’20 Days in Mariupol’ Review: Reflections in a Shattered Lens

Dive into ’20 Days in Mariupol’, an Oscar-acclaimed documentary by Mstyslav Chernov, as I dissect its exploration of human resilience amid war’s devastation. A must-read for those captivated by cinema’s power to reveal truth.

‘Sometimes I Think About Dying’ Review: Echoes from the Office Cubicle

Explore a delicate, surreal journey through ‘Sometimes I Think About Dying’, where Fran’s silent world collides with vivid death fantasies and unexpected companionship, offering a reflection on life’s monotony and the yearning for connection.

‘Drive-Away Dolls’ Review: Unexpected Delights

Despite my initial doubts, ‘Drive-Away Dolls’ was an enthralling cinematic voyage, bursting with psychedelic visuals and unexpected humour. Dive into my review to uncover the charm of this underrated gem.

‘Vincent Must Die’ Review: A Study in Absurdity

‘Vincent Must Die’ delivers a captivating journey through life’s absurdities, seamlessly blending comedy with apocalyptic insight. My review unpacks its compelling narrative and pressing environmental message. Dive into this unmissable analysis. 

‘The Teachers’ Lounge’ Review: Ethical Quests and School Dilemmas

In my review of ‘The Teachers’ Lounge’, I explore a gripping, Oscar-worthy narrative of moral integrity and societal reflection, led by the stellar Leonie Benesch. This film masterfully navigates complex themes within a school setting.

A Review of ‘Hundreds of Beavers’: Homage to German Expressionism

In my critique of ‘Hundreds of Beavers’, I delve into its surreal narrative and post-apocalyptic themes, reflecting on humanity’s ecological impact and societal fears through a unique blend of comedy and philosophical inquiry.

Whispers of Innocence and Shades of Grief: A Review of ‘Tótem’ (2023)

Discover ‘Tótem’ (Lila Avilés, 2023), a mesmerising film where childhood wonder intertwines with raw emotional depths in colorful Mexico. This isn’t just a movie, it’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of life’s poignant mysteries. Prepare to be captivated!

Echoes of Memory and Mystery: A Review of Falcon Lake (2022)

In this review of ‘Falcon Lake,’ I explore a haunting, coming-of-age story set against a mysterious Quebec lake. The film presents a nostalgic journey that resonates deeply with viewers, blending spectral elements with the raw emotions of youth.

When It Melts (2023) Review: Melting Boundaries

In this review review I praise ‘When It Melts’ for its raw depiction of youth and difficult themes. Directed by Veerle Baetens, it addresses sexual violence realistically, featuring Charlotte De Bruyne and Rosa Marchant’s notable performances, but its intense tone might not appeal to everyone.

How to Have Sex (2023) Review: Navigating the Complexities of Consent and Youthful Desires

In this film review, I praise ‘How to Have Sex’ as a transformative cinematic experience, highlighting its exploration of consent and its ability to spark introspection and societal dialogue. Molly Manning Walker’s debut is celebrated for its profound impact on cinema.

The Smoke Sauna Sisterhood (2023) Review: Enveloped in Warmth and Wisdom

In this film review, delve into ‘The Smoke Sauna Sisterhood,’ an enchanting documentary directed by Anna Hints. Discover the Estonian smoke sauna tradition and its profound exploration of women’s unity, resilience, and cultural legacy, all while tackling aging, body image, and societal perspectives.

Deciphering Cypher (2022): A Revealing Review and Analysis of Chris Moukarbel’s Cinematic Enigma

In this mind-bending film review and analysis, ‘Cypher’ emerges as a cinematic masterpiece, weaving documentary and fiction to follow rapper Tierra Whack’s journey. A metaphysical labyrinth challenges our perception of reality, captivatingly explored by director Chris Moukarbel. Dive into this unique narrative experiment that blurs fact and fiction, inviting profound contemplation.

Family Portrait (2023) Review: An Ode to the Inescapable Cycle of Life and Death

Lucy Kerr’s ‘film Family Portrait’ is a haunting cinematic journey into the heart of grief during COVID-19, blurring the lines between reality and dreams, while challenging the authenticity of memories. Dive into this captivating film review to unravel its profound exploration of loss.

Mountains (2023) Review: A Heartfelt Odyssey Amidst the Demolition

Discover how Monica Sorelle’s ‘Mountains’ (2023) masterfully portrays the clash between cultural vibrancy and ruthless capitalism in Miami’s Little Haiti. This film review delves into Xavier’s poignant journey, a tale of family, resistance, and gentrification.

Periodical (2023) Review: Empowering Red

In the thought-provoking ‘Periodical’ (2023), Lina Lyte Plioplyte’s film review explores menstruation’s stigma, featuring diverse perspectives on its medical, cultural, and historical significance, demanding societal transformation. However, it hints at the challenge of capturing such depth in just 95 minutes. Dive deeper into this captivating exploration.

