Brett_G

“Where Evil Lurks”

By Brett_G on October 16, 2023October 16, 2023

8.2

Answer? Damn near everywhere.

There is not a single frame of safety in this entire runtime, as you’re left in the dark alongside the cast as we take the dark turns together, venturing further and further into the darkness enveloping the evil at the center of this rosebud.

It’s not often my stomach is tested by a film, but this one had me almost gagging three separate times, on par or even exceeding “Terrifier 2,” so be warned. Its pervasive sense of dread and general discomfort is well earned, as it cemented itself as the best exorcist movie of the year, if not of the 2020s thus far. Highly recommended if the current/recent slate of horror films has seemed to safe for you.

Horror/Thriller

“The Hills Run Red”

By Brett_G on October 15, 2023October 15, 2023

6.2

Dude trusted a stripper, what did he think was going to happen?

An odd twist on the found footage horror genre that gave me flashbacks to “Censor” and “Broadcast Signal Intrusion,” that eventually went full “Hostel.” the deeper psychological horror and mystery gives way to a gore fest in the third act. The premise had promise, but ended up a little more middle of the road mediocre than I anticipated. A fun watch nonetheless.

Documentary

“Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour”

By Brett_G on October 14, 2023October 14, 2023

9.1

It’s me, hi. I’m the movie reviewer, it’s me.

Seeing this in IMAX was definitely the right call. The film itself is breathtaking, and truly an artist at the height of her power. I honestly don’t know how she tops this one. The design, the performance, the connection… it’s the definition of “firing on all cylinders.”

Seeing it in IMAX allowed it to drown out the people trying to sing like it was an actual concert, and the projector’s brightness somehow overpowered the idiots turning their phone lights on towards the screen, again like it was an actual concert. I applaud the enthusiasm, but they were making every attempt to ruin the cinematic experience of the thing. The only complaint about the film is that they demoted “Long Live” to the song over the credits, which is sacrilege.

Horror/Thriller Shudder

“Hell House, LLC”

By Brett_G on October 13, 2023October 8, 2023

7.2

As found footage horror goes, this is one of the best. The way they leverage the camcorder’s limitations both in recording and view is exceptionally well done. The relationship between the main cast is well built so that there’s meaningful stakes as the horrors befall them one by one. It also feels incredibly realistic throughout. Close enough to be realistic, but far enough out that it’s still a movie. Still not one you’re going to love to watch in the dark. The “it’s not part of the act” cliche will never get old.

Horror/Thriller Romance Shudder

“Spoonful of Sugar”

By Brett_G on October 12, 2023October 7, 2023

6.8

Part “Infinity Pool,” part “The Witch,” with a dash of “Mary Poppins”… I can comfortably say that I had no clue what was around the corner through 90% of this one.

The end credits were such a nice touch and pitch perfect note to end this one on. The characters were perfectly sinister, yet took their time unraveling as the story weaved its way to the credits rolling. One of the more psychologically twisted Shudder finds I’ve seen in a hot second.