REVIEW: Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara on Nintendo Switch

Koa and the Five Pirates of Mara is a delightful Nintendo Switch platform game that takes players on an action-packed journey through the vibrant world of Mara. In this loving tribute to classic platforming adventures, you join the series favourite Koa and her trusty friend Napopo as they traverse wild islands, dodge cunning traps, and face off against formidable bosses.

One of the game's standout features is the diversity of the world it offers. With eight distinct worlds to explore, each with its own theme, traps, and bits of story, players will find themselves constantly engaged and eager to discover what lies ahead. From sandy beaches to bubbling volcanoes, the islands are charming and colourful, filled with secrets and collectibles that beckon exploration.

The gameplay is both exciting and accommodating, catering to different playstyles. Players can choose to race against the clock and aim for speed-running medals or take a more leisurely approach to soak in the beauty of each level while collecting shells, the main currency in the game. Collectibles scattered throughout the islands further add to the replay value, as they can be used alongside shells to purchase cosmetic upgrades for your character, boat, and even rebuild the city of Qälis.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/07/review-koa-and-five-pirates-of-mara-on.html

REVIEW: Resident Evil: Death Island - Starring Matthew Mercer, Nicole Tompkins and Kevin Dorman

Resident Evil: Death Island is a pulse-pounding, action-packed extravaganza that takes the Resident Evil animated series to new heights of excitement and terror. As a fan of the franchise, I can confidently say that this film does not disappoint, delivering a gripping and immersive experience from start to finish.

The storyline, which weaves together multiple timelines and characters in a seamless and captivating manner. The film skilfully takes us back to the harrowing events of 1998 during the Raccoon City incident, setting the stage for the high-stakes action that follows in the present day. The inclusion of familiar faces from the Resident Evil video games, such as Leon S. Kennedy (Matthew Mercer ), Jill Valentine (Nicole Tompkins), and Chris Redfield (Kevin Dorman), adds a nostalgic and satisfying element for long-time fans, while newcomers will find themselves quickly drawn into the engaging narrative.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-resident-evil-death-island.html

REVIEW: Hidden Strike (2023) - Starring Jackie Chan and John Cena

Starring Jackie Chan and John Cena, this thrilling Chinese-American action film combines the classic buddy cop dynamic, exemplified by Jackie Chan's iconic style, with masterful fighting choreography, creating an exhilarating cinematic experience.

Directed by Scott Waugh, the story revolves around two elite soldiers who are entrusted with the perilous task of leading a group of civilians through a treacherous path filled with gunfire and explosions in Baghdad's infamous "Highway of Death," known as one of the world's most dangerous roadways. Jackie Chan portrays Luo Feng, a military officer turned private security contractor, while John Cena plays Chris Van Horne, a former Marine.

The plot thickens as Luo Feng discovers that an assault on a Chinese-owned oil refinery is just a part of a larger scheme to steal valuable oil resources. As fate would have it, Van Horne's was unwittingly part of a team that hijacks two buses from Luo Feng's convoy on the same deadly highway. This encounter sets them against each other, but they soon realize they share a common enemy. Forced to confront their misconceptions, they form an unlikely partnership as they unite to thwart the sinister plan.

Under the direction of Scott Waugh, the film seamlessly blends heart-pounding action, camaraderie, and high-octane sequences, delivering an entertaining and adrenaline-pumping watch for action enthusiasts.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-hidden-strike-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Barbie (2023) Starring Ryan Gosling, John Cena, Rob Brydon and Tom Stourton

Strangely they have released an adult film called Barbie, that is based on a doll made by Mattel for young girls. I felt like I had to watch it, since that is what I do, and I found this film to be something totally unexpected. To find out why, read on.

