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Smile 2 - REVIEW

"Smile 2 keeps you grinning with terror, even though the array of twists will leave you spinning!"

Smile 2 builds on the unsettling atmosphere of its predecessor, delivering some truly effective jump scares and gory moments, though its narrative struggles to match the original’s tight, emotional arc. Directed by Parker Finn, this sequel centers on Skye Riley (Naomi Scott), a pop star preparing for a major tour while battling inner demons—both literal and figurative. Scott gives a standout performance, conveying both the fragility and fierceness of a woman slowly unraveling under the curse of the Smile Entity. Her portrayal is a driving force, making Skye sympathetic even as her world spirals into chaos.

The film offers plenty of tension, with Skye encountering eerie smiling figures and suffering terrifying hallucinations that mirror the psychological horror of the first Smile. However, where the original succeeded in grounding its protagonist’s trauma through relatable connections, Skye’s loneliness as a pop star leaves the emotional core feeling thinner. Her fame and isolation make her sympathetic, but they also create a distance that can make the character harder to fully connect with. The deconstruction of Skye throughout the film is compelling, but not as engaging as the personal journey in the first movie.

Smile 2 shines when it leans into its horror elements. The jump scares are well-timed, and the film doesn’t shy away from its gruesome moments—like Skye's mother smashing her face with a shard of mirror or the climactic scene where Skye fatally stabs herself on stage. The use of practical effects, especially in the Smile Entity's grotesque final form, heightens the terror, while the film’s pacing keeps the tension ramped up throughout. The scenes where Skye's reality blends with hallucinations add a layer of unpredictability, leaving the audience guessing what’s real and what’s not.

However, the film gets bogged down by its many twists. The non-stop barrage of hallucinations and revelations becomes overwhelming, and at times the narrative loses its focus. While Skye’s descent into madness is captivating, the film relies too heavily on trying to outdo itself with each twist, which can leave viewers feeling disoriented. By the time the final act rolls around, the constant misdirections and false realities start to feel excessive, diluting the impact of the more shocking moments.

Despite these drawbacks, Smile 2 is still an entertaining and chilling horror film. It explores the pressures of fame and the fragility of mental health in a creative, albeit chaotic, way. The film's conclusion—set during a nightmarish concert at Madison Square Garden—brings everything to a blood-soaked finale, with the Smile Entity finally revealing its monstrous true form and overtaking Skye in front of thousands of horrified fans.

While it may not quite reach the heights of the original, Smile 2 delivers enough scares, gore, and suspense to satisfy horror fans, especially with Naomi Scott’s excellent lead performance anchoring the chaos.

Strange Darling - REVIEW

"Strange Darling is a twisted game of cat-and-mouse that thrills with every unpredictable turn, anchored by Willa Fitzgerald’s hauntingly brilliant performance."

Strange Darling is a relentless, stylish thriller that grips you from start to finish. Directed by JT Mollner, this film is a standout in the genre with its inventive storytelling, shocking twists, and remarkable performances. Willa Fitzgerald’s portrayal of the twisted, cunning "Electric Lady" is easily one of the most captivating performances of the year. She brings an eerie, seductive energy to the role that elevates the entire film, carrying both the tension and the psychological complexity of her character. Fitzgerald transforms the movie into something far more than a typical serial killer narrative.

Set against the backdrop of rural Oregon, Strange Darling thrives on atmosphere. The nonlinear structure, divided into six chapters, turns the audience into detectives, constantly piecing together the puzzle of this cat-and-mouse game of murder. The film opens with an almost playful tone—Fitzgerald’s Lady and Kyle Gallner’s Demon engage in what seems like a risky, consensual game of roleplay. However, the lines quickly blur, and the tension explodes when both characters are revealed to be serial killers, setting the stage for a violent, unpredictable chase.

Gallner delivers a strong performance as the Demon, but his character feels secondary to Fitzgerald’s magnetic presence. Mollner’s script turns a seemingly straightforward thriller into something far more complex by flipping expectations: the woman, often portrayed as the victim in these kinds of films, is instead the predator. Fitzgerald effortlessly walks the line between vulnerability and menace, crafting a character who is deeply dangerous but equally compelling. The power dynamics between her and Gallner’s Demon keep you on edge throughout, as each scene flips the script on who holds control.

