The Black Mass (2023)

On January 14th, 1978, a serial killer was on the loose. The male killer stalks and pickpockets the locals of a town in Tallahassee, successfully stealing cash and IDs, and even blending in with anyone suspicious or uncomfortable with his presence. The killer is also a lady’s man, and many struggle not to give in to his looks or charm. Now, the killer’s newest target are the female students currently attending Florida University.

It’s not long until viewers discover that the serial killer is none other than Ted Bundy. Over the next eighty minutes, viewers will follow Ted through various points of view and over-the-shoulder shots with a slightly shaky cam effect. We see Ted stalking his newfound targets and gaining further intel on them, which he may or may not use later, along with his interactions first-hand with the prime suspects, such as flirting and attempting to engage in an open discussion. One thing is sure: Ted is becoming increasingly tempted to do something terrible and sickening as the night goes on. Will there be any survivors, and will Ted get caught before it’s too late?

Following Ted around is an uncomfortable and sickening experience, and the film did an excellent job of conveying this, given how real everything feels from his viewpoint. You can hear Ted breathing heavily and his heart racing at various times when there are more remarkable moments of temptation or risks of getting caught in the act. Ted’s vision and thought life are also hard to watch, such as when you see him imagining skin and flesh being ripped off. Once again, the film goes for it, showing viewers a dark insight into his mind and the gross thoughts behind his actions on the outside. Andrew Sykes’s portrayal of the killer is awe-inspiring, particularly in his handling of emotions and dialogue. His performance convincingly depicts the killer as charming one moment before quickly becoming aggressive and rude when things don’t go as planned.

The Black Mass is a slow-burning film that aims to give viewers a thoughtful and informative experience. The information presented is informative, sad, and alarming, and I appreciated the filmmakers for bringing these issues to the big screen. However, the outcomes of the plot and story are predictable, and there were no surprising plot developments. Due to the film’s heavy nature, many would not likely want to watch it more than once.

Overall, The Black Mass is a brutal and intense film. It’s not your typical slasher or mystery killer movie and is pretty different from other horror and crime films. Director Devanny Pinn’s first feature offers a disturbing look into the mind and actions of Ted Bundy. The concept is clever, with many impactful and unsettling moments, and Andrew Sykes delivers an excellent performance as the killer, displaying a wide range of emotions and dialogue. The plot has no real surprises, and viewers will likely figure out how it will all unfold early on. Due to its heavy nature and predictable outcomes, it’s not the kind of film you’d want to watch multiple times. It may not be for everyone, but I appreciated the craftsmanship, concept, and underlying message. The message is essential and moving, especially for those victims of terrible crimes, making it a significant viewing experience.

The Black Mass (2023) is Available on DVD & Digital from October 2nd!

5.7/10

Rating: 3 out of 5.

30th September 2024
Written by Peter Walkden

THANK YOU FOR VISITING!

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You might also enjoy these reviews

Hellboy: The Crooked Man (2024)

In 1950, Hellboy (Jack Kesy) travels by train with precious cargo: a dangerous spider that can fester into something far more sinister and evil than anyone can imagine. But when an altercation occurs on the train, and the spider manages to escape, Hellboy and a fellow...

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (2024)

When you hear the name Christopher Reeve, many will think of his performance in the well-known film franchise Superman, which started in 1978 and later spanned three more instalments. While Reeve also appeared in various other titles, including Remains of the Day,...

Irresistible (2006)

Sophie (Susan Sarandon) is a married woman and mother of two children. An artist, Sophie, is working from home on a new book as well as dealing with the tragic loss of her mother, who recently passed away. On top of dealing with her recent loss, Sophie is pressured to...

Azrael (2024)

Welcome to a new world unlike anything you've seen before. It is set after the Rapture, and those who remain on earth are unable to speak a single word. The film opens with a woman named Azrael (Samara Weaving) on the run, filled with fear and panic as she sprints...

