REVIEW: The Nun II (2023) - Starring Taissa Farmiga and Bonnie Aarons

"The Nun II" is a worthy addition to The Conjuring Universe franchise, delivering a solid dose of horror and suspense that surpasses its predecessor. Directed by Michael Chaves, the film manages to create a genuinely ominous atmosphere, and the old-world European locations and gloomy cinematography contribute significantly to the film's eerie tone.

One of the standout aspects of the movie is its ability to provide scares that genuinely make your skin crawl. Michael Chaves orchestrates violent mayhem, often involving terrified young girls, in a way that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The performances of Taissa Farmiga as Sister Irene Palmer and Katelyn Rose Downey as Sophie are commendable, and the film's finale scene is a nail-biting and memorable moment. The suspense and jump scares are executed impressively, keeping the audience engaged and occasionally startled.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-nun-ii-2023-starring-taissa.html

REVIEW: Ghostrunner 2 on Xbox - A Thrilling Upgrade to the Cyberpunk Slasher Genre

If you loved the first Ghostrunner, you're in for a treat with its sequel, Ghostrunner 2. Building upon the foundations of its predecessor, the game offers a thrilling and immersive experience with several notable improvements. This hardcore first-person slasher keeps you on the edge of your seat as you navigate a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk world, making it one of the standout action games of the year.

Much like its predecessor, Ghostrunner 2 features fast-paced, one-hit-kill combat, where agility and precision are paramount. You'll dash, slide, and execute enemies with your trusty sword, and the game introduces new ninja tricks to customize your playstyle. The addition of a stylish motorcycle segment adds variety to the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-ghostrunner-2-on-xbox-thrilling.html

REVIEW: The Exorcist: Believer (2023) - Starring Leslie Odom Jr

"The Exorcist: Believer" takes the long-running and iconic horror franchise back to its terrifying roots in this sixth installment. Directed by David Gordon Green and co-written with Peter Sattler, the film offers a solid continuation of the original 1973 classic. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel in terms of the horror genre, it delivers a compelling and visually engaging story with a strong emphasis on faith and community.

"Since his wife's death, Victor has raised his daughter Angela alone. After Angela and her friend return from a three-day disappearance with missing memories, they begin displaying frightening behavior. Victor's best hope is to find the only person who has seen anything like this before: Chris MacNeil, whose haunting experience with her daughter Regan may be the key to combating ultimate evil."

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-exorcist-believer-2023-starring.html

REVIEW: Five Nights at Freddy's (2023) - Starring Josh Hutcherson

"Five Nights at Freddy's" brings the popular video game franchise to the big screen in a way that will thrill fans and newcomers alike. This supernatural horror film successfully captures the essence of the games while offering its own unique spin on the story.

"Can you survive five nights? The film follows Mike (Josh Hutcherson) a troubled young man caring for his 10-year-old sister Abby (Piper Rubio), and haunted by the unsolved disappearance of his younger brother more than a decade before. Recently fired and desperate for work so that he can keep custody of Abby, Mike agrees to take a position as a night security guard at an abandoned theme restaurant: Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria. But Mike soon discovers that nothing at Freddy's is what it seems. With the aid of Vanessa, a local police officer (Elizabeth Lail), Mike's nights at Freddy's will lead him into unexplainable encounters with the supernatural and drag him into the black heart of an unspeakable nightmare."

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-five-nights-at-freddys-2023.html

REVIEW: Agatha Christie - Murder on the Orient Express on Playstation

"Agatha Christie: Murder on the Orient Express" for PlayStation is a delightful journey into the world of detective mysteries that will appeal to fans of Hercule Poirot and lovers of classic whodunits. Set in 2023, this game reimagines Christie's iconic murder mystery in a way that both honours the source material and adds a fresh twist to the narrative.

One of the standout features of this game is its gameplay, which draws clear inspiration from the more famous Sherlock Holmes games. The introduction of a "mind map" and similar mechanics adds an exciting dimension to the detective work, requiring players to read and pay attention to small details. It's a refreshing change from the hand-holding approach in many modern games, encouraging players to engage their intellect and keep real-world notepads handy to jot down clues.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-agatha-christie-murder-on-orient.html

REVIEW: Slotherhouse (2023) - Starring Lisa Ambalavanar, Sydney Craven and Tiff Stevenson

"Slotherhouse" is a 2023 horror-comedy film that takes an outrageously absurd premise and runs with it. Director Matthew Goodhue, along with writers Bradley Fowler and Cady Lanigan, have created a film that will undoubtedly leave audiences in stitches, albeit with a few moments of cringe-inducing shock.

