Dive into the not-too-distant digital era where artificial beings aren't just a figment of our imagination but a reality we’re going to be forced to deal with. Full Moon Entertainment brings a playful twist to the AI realm with AIMEE: THE VISITOR. This isn't your typical flashy CGI, as the film's opening claims “The motion picture you are about to watch features a character using modern AI technology. AImee herself is not portrayed by an actor, nor was she designed using digital special effects. She is, in fact, the very first AI-created femme fatale in film history.” this is AI taking center stage. I won’t lie; this film posed many questions for me, even in terms of covering it. My deciding factor is that AI didn’t write the movie and that Full Moon Features is an independent studio. Still being a weird grey area that I don’t know 100% how I feel about, I decided to watch it and say it was an intriguing experience.

This film pleasantly surprised me with how much I ended up loving it. It's a slow burn that requires some time to truly appreciate what you're watching.

The magnetic Anna May Wong leaps from obscurity in the US and shines brighter than ever across the pond in PICCADILLY, a genuinely riveting tale. Transported to the heart of the roaring twenties, viewers are given a sneak peek into the lives, the glamour, and the unanticipated twists of the Piccadilly Club. Oh, and when Shosho (Anna May Wong) steps out of the dark corners of her dishwashing duties into the enchanting glow of the stage? Hold on to your seats because it's an unforgettable ride!

If the chill of a Minnesota winter makes you think of cozying up indoors, think again. FINDING HER BEAT whisks you off your couch and dives deep into the pulsating world of taiko drumming right from the snow-covered landscapes of this northern state. There’s so much heart inside of those wooden drums!

Attention all seekers of the extraordinary, the creepy, the spooky, and those who love the darkest corners of their imaginations! Andrew Valenza, fresh off his release of the Sci-Fi journey “Empire of the Void,” invites you to strap in and join the adventure with THREE SHORT HORROR STORIES. These tales of terror are more than just your average spooky bedtime stories; this is a thrilling ride through suspense, deep-seated emotions, and the always-intriguing unknown. From voices of the beyond, a trip down the brutal fight against cancer and the mystery that comes along, and a journey into the emptiness of space, Valenza will keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re looking for a classic Noir film filled with mysterious murder plots, crooked cops, and a thick plot then TOUCH OF EVIL will likely be right up your alley. Stepping back into the 1950s in a grimy and happening U.S./Mexico border town this dark tale follows Mike Vargas, a Mexican cop who has just had his honeymoon derailed when the car of a wealthy businessman explodes right in front of him. During his investigation, Vargas takes the audience on a ride-along as the intense story unravels.

FAREWELL MY CONCUBINE celebrates three glorious decades with a 4K facelift that enhances its beauty and expands its narrative with an additional 20 minutes (which makes a massive difference for the epic.) For those who haven't had the pleasure yet, this cinematic gem isn't just a nostalgia trip—it boasts a spot on Time magazine's prestigious top 100 films roster. Oh, and did we mention this is the only Chinese film that has won the renowned Palme d’Or trophy?

Let's face it; taking a stroll down cinematic memory lane can be a tricky endeavor. Spin-offs are seldom met with consistent praise, but that should change now! Enter THE CONTINENTAL: FROM THE WORLD OF JOHN WICK, which navigates the world of 1970s New York City and leaves us marveling at the grandeur of an old hotel. Instead of just flashing glimpses of familiar sights, the series entices us into the hidden alleys of young Winston Scott's life, portrayed brilliantly by Colin Woodell, as we pull back the curtains of the infamous hotel's enigmatic beginnings.

This film does show the events of a mass shooting, a deeply troubling issue that sadly confronts us all too frequently in America. It does not shy away from the harsh truths surrounding this devastating event. Be prepared, for there are moments in this film that are profoundly difficult to watch, as it delves into the gravity of its subject matter.

Jennifer Baichwal brings her directorial prowess to the fore in INTO THE WEEDS, weaving a story larger than life. Intensely, the documentary flings open the doors to the life of Dewayne 'Lee' Johnson, a former groundskeeper, who's now locked in a David vs. Goliath tussle with Monsanto, now part of Bayer's portfolio.

As we enter the realm of CONVICTING A MURDERER's fifth episode, "Manitowoc's Web," the story unfolds further into an intricate puzzle centering around Steven Avery. No sidelined as an ancillary portion of the story, the Manitowoc Sheriff's Department claims a central role, hinting at being more involved than previously let on, especially when a $36 million lawsuit looms large over Manitowoc County.

