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Archives for : thriller

Movie Review: “Dangerous Animals”

Shark movies have become a staple for this time of year, there’s something about watching “Jaws”, “Deep Blue Sea”, “The Shallows”, and many more during the outdoor swimming months that really gets us in the summer spirit. And now, audiences can add a refreshing twist to that list with “Dangerous Animals”.

Director Sean Bryne and writer Nick Lepard bring us the unexpected serial killer/shark combo horror fans will be chomping at the bit to see. Read full review here.

Rating: A-

“Dangerous Animals” opens in theaters June 6, 2025.

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Movie Review: “The Accountant 2”

The first “Accountant” surprisingly charmed and entertained audiences. While I did not expect a sequel, I certainly don’t mind getting to see Ben Affleck and Jon Bernthal team up again. Though it’s hard to beat the refreshing plot of the original film, this second installment adds up to a solid watch.

Ben Affleck returns as Christian Wolff, an unusual accountant with a brilliant mind that can calculate far more than tax returns. Read the full review here.

Rating: B

“The Accountant 2” opens in theaters April 25, 2025

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Movie Review: “Drop”

“Drop” premiered at this year’s South by Southwest with rave reviews about the exhilarating new thriller. It’s not easy to get back into the dating world, especially after a traumatic relationship. Director Christopher Landon takes audiences on a horrifying first date in what might eventually become an instant cult classic.

The film follows Violet, a widowed mother, played by “White Lotus” star Meghann Fahy who is going on her first date in years. With the help of her sister, who’s agreed to babysit her son while out, she musters up the courage to put herself back out there and meets with a charming photographer played by Brandon Sklenar. Unfortunately, this potential for romance turns into a mother’s worst nightmare as Violet is bombarded with anonymous texts that threaten her son’s life. Trapped in a high rise, upscale restaurant, she must figure out who is behind the messages to save both her son and her date’s life.

If you’re familiar with Landon’s work on films like “Freaky” or “Happy Death Day”, you’ll have an idea of his style of horror. He adds an element of comedy that allows you to breathe a little easier through his character’s high stressed situations. While there are moments of comic relief, “Drop” creates an anxiety-inducing setting with time constraints and focus on suspense. But don’t be fooled by its frightening premise, the film has a few jump scares, but it never takes itself too seriously. In fact, expect a few eye rolls when entering ridiculous and campy territory. It’s Fahy’s devoted and captivating performance that will sell you on any absurd action.

The heart of this film lies with Meghann Fahy, who continues to shine in any role she plays. But “Drop” succeeds in blending romance, wit, and tension into a simple yet tech-savvy, entertaining thrill ride that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Rating: B+

“Drop” opens in theaters April 11, 2025

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HOLLAND Streams on Prime Video March 27

Watch the Generic Interview with Nicole Kidman, Matthew Macfadyen, & Gael Garcia Bernal

Directed by Mimi Cave
Written by Andrew Sodroski
Produced by Kate Churchill, p.g.a., Peter Dealbert, Nicole Kidman, p.g.a., Per Saari, p.g.a.
Starring Nicole Kidman, Matthew Macfadyen, Jude Hill, Gael García Bernal

In this wildly unpredictable thriller, Nicole Kidman is the meticulous Nancy Vandergroot, a teacher and homemaker whose picture-perfect life with her community pillar husband (Matthew Macfadyen) and son (Jude Hill) in tulip-filled Holland, Michigan tumbles into a twisted tale. Nancy and her friendly colleague (Gael García Bernal) become suspicious of a secret, only to discover nothing in their lives is what it seems.

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Amazon MGM Studios’ HOLLAND / Generic Interview with Nicole Kidman, Matthew Macfadyen & Gael García Berna

Movie Review: “Companion”

Love is in the air AND in the palm of our hands as the new sci-fi romantic thriller, Companion, pushes all the right buttons for an instant cult classic.