A Critique of Priscilla (2023): Walking in Her Shoes, Yet Left Standing at the Door

In this candid film review, Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla’ delivers a visually stunning portrayal of Priscilla Presley, but its emotional depth leaves viewers wanting more, despite remarkable production and costume design.

Past Lives(2023) Review: Transient Tapestries and Exploration of In-Betweenness

Dive into ‘Past Lives,’ a captivating cinematic journey directed by Celine Song. This visually striking film unravels the intricate web of human spirit, relationships, and migrant experiences, delivering an emotionally resonant narrative. Explore more in our film review.

All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt (2023): Embracing Eternity in Every Frame

This review explores Raven Jackson’s film All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt’, emphasising its non-linear narrative, tactile cinematography, and themes of race, feminism, and ecology, set against Mississippi’s backdrop in the 1970s and 1980s.

Fingernails (2023) Review: Clipping at the Edges of Love

‘Fingernails’ explores love’s nature in a world where a machine test defines the bond. As relationships evolve with technology, the film questions true connection beyond superficiality, blending humour with profound themes.

Violett (2023) Review: A Shining Beacon In A Sea Of Horror Mediocrity

‘Violett’ (2023) melds grief, maternal protection, and psychological terror, with colours dictating the narrative’s emotion and reality in a tale of paranoia and grim fables.

Close (2022) Review (Spoilers): Longing for Closeness

In this captivating film review, ‘Close’ delves into weighty themes with astonishing gentleness. Frank van den Eeden’s close-ups create a canvas of subtle, profound emotions on the actors’ faces.

The Whale (2022) Review: Fetishisation of Obesity

In this thought-provoking film review of ‘The Whale,’ discover how it tackles the complexities of self-image and self-destruction, but leaves viewers torn between pity and loathing, despite Brendan Fraser’s exceptional performance.

The Woman King (2022) Review: Divisive Action Flick

In this compelling film review of ‘The Woman King,’ discover a gripping tale that delves into race and gender issues. With its fast-paced editing, strong characters, and tension, it’s an enjoyable action flick, but does it leave a lasting impact? Find out more.

EO (2022) Film Review: Step into Nonhuman Cinema

In Jerzy Skolimowski’s 2022 film ‘EO’, a mesmerising cinematic transmutation takes us into the perspective of donkeys, challenging our ethics and environmental consciousness. Read my film review to experience this profound animal’s-eye view of the world.

Tár (2022) Review: Where Aesthetics Become Ethics

Step into Todd Field’s bold 2022 cinematic venture, ‘Tár,’ as he fearlessly delves into the labyrinth of cancel culture. With mesmerizing tension and Cate Blanchett’s brilliance, this film review-worthy masterpiece demands your attention.

AFTERSUN (2022) REVIEW: POETIC INVESTIGATION OF REMEMBERING

Discover the magic of memory in Charlotte Wells’ mesmerizing debut feature, ‘Aftersun’ (2022). This evocative film review explores the poetic journey into fragmented recollections, offering a profound study of emotions and pure cinema.

Layla M. (2016) Review: The Longing for Home

Discover the enduring relevance of Layla M.’ in my thought-provoking film review. Explore complex themes like Islamophobia and Dutch Muslim women’s radicalization, expertly depicted by co-writer/director Mijke de Jong.

Petite Maman (2021) Review: Three Ecologies of Grief

Have you ever dreamt of encountering your mother stripped bare of a mask she was required to put on to conform to social norms? Have you ever desired to meet your mother before she became your mother and was just just a little girl? What questions would you ask?

The Sky Is Everywhere (2022): Ointment For My Broken Heart (Personal Review)

The Sky is Everywhere directed by Josephine Decker is not a perfect film, it is not an example of pure, excellent cinema. But what do those terms mean anyway? For someone like myself, who has not been able to move on after the loss of her love, trying desperately to linger into remnants of their scent in my clothes, trying not to burst into tears in public spaces after being triggered by something that reminds me of them, Decker’s film works like a soothing balm. It is like an ointment that has allowed me to ease the pain, at least temporarily. 

Holiday (2018) Review: Let Yourself Be Lured

Sascha (Victoria Carmen Sonne) lures people around her, including us, the viewers, not unlike a siren who would lead the bewildered sailors to their death. 

HATCHING: A MAGICAL REALISM/COMING-OF-AGE TALE 

Hatching tells the story of Tinja, a gymnast going through bodily transitions that herald the arrival of womanhood. This creature-feature reminds us of Guillermo del Toro’s work, and sparked interesting thoughts. We think it’s a must watch!

Playground.Playground Review: Like a Rock in the Shoe

A review of Laura Wandel’s brutal and unflinching look at bullying and childhood, Playground.

The Black Phone Review: Possessed by the Image

A review of The Black Phone, Scott Derrickson’s new foray into horror and the capacity for images to possess, transport, and transform.