Movies

Companion (2025), directed by Drew Hancock, emerges as a compelling addition to the science fiction thriller genre with notable elements of horror comedy woven into its narrative fabric. The film explores provocative themes such as artificial intelligence, autonomy, and human morality within a tense, isolated setting that amplifies its psychological intensity. Its premise—centering on a weekend getaway catalyzing chaos after revelations about a companion robot—promises a blend of suspense, dark humor, and moral dilemma, positioning it as an intriguing, if imperfect, cinematic experience. The film's tone oscillates between visceral horror and satirical commentary, inviting viewers into a domain where technology's encroachment intersects with human fragility.

Martin Scorsese’s “Casino” (1995) is a formidable entry in the crime genre, distinct in its grandiosity and meticulous craftsmanship. Adapted from Nicholas Pileggi’s nonfiction book, the film stars Robert De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein, Sharon Stone as Ginger McKenna, and Joe Pesci as Nicky Santoro. Expectations for this film were high given Scorsese’s reputation for in-depth character studies and visceral storytelling, coupled with the critically acclaimed performances of the cast. As a long-standing admirer of Scorsese’s aesthetic and thematic depth, I anticipated a richly textured exploration of moral decay within the neon-lit facade of Las Vegas. “Casino” promised to probe the corrupt underbelly of organized crime’s entrenchment in the gambling metropolis, and it does so with an unflinching, sensory-driven intensity.

Carjackers is a haphazard amalgam that could generously be described as cinematic confusion. Streaming on platforms that likely won’t dare claim it as an exclusive, the film tells the story of Nora and her motley crew of valets and bartenders who moonlight as thieves, hitting up unsuspecting wealthy patrons. As if this dual life wasn’t complicated enough, they decide to pull off their biggest heist yet, all while being hunted down by a hitman hired by their own hotel’s director. The premise is tantalizing enough to spark interest, but strap in because this ride is heading straight into the pit of mediocrity.

Just when you think you've seen it all in the action genre, Counterattack emerges, delivering a film that surprises in some areas while faltering in others. Released as an international production, it ambitiously ventures into the treacherous landscapes of the Mexican drug war, weaving a tale steeped in camaraderie, courage, and conflict. The film presents an odyssey laced with machismo and explosive moments, though it ultimately falls prey to familiar pitfalls that leave the viewer wanting more.

Cold Wallet, the 2024 thriller directed by Cutter Hodierne, dives headfirst into the chaotic world of cryptocurrency, perfectly capturing the mania surrounding digital assets, meme coins, and the ever-looming specter of rug pulls. With a plot that is as relevant as today's headlines, the film follows a ragtag group of Redditors who, after losing their savings to a notorious crypto scam, resort to drastic measures. Their scheme leads them to the secluded mansion of the enigmatic Charles Hegel, played by Josh Brener, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown that blends dark comedy with moral ambiguity. As the film explores the lengths to which everyday individuals will go in the pursuit of justice—or money—it increasingly pushes viewers into a whirlwind of ethical dilemmas and tension.

As a professional assassin's retirement goes south thanks to an injured young woman, I walked into this film with trepidation, hoping to see a riveting tale unfold. What I received instead felt like a poorly executed school project, showcasing huge gaps in the storyline and timelines so inconsistent they rival the plot twists in a daytime soap opera.

As I settled in to watch, I hoped for something that would set itself apart from other action flicks. It turns out, my hopes were not just met but exceeded; this film is a delightful ride that cleverly balances tension, humor, and heartfelt moments.

Set in the laden halls of the Vatican, Conclave embarks on a journey filled with surprises and underlying tensions. The central narrative revolves around Cardinal Lawrence, who finds himself not only leading the conclave but also unraveling various secrets and scandals that surround prospective candidates.

Watching Civil War was like stepping into a haunting reflection of a potential future for my society. Directed by Alex Garland, the film offered a raw and unsettling scrutiny of an America engulfed in civil conflict, all unfolded through the perspective of war journalists.

where do I even begin with this cinematic adventure? Picture this: a movie that claims to be an action thriller but ends up feeling like a list of every bad spy cliché ever written—on a napkin.