Filmmaker Drew Hancock’s directorial feature follows a seemingly happy couple, Iris and Josh, who go on a weekend getaway with friends at a remote cabin. But things take a chaotic and bloody turn when it’s revealed Iris is a robot companion. The less you know about this plot the better, as the number of twists and turns are endless. But “Companion is already being raved about as the first best film of the year. What I can tell you is that it excels through enthralling performances by the entire cast, especially stars, Jack Quaid and Sophie Thatcher.

Horror fans may recognize Thatcher from the popular series, Yellowjackets or more recently the acclaimed psychological thriller, Heretic. But after this role, it’s safe to say, Thatcher is going to be an unforgettable talent we will be seeing a lot more of. Aside from the fact that she can cry from one eye at a time on command, she impressively emotes a robotic character who is truly in love and can feel every emotion. And we feel for her. Quaid, who normally plays the good guy, tackles the villainous role in a subtle and humorous manner. All the while the two have great on-screen chemistry. There isn’t anything too revolutionary in the film, but it does entertainingly warn audiences about the dangers of technology and why it’s best not to have full control of your partner.

Companion” touches on feminism, greed, loneliness, and hones in on how we should treat our significant others with respect, while taking audiences on an unpredictable and hilarious thrill ride. It’s an unexpected must-see that’s sure to capture your heart.

Rating: A-

“Companion” is currently playing in theaters

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Top 10 Best Films of 2024

10. Deadpool & Wolverine – We still need a break from superhero movies and from the multiverse/timeline plots, but this film isn’t a formulaic Marvel movie. Some might even complain that there is no narrative, but that seems to be director Shawn Levy’s intent. “Deadpool & Wolverine” is meant to make fun of the over bloated superhero films and the mistakes of studios, while paying homage to the former X-Men universe. Not to say there isn’t a story, it’s just more along the lines of a high-quality spoof w/ a ton of A-list actors. Plus, the hilarious, on-screen chemistry between the dynamic duo (Hugh Jackman and Ryan Reynolds) exceeded all my expectations.

9. A Real Pain- Jesse Eisenberg’s sophomore directorial effort, “A Real Pain” follows opposite cousins David and Benji who reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother. But their adventure takes a turn when tensions between the two resurface. The pain both characters go through impressively speaks louder from their actions and sometimes silence, more than any words they express to each other. “A Real Pain” is a sincere and thought-provoking, emotional journey that is elevated by the film’s beautiful and unforgettable performances, especially by Kieran Culkin. It’s a rare gem that has stayed with me all year.

8. Inside Out 2- The sheer genius of turning our emotions into loveable characters was enough to make you fall in love with the magic of the first “Inside Out”. In this sequel, we follow Riley as she enters her teen years and makes room for new emotions like Anxiety. It can be therapeutic and beneficial to see the portrayal of an emotion that everyone can relate to, but do not often talk about. The film still sparkles from its lovable characters and provides a family-friendly avenue to discuss feelings and mental health with loved ones.

7. Dune: Part Two- I didn’t care for “Dune: Part One”. It was long and barely anything happened. It was all set-up and when we were finally getting somewhere good, the film abruptly stops and leaves us with a big “To Be Continued”. Luckily, the action and storytelling we were craving in the first movie is all in “Dune: Part Two”. The second installment picks up where it left off with Paul uniting with Chani and the Fremen to seek revenge against the conspirators who destroyed his family. Director and co-writer, Denis Villeneuve properly brings this science fiction novel to life. Beginning with the mesmerizing world he has created. Desert sand has never looked this attractive swirling through the winds and fight sequences, paired with a roaring soundtrack that will make you feel as if you are in the movie. The set is immersive and the work that has gone into this imaginative society is engaging, especially the cinematography by Greig Fraser.

6. The Substance – “The Substance” follows an aging celebrity, who takes an underground drug: a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself. I’m always a fan of an original story with a powerful message, and this one is about as unique as they come. It’s grossly entertaining and not for the weak stomach. Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are captivating from start to finish. The two give phenomenal physically demanding performances, and Director/Writer Coralie Fargeat cleverly portrays the struggles women face to remain relevant and “youthful” in Hollywood.

