, and Belleville, New Jersey, from December 2022 to April 2023.

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX premiered at the 81st Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2024, and was released in the United States on October 4.

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX is a perplexing follow-up to the 2019 hit that, despite some fascinating ideas, feels like a mixed bag of disjointed themes and an underwhelming narrative. The decision to shift toward a jukebox musical format offers some unique moments, particularly with Lady Gaga’s character, Lee Quinzel, adding a sense of unpredictability.

However, this bold choice ends up feeling more like a gimmick than a cohesive part of the story.

Joaquin Phoenix once again delivers an intense performance as Arthur Fleck, but the character feels like a shadow of his former self, lacking the visceral depth that made him so compelling in the first film.

The relationship between Fleck and Quinzel, while intriguing at first, is not given enough time to develop into anything more than a surface-level exploration of mutual madness. Gaga brings a magnetic presence to the screen, but her talents are frustratingly underutilized, as the film’s uneven pacing and awkward musical sequences often overshadow her potential to shine.

Thematically, FOLIE À DEUX attempts to subvert audience expectations, which could have been a refreshing take. Instead, it feels as though the filmmakers are more interested in antagonizing their own viewers, with little payoff. Scenes that are meant to shock or unsettle often come across as forced, leaving the audience detached rather than engrossed. The film’s attempt at metafiction, while ambitious, falls flat, creating more confusion than insight.

Visually, the film retains its moody, grim aesthetic, and the production design and cinematography are commendable.

Yet these technical strengths are not enough to compensate for a story that feels hollow and directionless. The psychological depth and societal critique of the first JOKER are notably absent, replaced with a thinner, more self-aware narrative that never quite finds its footing.

THE VERDICT

Ultimately, JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX is a film that had potential but squanders it with a lack of focus and an overreliance on style over substance. It tries to be daring and subversive, but in doing so, it alienates its audience without offering much in return. While Phoenix and Gaga’s performances have their moments, the film’s flaws overshadow its strengths, leaving it as a disappointment for those hoping for a worthy continuation of the Joker’s story.

TED TAKES RATING - 4.9/10

JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX is now playing only in theaters. Watch the official trailer below.

Terrifier 2

TERRIFIER 2 is a 2022 horror slasher film written, directed, and produced by Damien Leone. It is a sequel to the instant cult classic for horror fans, Terrifier (2016). It had its world premiere at the FrightFest on August 29th, 2022. The third film in the franchise, TERRIFIER 3 (preview and trailer here), is set to debut in theaters October 11th, 2024.

After being resurrected by a sinister entity, Art the Clown returns to the timid town of Miles County where he targets a teenage girl and her younger brother on Halloween night.

The cast includes David Howard Thornton and Samantha Scaffidi, who portrayed Art the Clown and Victoria Heyes in the first film, and also stars Lauren LaVera, Elliot Fullam, Sarah Voigt, Kailey Hyman, and Casey Harnett.

TERRIFIER 2 released in select theaters on October 6th, 2022.

When I first heard about the original Terrifier film, I was intrigued just because I am a horror junkie but I fully expected it to be a corny B-movie horror. After finally watching the film once I found it streaming, I was actually pleasantly surprised. Now, it was for sure B-movie horror quality as far as production value, the acting, etc., but it was actually very creepy and definitely not for the faint of heart as far as the gore factor. Right away I could tell why the film was earning its place as a cult classic, which would eventually lead to TERRIFIER 2 getting a much more mainstream release 6 years later. So, where did TERRIFIER 2 land for me? Keep reading to find out!

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but TERRIFIER 2 was a big swing and a miss for me. What made the first film so good was the fact that the bad acting and weak story was just a placeholder for all of the gore and the overall creepy and disturbing presence of Art the Clown. For reasons I will never understand, Damian Leone decided to double down on the bad acting and terrible story making for a much too long, and more often than not, painful to watch sequel. The acting is brutal and the story is basically impossible to follow with any level of common sense because it was just too ridiculous. The gore is still at a 10, which is great, but just the fact that I was forced to suffer through acting that you would find in a middle school play, left a very bad taste in my mouth. I couldn’t even enjoy some of the wild scenes with Art the Clown because the poor acting pissed me off.

THE VERDICT

An example of exactly what not to do when attempting to build on the success of a predecessor, Damien Leone’s TERRIFIER 2 is a jumbled mess of brutal acting and mind-numbing backstory taking away from the glorious trail of carnage left behind by Art the Clown. You could basically cut every scene without Art the Clown and this movie would easily be 10x better than it is. I just can’t wrap my brain around why Leone would create a gem like the original Terrifier, which had no story to speak of, only to add an absolutely unnecessary additional hour to the sequel. I don’t know who he decided to take advice from or what the so-called critics who are praising this movie are smoking, but poor decision making wasted a ton of potential.

I loved the original and wanted so badly to enjoy TERRIFIER 2, and while I thought many of the kills were as creative as they were brutal, I ended up spending the majority of the movie with a “what the fu** is happening” look on my face while waiting for it to finally end. Oh and the “post-credit scene” that seemed to last 10-minutes, I just don’t even know what to say at this point. I really, really, really hope Leone redeems himself with TERRIFIER 3.

TED TAKES RATING - 2/10

TERRIFIER 2 is now available VOD and streaming on Prime Video. Check out the latest trailer below.

Speak No Evil

SPEAK NO EVIL is a 2024 psychological horror thriller film written and directed by James Watkins (Eden Lake, The Woman in Black), and is a remake of the 2022 Danish film of the same name. Jason Blum serves as a producer through his Blumhouse Productions banner.

When an American family is invited to spend the weekend at the idyllic country estate of a charming British family they befriended on vacation, what begins as a dream holiday soon warps into a snarled psychological nightmare.

The cast includes James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Aisling Franciosi, Alix West Lefler, Dan Hough, and Scoot McNairy.

