Movie Reviews By Robert Waldman
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Updated: Feb. 20, 2026
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple A Private Life Affinity Beast of War Bone Lake Clear Cut Cold Storage Dial M for Murder H is for Hawk Kiss of the Spider Woman Merrily we Roll Along Nuremberg Out of the Nest Revolver Lily Roofman Scarlet Song Sung Blue The Baltimorons The Scout Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery To see my reviews of some great older movies please visit and subscribe to my YouTube Channel. And maybe give a thumbs up if you like the review. Many more reviews to come soon. So stay tuned and be safe. |
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Cold Storage(14A) * *
Spaced Out!
They say space is the final frontier. See what happens when some debris turns deadly in Cold Storage.
Just like the title suggests something cold and unusual is stored in a Facility and left largely unknown . Over time strange things develop in this offbeat offering from Route 504 PR now drawing crowds to Cineplex Cinemas and Lionsgate Theatres around BC.
People with good memories will likely recall the accident that befell the Space Lab back in the 1970s. Little do the scientists know that some of that highly secret debris reached Earth. That's where our story picks up and takes off as something green and wicked latches on to some of that space junk - creating havoc years later.
When bad things happen In the remote and desolate Australian outback in modern times who ya gonna call ? No not ghostbusters but an illustrious team of techies sent down to try to solve the dilemma. Bad news travels fast so when a sticky slime appears to be at the root of the problem one by one humans seem to be on the chopping block as hunting season arrives.
Take it all in with a large grain of salt. Cold Storage is a Wickedly fiendish smorgasbord of fun and high level camp in the extreme. it's so bad it's good as two out to lunch workers played effectively by Joe Keery and Georgina Campbell must root out the contagious extraterritorial biological virus before it spreads outside a warehouse full of all sorts of dangers emanating from a room or two . Director Johnny Campbell serves up lots of laughs in this Liam Neeson (Taken) headliner which somehow manages to keep straight faces on all the actors.
Dial M for Murder(PG) * * * *
Mixed Blessing!
In the aftermath of the tragic Rumbler Ridge school shootings healing is the order of the day. Coming together is paramount for everyone in the community and across British Columbia. On a local smaller level the arts can bring that sense of community together. That was the takeaway presented by the artistic director of the Arts Club Theatre on the opening night of their latest offering Dial M for Murder. Somehow those words resonated as does the presentation. Of this drama now unfolding at the Stanley Alliance Theatre in Vancouver.
Way back when cinephiles may remember British thrill master Alfred Hitchcock achieved more international acclaim and notoriety with his similarly named movie. Now the Arts Club does one better as they team up with a Calgary troupe to pull off a stunting Modern day rendering of this classic whodunnit all done with considerable finesse. None of the cast miss a beat and along with some smart writing this show will keep you fully immersed from start to finish as this fiendish fantasy unfolds. Why even Lieutenant Columbo would have a hard time figuring out who did that dastardly act. Murder most foul indeed.
Affairs of the heart can be vexing. With Valentines Day now in our rear view mirror timing is everything. So are romantic liaisons. And indiscretions.Enter the world of Tony and Margot Wendice. Let's just say their marriage may be a bit on the rocks as Tyrell Crews and Emily Dallas so ably demonstrates. Most people know that many marital break-up revolve around extra curricular affairs or money. Both these vices and indiscretions figure oh so prominently as the two lovebirds fight it out. And when a surprise murder occurs there's no telling who did the dirty deed or why.
Catch me if you can is part of the fun in this truly expertly acted fantasy where voyeurism reigns supreme as others enter into the fray. Will justice be served as the countdown to the hangman looms large? Stay tuned. Crimes of passion never seemed so appealing. Director Jillian Kieley delivers a knockout punch as its gut check time for one of Scotland Yard's finest attempts to get at the truth.
With great support from acting heavyweights Olivia Hutt, Shekhar Paleja and Stafford Perry Dial M for Murder is dangerous fun and top notch entertainment definitely worth seeing.
For more information and tickets go to artsclub.com or call (604) 687-1644
Revolver Lily(PG) * * * *
Quick Draw!
Hell hath no fury like a scorned woman. Or an underestimated one. All bets are off when a passive lady returns to her fabled roots in the action-packed Revolver Lily. And I do mean action. Settle in for a thrilling tale of friendship, revenge and a never say die spirit all engineered by Well Go USA Entertainment and now available on demand and through your cable company or internet server.