Fear Below (2024)

A group of dangerous mob men are travelling by car, armed with weapons. Hidden in the car's trunk are several wooden boxes of gold bullion. While driving at high speed, the driver swerves to avoid something on the road, causing a tragic accident. Although the men are...

Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)

Arthur Fleck, also known as the Joker (Joaquin Phoenix), is imprisoned in Arkham Asylum. In the past, he entertained the guards with jokes and silliness, especially Jackie (Brendan Gleeson), but now he is silent and withdrawn, with no interest in amusing anyone. While...

The Critic (2023)

In London, Jimmy Erskine (Ian McKellen) is a well-known theatre critic for a respected, friendly newspaper. As a critic, Jimmy is known for his honesty, but he can also be harsh and use foul descriptions or cruel wording. His most recent review harshly criticises one...

V/H/S/Beyond (2024)

As with all V/H/S films, various short films are intersected with a wraparound story. In this V/H/S instalment, a TV show hosted by Mitch Horowitz intersects with various videos about alien encounters. Are you ready to watch the latest V/H/S tape? Strap in....

The Wild Robot (2024)

After a crash landing on an island on Earth, a highly advanced and smart-thinking robot named Roz (Lupita Nyong’o) finds herself in surroundings entirely unlike anything she has ever seen. The island is filled with wild animals, and the environment is...

Smokey and the Bandit (1977)

Bo, also known as the Bandit (Burt Reynolds), is a highly skilled driver who loves to show off his abilities for cash. Although he doesn't have much money, he manages to get by and enjoy life. One day, he is approached by two wealthy strangers, Big Enos (Pat...

Sasquatch Sunset (2024)

In a North American forest, we follow a family of Sasquatches. There are four members to the family: the Alpha male (Nathan Zellner), a female (Riley Keough), a young male (Jesse Eisenberg), and a child (Christophe Zajac-Denek). The story spans a year, beginning in...

Subservience (2024)

A happy family home is turned upside down when the mother, Maggie (Madeline Zima), experiences tragic health issues related to her heart and needs urgent care at the hospital. This leaves Nick (Michele Morrone) to care for their two small children while juggling his...

The Speedway Murders (2023)

On November 17, 1978, in a town known as Speedway in Indianapolis, a tragic and unexplainable event occurred at a popular fast-food restaurant, Burger Chef. After a busy night in the restaurant, the four staff members on duty suddenly went missing while closing the...

Blackout (2023)

A couple’s night of romance and passion under the brightly lit night sky is abruptly interrupted when a monster-like creature appears, and the pair are brutally murdered. After this introduction to the town, we meet Charley (Alex Hurt), a talented artist facing...

Inside Out 2 (2024)

It’s been a while since we last saw Riley (Kensington Tallman). Recently, Riley turned thirteen and has officially entered her teenage years. Once again, we delve into her mind's lively range of emotions - joy, disgust, sadness, fear, and anger. There have been...

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019)

Set around the 1970s, the film focuses on the life of Ted Bundy (Zac Efron) who is accused of violently murdering multiple women. Ted is soon arrested and attends various court hearings. Upon arrest, Ted pleads not guilty and doesn’t understand how he could be accused...

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Out of a long list of characters from the Marvel Universe (and still more coming our way), Spider-Man has always been a favourite superhero of mine even at a very young age. In fact, back in the year 2002, I was so pumped to see a new Spider-Man film on the big screen...

Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn (2020)

Continuing from where we left Harley Quinn after "Suicide Squad" (2016), things have now changed for poor Harley. The Joker has broken her heart, and as you can imagine, Harley is not happy about it. Now living a life without the protection of Mr J (aka The Joker),...

Hell Is Where The Home Is (2018)

Two couples rent a beautiful home over a weekend. Their goal is to escape from the world. And how do you do that? Apparently, by drinking, drugs, sex and amongst that, sort out personal (and yet mysterious) issues from the past. While the weekend is underway, someone...