SPEAK NO EVIL made its debut in theaters September 13th, courtesy of Universal Pictures.

My love for the horror in general is undeniable, but when a film like SPEAK NO EVIL that relies more on the psychological thriller element I am still all in especially when my guy James McAvoy is involved. Admittedly I’m not a big subtitles guy so I did not see the 2022 Danish film that this is based on, but I was more than okay with going in blind. Bottom line, SPEAK NO EVIL is an intense edge-of-your-seat thriller powered by a dynamic performance from James McAvoy, and just the perfect balance as far as tone and feel making for a unique and very engaging cinematic experience.

The screenplay is setup perfectly thanks to perfect casting taking full advantage of McAvoy’s charisma and the great balance of the rest of the cast. The film keeps you guessing but the feel of unease is prevalent throughout making for a thrilling experience. I thought the soundtrack/score was great, and the cinematography really did a nice job setting the stage for viewers. This is very much a character and dialogue driven film so you really need to boy into the overall dynamic between the characters for it all to work and I definitely did.

As far as the cast goes SPEAK NO EVIL does a really nice job balancing strengths and personalities. James McAvoy anchors the cast as the primary antagonist but also has the most charisma and the larger-than-life on-screen presence. McAvoy is a very intense actor and I was absolutely enthralled by his performance.

My next favorite performance was from Mackenzie Davis who portrayed one of the films primary protagonists. In many ways Davis matches McAvoy’s intensity in her refusal to be intimidated by him. Davis is just a great actress and I would be lying if I didn’t point out her unique balance of sexy and intense, I am here for it.

Scoot McNairy plays Davis’s very passive husband who is clearly dealing with issues related to inadequacy as a husband and a father. I could see some viewers feeling annoyed with his character but I felt like it worked well within the dynamic of the film, and I do like him as an actor in general. Alix West Lefler and Dan Hough play the children in the film and I thought both were absolutely fantastic.

SPEAK NO EVIL lives and dies by the overall tone of the film which keeps viewers on edge from start to finish. The pacing was fantastic as you never quite know when things will take a turn for the worse for this family. The story never felt rushed and character development was clearly a big focus. I could see some viewers complaining that the film is a bit slow, but as long as you are able to become invested in the characters all of the pieces fall into place as they should.

From a technical standpoint I thought SPEAK NO EVIL was great. The cinematography really set the tone showing off the beautiful shooting location while still emphasizing the claustrophobic feel the film was going for. The set design was awesome particularly the old farm house that the majority of the film takes place in. I liked the score/soundtrack as well but felt like they were able to rely on that a bit less due to the fact that the film was primarily dialogue driven.

THE VERDICT

An immersive psychological thriller that gets under your skin thanks to a monster performance from James McAvoy, SPEAK NO EVIL packs a punch right until the very end and is well worth the price of admission. At this point I will see anything McAvoy stars in, he really is that good. If you are in the mood for a good psychological thriller you can’t go wrong with this one.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.1/10

SPEAK NO EVIL is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Never Let Go

NEVER LET GO is a 2024 survival horror thriller film directed by Alexandre Aja (The Hills Have Eyes, Crawl) from a screenplay by Kevin Coughlin and Ryan Grassby.

A family consisting of a mother and her twin sons has suffered from the torment of a malicious spirit for many years. However, when one of the boys starts to doubt the existence of the evil, the family's sacred bond is broken, leading to a dangerous fight for survival.

The cast includes Halle Berry, Percy Daggs IV, and Anthony B. Jenkins.

NEVER LET GO made its debut in theaters September 20th, courtesy of Lionsgate.

The name Alexandre Aja deserves some some serious praise especially among horror fans for some of the gems he has churned out over the years. Making a name for himself with cult classic horror films like The Hills Have Eyes (2006) and Horns (2013), Aja has a very specific vision and a passion for horror. He likes to terrorize viewers with intense visuals and he sticks to what he knows with NEVER LET GO.

As a massive fan of the horror genre this movie satisfied me in many different ways, including a thought-provoking screenplay, terrific acting, well-timed jump scares, and some very creepy visuals. I like the survival horror genre and NEVER LET GO feels in many ways like a blend between A Quiet Place and 10 Cloverfield Lane, with the addition of more pure horror. I love to be scared and want horror movies to be intense, and let me just say that if you are sensitive to the horror genre this movie will keep you up at night.

The stage is set smoothly for the screenplay thanks to a convincing cast and the perfect setting. I tried to avoid watching all of the trailers just in case they gave anything away, so I feel like I went in not knowing what to expect. The film opens with some brief narration to give viewers a good idea of what is going on without giving too much away. A primary strength of the screenplay is the fact that it keeps viewers guessing right up until the films conclusion. Some viewers may find themselves frustrated with the lack of clear answers, but I am a fan of a film that forces you to really think about how a film ended and what it all means.

The cast is on another level with NEVER LET GO, led by the generational talent that is Halle Berry, and she was nothing short of fantastic here. Berry is such a force in this film making every bit of the story feel like it holds some serious weight. She is on another level with the intensity she brings to her character. I was genuinely impressed with young actors Anthony B. Jenkins and Percy Daggs IV who play the children of Halle Berry’s character. Both are incredibly convincing and I never felt like they came across as

From a technical standpoint NEVER LET GO looks fantastic thanks to top-tier production value, a very effective score/soundtrack, impressive cinematography, and really great visuals. It takes a lot to make me jump or react a certain way to something and I was very impressed with how terrifying the visuals were in this film. NEVER LET GO utilizes flashbacks or dream sequences to really male viewers uneasy, and just the psychological head games the film plays with viewers helps to continuously blur the lines of reality. I also loved the setting and thought the set design was amazing, making for a very immersive post-apocalyptic feel.

THE VERDICT

A well-crafted post-apocalyptic horror thriller featuring The Hills Have Eyes director Alexandre Aja’s signature terrifying visuals, NEVER LET GO keeps viewers invested thanks to stellar acting and an engaging premise. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going in but this was well worth a trip to the theater.