In the hellhole realm of Barbieland, a bizarre community of bullying, toxic and oppressive Barbies thrive within a matriarchal society. These women are self-assured, narcissistic and accomplished, holding essential positions as doctors, lawyers, and politicians, while their Ken counterparts are held down, treated poorly, left to be uneducated, and ultimately oppressed, and as such they are left to only pursue leisurely pursuits at the beach. Amidst this, we find Beach Ken (Ryan Gosling ), who longs for a closer bond with Barbie but faces her rejection in favour of her being a bully and ruling with an iron fist in what can only be described as a fascistic, authoritarian manner.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-barbie-2023-starring-ryan.html

REVIEW: Miasma Chronicles on XBOX Series X/S

Miasma Chronicles, a captivating tactical role-playing video game developed by The Bearded Ladies and published by 505 Games. The game is set in 2023, a post-apocalyptic version of the United States. Blending turn-based tactics with stealth game mechanics, this game immerses players in a world devastated by an enigmatic force known as the miasma, a substance that can transform or eliminate all living beings.

In the game, players embark on an epic journey alongside Elvis, a young man who was left as a baby in the care of a robotic older 'brother' in the mining town of Sedentary. His mother's departure, however, bestowed him with a mysterious glove that grants him the power to control the dangerous miasma.

The quest begins as Elvis and Diggs, the robotic caretaker, traverse the post-apocalyptic wasteland in search of answers. The secrets they seek have the potential to alter the course of human history forever, motivating them to push forward despite the dangers that lie ahead.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/07/review-miasma-chronicles-on-xbox-series.html

REVIEW: God Is a Bullet (2023) - Starring Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Maika Monroe, and Jamie Foxx

New intense American action thriller "God Is a Bullet" hit the screens, brought to life through the creative vision of writer and director Nick Cassavetes. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Maika Monroe, and Jamie Foxx. Drawing inspiration from Boston Teran's 1999 novel of the same name, it takes audiences on a gripping journey.

The story revolves around Detective Bob Hightower (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), who is faced with a heart-wrenching tragedy when he discovers that his ex-wife has been brutally murdered, and his teenage daughter has been abducted by a sinister satanic cult. Driven by an unwavering determination, Hightower decides to confront the cult himself, not waiting for authorities to act. With courage and resilience, he dauntlessly ventures into the secretive world of the cult, desperate to rescue his daughter from their clutches.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-god-is-bullet-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Oppenheimer (2023) - Starring Cillian Murphy

Well, it was this or the Barbie movie, and I really don't want to watch that pile of trash so I thought I would check out the big epic biographical thriller film of 2023, written and directed by Christopher Nolan.

In the Cavendish Laboratory, a young and exceptionally talented J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) grapples with feelings of homesickness and anxiety while under the tutelage of the demanding Patrick Blackett (James D'Arcy). Struggling with these emotions, he commits a reckless act by leaving a poisoned apple, which almost leads to a catastrophic event when Niels Bohr (Kenneth Branagh), a visiting scientist, is almost affected. However, Oppenheimer intervenes just in time to prevent the tragedy.

After completing his Ph.D. in physics at the University of Göttingen, Oppenheimer returns to the United States, driven by a passion for advancing research in quantum physics. He takes up teaching positions at the University of California, Berkeley, and also dedicates his time to the California Institute of Technology. Along his journey, he encounters influential figures like Ernest Lawrence (Josh Hartnett), the 1939 Nobel Prize winner who emphasizes the practical applications of scientific discoveries. He also develops an on-and-off romantic relationship with Jean Tatlock (Florence Pugh), a member of the Communist Party USA, who sadly meets a tragic end through suicide. Later in life, Oppenheimer marries Katherine Puening (Emily Blunt), a former Communist biologist.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-oppenheimer-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Stray Blade on Xbox Series X/S

Published by 505 Games and made by Point Blank Games, comes Stray Blade, an action role-playing video game.

Immerse yourself in an action-packed adventure and become a master of intense combat while exploring the enigmatic ruins of an ancient civilization. Legends speak of Acrea, the Lost Valley, a wild and potent place, concealed by overgrowth. You play as Farren West who stumbled upon this forgotten realm but met a tragic end. However, fate smiles upon you as you miraculously return to life, but with a cost - you are now bound to this land.

