FILM REVIEW: Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (2024 Movie) - Starring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O'Hara

"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" is the highly anticipated sequel to Tim Burton's 1988 cult classic, reviving the darkly whimsical afterlife with a vibrant energy that balances nostalgia with fresh creativity. With Michael Keaton returning as the mischievous Betelgeuse, alongside Winona Ryder and Catherine O'Hara, the film masterfully blends comedy, horror, and fantasy in Burton's signature style, maintaining a strong connection to the quirky, gothic tone of its predecessor.

Keaton's Betelgeuse remains an unpredictable and riotous force, exuding the same manic energy that made him iconic. Ryder brings depth to the role of Lydia, now older and more world-weary, skillfully blending heartfelt emotion with deadpan humor. Catherine O'Hara shines as the hilariously unhinged Delia, while Jenna Ortega, portraying Lydia's daughter Astrid, introduces a fresh dynamic that connects both new and longtime fans.

The plot picks up decades after the original, following Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder), who now hosts a supernatural talk show. She finds herself drawn back into the bizarre world of ghosts, ghouls, and, of course, Betelgeuse. While the narrative is entertaining, it can occasionally feel convoluted, with multiple overlapping storylines—including Lydia's family drama, Astrid's exploration of the afterlife, and Betelgeuse's antics—competing for attention. However, this chaos fits well within the eccentric universe, even if it sometimes leaves viewers scrambling to keep up.

Tim Burton's direction shines with playful energy, delivering a visual feast filled with wacky special effects, impressive animatronics, and a continuous stream of macabre humor. The film excels in its moments of pure spectacle, with standout scenes like the afterlife train station and the return of the iconic sandworms. The design and atmosphere echo the original film's offbeat charm, featuring enough grotesque details and imaginative twists to keep audiences engaged throughout.

Some characters, however, feel underutilized. Willem Dafoe's ghost detective Wolf Jackson and Monica Bellucci's Delores, Betelgeuse's vengeful ex-wife, are intriguing additions but lack sufficient screen time to leave a lasting impression. Additionally, the plot's haphazard nature renders certain story arcs—such as the subplot involving Lydia's boyfriend Rory—somewhat thin, even though his comeuppance offers a satisfying comedic payoff.

Tonal consistency is one of the film's strengths, as "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" stays true to its roots, blending ghoulish fun with bursts of surreal humor. It caters to fans of the original and those who appreciate Burton's peculiar universe and Betelgeuse's antics. While it may not achieve the instant cult status of the first film, it successfully captures enough of the original's magic to feel like a worthy sequel. Newcomers might find its unique blend of comedy and horror a bit bewildering, but the film's giddy, irreverent spirit is hard to resist.

Ultimately, this film is designed for enjoyment rather than serious contemplation. Burton, at his most mischievous, delivers a satisfyingly chaotic yet heartfelt tribute to his original creation. "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" may not reinvent the wheel, but it’s a gloriously fun ride filled with nostalgia, inventive humor, and a few good scares.

Overall, it's an entertaining return to the weird and wonderful world of the afterlife, earning a solid 8.5 out of 10. Fans of the original will undoubtedly find plenty to enjoy, while newcomers are likely to be charmed by its strange and endearing madness.

Now playing in theaters!

COMPETITION: Win Late Night With The Devil on Blu-ray

Tune in for one hell of a show as Late Night With The Devil – the 2023 horror hit from the talented brothers Colin Cairnes and Cameron Cairnes (100 Bloody Acres, Scare Campaign), that’s been hailed by Mark Kermode as ‘Alan Partridge goes to hell’ and the King of horror himself, Stephen King, described it as ‘Absolutely brilliant’ – gets the Limited Edition treatment from Second Sight Films from October 28th, 2024.

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on standard Blu-ray

Synopsis:

The year is 1977 and late-night talk show host Jack Delroy’s (Dastmalchian) ratings are in free fall. In a desperate bid to revive his show, Jack plans a Halloween special like no other. He invites a psychic, a sceptic, and, as the main attraction, parapsychologist author June (Gordon) and her subject Lily (Torelli) – a 13-year-old survivor of a satanic cult who claims to be possessed – to join him in the studio.

