Fantastic Fest 2024: The Rule of Jenny Penn

Matt Henley

The Rule of Jenny Pen is a rare gem in the horror genre, offering a unique and nuanced portrayal of aging that is sure to intrigue and captivate audiences. Directed by James Ashcroft, this New Zealand thriller takes a familiar horror trope—fear of the elderly—and flips it on its head, treating its aging characters with… Continue reading Fantastic Fest 2024: The Rule of Jenny Penn

Fantestic Fest 2024: The Wild Robot

The Wild Robot is an enchanting and heartwarming animated adventure that offers a fresh take on the “fish out of water” story, blending science fiction with themes of survival, family, and connection. The film, adapted from Peter Brown’s popular book, follows Roz, a ROZZUM unit 7134, a shipwrecked robot who finds herself stranded on an… Continue reading Fantestic Fest 2024: The Wild Robot

Lost in the Shuffle: a mystery and history in slight of hand

Lost in the Shuffle is an engaging and thought-provoking documentary that seamlessly blends magic, history, and a touch of mystery. Directed by Jon Ornoy, the film is led by two-time world champion magician Shawn Farquhar, who expertly takes viewers on a fascinating journey through the history of playing cards and their unique relationship with magic.… Continue reading Lost in the Shuffle: a mystery and history in slight of hand

My Old Ass: Light-hearted and poignant

Maisy Stella, left, and Aubrey Plaza in “My Old Ass.” Amazon MGM Studios

My Old Ass is a refreshingly unique coming-of-age film that blends lighthearted rom-com energy with surprisingly deep self-reflection. Directed by Megan Park, the movie follows Elliott (Maisy Stella), an 18-year-old ready to leave her small Canadian town for the big-city life in Toronto. After taking mushrooms on her 18th birthday, Elliott encounters her 39-year-old self… Continue reading My Old Ass: Light-hearted and poignant

My Penguin Friend – the healing power of love crosses an ocean

Jean Reno in My Penguin Friend (Roadside Attractions)

‘My Penguin Friend ‘is a heartwarming and visually stunning family adventure that takes audiences on a journey of unexpected friendship, resilience, and the healing power of love. Directed by David Schurmann and featuring an international cast led by Jean Reno and Adriana Barraza, this film is a poignant exploration of how a simple act of… Continue reading My Penguin Friend – the healing power of love crosses an ocean

Trap – a decent effort that doesn’t quite hit its mark

Joah Hartnett in Trap (Blinding Edge Pictures)

Trap is M. Night Shyamalan’s latest dive into the world of psychological thrillers, offering a mix of suspense, dark humor, and the kind of twisty narrative that has become his trademark. It’s a film that teeters on the edge of brilliance, held aloft by a stellar villainous turn from Josh Hartnett, but ultimately falls just… Continue reading Trap – a decent effort that doesn’t quite hit its mark

Young Woman and the Sea: an inspiring tale for all

Daisy Ridley in Young Woman and the Sea (Disney +)

‘Young Woman and the Sea,’ directed by Joachim Rønning and starring Daisy Ridley, Tilda Cobham-Hervey, and Stephen Graham, offers viewers an inspiring, feel-good sports saga that paints the perfect picture of the period and struggles of women. This biographical drama delves into the remarkable life of Gertrude Ederle, the first woman to swim across the… Continue reading Young Woman and the Sea: an inspiring tale for all

Fly Me to the Moon: Tatum and Johansson take off

Johanssonand Tatum in Fly Me to the Moon (Apple TV+)

‘Fly Me to the Moon,’ directed by Greg Berlanti, offers a charming blend of a romantic comedy set against the monumental backdrop of NASA’s Apollo 11 moon landing. With Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum leading the cast, the film delivers a nostalgic yet fresh take on the late ’60s era. Kelly Jones (Johansson) is a… Continue reading Fly Me to the Moon: Tatum and Johansson take off

A Family Affair -a quality blend of humor, romance and drama

Kidman, Efron and King star in A Family Affair (Netflix)

Richard LaGravenese’s latest film, ‘A Family Affair,’ is a delightful romantic comedy that skillfully explores the complexities of love, sex, and identity through an entertaining and heartfelt lens. The movie stars Joey King as Zara Ford, a young woman whose work and personal relationships cross and set off a series of comic consequences involving her… Continue reading A Family Affair -a quality blend of humor, romance and drama