TED TAKES RATING - 7.1/10

NEVER LET GO is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE is a 2024 fantasy comedy horror film directed by Oscar-nominated visionary Tim Burton, from a screenplay by Alfred Gough and Miles Millar (Wednesday), story by Gough and Millar and Seth Grahame-Smith (The LEGO® Batman Movie), based on characters created by Michael McDowell and Larry Wilson. The film is the follow-up to Burton’s 1988 cult classic film, Beetlejuice.

Beetlejuice is back! After an unexpected family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia's life is turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter, Astrid, discovers the mysterious model of the town in the attic and the portal to the Afterlife is accidentally opened. With trouble brewing in both realms, it's only a matter of time until someone says Beetlejuice's name three times and the mischievous demon returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.

The cast includes Michael Keaton returning to his iconic role alongside Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Justin Theroux, Monica Bellucci, Arthur Conti, Jenna Ortega, and Willem Dafoe.

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE made its debut in theaters and IMAX on September 6th, 2024, courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

The original Beetlejuice film arrived in theaters back in 1988 which is seriously hard to believe. I was just four-years-old at the time but over the years I have seen the movie more times than I can count. Movies were always a big part of my youth and some just had more of an impact on me than others and I would say Beetlejuice is for sure in that category.

Tim Burton is a strange guy, that is simply undeniable, but the former Disney animator is incredibly creative and has directed some gems over the years including the very unique Edward Scissorhands (1990), starring Johnny Depp. He has a certain style which you either love or hate, and although I can’t say that I have enjoyed all of his work, I appreciate his talent and can undoubtedly say that he has been behind the camera for some of my favorite movies. When I learned that a sequel for Beetlejuice was in the works with most of the original cast members and Burton returning to direct, I was pumped. September couldn’t come fast enough.

I was so excited for BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE that I attended a special midnight screening at my local theater, and I am pleased to say it did not disappoint. First and foremost the film does a fantastic job bringing back the essence of the original film as far as the overall feel, style, and just lasting effect. The opening even includes the same flying camera through the town opening shot which was a great touch, and it was just obvious from the start that this was a movie determined to satisfy fans of the original while also entertaining newcomers.

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE is very funny thanks to legendary actor Michael Keaton making his return as the fast-talking sleaze ball who would sell his own grandmother on the street corner if it benefited him in some way. It was honestly mind-blowing how seamless it was for Keaton to take on this role yet again, and to say he didn’t miss a step would be an understatement. The entire cast in general was great, with triumphant returns from other original cast members including Catherine O’Hara and Winona Ryder, and welcomed additions to the cast including Jenna Ortega, Willem Defoe in a very unique and awesome role, and Justin Theroux. The cast was one of the biggest strengths of the original and that was the case yet again.

I was genuinely impressed with the screenplay, mainly because it tied into the original while still adding a fresh edge to the film. Fans of the original mostly remember the strange and unique elements of the film, but the story still mattered. I loved how the sequel found a way to build on the original by digging deeper into the backstory of Beetlejuice with hilarious results. In the original film Beetlejuice is sort of a hybrid protagonist/antagonist character, mainly because he simply wasn’t trustworthy. In BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE the writers find a way to make Beetlejuice more of a sympathetic character as we learn more about how he came to be, and it is a joy to experience. Also we get more of the shrunken head guy from the original film which was really great to see.

The film pays homage to the original at every turn, finding ways to integrate so much of what made the first film such a classic. Now if I was going to attempt to pick the film apart or at the very least point out something that may disappoint some of the more hardcore fans, it is much more of a goofy comedy compared to the original film. The original never really felt like as much of a goofy comedy to me because it always had this gothic undertone to it, but BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE leans more to the comedy side of the street. I’m not saying this is a bad thing necessarily, but it is worth noting. With that being said, the screenplay does allow for a new antagonist as Beetlejuice finds himself in the awkward position as more of a good guy, just don’t tell him I said that.

From a technical standpoint obviously a film that came out 35 years later looks much better, but Tim Burton was sure to maintain the same style which was more over-the-top strange visuals and I’m glad he did. The film just looks like a Beetlejuice movie, complete with the cartoony sandworms and iconic model town, and even better than that it sounded like one. The soundtrack and score was amazing, including a few really great musical scenes with Beetlejuice that had me laughing my ass off.

Plus Burton goes deeper into the “afterlife” or whatever it is you want to call it which I thought was very cool, sort of going that much further to immerse viewers in the world of Beetlejuice. Plus I won’t spoil anything as usual, but let me just say that my favorite part of the film on the technical side of things involves a CGI baby. So good.

THE VERDICT

A nostalgic and hilarious trip down memory lane featuring a fun and immersive screenplay and the unique feel of the original film, BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE doesn’t miss a step reminding us why Michael Keaton is one of the best to ever do it. I honestly applaud everyone that worked on this film, Tim Burton in particular of course, for delivering a quality experience for hardcore fans like myself that simply does not disappoint.

If you enjoyed the original film do yourself a favor and see BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE in theaters as soon as you can.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.3/10

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

AfrAId

AFRAID is a 2024 horror thriller film written and directed by Chris Weitz (The Creator). Jason Blum and Weitz produce through their Blumhouse Productions and Depth of Field banners, alongside Andrew Miano.

Curtis (John Cho) and his family are selected to test a revolutionary new home device: a digital family assistant called AIA. Taking smart home to the next level, once the unit and all its sensors and cameras are installed in their home, AIA seems able to do it all. She learns the family's behaviors and begins to anticipate their needs. And she can make sure nothing – and no one – gets in her family’s way.

The cast includes John Cho, Katherine Waterston, Havana Rose Liu, Lukita Maxwell, David Dastmalchian, and Keith Carradine.

AFRAID made its debut in theaters August 30th, courtesy of Sony Pictures Releasing.