Broadcasting live, Jack sits down for a tête-à-tête with his unpredictable and very risky guests, unaware of the unimaginable terror he’s about to unleash. Witness what really happened on set in this shockingly unbelievable footage of the infamous late-night recording, if you dare. For a wickedly entertaining and devastatingly deadly evening, spend a Late Night With The Devil.

Limited Edition Release

This devilishly entertaining and wickedly original feature is the latest to receive a must-own Limited Edition Box set release from the company that truly puts the devil in the details. The bonus-packed collector’s 4K/Blu-ray dual edition is set for release on 28 October, just in time for some Halloween havoc and will also be available on Standard Edition.

Late Night With The Devil stars David Dastmalchian (Oppenheimer, Dune: Part One, The Dark Knight), Laura Gordon (Saw V, Undertow), Ian Bliss (The Matrix Reloaded, The Matrix Revolutions) and Ingrid Torelli (The End) and the new release comes complete with a host of special features. The set comes in a stunning box with new artwork by Haley Turnbull and the UHD is presented in HDR with Dolby Vision. There’s a brand-new commentary, interviews galore, behind-the-scenes, a making of and much more. 

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3ND7J5a

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COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 04-11-24

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

COMPETITION: Win I Am Monsters Blu-ray

Nicholas Vince’s movie adaptation of his one-man show  I AM MONSTERS! gets the Deluxe treatment with a special 500 signed limited-edition Blu Ray, which will be available to pre-order now.

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you where you can win the soon to be announced generic Blu-ray release of the film.

Synopsis:

I AM MONSTERS! charts Vince’s life from a monster-obsessed child, born undershot, through to an out of the closet actor, propelled to fame by Clive Barker’s ground-breaking films. He speaks openly about being a bullied outsider, the life-threatening operation to reconstruct his face, his battle with being gay in Thatcher’s Britain and reveals what it takes to be a Monster.

Nick commented: "I'm overjoyed to be finally sharing I Am Monsters! on Blu Ray and hope people will enjoy this exploration of the journey which led to the creation of the Chatterer Cenobite, and other monsters on film, in comics and short stories. It's been a long road from the original one man show, presented as part of the London Horror Festival in 2019. Researching and writing the film led me to discoveries about some major surgery, tell more behind the scenes stories from Hellraiser, Hellbound and Nightbreed and share my fascination with monsters”.

I AM MONSTERS! Is a Dark Rift Horror Production, written and directed by Nicholas Vince, with additional poem by Clive Barker. Produced by Paul Butler, Stewart Sparke and Nicholas Vince Cast: Nicholas Vince, Marie Britton, Lyndsey Craine, Stewart Sparke, Craig Burman-Vince. Music by Mitch Bain, Cinematography by Hamish Saks and edited by Nicholas Vince.

Pre-order - https://darkrifthorror.com/shop/i-am-monsters-limited-edition-blu-ray

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 04-11-24

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

FILM REVIEW: Trap (2024 Movie) Starring Josh Hartnett and Saleka

"Trap" is the latest psychological thriller from M. Night Shyamalan, presenting an intriguing yet uneven entry in his filmography. Known for his signature plot twists, Shyamalan shifts gears in this film, crafting a cat-and-mouse narrative between a serial killer and law enforcement, set against the unlikely backdrop of a pop concert. Although there are moments of genuine tension and solid performances, the film ultimately feels like a missed opportunity, hindered by predictability and an overemphasis on showcasing the director’s daughter, Saleka Night Shyamalan.

The story revolves around Cooper Abbott, a seemingly average Philadelphia firefighter who doubles as the infamous serial killer known as "The Butcher." Played by Josh Hartnett, Cooper's dual life is explored with a compelling narrative, though it lacks genuine surprises. Hartnett delivers one of the film's strongest performances, convincingly portraying a man on the brink of madness. His ability to maintain a chilling calmness even as chaos ensues around him keeps the audience engaged, despite the narrative's occasional lapses in logic.

Set during a concert by pop star Lady Raven, also played by Saleka Night Shyamalan, the film’s visually dynamic backdrop sometimes feels more like a platform for her musical performance than a genuine psychological thriller. Saleka’s portrayal of Lady Raven is competent, and her fearless confrontation with Cooper adds an interesting dimension to the plot. However, it’s hard to shake the feeling that her character, and the concert setting as a whole, was designed primarily to showcase her musical talents rather than to enhance the story’s psychological depth. This choice detracts from the film’s tension, with certain scenes feeling more like a music video than a thrilling narrative.

