REVIEW: The Boogeyman (2023) Starring Sophie Thatcher, Chris Messina, Vivien Lyra Blair, and David Dastmalchian

The Boogeyman, directed by Rob Savage and based on Stephen King's 1973 short story of the same name, presents a chilling tale of family trauma and supernatural terror. While the film may not fully capture the depth of its source material, it does a good job creating a haunting atmosphere and has strong performances all round from the cast.

The story revolves around the Harper family, particularly the two sisters, Sadie (Sophie Thatcher) and Sawyer (Vivien Lyra Blair), along with their therapist father, Will (Chris Messina). Struggling to cope with the sudden loss of their mother, the family's world becomes even darker when a disturbed man named Lester Billings (David Dastmalchian) enters their lives. The encounter sets off a series of unsettling events, as the family becomes entangled in the deadly grip of an evil entity known as "The Boogeyman."

The film succeeds in creating an expertly calibrated atmosphere of dread. The visual style is memorable, with haunting imagery that lingers even after the credits roll. The performances, particularly those of the young cast members, contribute significantly to the film's effectiveness. Sophie Thatcher as Sadie and Vivien Lyra Blair as Sawyer manage to convey a convincing mix of vulnerability and determination, anchoring the audience's emotional investment.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-boogeyman-2023-starring-sophie.html

REVIEW: Minore (2023) from acclaimed director and visual effects maestro Konstantinos Koutsoliotas

"Minore," from acclaimed director and visual effects maestro Konstantinos Koutsoliotas, is a true marvel in the realm of horror cinema. Drawing on his expertise from collaborations on iconic films like "Cabinet of Curiosities," "1917," and "Guardians of The Galaxy," Koutsoliotas delivers an authentically Greek masterpiece that seamlessly weaves terror, folklore, and spectacular effects into a nightmarish tapestry. I say authentic, as I am Greek, so you can trust me on that.

The film introduces us to sailor William, portrayed by the talented Davide Tucci, who sets foot on the shores of Greece with a mysterious purpose. Amidst the vibrant tavernas and lively locals, he forms a connection with Aliki (Daphne Alexander), a trained dancer who is reluctantly working as a waitress in the bustling town. Their pursuit of Teacher whose real name is Nikodimos (Meletis Georgiadis), a master of the bouzouki, becomes intertwined with an eerie mist that heralds the invasion of otherworldly monsters.

As the town plunges into chaos, the film transitions from romantic intrigue, a man searching for the father he never knew, could it be teacher?, to a fight for survival. William and Aliki, joined by an eclectic group of locals, including the charismatic bar owner Pantelis (Christos Callow), must stand against the horrific creatures that emerge from the depths. What follows is an epic battle, encompassing everyone from musicians to tourists, as they unite to preserve their way of life.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-minore-2023-from-acclaimed.html

REVIEW: Strays (2023) - Starring Will Ferrell and Jamie Foxx

"Strays," is a 2023 American comedy film directed by Josh Greenbaum, a riotous ride through the lives of some very unconventional furry friends.

For those who revel in off-colour humour and are comfortable with a liberal dose of crude jokes and sexual innuendos, this film is an absolute must-see. (Watch the trailer below and you will understand instantly the type of film this is.)

The film's narrative revolves around Reggie, a naive Border Terrier, and his rocky relationship with his owner Doug, a drug addict with questionable motives. The story takes an unexpected turn when Reggie finds himself stranded and encounters a street-smart Boston Terrier named Bug. Joined by a cast of colourful canine characters, Reggie embarks on a journey that unveils the truth about his past and the mistreatment he endured.

The voice cast, led by Will Ferrell as Reggie, Jamie Foxx as Bug, and Isla Fisher as Maggie, delivers comedic brilliance that brings the dogs' personalities to life. The diversity of voices ensures each character is distinct and memorable.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-strays-2023-starring-will.html

REVIEW: Contraptions 3 on Nintendo Switch

Contraptions 3 continues the zany tradition of its predecessors, delivering a fun and imaginative puzzle-solving experience that fans of the series will appreciate. This game successfully combines creative contraptions and Rube Goldberg-style mechanics to entertain players with its unique challenges. However, while it offers simple and enjoyable graphics, it also carries some drawbacks that might hinder newcomers from fully embracing the eccentric charm.