When you marry the worlds of groundbreaking medicine and heartfelt narratives, you get DESIGNER $HIT, a delightful cinematic offering from director and subject Saffron Cassaday. This is a front-row seat to the exhilarating world of Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) and the whirlwind of emotions accompanying such a journey. Yep, I couldn’t have imagined typing that sentence before watching this, either.

In RELAX, I'M FROM THE FUTURE, Luke Higginson bravely defies the usual doomsday tales associated with time-travel stories. Instead, he opens a window to a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow, a perspective that hooks and holds.

Prepare to hop aboard a “reel” journey (okay, it sounded funnier in my head) highlighting the ebbs and flows of Jessica Lange’s career. Over a span that encapsulates a little more than a decade, we witness the metamorphosis of an artist who combines vulnerability with an undying spirit in every performance. Through each frame, from the brooding streets of FRANCES to the heartbreaking performances in LOSING ISAIAH, Lange steals our attention every time she appears on the screen.

Beth B broke the mold of traditional cinema, making waves in an industry where sticking to convention is all too common. Originating from the iconic “No Wave film movement” in New York during the end of the 20th century, she's sculpted a space for herself that few can parallel. But think again if you're in for a regular movie night. SEX, POWER, AND MONEY: FILMS BY BETH B isn't here to fit the norm but to challenge it. These films will make you think and will, at times, make you uncomfortable.

Ever wondered how the picturesque world of Melbourne could turn into a backdrop for a gripping emotional saga? Lee Galea, known for his sharp cinematic vision, gives us just that in SINGLE OUT. Here, the audience is invited on a journey led by Adam, an individual striving to find himself amidst a whirlpool of emotions, discoveries, and, yes, those pesky twists in life that you don’t see coming. Credit goes to Will Hutchins, who brings Adam to life, allowing his raw emotions and vulnerability to resonate with the audience.

In John Isberg's FINAL SUMMER, past meets present in a dance of dread and delight. Transported to Camp Silverlake in 1991, you'll feel the retro pull of the 80s while the glint of the neon 90s looms large. But there's more here than just a nostalgic tug; lurking shadows threaten to rewrite the tales of summer camp we once knew. Can all of this be blended to form a cohesive scare fest?

Embark on an escapade with DARK ASSET, helmed by Michael Winnock. Here, the future's tech marvels meet the dusty cobwebs of espionage. Within moments, Byron Mann's portrayal as John, an undercover agent with a past deeper than most, becomes the center of our attention. Alongside, the cold, calculating Dr. Cain, played by Robert Patrick, and the multifaceted Jane, brought to life by Helena Mattsson, set the cinematic stage.

Returning to when Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington were more than glamour shots and magazine spreads. They were shaping history, one fierce strut at a time. Apple TV+'s THE SUPER MODELS invites viewers on this whirlwind adventure, highlighting how these dazzling divas weren’t just hanging pretty in showrooms but were setting fashion's gold standard.

When you think of New York's gritty streets during the transformative era of the '60s and '70s, you might envision neon lights, bustling avenues, and perhaps a cowboy? Nancy Buirski delivers just that with DESPERATE SOULS, DARK CITY AND THE LEGEND OF MIDNIGHT COWBOY, serving us a feast of cinematic nostalgia. It's as if she's inviting us to hop into a retro time machine, complete with groovy tunes and vintage film reels, to revisit that bygone era.

If you don’t own a Blu-ray player, now is the time to go out and buy one! Sure, this is also available on DVD, but the stunning 2K restoration is evident in almost every frame of this must-own set on Blu-ray! Delve into the vibrant epoch where French cinema was turned on its head, thanks to the EARLY SHORT FILMS OF THE FRENCH NEW WAVE. Here's a time capsule, a shimmering anthology, ready to whisk you off to an era spanning the late 1950s to the mid-1960s. Imagine a world bursting with innovation, where mavericks like Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, Agnès Varda, Melvin Van Peebles, and more were busy painting the canvas of cinema with new strokes and fresh colors.

MY SAILOR, MY LOVE is a raw, authentic, and exceptional drama featuring an astounding performance by James Cosmo.

Dive into the captivating universe of the Roy dynasty with HBO's SUCCESSION. Here, the towering media colossus, Waystar RoyCo, is the stage, and Logan Roy's looming decision to possibly step down is the main event we’re focused on. But brace yourself: this isn't your typical family feud or corporate saga. It's an intricately crafted story of ambition's highs and lows, the ties that bind (or sometimes strangle), and humanity's ever-shifting ethical dance.