Lock and loaded. That about sums up the current life of famed Japanese courtesan and proud brothel owner Miss Yuri. In a knock-out performance that makes John Wick look like a choirboy Ayase Haruka simply sizzles as her old ways come into play big time when a young boy comes her way.
The boys dad apparently had a friendship with Yuri years ago and now she is propelled into a dangerous tug of war resulting in her once upon a time former life now resurfacing. Trained originally as a master assassin those skills come in handy as all sorts of bad actors will stop at nothing to find the boy - and worse. Heaven help anyone who gets in their way. Ah, but they never expected to run into this babe.
Director Isao Yukisado delivers an epic tale of espionage and deceit that is full of suspense and never lets up. Set in 1924 amidst a time of turmoil within Japan's military hierarchy this movie shows just how far one lady can and will go to protect a little boy and safeguard the future of a nation. It's a tall order for one woman to fulfill but somehow Lily rises to the challenge. And how!
Scarlet(PG) * * *
Relentless!
Vengeance can take many forms. Family ties can be enduring. See a young woman go to the ends of the earth and beyond to right a wrong in the eventful Scarlet. Presented locally by Sony Puctures Classics and Mongrel Media this foreign animated saga is quite different and unique. And entertaining. So visit a far off land currently on view at Cineplex Cinemas in iMAX at the Riverport and in Coquitlam and Landmark Theatres across B.C. In Japanese with English subtitles that don't deter.
From Japan with love rises Scarlet. Step back in time before jettisoning off to the future as we track the plight of a rather disenchanted princess to right a wrong. Once upon a time in The feudal past a sticky family feud develops between a Devil May care king and his well-serving brother. Bad blood develops runs deep in this time -bending saga that some say has a plot line reminiscent of Shakespeare.
Director/writer Mamoru Hosoda takes this originally titled Hateshinaki Sukaretto story and brings it to pulsating life on the big screen. Hosoda has a born knack for storytelling and Scarlet truly is a visually stunning movie. While we may have seen this story before it moves here at a crackling pace and you do get caught up in all the family intrigue. With a never say die spirit you'll be hissing at the villain and pulling for the heroine all the way. Maybe a touch confusing with all the back and forth time leapfrogging Scarlet is kind of original and fun and well worth a look,
Song Sung Blue(PG) * * * *
Soul man!
Say the words Song Sung Blue and everyone in the world knows what it is. Hey it's a famous song by a master musician. Man of all seasons Hugh Jackman is pitch perfect in his portrayal of the one and only Neil Diamond in this mesmerizing tale. Still holding over from Christmas this tough love drama is reeling them in at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres across B.C. Now that's stying power.
What we have with Song Sung Blue is a tale of family. Two families to be exact. And it's a love story to boot. Sparks eventually fly when down a down on his look imitation singer meets up with a feisty Patsy Kline songstress at your typical small town bar. But there's nothing "typical" about the budding friendship both Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson convey as Mike and Claire.
After some initial reluctance the pair hook up and form their own act: a tribute band pretending to be Neil Diamond, and yes, they are good. Life on the road can be both tough and grueling. Nd when the pair become more than just friends each brings their own family into the fray.
But just as things start cooking and the band become a local and state phenomenon an accident shatters their dreams. This in when the film kicks into high gear s both Hudson and Jackman must come to terms with how fragile life really is. Lesser actors would not be able to pull off this struggle but you feel these two characters care for one another and may be able to pull off some sort of comeback -in music and in life.
Party music, part romance and let drama Song Sung Blue turns out to be. Solid and memorable movie that tugs at your heart strings and comes through as a rel feel good flick.
A Private Life(PG) * * * *
Spooking!
Danger is in the air. Thick and thin drama engulfs a professional woman in search of the truth in A Private Life. People looking for an exceptionally well acted thriller designed to keep you guessing will have their prayers answered in this outstanding whodunnit from Mongrel Media now causing quite a stir at The Fifth Avenue Theatre in Vancouver.