AFRAID is yet another PG-13 horror film from Blumhouse Productions, a company that is very well known to horror movie fans these days. Now they have produced some absolute gems for the genre like Get Out and The Black Phone, but they have also dropped quite a few duds like Truth or Dare and Fantasy Island, which I suppose is par for the course.

Now when AFRAID dropped the first trailer it immediately drew comparisons to another technology based PG-13 horror release M3GAN from a couple years ago. M3GAN was a very pleasant surprise as I really enjoyed it, so the comparison sort of set some high expectations for people. I personally kept my expectations in check solely because I have been let down before, but I am happy to say that I was impressed with AFRAID.

I’m not going to sit here and act like it was an instant horror classic or anything ridiculous like that, but AFRAID was an enjoyable horror film with an intriguing premise, very solid acting, good production value, as well as some well-timed jump scares for good measure. What really sucked me in was just how the overall premise of the film resonated on a personal level as a parent with multiple very needy children under the age of 6.

John Cho, best known as Harold from the Harold and Kumar comedy films, stars as Curtis, a very driven husband and father that has built a successful career in marketing. Curtis is tasked with trying to land a new account involving a technology company that has developed a form of AI called AIA, which is essentially an AI-driven “super Alexa” designed to to help simplify the hectic lives of busy families.

Anyone with young children are well aware of the never-ending to-do lists, so when AIA started to complete things for the wife and mother of three, Meredith, played by Katherine Waterston, that she had been dealing with for weeks in a matter of seconds, I had chills. I mean sure not the sort of chills I normally get from horror films, but I was 100% engaged in what was going on and that matters.

For the remainder of the film I remained engaged and was never bored, and although the story did get a bit wacky at times and felt rushed towards the end, it never strayed from the scary reality that as a society we are dangerously close to AI taking over in some form or fashion. We are ultra-reliant on technology to the point where most of us couldn’t survive a few hours without WiFi, and our entire lives are stored in the cloud. It is terrifying when you really stop and think about it, and although I don’t expect us to be overrun by a robot race or anything anytime soon, our reliance on technology has made us incredibly vulnerable.

Bottom line, AFRAID does a really nice job setting the stage with a thought-provoking premise and although it can be very over-the-top it remains grounded enough to keep your interest. I found myself invested in the story and actually grew attached to this family as I was able to relate to John Cho’s character. Although it is technically a horror film, AFRAID does have heart as it really takes the time to establish the importance of family and just how hard it is to raise children in a world where many parents are forced to rely on screens to keep their children entertained.

I felt a sense of compassion towards the family portrayed in the film which I think greatly contributed to how much I enjoyed the overall experience. The film also does enough to scratch the itch for horror fans as well with some tense moments and creepy visuals. Quality acting tends to get overlooked with horror films which is unfortunate, but I was impressed with the performances here. AFRAID is not perfect, and you could certainly poke holes in what ultimately felt like a rushed screenplay specifically the final act, but the overall product is something I can easily recommend.

THE VERDICT

An effective and thought-provoking horror film tapping into our reliance on technology and underlying fear of artificial intelligence, AFRAID is far from perfect but rewards open-minded viewers with an enjoyable theater experience. As I mentioned early in the review, my expectations were in check with another PG-13 horror film from Blumhouse but I was pleasantly surprised.

If you intend to pick apart the screenplay, which is full of holes at every turn, just stay home because this movie isn’t for you. But for the rest of you I can confidently recommend checking AFRAID out in theaters.

TED TAKES RATING - 6.2/10

AFRAID is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Blink Twice

BLINK TWICE is a 2024 psychological black comedy thriller film directed by Zoë Kravitz, in her directorial debut, from a screenplay she co-wrote with E.T. Feigenbaum. Kravitz began writing the screenplay under the original working title Pussy Island in 2017.

When tech billionaire Slater King meets Frida, he invites her to join him and his friends for a dream vacation on his private island. However, as strange things start to happen, she'll have to uncover the truth if she wants to make it out alive.

The cast includes Naomi Ackie, Channing Tatum, Simon Rex, Adria Arjona, Haley Joel Osment, Kyle MacLachlan, Alia Shawkat, Christian Slater, and Geena Davis.

BLINK TWICE made its debut in theaters August 23rd, courtesy of MGM Studios.

It honestly didn’t matter what I thought about the trailer for BLINK TWICE because I love me some Channing Tatum and I was going to see this movie no matter what, but the fact that his partner-in-crime Zoë Kravitz was also making her debut behind the camera really sealed it. I won’t say I had high expectations necessarily but I went in with an open mind and understanding that Kravitz would likely try to find a way to be unique with this project, and boy did she set the benchmark for a directing debut.

I don’t know if the key is to be dating a handsome and incredibly talented guy like Tatum that you can put in the lead role or not but BLINK TWICE was a fantastic film and an experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. I watch a ton of movies, and I am starting to feel like the easiest way to gauge how much I like something is by how much I want to tell people about it after I leave the theater. If I am forcing myself to hold back from giving anything away because I so badly want to talk about what I just experienced but also don’t want to spoilt anything, I know that it was a damn good movie. BLINK TWICE is unique, hilarious, thrilling, through-provoking, and just so much fun.

The original story is the heart and soul of BLINK TWICE as it was interesting, mysterious, off-putting, and hilarious. The tone of the film was probably my favorite part as at times characters would just laugh at just how fucked up things were. I won’t spoil anything as per usual but BLINK TWICE does a great job keeping viewers guessing right until the very end.

The film actually has a very powerful message as it relates to trauma and our ability to break free from our past. As human beings we tend to be our own worst enemies with our non-stop worrying and never-ending anxieties which tend to eat away at us every minute of every day, and the film really does a great job touching on that. BLINK TWICE explores themes that will resonate with viewers in a unique way adding a ton of weight to the films overall message, and the way it is delivered was simply perfection.