Take up the challenge to reclaim your freedom and embark on a quest to restore balance to this war-ravaged and desolate place, guided by your loyal companion, Boji. Traverse towering throne rooms once inhabited by giant god-kings and explore long-lost cities, unearthing their long-held secrets. But beware, as you delve deeper, even deadlier adversaries will cross your path. Get ready for an adventure that shapes the world, influenced by your discoveries and the raging forces at play.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/07/review-stray-blade-on-xbox-series-xs.html

REVIEW: The Mother (2023) - Starring Jennifer Lopez, Joseph Fiennes and Lucy Paez

I had "The Mother" queued up to watch for a while now, but it kept getting pushed back by some of the bigger releases out there, well I finally got chance to see the film tonight, but was I happy I finally saw it? or did I waste my time? Read on to find out.

In a thrilling tale of intrigue and danger, an anonymous U.S. military operative, known as "The Mother," (Jennifer Lopez ) becomes entangled in a dangerous web of arms smuggling and romance. She brokers a deal between ex-SAS Captain Adrian Lovell (Joseph Fiennes) and the notorious arms dealer Hector Álvarez (Gael García Bernal). Unbeknownst to her, both men are involved in child trafficking.

Complicating matters further, The Mother finds herself romantically linked to both Lovell and Álvarez, and she eventually becomes pregnant. Horrified by the revelation of their criminal activities, she decides to take a stand and seeks help from the FBI, becoming an informant to expose the child trafficking ring.

During an intense interrogation at a secure location with FBI Special Agent William Cruise (Omari Hardwick), The Mother's world is shattered when Lovell launches an attack on the safe house. In the ensuing chaos, Agent Cruise is shot and other FBI agents lose their lives. Displaying remarkable bravery and ingenuity, The Mother saves Cruise's life by devising a time-delayed bomb that incapacitates Lovell.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-mother-2023-starring-jennifer.html

REVIEW: The Flood (2023) - Starring Nicky Whelan and Casper Van Dien

Not since Lake Placid has we had a truly great Alligator/Crocodile type film, well The Flood tries it's best to do just that, but does it succeed? Read onto find out.

The Flood begins with Sommer (played by Devanny Pinn) and Clarence (played by John Garrett Mahlmeister) seeking shelter from Hurricane Clarence in an abandoned building. While they hope it will shield them from the rain, they soon discover that the storm isn't the most menacing aspect of their situation.

Simultaneously, the storm forces a bus carrying a group of dangerous criminals, Big Jim (portrayed by Eoin O'Brien), Floyd (played by Mike Ferguson), Jox (played by Randall J. Bacon), Angelo (played by Bear Williams), and Russel Cody (played by Casper Van Dien), to seek refuge overnight in a simple jail in a small town. The jail is overseen by Sheriff Jo Newman (played by Nicky Whelan).

Both the criminals and the sheriffs soon learn that the torrential floodwaters have attracted a horde of ravenous alligators to the town. The alligators have capitalized on the storm's aftermath to infiltrate the small town, including the jail, and now everyone finds themselves in a deadly hunt for survival.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-flood-2023-starring-nicky-whelan.html

The Truth about John of God: A Controversial Figure Unveiled

Introduction

In recent times, the spiritual healer João Teixeira de Faria, popularly known as "John of God," or "João de Deus" has gained significant attention worldwide for his alleged miraculous healing abilities. However, behind the veil of fame and adoration lies a troubling truth. This article aims to shed light on the controversial aspects of John of God's life and practices, based on documented reports and investigations.

Early Popularity and Charismatic Appeal

John of God rose to prominence in the small town of Abadiânia, Brazil, where he claimed to channel the spirits of deceased doctors and perform miraculous healings. Thousands flocked to his Casa de Dom Inácio de Loyola, seeking hope and relief from various ailments. His charismatic appeal and alleged ability to diagnose illnesses without prior medical knowledge made him an attractive figure to many desperate individuals seeking a cure.