The game features over 200 wacky puzzles spread across five distinct worlds, offering a substantial amount of content for puzzle enthusiasts to explore. Additionally, the ability to create custom levels and challenge friends to conquer them extends the game's replayability beyond its premade puzzles.

Each level tasks players with ridding the environment of monsters by crafting intricate contraptions. The core gameplay revolves around arranging objects in a way that triggers chain reactions, leading to the monsters' demise. Players can pause time to reposition, flip, or connect objects, allowing them to fine-tune their solutions before setting the contraption in motion. If executed correctly, a satisfying domino effect unfolds, leading to the monsters' ultimate defeat.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-contraptions-3-on-nintendo-switch.html

REVIEW: Mob Land (2023) - Starring John Travolta and Stephen Dorff

"Mob Land," starring John Travolta as Sheriff Davis, offers a suspenseful ride into the heart of a small town plagued by addiction and criminal schemes. The film excels in delivering unpredictable twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making it an engaging and heart-pounding action thriller.

Travolta's portrayal of Sheriff Davis brings depth to the character of a man nearing retirement, grappling with personal health issues while trying to maintain law and order in a town overwhelmed by challenges. His genuine interest in the young mechanic Shelby, played by Shiloh Fernandez, adds a human touch to the narrative, creating a relatable anchor for the audience.

The film takes an intriguing turn when Shelby, drawn into a misguided criminal plan concocted by his reckless uncle Trey (Kevin Dillon), becomes entangled in a violent sequence of events. The unexpected shift in the plot adds a layer of intensity to the story, showcasing the consequences of seemingly easy money. Stephen Dorff's portrayal of Clayton, the revenge-seeking enforcer from the New Orleans mafia, is a standout performance. Dorff's character is given the best lines, enhancing the eerie atmosphere of the film and leaving a memorable impression.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-mob-land-2023-starring-john.html

Interview with Boo Rhodes

When did you first become interested in horror stories and movies?

In the early 70s I would sneak up with my brother and watch Bob Wilkins on Creature Features on KTVU channel 2. I was 6 the first time I watched Night of the Living Dead on Creature Features and loved it. I became a fan of horror movies for a long time after. It was only natural because in the States we really celebrated Halloween back then.

At the time I was reading book like Black Beauty because I was really into horses but I think I started liking fantasy when our teacher read The Hobbit to us when I was 11 and my mom, knowing that I loved the Salem's Lot miniseries, bought me Salem's Lot the book with pictures from the miniseries and after that I was hooked on horror books. I think I was 13 when that happened.

What gave you the idea for your channel and getting on YouTube?

You know, I'm not even sure how I found out about the channel URMAKER, but I was listening to him while getting a story ready to send to a magazine and I realized he had tens of thousands of subscribers and was probably making some decent money. I thought how easy it would be so I turned my stories into videos and then realized how difficult it was to get views. I was totally wrong but I enjoy the process and reading to people.

Not all of the stories I tell are mine, but one day I hope to have more time to put more stories of my own out there.

Full Interview at

http://www.mastersofhorror.co.uk/2023/08/interview-with-boo-rhodes-by-david-kempf.html

REVIEW: The List (2023) - Starring Halston Sage and Christian Navarro

"The List" delivers a delightful blend of cheeky humour, romance, and self-discovery that keeps the audience entertained from start to finish. Led by the charismatic duo of Halston Sage and Christian Navarro, director Melissa Miller Costanzo crafts a light-hearted and engaging romantic comedy that hits all the right notes.