I’m a Channing Tatum guy through and through and I am not ashamed to admit it, but more than anything else his acting chops are simply undeniable. The Alabama native has been working his tail off in the acting business for nearly 25 years, and at this point his name alone is enough to draw an audience. To be honest I actually didn’t realize he was dating Zoë Kravitz until a few months ago, who I absolutely love by the way. What a talented couple. Back to the movie, Tatum was the perfect choice for this role as he just has an ability to always seem sincere and grounded even if you know that something just isn’t right. He is just so handsome, charismatic, and charming to the point where he can disguise sinister ulterior motives and that basically sums up his character ,tech billionaire Slater King.

Starring alongside Tatum is Naomi Ackie who plays Frida, a struggling waitress who is invited along with her friend and roommate to the billionaires private island for an unforgettable getaway. I’m not all that familiar with Ackie as an actress and to be honest I was a bit confused with the casting choice at first, but she won me over and proved why she was right for this role. Although desperate to fit in and feel seen Ackie’s character has a certain strength and resilience that stands out as her strongest qualities. She was great here and I thought her chemistry with Tatum was top notch as well.

The supporting cast was just fantastic, from Alia Shawkat, to Christian Slater, right on to Simon Rex and Haley Joel Osment, better known as the kid from The Sixth Sense. Osment and Rex were both hilarious in ways that only they are capable of. Adria Arjona, fresh off killing it in the Netflix film The Hitman (preview and trailer here) alongside Glen Powell, is awesome yet again. She is gorgeous but also has this don’t fuck with me vibe to her that I can’t get enough of. I expect her to have a very high demand as an actress going forward.

The ageless Geena Davis of A League of Their Own fame plays a small but pivotal role and crushes it as usual, and I really enjoyed the supporting role played by Levon Hawke, the son of Ethan Hawke and Uma Thurman. Hawke is a very inexperienced actor but he came across as a veteran and played a super fun character. I actually had no idea he was Hawke and Thurman’s son until prepping this review but it made me like him even more. Cris Costa plays one of the smaller roles as Slater King’s security detail but he was still a great character. BLINK TWICE really knocked it out of the park with a fantastic and diverse cast.

I was blown away by the technical elements from BLINK TWICE, not because it was over the top or super reliant on them but because of smooth and well executed it was, particularly the cinematography, editing, and the score/soundtrack. In many ways the film has a bit of an indie feel as it successfully utilizes close-up shots and quite a few unique camera angles adding to the films big personality.

The feel and tone is a big part of BLINK TWICE and the score/soundtrack really helps to keep that going strong. This genre can be tricky to master mainly because the feel has to be right in order to keep audiences invested and I really don’t think it could have been better here. The film jumps from terrifying to hilarious so seamlessly I couldn’t help but nod in admiration. The editing team deserves a ton of credit as well because I don’t think the film had any wasted scenes.

THE VERDICT

An unflinching dark comedy psychological thriller hybrid that plays out like a deeply unsettling yet somehow hilarious fever dream, BLINK TWICE is a wild ride and a stellar debut for director and co-writer Zoë Kravitz. The film is packed full of tense moments and laugh-out-loud humor which is a rare balance. Allow yourself to become immersed in the original screenplay and this is an experience well worth the price of admission. Plus, we may be witnessing the emergence of a new Hollywood power couple in Kravitz and Tatum, and I am here for it.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.9/10

BLINK TWICE is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Alien: Romulus

ALIEN ROMULUS is a 2024 science fiction horror film directed by Fede Álvarez, who co-wrote it with Rodo Sayagues. The film is produced by Scott Free Productions and Brandywine Productions. The seventh installment in the Alien franchise, the film takes place between the events of Alien (1979) and Aliens (1986).

While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.

The cast includes Cailee Spaeny, David Jonsson, Archie Renaux, Isabela Merced, Spike Fearn, and Aileen Wu.

ALIEN ROMULUS made its debut in theaters August 16th, courtesy of 20th Century Studios.

Even though I wouldn’t consider the film to be one of my all-time favorites necessarily, I have had a great respect for the Alien franchise since the OG film way back in 1979 when the Alien made its debut in theaters, starring a young Sigourney Weaver and Tom Skerritt. That film, which was directed by the legend Ridley Scott, set the stage for one of the most impressive franchises in film history. 45 years after the original film we have the latest film in the franchise, ALIEN: ROMULUS, which is said to take place between the events of the first and second film.

I was excited for ALIEN: ROMULUS and I am pleased to say it lived up to my expectations. As far as the sci-fi horror/thriller genre this is one of the better movies I have seen in quite some time. The film is genuinely terrifying from start to finish with amazing visuals, a terrific score, and some really great jump scares. I found the story to be interesting and easy to follow with layered characters that feel very real and are easy to root for.

The film feels incredibly claustrophobic which is a testament to the set design and the great cinematography. I also really liked that I was able to jump right in to seeing ALIEN: ROMULUS without putting in the effort to get a refresher on the franchise and I never felt confused or lost. I mean don’t get me wrong, you will benefit from revisiting the other films in the franchise before seeing this but it is not a necessity.

Honestly I’m not even a huge sci-fi fan as far as the genre in general, but I am a diehard horror fan and the Alien franchise has always done a fantastic job blending the two genres and that is the case yet again with ALIEN: ROMULUS.

The film serves up plenty for longtime fans of the franchise but also finds a way to appeal to a wider audience with a film that can easily stand alone. My blood pressure was through the roof for the majority of the film, and my biggest takeaway was that this gem needs to be experienced in theaters.

As as as the performances are concerned I was very impressed. I really liked Cailee Spaeny in the lead role of Rain. She played a strong yet sympathetic character and I was drawn to her from the start. Spaeny has been on a heck of a run as of late as she also starred in Civil War (our full review here) earlier this year. I thought she displayed a ton of emotion and really poured her heart into this role, so kudos to her for a performance she should be very proud of.

