In the realm of contemporary cinema, the interrogation of beauty standards and the female experience is a recurring theme, often explored through graphic storytelling and satire. Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance accomplishes this task with both elegance and brutality, depicting the complex struggles of Elisabeth Sparkle, a middle-aged aerobics instructor facing an avalanche of societal pressures.
Events
In the realm of horror cinema, few narratives evoke a sense of impending doom as vividly as “The Last Voyage of the Demeter.” Directed by André Øvredal, this film takes its inspiration from Bram Stoker’s “Dracula,” specifically the harrowing passage known as ‘The Captain’s Log.’ From its very title to its chilling opening scene—which presents
In Brian Hanson’s sci-fi thriller, *The Bunker*, earth faces a formidable extraterrestrial challenge as colossal spaceships hover ominously above major cities. These immense craft unleash smaller probes, tasked with infiltrating military sites and invoking psychological turmoil in the populace. Under immense pressure, U.S. authorities fortify humanity’s response by isolating a team of five scientists and
In the film “7 Keys,” writer and director Joy Wilkinson presents a poignant exploration of loneliness amidst the pulsating backdrop of urban life. The story is woven through the experiences of Lena, a single mother portrayed by Emma McDonald, who reflects on an extraordinary tale of isolation involving a homeless woman in Japan. This narrative
In the ever-evolving landscape of horror-comedy, “Members Club” stands out not just for its outrageous premise, but also for its brilliant subversion of traditional gender roles and that concerning male virility. Through its crude humor and grotesque situations, the film offers a scathing commentary on male insecurity, societal expectations, and the absurdity of aging. This
The film *Hauntology*, helmed by Parker Brennon, begins with a dialogue that immediately captures the attention of its audience. Jazmine Price, played by Samantha Russell, persuades her younger sister Venus (Jaidyn Triplett) to stay as she recounts chilling tales set in “one of the most haunted places in the country.” The opening scene serves as
In the realm of contemporary cinema, where strong female protagonists are often archetypes of empowerment or victimhood, *Saint Clare* breaks the mold by introducing a heroine whose complexity challenges traditional narratives. Clare Bleecker, portrayed with fervor by Bella Thorne, embodies a duality that oscillates between avenger and victim, a manifestation of women’s latent rage and
The BFI London Film Festival (LFF) returns this October, celebrating its 68th edition with an exciting slate of films that push boundaries and provoke thought. Running from the 9th to the 20th, the festival showcases an impressive roster of cinematic talent hailing from all around the globe. As the audience gathers in London and across
Daniel Kokotajlo’s *Starve Acre* marks a significant contribution to the contemporary folk horror genre, drawing inspiration from classic films like Jerzy Skolimowski’s *The Shout* and Nicolas Roeg’s *Don’t Look Now*. This atmospheric film, situated in the hauntingly beautiful Yorkshire landscape, adeptly incorporates elements of emotional depth and chilling folklore, delving into the complexities of grief