For a change a sophisticated adult drama that's original hits the big screen. Despite its French pedigree it's easy to follow the subtitles in This wicked tale of an American psychiatrist now plying her trade in Paris France. Academy Award winning actress Jodie Foster (Silence of the Lambs) gets the call to play Dr. Lilian Steiner and she is brilliant. Normally what happens between Doctor and patient is supposed to be kept private. Not so here as when one of the good doctor's patients goes missing and worse it sets off an unbelievable chain of events.
With a death or two on the menu Dr Steiner tries to be a modern day Columbo minus the humour as she goes about her merry way in an effort to solve this mysterious puzzle. With the help of former husband Gabriel Haddad the pair dive deeper and deeper into areas of the unknown, all the while trying to stare down their own personal baggage and demons . Also convincing is Daniel Auteuil as the wily ex spouse.
Full of raw emotion and pent-up angst A Private Life is truly full of surprises and boasts layer upon layer of superb performances. Director Rebecca Zlotowski also co-wrote this extremely smart well developed movie that is enthralling from start to finish. Why even James Bond baddie Mathieu Amalric (A Quantum of Solace) is on hand as Simon Cohen-Solal in this great ensemble cast.
H is for Hawk(PG) * * *
Bird Brain!
Animal lovers will surely tune in favorably with a visit to a cinema to see H is for Hawk. Straight from the heart this heartfelt drama from Mongrel Media is different yet true to form. Some good acting and a unique bond makes this story worth a gander. Keep an eye out for it at select Cineplex international Village Cinemas Cinemas and Landmark Theatres around B.C. Courtesy of Route 504 PR.
At a time when very few new films are worth seeing sometimes small is good. Based on a true story H is for Hawk centers on a loving dad and his mature considerate daughter. Reliable and likeable veteran actor Brendan Gleeson (Safe House) portrays the rock solid " dad"- a good man with a passion for wildlife.
Like father like daughter Helen shares in a passion for animals. Actress Claire Foy (The Girl in the Spider's Web) has a tough act to follow when her father leaves the planet. To keep the memories alive she continues in her dad's footsteps and "befriends" a bird.
Working with animals is always a challenge especially when a predator comes into play. So a strange friendship develops between Helen and Mabel , a rather special baby hawk whom over time becomes accustomed to a brave new world.
Warm, heartfelt and different H is for Hawk offers some gorgeous beauty with the scenery of Cardiff, UK on full display. Director and co-writer Philippa Lowthorpe shows us the awesome training and uncanny shots of a bird coming of age and its effect on its human guide going into adult life.
28 Years Later: The Bone Temple(18A) * *
Last Rites!
Different. Dangerous. Disturbing. Demented. These are four words that describe the apocalyptic world revealed in 28 Years Later: the Bone Temple. This continuation of the savagery of the Danny Boyle chiller franchise from Sony Pictures must have a defined audience. More of the savvy savagery is now on screen at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres around B.C.
Shades of A Clockwork Orange. From a violence standpoint the Bone Temple is just as unsettling. Sometime in the distant future society has come undone as we bear witness to a small band of not so merry children who set about tormenting all who come their way. Known one and all as "Jimmies" this renegade gang of juvenile delinquents are led by the charismatic wise-cracking Sir Jimmy Crystal. Wild and wicked is in the DNA of this madman lunatic with Jack O'Connell suitably vile and contemptuous in the role.
Not to be undone While this band of blood thirsty kids roam the streets they make way to a remote desolate area inhabited by an unusual offbeat figure. Here we encounter an equally compelling chap , a man of the tropics who rules the domain and all its inhabitants. The good doctor turns out to be a former physician known as Dr. Kelson. Sir Ralph Fiennes (Schindler's List) somehow got corralled into appearing in this horror flick and is surprisingly good as a god-like Satan, At least in some people's minds. His healing and teaching skills contrast mightily with the blood lust of all those Jimmies who appear to be on a continual rampage.
Not for the squeamish 28 Years Later: the Bone Temple is a descent into hell.
Beast of War(PG) * *
Close Encounters !
Wars are tough. Well Go USA Entertainment shows how difficult combat can be in the dramatic Beast of War. Original and intriguing with a deadly twist this dramatic thriller is now available on streaming services iced as well as on Blu-ray and DVD.
Made by Australians and shot down under Beast of War is all about giving your all in the war effort. Set in 1942 we witness the tough love training meted out by a hardened officer and his equally brutal second in command.