Starring along Spaeny was David Jonsson who played a “synthetic” known as Andy. This was a unique role for Jonsson as he was unable to display any real emotion because he wasn’t human but his chemistry with Spaeny and his ability to really maximize the potential of his character was a big reason why the story worked so well. The supporting cast was solid as well with no real complaints.

As expected ALIEN: ROMULUS absolutely shines from a technical standpoint. This movie looks looks incredible, and the impressive visuals are aided by a fantastic score that really kept me locked in. The production value for the film was just on another level, and each shot just felt so gritty and unpredictable as it was impossible to know what might be hiding around the next corner. The film is very dark in general so it has a very bleak post-apocalyptic feel throughout and a very clear identity which I appreciated.

The story was very solid and kept me engaged but the visuals and the score stole the show for me. ALIEN: ROLUMUS is a very intense movie and I definitely said “oh shit” under my breath more than a few times. Director Fede Alvarez deserves a ton of credit, this guy has proven himself a master when it comes to intense thriller films and he leaves his mark yet again. This is a franchise that really has things figured out, and as long as they continue to churn out movies you can bet on the fact that I will be showing up to the theater.

THE VERDICT

A visual powerhouse that also delivers top-tier acting and a massively intense score, ALIEN: ROMULUS is a truly terrifying sci-fi horror thriller that demands the big-screen experience. This movie really just hits on everything it needs to making for an experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. If you are a fan of this franchise or just love this genre do yourself a favor and get over to the theater and see ALIEN: ROMULUS, you’ll be glad you did.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.7/10

ALIEN: ROMULUS is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Trap

TRAP is a 2024 mystery thriller film written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The film is produced by Ashwin Rajan, Marc Bienstock, and M. Night Shyamalan. The executive producer is Steven Schneider. The film features performances by rising music star Saleka Shyamalan, M. Night Shyamalan’s oldest daughter.

A father and teen daughter attend a pop concert, where they realize they’re at the center of a dark and sinister event.

The cast includes Josh Hartnett, Ariel Donoghue, Saleka Shyamalan, Hayley Mills, and Allison Pill.

TRAP made its debut in theaters August 2nd, courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

The reality is that M. Night Shyamalan is one of those love him or hate him sort of writer/directors, but at the end of the day you really can’t deny his talent or just sheer willingness to craft something original that he feels will leave a lasting impact. Now as we have learned it is impossible to please everyone, but that hasn’t stopped Shyamalan from sticking to what he feels will have the most lasting impact on viewers. Although he has been busy over the years, I would argue that his best film is the 1999 horror thriller The Sixth Sense. The Unbreakable trilogy hits hard as well, and I actually enjoyed his 2021 film Old, as well as his most recent feature-film Knock at the Cabin. Neither film was perfect of course, but you really have to take the good with the bad when it comes to a M. Night Shyamalan film. So, how does TRAP hold up? Keep reading to find out!

M. Night Shyamalan’s TRAP is a testament to the director’s enduring ability to craft atmospheric suspense and intriguing plotlines. The film stars Josh Hartnett, who delivers a remarkable performance that injects the narrative with palpable intensity and emotional depth. Hartnett’s portrayal of a man caught in a perplexing and dangerous situation is nothing short of captivating, serving as the film’s beating heart and primary draw.

The story unfolds with Shyamalan’s signature style, intertwining psychological tension with unexpected twists. From the outset, viewers are pulled into a labyrinthine plot that promises much. Shyamalan masterfully builds suspense, employing his usual bag of tricks: eerie settings, enigmatic characters, and a slow-burn approach that keeps you guessing. Hartnett’s character, deeply troubled yet resilient, navigates this treacherous terrain, and his journey is both gripping and empathetic.

However, despite the compelling buildup, TRAP falters when it comes to its conclusion. The expectations for a Shyamalan film are invariably high, particularly when it comes to the ending, which many anticipate to be a mind-bending twist. Unfortunately, TRAP’s resolution feels disappointingly flat and conventional. It lacks the imaginative punch and the revelatory surprise that one hopes for from Shyamalan. The intricately woven narrative, which had so much potential, unravels in a manner that is too straightforward and predictable.

This letdown is particularly disheartening given the strength of the film’s other elements. The cinematography is hauntingly beautiful, capturing the claustrophobic essence of the protagonist’s plight. The supporting cast, though largely overshadowed by Hartnett, delivers solid performances that bolster the film’s tense atmosphere. The sound design and score are meticulously crafted, enhancing the overall mood and providing an auditory undercurrent of unease.

THE VERDICT

In the end, TRAP is a mixed bag. It showcases Shyamalan’s directorial prowess and Hartnett’s stellar acting, yet it ultimately stumbles due to a lackluster ending. It’s a film that promises much but delivers less, leaving the audience with a sense of what could have been. For those who appreciate Shyamalan’s work, TRAP is worth watching for its atmosphere and performances, but it may not leave a lasting impression.

TED TAKES RATING - 6.2/10

TRAP is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Deadpool & Wolverine

By: Andrew & Ted

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE is a 2024 R-rated superhero action film directed by Shawn Levy (Date Night, Free Guy). The film serves as the 3rd entry in the Deadpool film franchise.

Deadpool is offered a place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by the Time Variance Authority, but instead recruits a variant of Wolverine to save his universe from extinction.

The cast includes Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Morena Baccarin, Matthew Macfadyen, Emma Corrin, Rob Delaney, and Jennifer Garner.

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE made its debut in theaters July 26th, courtesy of Marvel Studios.

Andrew’s thoughts…

In the ever-expanding tapestry of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE stands out as a gloriously irreverent superhero comedy that manages to be both fun and deeply engaging. Directed by Shawn Levy, this film brings together two iconic characters in a way that feels fresh and exhilarating, yet surprisingly heartfelt.