The story revolves around Alpha, a psychopathic sloth from Panama, and Emily Young's quest to become the president of Sigma Lambda Theta. What starts as a seemingly innocent pursuit quickly turns dark as a string of fatalities implicates Alpha in the murders. This sets the stage for a wildly unconventional horror-comedy.

Full Review at 

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-slotherhouse-2023-starring-lisa.html

REVIEW: Kickback Slug: Cosmic Courier on Nintendo Switch - An Innovative Space Adventure

Kickback Slug: Cosmic Courier is a unique addition to the platform game genre, offering a refreshing twist on traditional mechanics. In this game, you take on the role of Slippy, an intergalactic slug with a rather unusual set of skills. Utilizing the kickback from his guns and thrusters, Slippy embarks on a challenging journey to recover lost parcels on a mysterious planet. While the game may not be for everyone due to its novel control scheme, it's a colorful and entertaining experience that's well worth a try.

The game's standout feature is undoubtedly its innovative control system. As you guide Slippy through a series of obstacles, you'll need to master the art of using weapon kickback to move around. Shooting in one direction propels Slippy in the opposite direction, making for a quirky and physics-based gameplay experience. This unique control mechanism can be both rewarding and frustrating, depending on your preferences. It challenges players to think differently and adds a layer of complexity to the game that's both intriguing and occasionally daunting.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-kickback-slug-cosmic-courier-on.html

REVIEW: The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria on PC (Epic Games Store)

The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria is a thrilling addition to the gaming world, offering players a unique experience set in the iconic Middle-earth universe. This title takes a different approach from many other Lord of the Rings games, focusing on survival crafting within the depths of Moria, and it does so admirably.

The game kicks off with a dwarf's adventure, assisting Gimli in what should have been a simple task - opening a sealed runic door in Moria. The unexpected twist of a massive explosion and a cave-in serves as the catalyst for the player's journey through the dark and perilous mines of Moria. Survival is the name of the game, as players must constantly monitor their health, hunger, and stamina, all while battling menacing orcs, goblins, and other lurking horrors.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-lord-of-rings-return-to-moria-on.html

REVIEW: My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 (2023) - Starring Nia Vardalos and John Corbett

"My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" takes audiences back into the Portokalos family's whirlwind of humor and heartfelt moments. Directed and written by Nia Vardalos, this third installment in the beloved franchise follows the iconic characters through another series of amusing escapades in Greece. While the film offers its fair share of touching moments and scenic beauty, it falls short in terms of innovation and humour, resulting in a solid, though somewhat lackluster cinematic experience.

The film's strengths lie in its genuine, heartwarming narrative and the stunning Greek backdrop that serves as a visual feast for the eyes. Nia Vardalos and John Corbett reprise their roles as Fotoula "Toula" Portokalos and Ian Miller, delivering sweet and convincing performances that resonate with fans of the franchise. Their chemistry is as strong as ever, adding to the film's charm.

Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-my-big-fat-greek-wedding-3-2023.html

REVIEW: SAW X (2023) - Starring Tobin Bell and Shawnee Smith

"Saw X," the tenth installment in the iconic Saw film series, offers a fresh perspective on the Jigsaw legacy while staying true to its gruesome roots. Directed by Kevin Greutert and written by Peter Goldfinger and Josh Stolberg, this film takes a bold step by serving as a direct sequel to the original "Saw" (2004) and a prequel to "Saw II" (2005). With an $13 million budget, the filmmakers embarked on a journey that would both satisfy long-time fans and intrigue newcomers to the franchise.

Tobin Bell's performance as John Kramer/Jigsaw continues to be a highlight of the series, and in "Saw X," he delivers what is arguably his best performance in any of the films. Bell's portrayal is essential to the Saw franchise's success, and it's clear that without his commanding presence, these films would not have achieved the same level of popularity.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-saw-x-2023-starring-tobin-bell.html

REVIEW: Metal Max Xeno Reborn - PS4

Metal Max Xeno: Reborn takes players on a reimagined journey through the desolate wasteland of Dystokyo, offering a classic turn-based fighting experience coupled with creative vehicle and weapon customization. Developed as a nonlinear, open-world JRPG with real-time battles and vehicular combat, the game successfully merges exploration, combat, and customization, albeit with some shortcomings.