Shot on 35mm film, the movie’s aesthetic is rich with grainy texture and moody lighting that perfectly complements the dark, rural setting. Giovanni Ribisi, in his debut as a cinematographer, does an exceptional job of making the Oregon wilderness feel both expansive and claustrophobic, heightening the tension in every scene. The choice to shoot on film gives the movie a timeless, almost dreamlike quality, pulling you deeper into its grim, twisted world.

Mollner’s direction shines in his ability to balance brutality with moments of eerie calm. The film’s suspense is masterfully built, as the nonlinear structure allows the audience to slowly uncover each character’s motives and dark past. The brutality is not just physical but psychological, as the film delves into the mindsets of both killers, exploring themes of identity, power, and the corrosive nature of violence. Each twist hits hard, and the final moments of the film leave a lasting impact, refusing to offer a neat resolution.

Strange Darling is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, a film that respects its audience enough to never spoon-feed its reveals. With Willa Fitzgerald’s electrifying performance at its core, it stands as one of the most original thrillers in recent years. It's a film that lingers long after the credits roll, and one that should be taken seriously by those who appreciate the art of cinema.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire - REVIEW

"A Frosty Attempt at Reviving Nostalgia"

"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" plunges into the icy depths of supernatural comedy but emerges more as a lukewarm endeavor than a scorching success. Directed by Gil Kenan and penned alongside Jason Reitman, this sequel to "Ghostbusters: Afterlife" ambitiously seeks to merge the beloved nostalgia of the franchise with fresh narrative blood. However, despite its attempts, the film largely stumbles, securing a modest 4 out of 10.

Set three years after the events in Summerville, the story relocates our protagonists to the bustling streets of New York City, where they join forces with the original Ghostbusters to tackle a new spectral threat. This premise, rich with potential, unfortunately, fizzles out, delivering a narrative that, while okay, fails to capture the sparkling charm or the thrilling suspense of its predecessors.

The ensemble cast, blending old favorites with new faces, is one of the film's brighter aspects. Paul Rudd, Carrie Coon, Finn Wolfhard, and Mckenna Grace slip comfortably back into their roles, their chemistry and comedic timing intact. The return of Ghostbusters icons like Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Ernie Hudson adds a delightful touch of nostalgia. Yet, the film's over-reliance on these legacy characters feels like a double-edged sword, offering fan service at the expense of originality and narrative depth.

Kumail Nanjiani and Patton Oswalt, as newcomers to the franchise, bring a fresh dynamic, but their talents are underutilized in a plot that feels like it's going through the motions. The villain, a death-chilling god named Garraka, promises a formidable adversary but is ultimately let down by a showdown that's as fleeting as it is underwhelming.

The comedic elements, a cornerstone of the Ghostbusters legacy, hit more misses than hits this time around. Attempts at humor often fall flat, struggling to elicit the hearty laughs expected from the franchise. The film's visual effects, particularly those surrounding the villain, showcase some impressive moments, but these are sparse highlights in an otherwise muted narrative landscape.

A crucial misstep of "Frozen Empire" is its inability to cultivate genuine stakes. The sense of danger, the thrilling possibility of loss, is noticeably absent. Characters meander through chaotic scenarios with an air of invincibility, stripping the film of tension and leaving audiences detached from the on-screen drama.

However, it's not all doom and gloom. Amidst the mediocrity, there are flashes of uniqueness, brief glimpses of a path that could potentially rejuvenate the franchise. These moments, although rare, suggest that with a bolder approach and a willingness to venture beyond the safety of nostalgia, there might still be hope for future installments.