Ryan Reynolds reprises his role as Deadpool with his signature blend of snarky humor and fourth-wall-breaking antics. From the very first scene, it’s clear that we’re in for a wild ride. The film’s humor is relentless, packed with meta-references and rapid-fire jokes that will leave audiences in stitches. However, it’s Hugh Jackman’s return as Wolverine that truly elevates this film. Jackman, who has embodied Wolverine for over two decades, delivers a performance that is nothing short of spectacular. His portrayal is so nuanced and compelling that one might argue he is almost too good for the zany world of Deadpool.

There’s a moment in the film where Deadpool jokes about Jackman playing Wolverine until he’s 90, and honestly, it’s not hard to imagine. Jackman has an innate understanding of this character, infusing Logan with a gruff charm and emotional depth that few actors could achieve. He moves through the action with a grace and intensity that reminds us why he became synonymous with the role in the first place.

One of the film’s most impressive achievements is its ability to balance humor with emotional weight. Against a lot of critics’ expectations, DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE isn’t just a series of gags strung together by explosive action sequences. There’s a genuine story at its core, exploring themes of redemption, friendship, and what it means to be a hero. The chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman is electric, and their banter is not only hilarious but also grounded in a believable camaraderie that adds a surprising layer of depth.

The film’s action sequences are as thrilling as one would expect from an MCU production, but it’s the quieter moments that leave a lasting impression. There are scenes where Jackman, in particular, brings a raw vulnerability to Wolverine that anchors the film in reality, even amidst the chaos and comedy. It’s a testament to his skill as an actor and his deep connection to the character.

Ted’s thoughts…

Back in 2016 when the first Deadpool movie hit theaters I was legit knocked on my ass blown away. The opening sequence was just another level of glorious and it really didn’t slow down from there. Ryan Reynolds had been my guy for some time. So, a perfect marriage between him and this Marvel character Deadpool was something I didn’t even realize I desperately needed in my life. This was the beginning of something special and the birth of one of the most unique and purely entertaining characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Is DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE able to continue the reign of success achieved by the Deadpool film franchise thus far? I’m glad you asked! And the answer is: absolutely! In my opinion, one of the most unique elements of these films is the fact that even though they are push-the-envelope raunchy and hilarious, they also include a very real emotional element to the story that was introduced in the first film as it relates to Deadpool’s backstory.

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE continues this trend, solidifying Deadpool as one of my favorite Marvel characters. The screenplay was straightforward yet very effective, and although I have yet to see the Loki series I am told you will understand things better if you have. DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE revolves around dialogue, cameos, and endless surprises, and the team behind the film really went all out.

As far as the cast is concerned Ryan Reynolds is magical as expected, Rob Delaney making his return as Peter was great, but arguably the biggest name attached to the film was the return of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. Jackman made his debut as the MCU character back in 2000 in X-Men, making several appearances since up until the 2017 film Logan.

Jackman is just an incredible actor in general, and his portrayal of Wolverine/Logan is really in the upper-echelon when it comes to superheroes. To say he was exceptional in DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE really is an understatement, and you just need to experience it for yourself to fully appreciate what he was able to accomplish.

This was easily the best soundtrack since the Guardians of the Galaxy films, which have an obvious advantage considering the music is tied to the story. The film opens with an iconic pop song from my childhood, and that entire sequence was absolutely amazing in every way. I desperately want to talk about it in detail but I refuse to spoil anything, so just take my word for it that from the opening sequence on your jaw will be on the floor. The soundtrack just gets better as the film continues with a unique mix of genres and hits that offers up a little bit for everyone. Plus I’m not ashamed to admit that I have been jamming out hard to Madonna since seeing the movie.

I could spoil DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE six ways to Sunday and the movie is so much fun that I desperately want to talk about it, but we don’t do spoilers and I’m not an asshole. You’re welcome by the way. But seriously, this movie is jam packed with surprises that deserve to be experienced in the right way by viewers.

So many great cameos, one-liners, references, and just overall amazing dialogue that I really need to see the movie again to make sure I didn’t miss anything. The entire experience is just something I find incredibly easy to recommend and it is well worth seeing in theaters. So, grab some friends and go see DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE as soon as humanely possible because you will have a blast talking about it for days I can promise you that.

THE VERDICT

Andrew’s final thoughts…

Overall, DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE is a triumphant blend of humor and heart. It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet still delivers an emotionally resonant story. While it might be easy to dismiss it as just another superhero flick, those willing to look deeper will find a rich and rewarding experience. With outstanding performances, especially from Hugh Jackman, and a script that deftly balances comedy and drama, this film is a worthy addition to the MCU. It’s a wild, hilarious, and ultimately touching ride.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.2/10

DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.

Twisters

Twisters is a 2024 action thriller disaster film directed by Lee Isaac Chung (Minari) from a screenplay by Mark L. Smith (The Revenant). Produced by Frank Marshall and Patrick Crowley, the producers of the Jurassic, Bourne, and Indiana Jones series of films. It is a standalone sequel to the 1996 film Twister, written by the late Michael Crichton.

Daisy Edgar-Jones (Where the Crawdads Sing) stars as Kate Cooper, a former storm chaser haunted by a devastating encounter with a tornado during her college years who now studies storm patterns on screens safely in New York City. She is lured back to the open plains by her friend, Javi (Golden Globe nominee Anthony Ramos, In the Heights) to test a groundbreaking new tracking system. There, she crosses paths with Tyler Owens (Glen Powell, Top Gun: Maverick and Anyone But You), the charming and reckless social-media superstar who thrives on posting his storm-chasing adventures with his raucous crew, the more dangerous the better.

As storm season intensifies, terrifying phenomena never seen before are unleashed, and Kate, Tyler and their competing teams find themselves squarely in the paths of multiple storm systems converging over central Oklahoma in the fight of their lives.

Additional cast members include Brandon Perea (Nope), Sasha Lane (American Honey), Daryl McCormack (Peaky Blinders), Kiernan Shipka (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina), Nik Dodani (Atypical). and Golden Globe winner Maura Tierney (Beautiful Boy).