The film’s major shortcoming lies in the absence of a traditional Shyamalan twist. Fans may feel disappointed to discover that the film reveals Cooper's identity as the Butcher early on, a revelation given away in the trailer. This transparency diminishes the suspense and surprise typically associated with Shyamalan’s films, leaving the story feeling somewhat flat. Additionally, some scenes, particularly those featuring Lady Raven confronting Cooper, stretch plausibility; the notion of a petite pop star fearlessly confronting a serial killer is hard to accept, making these moments less convincing.

Jonathan Langdon, who plays Jamie the vendor, injects much-needed comic relief and delivers one of the film's standout moments in a mid-credits scene. Although his character is minor, he adds a refreshing layer of humor and humanity to the story. It’s unfortunate that he wasn’t given more screen time, as his presence helps balance the film’s darker themes.

"Trap" attempts to blend the elements of a psychological thriller with the spectacle of a pop concert, but the execution feels uneven. While the film has strengths, particularly Hartnett's performance and its overall concept, it is ultimately let down by a predictable plot and the impression that it occasionally serves more as a showcase for Saleka Night Shyamalan than a fully realized thriller. The lack of a significant twist and some implausible plot points leave viewers wanting more depth and suspense.

In conclusion, "Trap" is a decent thriller that entertains but doesn’t quite hit its potential. It stands as a safe, if unremarkable, addition to Shyamalan’s body of work, earning a respectable 6.5 out of 10. For those who appreciate straightforward thrillers with a few tense moments, it may suffice, but those seeking the signature Shyamalan twist and a more tightly woven narrative might find themselves disappointed.

COMPETITION: Win A Nightmare on Elm Street on 4K UHD

It is the 40th anniversary of the supernatural slasher film A Nightmare on Elm Street from New Line Cinema and renowned horror director Wes Craven, the 1984 film is available NOW for purchase Digitally in 4K Ultra HD and on 4K UHD Blu-ray Disc. It will also be re-released in select cinemas from 25 October.

And to celebrate, we have a great competition for you and a chance to win a copy on 4K UHD.

Synopsis:

The 4K UHD remaster of A Nightmare on Elm Street includes both the 1984 theatrical version of the film and an uncut version of the film that includes 8 seconds of additional unrated footage.

Directed by Wes Craven (Scream) from his own screenplay, the film stars John Saxon, Ronee Blakely, Heather Langenkamp, Amanda Wyss, Nick Corri, Johnny Depp, and Robert Englund.  The film is produced by Robert Shaye.

Can your nightmares be fatal? In this classic of the horror film genre that launched a movie franchise, a hideously scarred man who was murdered by a lynch mob returns years later in the terrifying nightmares of his killer’s teenage children… and the dreaming teenagers are starting to die in their sleep.

A Nightmare on Elm Street, which spawned a franchise and introduced audiences to iconic horror villain Freddy Krueger, will be available to purchase on Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc online and in-store at major retailers and available for purchase Digitally from Amazon Prime Video, AppleTV, and more.

Order from Amazon - https://amzn.to/3Y6vAPQ

Enter now for a chance to win.

COMPETITION CLOSED

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 31-10-24

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

FILM REVIEW: Oddity (2024 Film) - Starring Gwilym Lee, Carolyn Bracken and Tadhg Murphy

 

“Oddity,” the 2024 Irish horror film directed by Damian McCarthy, offers a captivating mix of psychological tension and supernatural unease. The story revolves around Darcy, a blind medium grappling with the aftermath of her twin sister Dani's murder. McCarthy skillfully builds an eerie atmosphere that maintains suspense throughout, opting for a chilling tone rather than relying on excessive gore.

Visually, the film is striking, featuring haunting imagery that complements its grim and melancholic vibe. Darcy’s curiosity shop, filled with cursed objects, along with the unsettling country house that serves as a primary setting, effectively enhance the macabre narrative. The gradual unveiling of Ted’s dark secrets is expertly handled, as is the growing discomfort surrounding Darcy’s connection to her sister’s spirit. A life-sized wooden mannequin from Darcy's cursed collection adds to the escalating horror, delivering some of the film's most unsettling moments, even if its screen time feels frustratingly brief.