One of the game's notable strengths is its solid foundation in classic turn-based combat, which works seamlessly and is complemented by the intricate customization options for both weapons and vehicles. The joy of modifying tanks and experimenting with various firepower options is a standout feature, allowing players to tailor their playstyle and strategy to suit their preferences.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-metal-max-xeno-reborn-ps4.html

REVIEW: The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) - Starring Benedict Cumberbatch

"The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar," a 2023 American fantasy short film directed and co-produced by Wes Anderson, presents a delightful fusion of Anderson's distinctive directorial style and the magical storytelling of Roald Dahl. Based on Dahl's 1977 short story, the film holds true to Anderson's unique visual inventiveness while introducing an original presentation rarely seen in the world of cinema.

The plot centers around Henry Sugar, a wealthy bachelor who funds his gambling habits with his inheritance. Discovering the tale of Imdad Khan, a man with remarkable sight, Henry learns to harness his abilities to read playing cards. He embarks on a philanthropic journey, utilizing his newfound powers to establish charitable ventures worldwide. The film masterfully portrays Henry's extraordinary journey, culminating in a poignant end that blends magic and mortality.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-wonderful-story-of-henry-sugar.html

REVIEW: Sonic Superstars (2023) on Xbox

Sonic Superstars, the brainchild of Arzest and Sonic Team, is a delightful blend of nostalgia and contemporary gaming. This 2023 platformer successfully channels the magic of the classic Sonic the Hedgehog games, incorporating side-scrolling gameplay, vivid 2.5D graphics, engaging mini-games, and a stellar soundtrack. However, it stumbles slightly in fully replicating the breakneck speed that characterized the iconic Sonic titles of the 1990s.

At the heart of Sonic Superstars are the entertaining mini-games, designed to challenge players as they strive to collect the elusive Chaos Emeralds. These mini-games inject excitement and variety into the gameplay, showcasing a different dimension of Sonic's world and providing a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Accompanied by the vibrant 2.5D graphics, reminiscent of the beloved classic Sonic games, the visual experience is both nostalgic and modern, enticing players into a vivid and captivating world.

The auditory aspect of the game is another strong suit, with the soundtrack standing out for its brilliance. It not only complements the gameplay flawlessly but also takes players on a nostalgic trip down memory lane, amplifying the overall gaming experience.

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-sonic-superstars-2023-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: No One Will Save You (2023) - Starring Kaitlyn Dever

"No One Will Save You" is a rare cinematic gem in the world of science fiction horror, written, directed, and produced by Brian Duffield. Starring Kaitlyn Dever as Brynn, the film captivates audiences with its thought-provoking narrative, unique silent approach, and exceptional performances.

The most striking feature of this film is its near absence of dialogue, comprising only five words throughout its 93-minute runtime. Yet, this lack of spoken words does not diminish its storytelling; instead, it adds an innovative layer to the movie. Kaitlyn Dever's performance is nothing short of extraordinary, relying on expressions and sounds to convey a myriad of emotions and effectively command the screen.

The plot revolves around Brynn, a seamstress grappling with loss and solitude. The intrusion of humanoid aliens into her life sets off a series of events, offering an extraterrestrial twist to the classic home invasion thriller. The film delves deep into themes of abandonment, alienation, loneliness, self-forgiveness, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Full Review at
http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-no-one-will-save-you-2023.html

REVIEW: Bang-On Balls: Chronicles on XBOX

Bang-On Balls: Chronicles, despite its peculiar name, offers a delightful and content-loaded experience for those seeking a lighthearted, bouncy adventure. As BOB, the bouncy hero, players embark on an epic quest through destructible open worlds, showcasing glorious 3D platforming and combat inspired by some of the genre's best.

Many of the problems I had with the original Steam release, seemed to have been ironed out for the Xbox release, although I still hate the camera angle, I much prefer a fixed camera, unfortunately one of my biggest complaints here is that sometimes you just cant see what you are doing as the environment gets in the way.

The game begins with a whimsical introduction, placing players in a warehouse with minimal instructions. Exploring this space unveils collectibles, including film reels crucial for unlocking levels. The initial stage serves as a tutorial, providing a simple obstacle course to acclimate players to the game's mechanics.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/10/review-bang-on-balls-chronicles-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose - Starring Simon Pegg, Minnie Driver and Christopher Lloyd

"Nandor Fodor and the Talking Mongoose" is a film that embraces the strange and unordinary, presenting a delightful blend of mystery and comedy. Directed by Adam Sigal and featuring an outstanding cast including Simon Pegg, Minnie Driver, Christopher Lloyd, and the unique voice of Neil Gaiman, the movie certainly has its eccentric charms.

