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Reviews
Lair (2021)
Creepy, inventive and impressive
Indie horrors seem to vary enormously across the board but this is one of the better ones. With a storyline that kept me interested and a twist ending that I didn't see coming, I was very impressed with both the quality and the narrative. The acting was similarly impressive and lovely to see some fresh faces for once. Two ones to watch are Aislinn De'Ath and Anya Newall who both played their parts beautifully and convincingly. I was also delighted to see a story that had an LGBT couple that was treated as a normal part of the plot.
Doctor Sleep (2019)
Better if it were serialised
A great director and cast should have meant this was a sure fire hit but it felt like too long a story was being forced into a small box. As previous reviewers have said, this would have done well as a series where the narrative could have unfolded in a more natural way.
Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
More charm needed
Props to this film, a reworking of a classic tale and a sequel would normally be my ideal of hell but it had me interested from start to end and it's always a joy to see Emily Blunt and an excellent cast in general. But I was left a little cold by this one, which felt perhaps a bit rushed.
The Handmaid's Tale (2017)
Wow
There is little I can say that hasn't been said before by more articulate viewers-the fact that every episode left me full of dread and rage sums up how brilliant this adaptation is. Fabulously acted, horrifyingly real and reflecting some real world issues in a way that didn't feel spoon fed or condescending. I probably won't watch again, but only because it's just too close too home.
The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
Note perfect
Gorgeous from start to end, this is a masterclass in how to make horror compelling. Excellent acting, a fascinating story and just enough sadness to paint the horror with a dramatic plot that will have you gripped from start to end. The direction was top notch, and the music was gloriously retro, bringing to mind soundtracks of yesteryear.
Venom: Let There Be Carnage (2021)
What am I missing?
I was really expecting to enjoy this film but the whole thing left me feeling flat. Mediocre narrative, huge plot holes and uninspiring performances by actors that I know are incredible the rest of the time-it felt like a huge amount of money had been chucked at a script undeserving of the funding. I was ready for the film to be over 15 minutes in.
Knives Out (2019)
So much fun
Honestly, it is a real joy to see a film that isn't a remake or a sequel these days, and this was such a great romp. A bit like a modern day Poirot, it had humour, intrigue and it seemed like the cast had a blast making it. Lovely also to watch a film with less CGI than the usual offerings. It's not a life changer, but an enjoyable romp nonetheless.