Full Article at

http://www.badpsychics.com/2023/07/the-truth-about-john-of-god.html

REVIEW: Confidential Informant (2023) - Starring Mel Gibson, Kate Bosworth, Nick Stahl and Dominic Purcell

In this gripping crime thriller featuring Mel Gibson, the story revolves around two narcotics agents on a mission to apprehend a cop killer amid a crack epidemic. In their pursuit of leads, Moran (played by Dominic Purcell) and Thorton (portrayed by Nick Stahl) resort to bribing a junkie informant. To secure a future for his wife (Kate Bosworth) and son, Moran involves the informant in a dangerous plot.

One day, while playing catch with his son, Moran suddenly collapses in agony. His wife, Anna, urges him to seek medical attention. However, Moran has already consulted three doctors, all of whom have diagnosed him with stomach cancer and given him a limited time to live. Coincidentally, Frank (played by John Cassini), another police officer, mentions at a bar how much financial support the department provides to the family of an officer who dies in the line of duty.

Full Review

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-confidential-informant-2023.html

REVIEW: Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One

It has been 5 years since we had a Mission Impossible film, so we are probably due one, and this is number 7 in the series, and it is only a Part One so we have more on the way. Reading the synopsis, it looks like the plot is not at all original, an AI has become self-aware and the world is at threat. This plot point has been used countless times for decades, a super powerful computer program, and all-powerful AI, the only question now is if the Mission Impossible franchise has hit a brick wall and run out of ideas? or if the plot doesn't matter because the film is good enough regardless. Read on to find out.

We start the film with the experimental stealth capabilities of the Russian submarine Sevastopol being put to the test, suddenly its onboard instruments detect another submarine launching torpedoes at it. In response, the captain of the Sevastopol orders a retaliatory strike. However, to their surprise, the other submarine vanishes along with its torpedoes. In a strange turn of events, the Sevastopol's own torpedo inexplicably changes course and strikes the submarine itself, resulting in the tragic death of everyone on board.

Meanwhile, Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise), a skilled operative, receives a package containing crucial information about his next mission. He learns that he must travel to the Namib desert to retrieve half of a key from his ally, Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson). However, Ilsa is currently being hunted down with a substantial US$50 million bounty on her head. Ethan heads to Namibia, where he confronts a team of bounty hunters and manages to fend them off. During this encounter, he briefly reunites with Ilsa and advises her to lay low for the time being.

Full Review

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-mission-impossible-dead.html

REVIEW: The Out-Laws (2023) - Starring Adam DeVine, Nina Dobrev and Pierce Brosnan

The Out-Laws, directed by Tyler Spindel, is a thrilling action-comedy film just released on Netflix on July 7, 2023. The screenplay was written by Evan Turner and Ben Zazove, with Adam Sandler, Adam DeVine, and Allen Covert serving as producers. The main cast includes Adam DeVine, Nina Dobrev, Ellen Barkin, and Pierce Brosnan.

The story revolves around Owen Browning (Adam DeVine), a young bank manager eagerly preparing for his upcoming wedding to his fiancé Parker (Nina Dobrev).

However, his plans take an unexpected turn when his bank falls victim to a daring heist carried out by the notorious "Ghost Bandits." What makes matters even more intriguing is that Owen strongly suspects his future in-laws, Billy and Lilly McDermott (played by Pierce Brosnan and Ellen Barkin, who have recently arrived in town, might be the culprits behind the robbery. (Obviously they are, otherwise the film would be a bit naff)

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-out-laws-2023-starring-adam.html

NEWS: Testament: The Order of High Human - Releasing on July 13th on PC (Steam)

From Fairyship Games comes a new first-person single-player action-adventure called Testament: The Order of High Human.

Testament is an immersive action-adventure game that incorporates RPG and Metroidvania elements, taking place in the enchanting fantasy realm of Tessara. Following the treacherous actions of your brother Arva, madness has plagued the land. Assume the role of the immortal king of High Humans and embark on a perilous journey to ensure the survival of the realm.