5. My Old Ass – A coming-of-age story about a young girl who meets her 39-year-old self while tripping on mushrooms. The older version of herself, hilariously played by Aubrey Plaza, delivers a warning about her future that causes her to rethink everything about her family, life, and love. While Plaza is fantastic in the film, Maisy Stella gives an unforgettable breakout performance that will make you laugh and cry. “My Old Ass” is another original gem that we were treated to this year by Director/Writer Megan Park, who authentically captures how bittersweet it is to grow up, the risks of a first love, and the many things we take for granted when we’re young.

4. Twisters – Like most sequels, I always proceed with caution. However, the charm of Glen Powell and the patience of waiting decades to create a well-crafted sequel to the effect of “Top Gun: Maverick”, makes this movie a success. The talented stars of “Twisters”, including Powell, Daisy Edgar-Jones, and Anthony Ramos, already give this film an advantage. But the key to this enjoyable watch, much like its predecessor, is how the film takes a simple and relatable concept, like chasing tornadoes; and adds a lot of heart because they are trying to help people. After laying that groundwork, they focus on what made the first film so memorable, the special effects and action. And I can confidently say, director Lee Issac Chung delivers on all counts, pulling audiences in from its opening scene and taking us on an exhilarating ride of breathtaking visuals.

3. Wicked- With all the praise surrounding this film, it should come as no surprise that I would have it at such a high spot. It is a vibrant reimagining of the classic Wizard of Oz movie and spotlights the untold origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West and her once dear friend, Glinda the Good Witch. In many ways, I enjoyed this story more. It raises the questions -Are people born evil? Are those who claim to be heroes genuinely good? But most importantly, it sends a powerful message about not judging people before getting know them firsthand. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande pour their hearts into an unforgettable, award worthy performance. “Wicked is a beautiful, moving musical that undeniably defies gravity.

2. Emilia Perez – I went in completely blind before watching “Emilia Perez”, only knowing it was an indescribable musical, comedy, thriller with a stellar cast. I came out of it blown away by the incredible performances of its three leading ladies: Zoe Saldana, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Selena Gomez. The film’s unbelievably thrilling twists and turns made for one of my favorite cinematic experiences. For those who may not know, the movie is about a cartel leader, who enlists an unappreciated lawyer, to help fake her death so that she can finally live authentically as her true self. It’s a wild ride that not everyone will want to take, but I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially, seeing Saldana slay in a role that proves she’s a show-stopping, versatile talent.

1. Scrambled- Many of you may not have heard about this one. After being treated to it earlier this year and getting to speak with filmmaker, Leah McKendrick, I have not forgotten the emotional impact this film had on me. “Scrambled” is about a thirty-something eternal bridesmaid that is being pressured to have kids and settle down. Still single and only getting older, she decides it’s best to freeze her eggs. This leads her on an empowering, and hilarious, journey of self-discovery. The movie is relatable to anyone who has felt like they are running out of time or trying to catch up to friends who are getting married, having kids, or just moving forward in life. But at the same time, there is an inspiring and beautiful representation of what it means to be a true friend, someone who is happy for you at your highs even when they may be at their low. The film also offers a genuine portrayal of IVF that is lacking in Hollywood. McKendrick uses her personal egg freezing journey to share a witty, heartfelt story that will stay with me forever.

The Rest of the Best:

11. Late Night with the Devil

12. Saturday Night

13. Blink Twice

14. Conclave

15. The Last Showgirl

16. Thelma

17. The Fall Guy

18. Woman of the Hour

19. Fresh Kills

20. Amber Alert

Top 5 Worst Film of 2024

5. Drive-Away Dolls – Too ridiculous to take seriously or even watch.

4. Rumors – Made no sense, felt like a bad Shakespearian play.

3. Night Swim – “Don’t look back” and don’t look AT this movie. EVER!

2. Megalopolis – Don’t let the negative reviews fool you, this film is far worse than what critics are saying.

1. Madam Web – OOF! Not only did they ruin a Britney Spears song, but they also hurt four talented actors, who suffered from a painful, lazy script, and terrible filmmaking.