During this hard training men become men. Or so it's supposed to go. One thing is certain: two soldiers boys have a complete dislike for one another out in the field and inside the barracks. This tension comes into play big time as the war comes closer to home. Too close to comfort.
Apart from the action this film is all about survival. Left to fend for themselves the men must tackle adversity as well as a sea creature that adds more uncertainty into the mix.
Director Klah Roache-Turner also co-wrote this intense yarn and succeeds in pulling you in. Be prepared for a ride into the unknown. Though the shots at night are darkish the brutality of surviving the unknown is well played out and the film does keep you on edge - especially if you like swimming in the great outdoors.
The Baltimorons(PG) * * *
Yuletide joy!
Sure to capitalize on the upcoming holiday spirit is The Baltimorons. Brought back this Dec 5 this special screening is a return engagement. Offbeat to be sure this bittersweet darkish comedy hits all the right notes and may just hit a raw nerve while gently massaging unsuspecting funny ones. Check out this whimsical lark from Route 504 PR now enlightening audiences at Vancouvers VIFF Centre.
Director Jay Duplass manages to get the most out of his actors. Funny how people connect. Take the case of lost in love out to lunch Cliff. Able to maneuver between serious and funny is actor Michael Strassner. When tooth problems develop for this sapless nerd on Christmas Eve no less panic sets in. So a friendly (?) trip to new dentist DiDi leads to all sorts of comic (?) "complications "not the least of which concerns a good tooth cleaning. Equally effective and perhaps (?) somewhat "available" is actress Liz Larsen who must overcome her reservations and apprehension as the pair manage to spend a rather interesting night getting to know Baltimore and perhaps each other just a bit better. Let's just say toothaches may have a lot of common with heartaches as an emergency dental appointment may develop into a new and totally different relationship.
Smart acting, a reliable script and very original twists and turns makes The Baltimorons a fresh, new and different date flick that manages to work. Thanks to likeable characters that you can relate to consider this small quaint little film to be watchable and enjoyable with its heart in the right place. Get ready to have your spirits lifted.
Merrily we Roll Along(PG) * * *
The Beat Goes On!
It looks like 2025 may well be considered to be the year of the musical. Song and dance continues to light up the screen after the recent releases of KISS of the Spider Woman and Blue Moon. Sony Pictures Classics and Fathom Entertainment hope to continue on this winning trend with Merrily We Roll Along. Unlike those two previous films, Merrily has a large cast of sing and dance men and women. Feel the beat of this latest and fresh offering at select Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres around B.C.
Yes, it hopes if you're a fan of musicals. Told over two informative and tumultuous decades Merrily traces the topsy turvy life of a trio of friends(?) who test their feelings as life events have a way of gnawing away at their relationships. Now the toast of Broadway lyricist Charlie and composer Franklin Shepard seem to have the world at their feet.
Who would have thought Child superstar Daniel Radcliffe (Harry Potter) could sing but he sings up a storm as Charlie Kringras whose friendship with Franklin, played sharply by Jonathan Groff is put through the wringer. Pressures of family life and lovers collide and become an albatross for these two with female best buddy writer Mary a combustible part of the mix. Enjoy the chaos with talented actress Lindsay Mendez doing her best to try to calm the pending storms.
Beyond the petty jealousies that rage out of control a great supporting cast of singers /actors add fuel to the fire in this lengthy reveal of the creative process and surrounding pressures all encounter in this closely knit creative community and hangers-on.
Based on the four time Tony winner of the Broadway spectacle this film version is filled with classical songs from the incomparable Stephen Sondheim and is a triumph. Wonderfully directed by Maria Friedman Merrily We Roll Along is a talkative musical high featuring loads of raw emotion, not so subtle sexual tension and memorable performances. It was shot live in New York at a performance last year at a happier time before the once upon a time Big Apple became soured by a terrorist loving Mayor who will have a big chill on Broadway, all the arts, businesses and the freedom loving world.
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery(PG) * * * *
Foul Play!
Murder by the numbers? Hardly. Expect the unexpected and be richly rewarded if you see Wake Up Dead Man. Smart and stylish this third in the Knives Out series is a winner. Much better than the second movie this third time outing hits the triactor with director/writer Rian Johnson hitting all the right notes. Here's a fun drama that deserves to be seen on the big screen before it reaches Netflix. Make the smart move and see it at your neighbourhood Cineplex Cinema or Landmark Theatre. Here's a movie that deserves to be seen in the big screen with a crowd and is worth the price of a ticket for a change. You certainly get your money's worth - and then some.