Late Night with the Devil - REVIEW

"Nearly a Masterpiece of Nostalgia and Terror"

"Late Night with the Devil" is a chilling foray into the supernatural, set against the backdrop of a 1977 late-night talk show. Directed with a keen eye for tension and terror by Colin and Cameron Cairnes, this film skillfully merges elements of documentary filmmaking with the visceral immediacy of found footage. The result is a horror spectacle that not only pays homage to the genre's roots but also pushes its boundaries in thrilling new ways. The ensemble cast, led by David Dastmalchian, delivers performances that are nothing short of captivating, bringing to life a script that intertwines the occult with the allure of television's golden age.

Set on Halloween night during a live broadcast gone terrifyingly wrong, the film cleverly uses its premise to explore deeper themes of fame, betrayal, and the supernatural. The plot centers around Jack Delroy, a charismatic talk show host played with a desperate intensity by Dastmalchian, whose life takes a dark turn following the death of his wife. In a bid to reclaim his show's faltering ratings, Jack orchestrates a Halloween special that spirals into chaos when a supposed demon makes a terrifying appearance.

The Cairnes brothers do a remarkable job of capturing the era, complete with nods to other horror films and subtle critiques of the '70s sociopolitical climate. The choice to shoot with '80s style effects, particularly for the electrical phenomena, not only grounds the film in its setting but also enhances the overall eeriness of the narrative. Laura Gordon and Ian Bliss, alongside Dastmalchian, turn in performances that are both grounded and deeply unsettling, ensuring that the audience is riveted from start to finish.

One of the film's standout aspects is its use of practical effects, which are both impressively executed and integral to the story's impact. The scenes involving the demonic presence are particularly effective, creating moments that are both terrifying and visually striking. The showdown, though brief, is packed with intensity, featuring a display of powers that leaves viewers both awed and horrified.

However, "Late Night with the Devil" is not without its flaws. While the story is engaging, there is a noticeable lack of stakes which undermines the tension. The characters, though well-acted, seem invulnerable, diminishing the sense of danger that is crucial for a horror film. This lack of peril results in a viewing experience that, while visually and narratively interesting, lacks the edge-of-your-seat fear factor that defines great horror.

Despite these criticisms, the film shines in its ability to maintain an atmosphere of suspense and unease. The ambiguous ending is particularly noteworthy, leaving viewers pondering the true extent of the supernatural events they've witnessed. This open-endedness, coupled with the historical and cinematic references throughout, makes for a richly layered film that invites repeated viewing.

"Late Night with the Devil" also cleverly utilizes its setting within the confines of a TV show studio, playing with the concept of public versus hidden realities. The dynamic between the public persona and the private torments of the characters adds a layer of psychological horror to the physical terror unfolding on screen.

Terrifier 3 - REVIEW

"Terrifier 3 slices through the competition, delivering killer holiday horror that’s sure to slay the season!"

Terrifier 3 delivers a gory, nostalgic blend of 80s slasher thrills and early 2000s torture horror, making it one of 2024’s standout horror films. Damien Leone masterfully combines practical effects with creative kills, pushing the boundaries of what fans expect from Art the Clown. From the opening moments, where Art gruesomely massacres a family, the film sets a vicious tone, leaning heavily into its Christmas setting to create a jarring contrast between holiday cheer and relentless violence.

David Howard Thornton’s performance as Art the Clown is once again a major highlight. His ability to be both terrifying and eerily playful, without uttering a word, adds a layer of unsettling charisma to the character. Art’s lack of motive or reason for his killing spree only heightens the horror. His mall massacre, where he poses as a Santa Claus and unleashes explosive carnage on unsuspecting shoppers, is one of the film’s most memorable sequences—equal parts absurd and horrifying.

Lauren Lavera returns as Sienna Shaw, anchoring the film emotionally. Her portrayal of Sienna, who is haunted by the trauma of Terrifier 2, offers a complex and compelling take on the “final girl” trope. She’s vulnerable yet determined, grappling with both the supernatural threat of Art and her own inner demons. Sienna’s journey from a traumatized survivor to a fierce warrior fighting back against the forces of evil is a strong throughline for the film. The addition of supernatural lore—particularly the idea that Sienna may be an “angelic” figure destined to combat demonic forces like Art and Victoria—adds new depth to the story, even if it occasionally feels underdeveloped.