Traverse through the captivating landscapes of an ancient civilization, where you'll encounter deranged followers of a mad dictator, devout worshippers of a blood god, and impending dangers. As you strive to reclaim your lost power, you'll face numerous challenges and unravel the truth behind the chaos, ultimately leading to a confrontation with your brother Arva.

Within Testament, you'll experience a groundbreaking form of swordplay presented through a first-person perspective. Discover innovative combo techniques that allow you to unleash devastating attacks on your adversaries. Additionally, unlock a wide array of magical spells capable of ensnaring, immobilizing, and immolating your enemies. Harness the power of your bow to exploit the weak points of your foes. Prepare to be captivated by the versatility and intricacy of Testament's combat mechanics.

Full Article and Trailer at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/07/news-testament-order-of-high-human.html

REVIEW: Knights of the Zodiac (2023) Starring Mackenyu, Famke Janssen, Madison Iseman, Diego Tinoco, Mark Dacascos, Nick Stahl, and Sean Bean.

Knights of the Zodiac, also known as Saint Seiya: The Beginning, is a 2023 fantasy action film directed by Tomek Bagiński. It is based on the popular Manga Saint Seiya by Masami Kurumada. The film features a talented cast including Mackenyu Maeda, Famke Janssen, Madison Iseman, Diego Tinoco, Mark Dacascos, Nick Stahl, and Sean Bean.

The story revolves around Seiya (Mackenyu), a young orphan determined to find his kidnapped sister, Patricia. During a fierce fight with Cassios (Nick Stahl) in an underground fighting arena, Seiya unleashes an extraordinary blue light, leaving everyone amazed.

After the battle, Seiya encounters Docrates (TJ Storm) and Alman Kido (Sean Bean), who reveal themselves as allies. Kido warns Seiya that his ex-wife, Vander Guraad (Famke Janssen), is actively searching for him. Realizing the danger they face, Docrates is captured by Guraad's warriors, and Seiya and Kido are relentlessly pursued. With the assistance of Mylock (Mark Dacascos), Kido's loyal assistant, they manage to escape after an exhilarating chase.

Confused and overwhelmed, Seiya demands answers from his newfound companions. However, before he can receive any explanation, Mylock unexpectedly knocks him unconscious. During his unconscious state, Seiya relives the memories of his sister's abduction.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-knights-of-zodiac-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Tad The Lost Explorer - Craziest and Madness Edition on Nintendo Switch

Did you know that Tad is also known in some parts of the world as Tadeo Jones! In the UK and US, he is Tad Stones. And with that said, it should be a good indicator as to what kind of game this is, especially considering the release of a certain Hollywood film in recent weeks.

Let's check out the official blurb and see what how the game makers describe the game.

"Tad The Lost Explorer - Craziest and Madness Edition takes you on an exciting new global adventure to uncover the origins of a mysterious curse accidentally released by Tad. Join the lost explorer and his faithful companions as they travel through bustling cities on an epic journey solving intricate puzzles, facing off against crazy adversaries and reconstructing parts of the past to reveal the secrets of the Emerald Tablet.

Finally, players will be able to immerse themselves even deeper into the story of Tad's quest in the all-new 3D cinematics. Relive this thrilling adventure through both comic style and 3D cinematics and keep an eye out for hidden details and references."

Based on the Spanish cartoon film, and the game released last year on PC, Tad The Lost Explorer is a 2.5D platform game.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/07/review-tad-lost-explorer-craziest-and.html

REVIEW: Extraction 2 - Starring Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani and Adam Bessa

For the life of me I don't recall seeing Extraction, yet it seemed to be well liked by people, so thought I would check out the sequel. Extraction 2 is an American action thriller film directed by Sam Hargrave and written by Joe Russo

After enduring a perilous ordeal during a previous mission in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Tyler Rake (a former Australian SAS Operator turned black ops mercenary played by Chris Hemsworth) decides to retire from his mercenary profession and seek solace in a secluded cabin nestled in the Austrian countryside. It is there, amidst his efforts to recuperate, that Tyler's tranquillity is unexpectedly interrupted by the arrival of a stranger (Idris Elba). This individual implores Tyler for his assistance in a mission of utmost urgency, to rescue Ketevan (Tinatin Dalakishvili), the sister of his ex-wife Mia, and her two young children, Sandro (Andro Japaridze) and Nina (Marta Kovziashvili), from the clutches of danger in Georgia.