Wild, fun and unpredictable danger lurks everywhere at of all places a church somewhere in New York. Here we meet flamboyant Monsiegneor Jefferson Wicks. Josh Brolin truly steals the show as a demented preacher whose grip on his parish seems shocking. Positively shocking. Keen movie fans will know that those three words are a rather famous line from the opening frame of a classic 1964 film called Goldfinger featuring Sean Connery. No less than three James Bond actors share on screen with a superb cast of ensemble actors whose abundant talents are on full display here.
Once again that suave and slick detective with the arc to pronounce name Benoit Blanc gets called in to solve a death or two. Handsome Daniel Craig (Casino Royale) has got that southern drawl down pat as the holy go lucky sleuth who this time has his work truly cut out for him. Lieutenant Columbo, Jessica Fletcher and Inspector Maigret would be oh so proud of this compelling character who has you on his corner throughout this well thought out escapade.
Despite all the great actors here who rely makes this movie work so well is the script. Original, interesting, unpredictable and thoroughly entertaining this is exactly how to make a great mystery thriller. Each actor is at their blessed best and has a field day playing these flamboyant individuals. So will you!
Oh, and all the murders are deliciously staged. How it all turns out will leave you guessing to the very end. One can expect a fourth film in the series to be undoubtedly green lit and get made soon - Perhaps to be filmed in the great mysterious Pacific Northwest. You never know.
Out of the Nest(G) * * * *
Royal Flush!
Asian powerhouse China and Thailand combine forces with the help of the Americans to bring forth Out of The Nest. In quite the departure from the action-driven releases that Well Go USA is so famous for they have made the incredibly smart move by bringing this animated tour de force to North American audiences. All done in English this animated lark is fit for children and adults - and the action crowd. It's available now on digital and through Amazon on Blu-ray.
Vivid colours combine with ancient tradition as this storybook fantasy has it all. Thrills, comedy, spills and chills and a winning story that relates to succession of an empire await all audiences craving for a fun time! . Set in Ancient China and told over the decades we see the turmoil that is brewing in the territory known as the Kingdom of Castilia.There they have a ritual that at the start of the new year the leaders, king and queen, typically get a hair cut. And it's quite the honour for the chosen barber to do the deed.
Somehow hapless part-time delivery boy barber in training Arthur is the go to guy for this hair cutting honour. Little does he know that this dream gig becomes a bit of a nightmare as Art is propelled into a do or die situation when an evil entity decides to take control of the throne.
You just can't trust anyone in high places Arthur soon finds out as he gets tapped for a dangerous mission. With evil closing in alongside a wicked wizard it's up to this make-shift hero to save the day .
Exciting, original, unpredictable and a whole lot of fun Out of the Nest combines charm with danger in this exciting family oriented tale. See it !
Nuremberg(PG) * * * *
Never Again!
A stellar cast brings one of the world's darkest moments to light in Nuremberg. At a time when pure evil is engulfing the world there is no better time to bring out this movie. Maybe some people can ( and will) learn from history. You see a movie like Nuremberg sheds light In an uncompromising way on what can ( and did ) happen when a lunatic took power and nearly destroyed the world and an entire race. Perhaps the racist mayors or Toronto and New York should take note. Now showing at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres around BC this Sony Pictures Classics Mongrel Media release is a must see movie.
Bleak and somber and made with lots of heart and soul Nuremberg of course looks at the trial of the infamous Nazi generals and officials responsible for the mass murder of innocent Jews and others during World War 2. This was a real genocide not the false lies perpetrated by left leaning ideologues and misfits being pedaled today.
Stark footage of the concentration camps shown during the trial brings it all home. With a stellar cast Nuremberg takes us back in time to show how the roots of all evil took hold. Brilliant direction by James Vanderbilt who co-wrote the story leaves no stone unturned as he dives deep into the lead-up to the trial and the psychological warfare that develops between its two principal participants..
Even before this courtroom drama begins it's the very thought of a trial that lures you in. Hatched in the United States Michael Shannon is brilliant as an American judge tapped with the vision of arranging a trial from the ground up. No one thought Justice Robert H. Jackson could pull off the impossible but against all odds he did. From there we're off to the races as preparations for the trial of the century. (sorry O.J.) begin.
