Author: Tony Cadwell
The balance between light and darkness is a fragile one, and Speak No Evil (2024) walks that delicate line with chilling precision—well, for the most part. Directed by James Watkins and starring James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, and Scoot McNairy, this English-language remake of the 2022 Danish psychological horror Gaesterne retains much of the unsettling tension of its predecessor while choosing a decidedly more mainstream route toward its finale. Speak No Evil: A Slow-Burn Story With the Weight of Politeness The story centers on Ben and Louise Dalton, played convincingly by Scoot McNairy and Mackenzie Davis, an American couple living in…
Zoë Kravitz’s debut feature as a director, Blink Twice, is visually stylish and intriguing in concept, but ultimately, it doesn’t quite live up to its potential. Marketed as a psychological thriller with timely social commentary, the film sets the stage for a gripping narrative yet falls short in its execution. There are certainly high moments that showcase Kravitz’s creative flair. Still, with an underwhelming story and uneven pacing, Blink Twice feels like a missed opportunity that leaves viewers longing for the movie they imagined while watching its trailer. Blink Twice: A Stylish Setup The plot revolves around Frida (Naomi Ackie),…
Longlegs was one of my most anticipated films of 2024. Directed by Osgood Perkins, with Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe front and center, the film promised to be a haunting and sinister addition to the horror genre. Between the striking marketing campaign spearheaded by Neon and the film’s comparisons to classics like The Silence of the Lambs and Se7en, I was ready to be blown away. Unfortunately, Longlegs didn’t live up to the hype for me. While packed with potential and some chilling moments, it felt more like an FBI procedural thriller than a true horror movie. Here’s why. Osgood…
From the moment Late Night with the Devil debuted at the 2023 SXSW Festival, whispers of its ingenious, genre-bending approach to horror began circulating among critics and audiences alike. Now, it’s clear those whispers were well deserved. Directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, this supernatural horror film isn’t just another possession story—it’s an audacious, unsettling exploration of ambition, the occult, and the limits of live television. With its ingenious mix of found footage and period-accurate late-night TV aesthetics, coupled with one of David Dastmalchian’s most masterful performances to date, Late Night with the Devil positions itself as one of 2024s…
When a movie like Abigail taps into the legacy of Dracula’s Daughter (1936), it carries the weight of high expectations, especially among genre enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of classic horror. Abigail (2024), directed by the talented Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett of Radio Silence fame (Ready or Not, Scream), rises to the challenge while firmly staking its claim in the vampire sub-genre. It’s not just a movie—it’s an experience, a glorious blend of gothic atmosphere, visceral thrills, and compelling performances, spearheaded by a phenomenal turn from Alisha Weir as Abigail. A Dance of Mystery and Terror From the moment…
Heretic (2024), directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, is a psychological horror-thriller that drives viewers into the tangled labyrinth of belief, skepticism, and moral ambiguity. Known for their compelling work on A Quiet Place, Beck and Woods push boundaries once more with this eerily grounded tale. Released by A24, a studio infamous for delivering polarizing horror films, Heretic is among their rare successes, standing tall alongside Talk to Me as a testament to effective horror storytelling. Here’s why it’s worth the watch—and why Hugh Grant’s devilishly stellar performance will haunt you. The Premise On the surface, Heretic’s setup feels…
From the chilling depths of Camp Crystal Lake to the fiery streets of Hell, Kane Hodder has terrified audiences and crafted a legacy as one of horror’s most iconic figures. Known for his unparalleled portrayal of Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th series and his spine-chilling performance as Victor Crowley in Hatchet, Hodder is a living legend among horror aficionados. But beyond the mask, hockey or otherwise, lies a man whose dedication to the genre and respect for his craft have cemented him as a beloved figure in Hollywood. Recently, we had the privilege of sitting down with Kane…
Andy Serkis is a name that has become synonymous with pushing the boundaries of what it means to perform. From his groundbreaking work as Gollum in The Lord of the Rings trilogy to his directorial ventures and unforgettable performances in Planet of the Apes, Serkis has redefined the limits of storytelling. Recently, at Famous Monsters Fest, our very own Levi Tinker—a legendary figure in cinema interviewing who has spent over two decades at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre—sat down with Serkis to explore the defining moments of his career. It was a conversation filled with inspiration, anecdotes, and insights that…