Victoria Heyes (Samantha Scaffidi), now possessed and partnered with Art, brings a disturbing new dynamic to the franchise. Her transformation into Art’s accomplice allows the film to explore even darker territory, culminating in one of the most grotesque sequences involving rats, a tube, and a blowtorch. The interplay between Art and Victoria adds a supernatural edge that gives the film a fresh layer of menace, though some elements of this mythology feel slightly disjointed at times.

The practical effects are truly impressive, with inventive and graphic kills that will satisfy fans of extreme horror. Leone’s direction has clearly evolved, with the cinematography feeling more polished compared to the previous films. Wide shots highlight the scale of the violence, while tight close-ups amplify the claustrophobia and tension. However, there are moments where the sound design falls flat, particularly in action-heavy scenes, and the score could use more intensity to match the film’s relentless pace.

Despite these minor technical shortcomings, Terrifier 3 is a brutal, nightmarish thrill ride that will please die-hard horror fans. The film manages to strike a balance between being nostalgically gruesome and pushing the franchise forward with new characters and supernatural lore. Catch it in theaters while the crowds are still packed—it’s the kind of film that’s best experienced with a room full of people squirming in their seats.

The Substance - REVIEW

"The Substance injects fresh blood into body horror with its sharp satire, and it's as unsettling as it is entertaining."

The Substance is a surreal, satirical thrill ride that blends body horror with a biting commentary on fame, beauty, and the obsession with youth. Directed by Coralie Fargeat, the film is an unforgettable fusion of 80s nostalgia, grotesque imagery, and dark humor, creating something both disturbing and strangely alluring.

Demi Moore is fantastic as Elisabeth Sparkle, a washed-up aerobics star who is desperate to regain her former glory. Moore's portrayal is equal parts tragic and comedic, capturing the complex emotions of a woman clinging to her past. When Elisabeth turns to a black market serum called "The Substance," the film dives headfirst into its twisted premise. The transformation scenes are a mix of cringe-inducing body horror and slick visual effects, as the younger version of Elisabeth—named Sue—emerges from her body. Margaret Qualley’s portrayal of Sue adds a fierce yet carefree energy to the role, and the tension between the two selves is palpable. They may share one consciousness, but their rivalry soon takes on a life of its own.

The dynamic between Elisabeth and Sue is at the heart of The Substance. What starts as a symbiotic relationship turns into a battle for control, with both personas growing to despise each other. Elisabeth is plagued by self-loathing and jealousy as Sue’s fame and beauty eclipse her own, while Sue relishes her newfound freedom but becomes increasingly repulsed by the version of herself she leaves behind. The psychological and physical deterioration of both forms is executed with both grotesque charm and black comedy. Fargeat’s direction brings a nightmarish quality to the duality, where each switch back and forth pushes Elisabeth closer to the edge, while Sue lives life recklessly without considering the consequences.

Dennis Quaid’s role as the sleazy producer Harvey adds another layer of humor to the film. Quaid’s performance is a campy delight, as he shamelessly embraces the role of an exploitative industry figure. His scenes with Sue, where he barely conceals his shallow fixation on youth and beauty, are as funny as they are unsettling.

Fargeat also brings a strong satirical edge to the film. The commentary on Hollywood’s obsession with youth, beauty standards, and the disposable nature of fame is razor-sharp. The film uses body horror to explore the literal and figurative disintegration of identity under the pressures of an industry that prizes appearances above all else. The final act of The Substance is a grotesque spectacle, as Sue’s attempt to create a new version of herself results in the monstrous hybrid "Monstro Elisasue." The chaotic New Year's Eve broadcast sequence is a visually striking and absurdly violent climax, capped off by Elisabeth’s symbolic and darkly comic return to the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

While the film’s surreal elements and extreme body horror may not be for everyone, The Substance stands out as an audacious, thought-provoking, and unforgettable experience. With its strong performances, biting satire, and avant-garde visuals, this film is a wild ride worth taking.