The performances are commendable, with Carolyn Bracken shining in her dual role as the tragic Dani and the grieving, determined Darcy. Gwilym Lee portrays Ted with a blend of charm and malevolence, skillfully hinting at his character’s darker layers. The film thrives on suggestion rather than overt scares, which enhances its unsettling quality. McCarthy’s focus on psychological dread, rather than extravagant shocks, cultivates a pervasive sense of foreboding. Though the storyline follows familiar horror tropes, it remains engaging.

“Oddity” excels in its exploration of the unknown, leaving viewers in a state of discomfort as the lines between reality and the supernatural blur. The pacing of the suspenseful moments is expertly managed, with strategically placed jump scares that catch the audience off guard. However, it’s the persistent underlying tension that truly captivates. The supernatural elements are integrated seamlessly into the narrative, enriching the horror without overshadowing the story's core.

The film’s predictability is where it stumbles. While the final twists regarding Ted’s role in Dani’s death are intriguing, they may not come as a shock to seasoned horror enthusiasts. Moreover, the wooden mannequin, a potentially chilling presence, doesn’t receive the attention it warrants. Its significance is apparent, but a larger role throughout the film would have been more satisfying.

Nonetheless, “Oddity” succeeds in crafting a genuinely eerie atmosphere. It knows how to disturb without over-relying on shock tactics. The combination of paranormal intrigue and psychological horror plays to its strengths, and McCarthy's direction keeps the tension consistently high. Although the pacing is deliberate, occasionally feeling slow, it contributes to the mounting sense of dread that permeates the film. The ambiguous and unsettling conclusion lingers long after the credits roll.

Overall, “Oddity” stands out as a strong entry in the horror genre. While it may not innovate in narrative structure, its execution is impressive, striking a compelling balance between suspense and supernatural terror. Despite my wish for more screen time for the eerie mannequin, the film ultimately delivers a haunting experience. I would rate it a solid 8.5 out of 10.

Out Now on Shudder

FILM REVIEW: The Exorcism (2024 Film) Starring Russell Crowe

“The Exorcism” offers a spine-tingling journey that explores the blurred boundaries between reality and the supernatural. Directed by Joshua John Miller, this highly anticipated horror film stars Academy Award-winner Russell Crowe, whose riveting performance will leave audiences gripping their seats.

Crowe portrays Anthony Miller, a once-renowned actor haunted by a dark past. While shooting a supernatural horror movie, Miller begins to experience eerie occurrences that challenge his grip on reality. His estranged daughter, Lee (Ryan Simpkins), becomes caught in the unraveling mystery, torn between concern for her father’s potential relapse into addiction and the possibility that something far more malevolent is at play. The film deftly navigates Miller’s spiral into either madness or a supernatural possession, blending psychological terror with otherworldly horror in a narrative that is both intimate and universally terrifying.

The film’s cast adds further depth to the story. Sam Worthington, known for his roles in "Avatar" and "Clash of the Titans," contributes a grounded performance, while Chloe Bailey, Adam Goldberg, and David Hyde Pierce round out the ensemble, each bringing their own distinctive touch. This mix of seasoned and emerging talent ensures a dynamic and engaging experience on-screen.

Joshua John Miller, known for his work in the horror genre, directs with a vision that pushes conventional boundaries. His approach seamlessly merges psychological and supernatural horror, creating a thick, unsettling atmosphere throughout the film.

With its intriguing premise, strong performances, and chilling scares, “The Exorcism” stands out as one of the year’s must-see horror films. It promises thrills for both die-hard genre fans and casual moviegoers seeking a gripping ride.

However, the film isn’t without its flaws. While Crowe’s performance is stellar and the narrative has moments of real intensity, it treads familiar ground, often relying on well-worn tropes of the horror genre. The final act also feels somewhat rushed, with an additional 10 to 15 minutes potentially adding more depth and clarity to the resolution.

Despite these issues, "The Exorcism" will resonate with fans of religious horror. Its meta-narrative, an actor portraying a priest, brings an intriguing layer to the story. While it may not appeal to everyone, it certainly delivers its share of genuine scares and stands as a showcase for Crowe’s talent.

Overall, “The Exorcism” earns a solid 8 out of 10. With a compelling exorcism story at its core and Crowe’s powerful lead performance, it offers a thrilling and terrifying cinematic experience.

Now playing in theaters.