Headlining the trial are the notorious General Hermann Göring and American Doctor Douglas Kelley who's brought along to pick the German's mind. Russell Crowe (Gladiator) gives an uncanny performance as the evil Hitler henchman almost making him appear to be likeable in a slick, sick, sordid sort of way with former James Bond baddie Rami Mallek (Queen) simply brilliant as the psychologist set to spar with this madman architect of doom.
Powerful, insightful and meaningful Nuremberg is a must see reflection on the worlds darkest era and a wake-up call to what is currently unfolding today in real time courtesy of out to lunch terrorist sympathizers and their deranged Allies. Wake up world.
Roofman(PG) * * * *
Second Chance?
Incredible and intense. Two words that perfectly describe the events depicted in Roofman. And smart! All these elements come together in the highly unexpected and thoroughly entertaining Roofman, the latest crowd- pleaser from Paramount Films now showing at Cineplex Cinemas and Lionsgate Films across beautiful British Columbia.
Now more than ever security matters. And so it did back in the 1980s. Or so we thought. Based on a true - yes true - story. Roofman recounts the tumultuous life of family man Jeffrey Manchester. Once a solider, always a soldier charts a troubled course for Jeffrey as upon his return home like so many other veterans he faces problems not entirely of his own making.
Likeable Channing Tatum (White House Down) relies on all his charm and bravado as he navigates his way in an effort to provide for his young family. Short of funds this good old boy relies on some petty crimes to provide the necessities of life for his young daughter and twin (?) baby boys. All that military training comes in handy as Jeffrey sees an opportunity to rob the Golden Arches themselves.
In a crime wave that makes the recent $100,000,000 Pink Panther robbery at The Louvre seem like child's play Jeff's crime spree involves robbing Some 45 local McDonalds restaurants along with the odd Burger King. Done with kid gloves in a nice sort of way this master criminal treats his victims oh so nice. But, as we all know, sooner or later all good things come to an end.
One would have thought Jeffrey would have learned his lesson when sent to jail. But no, not this guy. Missing his family somehow Jeff manages to break free. Back in civilization and again short of funds our misaligned misguided boy returns to what he knows best - crime. So the chase is on as the state Keystone Cops try to nab a career criminal who just wants to get by - and see his kids once again.
That second life is a bit "healthier" as our Clouseau ditches all those greasy burger profits for wholesome toys with Toys R Us becoming target #1. In between capers this ultimate loner/loser manages to form a friendship with a new lady played coyly by Kirsten Dunst ( Spider-Man)in a zestful new friendship.
Unpredictable, funny and sad Roofman hits the triactor and is all fun from the get go. So hard to believe but so damn engaging director and co-writer Derek Cianfrance hits all the right notes and delivers a knockout movie fit for all ages,
With family and love at its core Roofman shows the length a decent dad will go to in hopes of bettering himself and his family.
Kiss of the Spider Woman(PG) * * *
True Confessions!
Musicals can be hit or miss affairs. Acclaimed director Bill Condon (Chicago) brings his A game to KISS of the Spider Woman. No relationship to pop culture's Peter Parker this sly look at political ,upheaval and intrigue in 1980s Argentina cuts right to the chase. CHeck out this dynamic drama from Mongrel Media at Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark theatres around B.C.
People who like live theatre will quickly get into the story behind this film. Inspired by the hit novel Kiss of the Spider Woman does indeed weave a complex web. Taking place when Argentina was under the grips of a tyrannical government the action here all revolves around two cell mates. You see the maniacal warden is out to get a pivotal revolutionary thought to be behind all the political unrest. So a devious plot is hatched to ring the truth out of him by hook or by crook - or fatalistic charm,
Roommates mater so when hardened revolutionary Valentín Arregui Paz meets up with wayward homosexual Luis Molina sparks do fly, albeit muted. Apart from the appalling conditions both actors Diego Luna and Tonatiu turn in bravado performances as the mismatched jail mates who somehow come together over an actress from the past.
Somehow a bond is created between these two young men over the romanticization of a beautiful actress from the past. All is not lost as extended dream sequences feature the joyous life of screen icon Ingrid Luna so well revealed by a sizzling Jennifer Lopez.