The narrative of this true crime story continues to unfold when they transport us through intricate plot paths where every nook and cranny springs a surprise. Episode 4 of CONVICTING A MURDERER: SHIFTING TIMELINES stands tall as a testament to this very art of storytelling.

Step into the vibrant world of the 1980s with Martha Coolidge’s VALLEY GIRL. It’s an electrifying journey that resonates with both heartbeats of the past and universal truths of the heart. Deborah Foreman plays the role of Julie Richman, a stylish suburbanite with grace and flair. When she unexpectedly crosses paths with Randy, a “punk” from Hollywood magnificently portrayed by Nicolas Cage, her world gets chaotic and turned upside down.

If you haven’t heard of Harley Wallen, you should remedy that; my guess is within a few years, the entire horror community will know the name. This is the third film I’ve reviewed of his, following ASH AND BONE and THE DEVIL’S LEFT HAND and this was my favorite of the three! BENEATH US ALL is like a mesmerizing dance between historical folktales and the sharp echoes of dark fantasies. With the resurrection of the age-old vampire, Frey (Yan Birch), we’re thrust into a cinematic adventure that spans time and emotion.

Embarking on a journey back to the spirited year of 1969, THE FIRST TIME unravels a youthful misadventure brimming with aged awkwardness that makes the film even more amusing than it was at the time. Our journey begins with three teens; their paths intertwine with the mysterious Anna, encapsulated with grace by Jacqueline Bisset. A missing passport, a misconception, and suddenly, our teenage trio believes Anna is involved in a centuries-old profession. With enthusiasm (and a dash of naiveté), they decide to aid her across the U.S. frontier, only to be met with unexpected lessons on growing up.

In the realm of cinematic enjoyment, the dynamic duo of Peter and David Paul, affectionately known as the Barbarian brothers, have consistently embodied the spirit of entertainment. "Double Trouble," released in 1992, further solidifies their reputation as purveyors of sheer amusement. This offbeat action-comedy stands as an epitome of the B-movie genre, unabashedly embracing its irresistibly "so-bad-it's-good" allure, ensuring an uproarious and captivating viewing experience.

I entered this documentary as an Elephant 6 Recording Co. fan, but I emerged deeply enamored with both the label and its visionary creators.

Paul Schrader brought his skills of world building to the seedy part of town from Taxi Driver to Hardcore a film he wrote and also directed. HARDCORE may not be the classic that Taxi Driver is but it is clearly cut from the same cloth.

You know those films you watch, and after the credits roll, you don’t know how you feel about it, yet the longer you think about the film, the more you appreciate it? That’s the case here; after screening the movie, I had difficulty processing the mix of genres, the film's aesthetic, the varied styles of acting, etc., yet after thinking about it for a few days, I fell hard for this movie in the best way possible! From the mind of Pablo Larraín springs a captivating cinematic experience, EL CONDE, where the icy chapters of Chile's past beautifully blend with classic vampire tales. Instead of presenting Augusto Pinochet as a textbook dictator, we find him reincarnated as another type of dark creature, lurking and longing in the corridors of an ancient manor. This isn't just a story; it explores legacy, fame, and an insatiable hunger for power.

ROOTS OF FIRE stands as an outstanding documentary that delves deep into the vibrant tapestry of Louisiana's Cajun music scene.

Hang tight, live-action fans, because BATMAN: MASK OF THE PHANTASM is once again gliding into the cinematic spotlight, and trust me, it sets the bar high every time! No more lurking or skulking for this animated sensation—it bravely dives right into the heart of Batman's intricate past, meshing it with the mysterious allure of the Phantasm. As we traverse Gotham’s alleyways, what unravels isn't just a battle for territorial dominance but a deep dive into the psyche of a hero grappling with inner dilemmas and challenges. This 4K release is perhaps the pinnacle of the Batverse, stunning yet still respectful to the source material; the transfer is what all animation deserves.

When the fast-paced beats of Boston streets meet the serene whispers of the countryside, magic happens. This is the cinematic charm we get in THE AUTOMATIC HATE. Here, under Justin Lerner's keen directorial eye, Joseph Cross’ Davis is shown transitioning from a city dweller to a seeker of family secrets. This story, painted in broad strokes, highlights the ever-compelling tug of our family roots.

Director Rebekah McKendry was behind the 2022 Shudder movie GLORIOUS, one of my most recommended 2022 horror films. Can ELEVATOR GAME, her follow-up, strike gold again? This time, we’re drawn into a web of digital myths and fears. Amid our modern age, it calls us back to the oldest human instinct: curiosity. At its core is Ryan (Gino Anania,) whose determination to uncover the puzzling disappearance of his sister leads him to a group of internet personalities eager to clickbait the next haunting tale.