Halston Sage shines as Abby, a bride-to-be whose fairy tale engagement takes an unexpected turn when she discovers her fiancé's tryst with a celebrity from his "free pass" list. Faced with heartache and a desire for distraction, Abby teams up with her vivacious best friend Chloe (played with comedic flair by Chrissie Fit) to embark on a comical quest of her own. The mission? Pursuing her own list of celebrity crushes, including the hunky action star Mac West (Rich Morrow), the suave Sexiest Man Alive Cooper Grant (Gregg Sulkin), and the enigmatic Grammy-winning rapper Avon (Will Peltz).

The film takes a refreshing approach by placing Abby in the heart of Hollywood, guided by her friend Sam (portrayed by Shelley Hennig), a savvy talent agent who pulls out all the stops to connect Abby with her celebrity idols. As Abby navigates the glitzy world of stardom, she encounters a series of laugh-out-loud situations that keep the film's comedic momentum flowing.

"The List" thrives on its humorous moments, seamlessly blending witty dialogue with physical comedy. The chemistry between the characters, particularly Abby and Chloe, adds an endearing layer to the story, making their escapades in pursuit of fame and romance both relatable and hilarious.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-list-2023-starring-halston-sage.html

REVIEW: Pretty Girls Klondike Solitaire PLUS on PC (Steam)

I have covered many of the "Pretty Girls" releases, by now you should know the routine, take a classic simple to play game, wrap it within the Pretty Girls universe, and job done.

"Pretty Girls Klondike Solitaire PLUS" from ZOO Corporation delivers a delightful twist on the classic game of solitaire, immersing players in an anime-inspired world with Klondike rules. With its charming anime-style graphics, easy-to-play gameplay, and impressive presentation, this title adds a fresh layer of excitement to the timeless card game.

The game offers a unique twist by incorporating 11 beautiful girl characters, each with their own distinctive personalities and stories. Engaging with them adds an element of intrigue as you progress through the solitaire challenges. The diverse cast of characters, from cool beauties to Tsundere personalities, enhances the gameplay experience and gives players an incentive to clear stages and unlock stylish costumes for the girls.

The various difficulty levels add a layer of challenge to the traditional Klondike solitaire game, but also rewards players with costume changes as they make progress. Dressing up the characters in various outfits adds a fun and rewarding aspect to the game, offering a creative outlet for players to express their style preferences.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-pretty-girls-klondike-solitaire.html

REVIEW: The Engineer (2023) - Starring Emile Hirsch

"The Engineer," an action thriller written by the talented Kostas Kondilopoulos and directed by Danny A. Abeckaser, thrusts its audience into the heart of the turbulent political landscape of the 1990s Middle East. This gripping film, driven by intense performances and a harrowing plot, paints a vivid portrait of relentless determination in the face of danger and desperation.

Emile Hirsch takes on the role of Etan, a rugged expat whose unwavering commitment to completing a ruthless mission is both admirable and unnerving. Teaming up with Israel's security agency, Etan's relentless pursuit of the elusive Engineer is portrayed well, with Hirsch capturing the character's inner turmoil and strained relationships with his superiors and comrades.

Angel Bonanni delivers a captivating performance as Avi, a seasoned hitman and interrogator driven by personal vengeance. His portrayal adds depth to the story, giving viewers a glimpse into his tragic background and the violent methods he employs. Avi's turbulent journey from the shadows of political manipulation to a quest for retribution is both gritty and emotionally charged.

The film's plot navigates the treacherous waters of the early 1990s peace negotiations between Israel and Palestine, where a series of suicide bombings threaten to derail the fragile progress. As Etan and Avi tread different paths to apprehend the mastermind behind the attacks, the film intensifies its grip, exploring the two men's distinct approaches to achieving their shared goal. The narrative weaves together the brutality of their methods with the broader political landscape, crafting a tense atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-engineer-2023-starring-emile.html

REVIEW: The Texas Chain Saw Massacre on Xbox

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre video game manages to capture the grim essence of the iconic 1974 film in an asymmetric multiplayer online horror title. The game is set just before the events of the original 1974 movie.  This hide and seek style game places players in the shoes of either the infamous Slaughter family or their desperate victims, promising a chilling experience that stays true to the source material.