Ketevan's plight stems from her ill-fated marriage to Davit Radiani (Tornike Bziava), one of the co-founders of Georgia's most notorious crime syndicate. Davit's actions, including the heinous act of throwing a DEA agent off a bridge, have led to his imprisonment. The American authorities, determined to prevent any form of bribery, have placed immense pressure on the prison system. In a desperate bid to remain close to his family, Davit coerces Ketevan and her children to reside within the confines of the prison. However, the deplorable living conditions and Davit's abusive behaviour push Ketevan to reach out to Mia (Olga Kurylenko) for assistance.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-extraction-2-starring-chris.html

REVIEW: The Wandering Earth 2 - Starring Wu Jing and Andy Lau

Recently I saw the 2019 film The Wandering Earth, yes, I actually watched a film for fun, and not just to review it! Well, I loved that film, so thought I would check out The Wandering Earth 2, which is actually a prequel to the first film. The first film, set in the future tells the story of a group of astronauts and rescue workers who are guiding the Earth away from an expanding Sun, using 10,000 "earth engines", while also attempting to prevent a collision with Jupiter. The Wandering Earth 2 tells the story of how the Earth got to that point, and all the disasters that humanity had to overcome before they could even begin the journey. I will say this now, I would probably advise you to watch The Wandering Earth 2 before watching The Wandering Earth, and although it does "spoil" a few covert plot points, I think it is preferable to watch in that order.

In the face of the Sun's inevitable expansion into a red giant, posing a threat to Earth's survival within a century, the United Nations undergoes a transformation, rebranding as the United Earth Government (UEG). Determined to save humanity, the UEG initiates the ambitious Moving Mountain Project. This program aims to construct a multitude of massive ion engines capable of propelling Earth out of the Solar System towards a new habitable star system. Simultaneously, the UEG takes the controversial step of shutting down and outlawing the Digital Life Project (DLP), a radical faction advocating for digital immortality through mind uploading technology, basically what Elon Musk is planning. Despite public scepticism, increasingly violent protests ensue as the UEG stands firm on its decision.

The initial phase of the Moving Mountain Project focuses on building and testing an ion engine on the Moon. However, in 2044, a series of terrorist attacks orchestrated by well-armed supporters of the banned DLP target UEG facilities. These extremists hack into the space elevator system, unleashing a coordinated drone assault and infiltrating the elevator vehicles. Their ultimate goal is to destroy the Ark Space Station, a vital supply hub for the lunar operation. Although UEG trainee astronaut Liu Peiqiang (Wu Jing) and his comrades manage to thwart the hijackers, they are too late to prevent the detonation of one elevator. This destructive act, facilitated by counterfeit passes, causes irreparable damage to the top of the space elevator, leading to the catastrophic crash of both the elevator and the Ark Space Station back to Earth.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/07/review-wandering-earth-2-starring-wu.html

REVIEW: Curse of the Sea Rats on Xbox

Another day, another review, this time Curse of the Sea Rats on Xbox, which is described as a "ratoidvania", basically a platform game with anthropomorphized rats as the main characters.

Everything is hand drawn with 2.5D animation, and looks fantastic, you can tell that a lot of time and love as gone into the animation. Main characters are 2D, with the backgrounds being 3D.

"Embark on the epic journey of four prisoners of the British empire, transformed into rats by the notorious pirate witch, Flora Burn. To regain their human bodies, they will have to fight dangerous bosses, uncover the secrets of the vast Irish coast, and ultimately capture the witch who cursed them."

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/07/review-curse-of-sea-rats-on-xbox.html