Elis & Tom is a peak in Bosa Nova music history. The Brazilian music album features Elis Regina and Tom Jobim bringing their massive talents together to craft the album. Regina had wanted to record Jobim’s songs with him for years, and in 1974, over a few weeks, the recordings finally happened. Like the recently released Beatles Get Back recording sessions, Elis & Tom was one of those magical moments when artists come together at just the right time to create magic, and fortunately, a 16mm camera was running to preserve those sessions.

Introducing the 13-Film Collection of The Cisco Kid by VCI Entertainment! This is an absolute must-have for both die-hard fans of this beloved character and enthusiasts of Westerns!

Great intrigue, sweet romance, and exciting sword fights are sights to be witnessed in the 1923 silent classic THE SPANISH DANCER. Set during a turbulent time between France and Spain, this film spins a tale that brings together kings, queens, nobles, and commoners in a thrilling, funny, and heartbreaking manner that plays out like an intense game of chess. It’ll have you in your seat pondering about what could happen next.

There was a time when I thought I wasn’t a fan of Dario Argento’s films! Come to find out, I just wasn’t a fan of SUSPIRIA (his highest-rated overall movie). I haven’t seen everything he’s done, but of the seven others I’ve seen, I’ve loved them all. Dario Argento has a knack for keeping us on our toes in cinema. And back in 1982, he whipped up TENEBRAE – a delectable mix of mystery, horror, and some good old Italian cinematic flair. Imagine landing in Rome to launch your novel, only to find life imitating art in the most twisted ways. That's the whirlwind journey that Peter Neal, brought to vibrant life by Anthony Franciosa, is on.

From the lips of another beloved Pachino portrayal, Michael Corleone, “Just when I thought I was out, they pull me back in!” These words could not have rung truer for “retired” gangster Carlito when he gets set free from a thirty-year jail sentence after just serving five. Back on the streets and loaded with nothing but his smarts and a dream of escaping to paradise, Carlito navigates life in the world that he thought he left behind, but in truth, he was left behind by the world.

The Postman Fights Back is a very exciting film to watch because we witness a group of martial arts icons come together in the infancy of their careers. Ronnie Yu is a director many may only know from horror films such as Freddy vs. Jason and Bride of Chucky, but he built his career on Hong Kong martial arts films with The Bride with White Hair being of note. Also, a young Chow Yun-Fat is part of the ensemble cast. Finally, fight direction is handled in this film by Woo-Ping Yuen, yes, the man responsible for the beautiful fights in movies like Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.

This western film treads a well-worn path we've journeyed down countless times before. Its formulaic nature makes it a resounding and unequivocal pass.

Here’s a unique opening for one of my reviews! Have you ever considered an ancient Swedish ballad and its potential connections to modern horror? Well, "Töres dotter i Wänge" is just such a tune, and its tale of a father’s relentless quest for justice after his daughter Mari's harrowing incident is our story for the day, from Ingmar Bergman's 1960 film Jungfrukällan (The Virgin Spring) to the 1972 film by the master of horror, which was Wes Craven’s low budget directorial debut The Last House on the Left.

Embarking on the cinematic journey that GHOULIES and GHOULIES II offer is like hopping aboard a train ride — one moment, you're wandering the echoing halls of haunted mansions, and the next, you're swaying to the rhythmic chaos of a theme park filled with mischievous creatures.

Halfway through writing this review, I decided that I wouldn’t even give the most minor spoilers regarding the “twist” in this film. If you want to watch this, don’t read more about it than you have to, and just jump in for the experience! LITTLE JAR explores solitude's vast realms and the creative bursts it can inspire in a world where silence can speak louder than words. Ainsley, a character Kelsey Gunn impeccably embodies, is trying to wade through 2020's unexpected challenges. She basks in the break from the daily grind, but soon, life's playful mischief, like glitchy gadgets, paints her surroundings in hues of silence. This film genuinely got to me in the best way possible; I’ve never felt so heard!

Welcome to the vibrant landscape where Jeanne (Pomme), a spirited 24-year-old, grapples with the constraints of a militarized existence. Under her father's vigilant gaze, a devoted law enforcer, Jeanne's dreams aren't draped in riches but bathed in the enthusiasm for independence. A sentiment so vividly rendered when a shop window meets its shattering fate at her hands.

Prepare to be absolutely captivated by a story that takes you on an extraordinary journey through the depths of the human soul. THE DEAD MOTHER is a cinematic masterpiece that weaves a complex tapestry of crime, remorse, and ultimately, redemption.