The main idea of the game is that three Slaughter Family players have to try to murder four helpless victim players, where as their job is to simply escape. The various playable characters all have their own unique stats and abilities to help them to either find the victims, or to escape the killers.

The job of the killers is to secure the area, make sure electric fences are turned on, doors are locked, traps set etc, and of course trying to kill the victims. The Cook character has the ability to add extra padlocks to doors and can use enhanced hearing to locate Victims, Johnny has a tracking ability, and Hitchhiker can lay down traps. You also need to feed blood to Grandpa, who is sat on a rocking chair in a different location each time you play, when given blood he uses a sonar sweep to highlight moving victims for a time.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-texas-chain-saw-massacre-on-xbox.html

REVIEW: Blue Beetle (2023) - Starring Xolo Maridueña

The film endeavours to soar with its impressive visual effects, seamlessly bringing to life the formidable armoured suit of the titular character. These visual spectacles, coupled with a competent soundtrack, contribute to an initial promise of an engaging cinematic experience.

However, beneath the surface lies a narrative riddled with discord. While the visual effects may shine, the choreography of action sequences often defaults to predictable CGI-laden skirmishes that lack the ingenuity necessary to truly captivate the audience.

A major stumbling block lies in the overt socio-political agenda that permeates the story, rendering it a veritable soapbox for "woke" messaging. The film's attempt to grapple with social issues and incorporate these themes into the characters' motivations often comes across as contrived and heavy-handed, overshadowing the underlying narrative.

Moreover, the film struggles with character depth and nuance. Almost every non-white character is depicted through the lens of victimhood, which curtails the opportunity for genuine character growth and complexity. Regrettably, this decision leads to a shallowness that hampers the film's emotional resonance.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-blue-beetle-2023-starring-xolo.html

REVIEW: The Monkey King (2023) - Starring Jimmy O. Yang and Bowen Yang

"The Monkey King" is a 2023 animated family film directed by Anthony Stacchi that attempts to bring the classic Chinese folktale to a contemporary audience. While it has its share of pros, including well-voiced characters, a blend of classic and modern storytelling, moments of humour, and a lively energy, the film also stumbles in certain areas, resulting in a mixed cinematic experience.

One of the standout features of the movie is the voice cast, with notable performances from Jimmy O. Yang as the Monkey King and Jolie Hoang-Rappaport as Lin. The characters come to life through their voices, adding depth and charisma to the narrative. The film's soundtrack complements the action well and enhances the emotional moments.

The martial arts scenes in the film are well-choreographed and add an exciting dimension to the story. They capture the essence of the Monkey King's legendary prowess and add an element of thrill for both young and older audiences. The attempt to distil the complex centuries-old tale into a quirky folktale that appeals to children is commendable and does result in some enjoyable moments for the target audience.

Full Review at

http://www.beentothemovies.com/2023/08/review-monkey-king-2023-starring-jimmy.html

REVIEW: Astro Flame: Starfighter - Xbox

Astro Flame Starfighter takes players on an exhilarating journey through the stars, offering a captivating blend of classic scrolling shooter gameplay and modern 3D graphics. Released on various platforms, including Xbox, this game promises a nostalgic yet cutting-edge experience that will leave players engaged and enthralled.

In Astro Flame Starfighter, players assume the role of a skilled spaceship pilot, venturing through 15 levels of intense, action-packed gameplay. The game's allure lies not only in its challenge but also in its stunning visual effects that amplify the immersive experience. Each encounter with relentless enemies becomes a visually impressive spectacle, and the satisfaction of eliminating them is truly gratifying.

The title excels at offering a range of features that enhance the gameplay. Upgrades to the spaceship and weaponry provide a strategic layer to the adventure, empowering players to face off against powerful bosses guarding each level. The game's various difficulty levels, along with the ability to toggle auto fire on/off, accommodate players of all skill levels. The 2.5D perspective and the freedom to move around the screen add depth to the gameplay, while the health bar system and the option to shoot down enemy projectiles enhance the tactical dimension.

Full Review at

http://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2023/08/review-astro-flame-starfighter-xbox.html