Flaming hot and energetic song and dance numbers contrast with the dire straights of these two prisoners in a well thought out movie designed to perfection. Class struggle is never easy and here the filmmakers have come up with a solid effort despite the journey being perhaps just a bit too long. But the compelling captivating performances make up for that.
Bone Lake(PG) * * * *
Chiller Thriller Killer!
Maybe I should have added "kink" to my description of Bone Lake. And why not. About as kinky ( and pleasing. ?) as it gets wicked sensuality comes your way in this stylized thriller from Route 504PR now freaking folks out in a good (?) sort of way at countless Cineplex Cinemas and Landmark Theatres across B.C.
Everyone needs a vacation. So it's not that surprising that Diego and Sage are all hot to trot to get to know each other just a bit better at a rather secluded mansion somewhere in the countryside in the middle of nowhere. Ideal casting sees Maddie Hassan and Marco Pigossi as the vacationing pair who are caught off guard with the arrival of another couple. Blame air b and b for the mishap. Not!
Perhaps a bit younger and happier are the oh so beautiful and handsome Sin and Wil. Let's just say these two are a bit more " Worldly" in their attitudes. Hot as _ _ _ _ are Andra Nechita and Alex Roe who together with their newfound house,area m fe to work things out with this room share. Ah, but remember that this is an old large house with lots of history - and secrets. So in a few short days - or hours - an intricate web of lies, honesty and deceit develops among this foursome. Where it all ends leaves lots of blood on the floor as what was supposed to be an idyllic vacation truly turns into a nightmare from hell.
Blood-soaked fun is definitely on the table in this sexually provocative psychological thriller. Just how well you know your partner is a big part of this macabre offering that is really a cut above most slasher films. Solid writing, imaginative and creatives makes Bone Lake a definite sexy horror thriller that drives on raw emotion, fear and sexuality run wild. Why even the posters for this horror flick are campy and ideally convey the terrible things that readily await this foursome, and we 're definitely not talking about a friendly game of golf here. Hardly.
Ideal for the Halloween witching season this suspense thriller is definitely not for the squeamish or first date material. It's real good in a bad sort of way.
Affinity(PG) * * * *
Punch-UP!
My oh my. The accent is on action in the rather lively , to put it mildly actioner Affinity. Go to studio when it comes to either action or crime story films Well Go USA Entertainment is in the zone which is perfectly exemplified by their latest offering which is now available on digital.
No one likes war. More often than not many returning soldiers have difficulties upon their return to "normal" life. Soldier boy Bruno is no exception to this rule. Hot off the battlefield tangling with terrorists the highly respected ex U.S. Navy Seal is facing all sorts of difficulties upon his return to regular civilian life. Perfect casing sees Chilean martial arts star Marco Zara easily makes the transition from the ring to the screen. And the good thing is that this guy can act!
Another surprise comes Bruno's way when he meets a beautiful young woman. Her name is Athena but turns out to be something of a mystery . Actress Jane Mirro convincingly plays the mysterious girl whose sudden departure triggers a plan by new roommate Bruno. Can you say search and destroy stateside? Well I surely can!
Director Brandon Slagle seems to know what people want and that built-' martial arts fan base will certainly flock to this film as well they should. Short and sweet part sci-fi but mostly action-packed Affinity is a curious. Original and widely wildly entertaining movie.
Vancouver Film Festival 2025 - The Scout(PG) * *
Movies 101
Lots and lots and lots of people are involved in the movie industry in B.C. They don't call Vancouver Hollywood North for nothing. Now those curious about "cashing in" on this growing economic sector will find The Scout rather appealing. Part of the 2025 Vancouver International Film Festival this movie is timely and informative. Notice how I didn't say exciting.
Let's follow the day to day life and grind of an up and coming location scout here. Now this story can take place wherever they make a movie or television show. Just what a location scout does is well represented. Apart from sending out flyers to elicit places to shoot the movie shows the dynamics of the production when the key crew members pay visits to potential locations. Nothing is cut and dry here as both money and egos are on the line as the filmmakers and home/business owner go through the motions in hopes of closing a deal. And the rest, as they say, is history. And that's a wrap!
Showtimes:
Friday Oct 10. 6:15 pm. The Cinematheque
Saturday Oct 11. 3:30 pm. VIFF Centre