Twisters made its debut in theaters July 19th, courtesy of Universal Pictures.

Back in 1996 notable actors Helen Hunt and Bill Paxton starred in the disaster thriller Twister, and it became an instant classic. I still remember seeing the movie in theaters and just thinking how absolutely crazy it was. I’ve seen it a number of times since then of course and it has always stood out to me as one of the better realistic disaster films. Plus all these years later it still holds up as an action-packed film that requires a big bucket of delicious popcorn. I always felt like Twister was in a league of its own so I never really expected another movie, but when Twisters was announced I was very much intrigued.

So, was my excitement for Twisters warranted? Let me just give you a resounding hell yes!! This movie was amazing in so many ways, from the impressively engaging story, great character development, and massively impressive visuals, this is what going to the movie theater is all about. I really loved the screenplay, I thought the characters were very well developed, and I just had so much damn fun while absolutely laughing my ass off. The technical elements are top-notch in every way imaginable, and you really should see this movie in a theater with the biggest screen and best sound possible, even if you have to drive an hour. It is worth it. Twisters is just one of those movies that I simply could not wait to recommend to people, and trust me when I say that of you have an appreciation for movies, you will fall in love with Twisters right away.

I knew Twisters would be a heck of an experience as far as visuals etc but I did not expect the story to hit as hard as it did. Mark L. Smith really accomplished something with this screenplay as he somehow found a way to make the story stand out amongst the mind-blowing action sequences that most viewers came to see. Smith put together a story that resonated with me immediately as he was able to construct a strong emotional element thanks to a life-altering opening sequence. The film centers around the character of Kate, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, and the ability to get audiences invested in her character right from the jump really is the backbone of the film.

I genuinely cared for Kate and I really wanted to see where life was going to take her next, and it is not easy developing a character to that extent so quickly. She just felt familiar to me, and this allowed the supporting cast the opportunity to make their mark as viewers were already sold on the films primary protagonist. I also loved how perception is tested in Twisters as well, and even though you feel like you know the type when you meet the charismatic and good-looking Tyler, played by Glen Powell, he is not as easy to read as you would initially think. Ultimately the film has an amazing message and as a viewer I felt fulfilled emotionally which was just the cherry on top after the incredible action sequences.

Glen Powell is a man on a damn mission I swear, ever since he took the world by surprise in Top Gun: Maverick he has been in damn near everything and has been nothing short of fantastic each time. This guy has enough on-screen charisma and personality to fill 10 movie theaters, and I am just loving the fact that he is doing so well and genuinely seems to enjoy his work as an actor.

I am a heterosexual male with a wife and kids but I am comfortable enough to admit that Powell is a damn good looking dude. As far as acting talent, charisma, and good looks are concerned he has found himself in the same conversation as Ryan Reynolds and Ryan Gosling, and that is no easy feat. Twisters was great from the start, but when Powell is introduced it just gets that much better. Powell plays Tyler, a self-proclaimed “tornado wrangler” with a thriving YouTube channel that features his daring adventures as a storm chaser.

Starring alongside Powell is the absolutely gorgeous Daisy Edgar-Jones who I also thought was amazing in this film. Edgar-Jones plays the films primary protagonist named Kate, a massively talented storm chaser who is struggling after a traumatic incident involving close friends of hers. Although Twisters is clearly built around the amazing action sequences and incredible special effects, screenwriter Mark L. Smith crafted a really strong and dramatic story that works perfectly thanks to a very believable performance from Edgar-Jones.

Anthony Ramos is fantastic as Javi, a former friend and colleague from Kate’s past who convinces her to resume her calling as a storm chaser. I really like Ramos as an actor and I thought he was perfectly cast here and added a ton of value to the film thanks to his overall performance and chemistry with Edgar-Jones. Notable supporting cast members include Brandon Perea as Tyler’s sidekick who helps in providing the comic relief, Maura Tierney as Kate’s mom, Harry Hadden-Paton as a journalist from London tagging along with Tyler and his team, as well as great performances from Tyler’s other team members including Sasha Lane and Tunde Adebimpe.

From a technical standpoint Twisters is out-of-this-world as expected. The opening sequence had me pretty much holding my breath, and trust me when I say things barely slow down the rest of the film. The tornados look amazing and I was so mesmerized by what was happening on-screen that I swear I forgot I was watching a movie. Seriously, I was just so immersed in Twisters that the experience itself took over and that really is the exact reason why I go to the movies in the first place. Not once was I checking the time or wondering how close we were to the third act, Twisters just had me glued to the screen and I honestly didn’t want the movie to end.

The special effects really are as advertised, and I’m pretty sure my mouth was wide open for most of the film. The cowboy mentality that Tyler and his team bring to the film is just so much fun and just adds that adrenaline-junkie vibe so many people will be fascinated by. I mean I lived in Florida for a good chunk of my life so I have seen some pretty crazy storms, and people that have experienced them in person just understand that unique feeling of being there and feeling the mixture of fear and excitement. But literally driving into a massive tornado, that is another level of crazy. Twisters is just a blast and an experience you won’t soon forget. Also the score and soundtrack blew me away and compliments the action so perfectly. I have since added the soundtrack to my Prime Music playlist.

THE VERDICT

A perfect blend of intense edge-of-your-seat action and laugh-out-loud humor thanks to a fantastic cast led by charismatic actor Glen Powell, Twisters is an adrenaline fueled cinematic experience that reminds us why we go to the movie theater in the first place. The term white-knuckle comes to mind because I swear this movie took a few years off my life. Director Lee Isaac Chung’s vision matched with a powerful screenplay from Mark L. Smith made for an experience I won’t soon forget. I can’t wait to see Twisters in theaters again and I highly recommend you see it as soon as possible.

TED TAKES RATING - 8.7/10

Twisters is now playing only in theaters. Check out the latest trailer below.