One of the standout aspects of the film is the captivating production design by Andrew Holden-Stokes and the timeless atmosphere captured by cinematographer Sara Deane. The world they've created exudes a peculiar yet charming quality, adding to the film's allure. The narrative itself is wonderfully bizarre, a good kind of weird that keeps the audience engaged throughout the journey.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-nandor-fodor-and-talking.html

REVIEW: The Kill Room (2023) Starring Uma Thurman, Samuel L. Jackson and Joe Manganiello

"The Kill Room," directed by Nicol Paone, presents a darkly comedic critique of the art world, blending crime and humour in a storyline that follows an art dealer, Patrice (Uma Thurman), teaming up with a hitman, Reggie (Joe Manganiello), and his boss, Gordon (Samuel L. Jackson), in an accidental foray into the avant-garde. The film manages to strike a balance between silliness and charm, though it falters in parts.

The film commences with a slightly awkward introduction, but as the plot unfolds, it gains momentum, presenting a clever narrative that navigates the complexities of art, crime, and financial desperation. The storyline finds its footing as Gordon proposes a money laundering scheme that inadvertently thrusts Reggie into the art world's spotlight.

The main cast's performances stand out, anchoring the film and making it enjoyable to watch. Uma Thurman, although starting with a hesitant stride, quickly finds her comfort zone, portraying a character grappling with dire circumstances. Jackson and Thurman deliver captivating performances, portraying charismatic yet flawed characters, adding depth to the narrative.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-kill-room-2023-starring-uma.html

REVIEW: Retribution (2023) - Starring Liam Neeson

"Retribution," directed by Nimród Antal and written by Chris Salmanpour, is a gripping action thriller that attempts to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. The film, a remake of the 2015 Spanish film "El desconocido," stars Liam Neeson as Matt Turner, a father pushed to his limits when faced with a life-threatening situation involving a bomb in his car.

Following Matt Turner, a successful Berlin based American businessman, and a doting father whose life takes a terrifying turn when driving his kids to school one morning he finds himself trapped in his car with a bomb under his seat, it will detonate unless he completes a specific series of tasks, and fast. The gripping narrative unfolds as Matt is forced to follow the bomber's instructions to protect his family. The plot weaves a tale of suspense, intrigue, and betrayal as Matt races against time to uncover the truth and save his loved ones.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-retribution-2023-starring-liam.html

REVIEW: My Animal (2023) - Starring Amandla Stenberg and Bobbi Salvör Menuez

"My Animal," directed by Jacqueline Castel, presents a blend of supernatural horror, romance, and the struggles of teenage life in a small northern town. The film, while not without its merits, ultimately falls short due to its plot execution, uneven acting performances, and a lack of genuine horror elements.

The plot revolves around Heather, an aspiring goalie in a hockey-obsessed town, grappling with her tumultuous relationship with her alcoholic mother, Patti. Heather's budding romance with newcomer Jonny, a tormented figure skater, forms a central aspect of the story. Their relationship unfolds amidst the challenges of Heather's hidden sexual orientation and a familial curse that transforms her into a feral wolf under the full moon.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-my-animal-2023-starring-bobbi.html

REVIEW: Vacation Friends 2 (2023) - Starring John Cena

"Vacation Friends 2," the sequel to the 2021 hit "Vacation Friends," endeavours to continue the raucous and comedic legacy of its predecessor. Directed and written by Clay Tarver, this instalment delivers on its promise of risqué humour, but falters in recapturing the original's unadulterated charm.

One of the shining aspects of "Vacation Friends 2" is its unapologetic embrace of dirty jokes and raunchy humour, doubling down on the hilarity that made the first film a hit. The irreverent banter and outrageous situations provide ample laughs, ensuring the film's comedic prowess remains intact.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-vacation-friends-2-2023-doubling.html

REVIEW: 57 Seconds (2023) Starring Josh Hutcherson and Morgan Freeman

"57 Seconds," directed by Rusty Cundieff, is an American indie science fiction thriller that delves into the intriguing intersection of technology, health, and time travel. Based on a story by E.C. Tubb, the film follows the journey of Franklin Fox (Josh Hutcherson), a tech blogger obsessed with the potential of advanced AI technology to revolutionize health. Sneaking into a conference by powerful CEO Anton Burrell (Morgan Freeman), Franklin ends up in possession of a mysterious ring that can send its wearer 57 seconds back in time, setting off a moralistic tale of choices, power, and consequences.

The plot is anchored by Hutcherson's portrayal of Franklin, a character torn between the allure of newfound abilities and the ethical implications of his actions. Morgan Freeman's Anton Burrell serves as a contrasting figure, embodying the struggle between good and evil within the film. The limited budget is apparent in the film's visual execution, but considering the constraints, it's more constructive to focus on the film's storytelling and ambitious ideas.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/10/review-57-seconds-2023-starring-josh.html