Trevor’s Top 10

10. Alien: Romulus

9. Blink Twice

8. The Order

7. Saturday Night

6. Late Night with the Devil

5. A Real Pain

4. Civil War

3. A Complete Unknown

2. Deadpool & Wolverine

1. Dune: Part Two

AMBER ALERT Interview w/ Filmmakers & Golden Globes Winner Tyler James Williams

The significant Amber Alert hits close to home every time we hear it ring. The new thriller, “Amber Alert” powerfully exhibits how people just like us can help save a child’s life when we get these notifications. I had the opportunity to speak with the filmmakers (Kerry Bellessa, Summer Bellessa, and Joseph Restaino) and one of the stars of the film, Golden Globes Winner, Tyler James Williams.

“Amber Alert” opens in theaters and OnDemand September 27, 2024.

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THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY Final Season Interview

The hit Netflix series “The Umbrella Academy” is coming to an end and I had the opportunity to chat with Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda, Robert Sheehan, Aidan Gallagher, Justin H. Min, and Ritu Arya about the series, their favorite lines, and more!

“The Umbrella Academy” Season 4 streams on Netflix August 8!

In this final season the Hargreeves siblings have scattered after the climactic showdown at the Hotel Oblivion led to a complete reset of their timeline. Stripped of their powers, each is left to fend for themselves and find a new normal — with wildly varying degrees of success. Yet the trappings of their uncanny new world prove too hard to ignore for very long. Their father Reginald, alive and well, has stepped out of the shadows and into the public eye, overseeing a powerful and nefarious business empire. A mysterious association known as The Keepers holds clandestine meetings believing the reality they’re living in is a lie and a great reckoning is coming. As these strange new forces conspire around them, the Umbrella Academy must come together one last time — and risk upsetting the shaky peace they’ve all endured so much to secure — to finally set things right.

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THE WATCHERS Interview w/ Ishana Night Shyamalan

“The Watchers” follows a young artist who gets stranded in an extensive, immaculate forest in western Ireland, where, after finding shelter, she becomes trapped alongside three strangers, stalked by mysterious creatures each night. I spoke with filmmaker, Ishana Night Shyamalan (daughter of horror icon, M. Night Shyamalan) about her directorial debut.

“The Watchers” opens in theaters June 7, 2024.

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Movie Review: “The Fall Guy”

Ryan Gosling takes on his most thrilling role yet in Universal Pictures newest comedy, The Fall Guy. It’s best not to take this film too seriously, it’s based on the 1981 television series and pays tribute to stunt work, taking full advantage of any opportunity for high-flying tricks. To say this film is action-packed would be an understatement.

Gosling plays Colt Seavers, a retired stuntman, who quit the industry after a severe injury. He is pulled back into the job with the hopes of rekindling a romance with his ex-girlfriend, Jody, who is now the director of a blockbuster film. The only problem is the star of the movie is missing and Colt must find him before Jody’s film is canned.

At first, “The Fall Guy” throws a lot at you at once. It takes a minute to find the groove of the film, but once the film finds its footing, audiences are in for a non-stop, electrifying, good time filled with humor thanks to the witty dialogue by writers, Drew Pearce and Glen A. Larson. Through all the explosions and fight sequences, there’s a gripping story about the typically unrecognized hard work of stuntmen and women. We’re shown how they are repeatedly put into life-threatening situations for a quick “magical” shot that’s pivotal to a movie. But director David Leitch takes this premise one step further by adding a romantic comedy element that only elevates the story.

Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt dazzle on-screen. The two of them surprisingly convey enough heart to charm audiences even while they make you burst out laughing from their several comedic scenes. “The Fall Guy” is an exciting moviegoing experience, providing jaw-dropping action, loveable leads, killer soundtrack, and ridiculous chaotic fun. Making it the perfect popcorn flick.

Rating: A

“The Fall Guy” opens in theaters May 3, 2024.

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