Secret of the Incas (1954)

Harry Steele (Charlton Heston) is a man that fits many descriptions. Working daily as a tourist guide, Harry enjoys tricking others so he can earn money at an easy pace. When Harry isn't working, he's seeking the next adventure or conducting side jobs that pay well....

Tom & Jerry (2021)

The epic battle continues between Tom (the cat) and Jerry (the little mouse), this time in a movie based on the well-known cartoon series. After the two's most recent battle, Jerry decides to hide in the famous Royal Gate Hotel, hoping to begin a new life. Naturally,...

Blacklight (2022)

Travis Black (Liam Neeson) is a government FBI agent who works off the book and keeps his work under the radar.  He's the man you call when fellow FBI agents fall off the rails or require a desperate rescue.  Travis also lives alone, but he desires to...

Dream Scenario (2023)

Paul (Nicolas Cage) is a biology professor with a wife and two teenage daughters. There are multiple challenges for Paul, including trying to fulfil his long-term dreams of writing and publishing a book. Many around Paul live a life of success and wealth, but for...

The Meg (2018)

Jonas (Jason Statham) is an expert sea diver. Five years ago, Jones was part of an underwater rescue team. It was during his last mission that Jonas first encountered a large creature in the sea, resulting in the loss of two co-workers. Currently, Jonas past continues...

Uproar (2023)

In the early '80s, Josh (Julian Dennison) is a seventeen-year-old high school student. Each day at school, Josh does his best to keep to himself, keeping his head down to avoid conflict with fellow students. Life for Josh has its challenges. Not only is he constantly...

Review List

Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

When Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) tells Po (Jack Black) it's time to pass on his title of Dragon Warrior to someone else and become a spiritual leader, Po can't bring himself to choose anyone but himself. Po is now struggling to find inner peace and is highly...

Immaculate (2024)

Cecilia is a woman filled with faith and devotion to all things relating to Jesus Christ. When she accepts a new position at a notable Italian convent, she finds it hard to settle in as some strange behaviour is aimed at her from her peers. Nevertheless, Cecilia...

Control (2023)

Stella (Lauren Metcalfe) is the Home Secretary for Prime Minister David Addams (Mark Hampton) in London. The affair they are engaged in is still a secret from the outside world, but not so much among their fellow staff. One evening, during one of David's campaigns,...

Interview: Lauren Metcalfe / Control (2023)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Lauren Metcalfe, the lead actress of Control (2023), available on DVD and Digital from April 3rd, thanks to Eagle Entertainment. https://youtu.be/SdT1ikHwBh8?si=Hl9_OiJSRYsOqM4g...

Interview: Gene Fallaize / Control (2023)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Gene Fallaize, director, writer and executive producer of Control (2023), available on DVD and Digital from April 3rd, thanks to Eagle Entertainment. https://youtu.be/SdT1ikHwBh8...

Perfect Days (2023)

Hirayama (Kôji Yakusho) wakes up in his home, rolls up his sleeping bag, neatly folds everything away, brushes his teeth, gets dressed in his uniform, waters a few houseplants, and picks up some essential items, including his phone, keys, and some change for a vending...

Diamond Head (1962)

In 1959, two men arrive by plane from Honolulu to visit Richard ‘King’ Howland (Charlton Heston). After repeatedly asking him the same question, they are seeking a final answer this time- will King accept the honour of running for senator for Hawaii? Once again,...

I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (2003)

Davey (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) enjoys the life of a small-time drug dealer. He often indulges in the party scene, including random hookups and occasional minor theft. One evening, as Davey is walking home, he is stalked by a mysterious man who is displeased with Davey's...

Road House (2024)

Dalton (Jake Gyllenhaal) is an ex-UFC fighter with a tragic past. With little money to his name, Dalton spends his days earning cash fighting in underground clubs. Given Dalton's reputation, most times, he walks in for a fight, and the opponent refuses to fight him,...

The Nut Farm (2024)

In the Australian town of Cobweb, an older man uses a sound detection device in the bush. With this tool, he discovers a group of people secretly living underground. The man is taken captive, and the scene then shifts to San Francisco in the United States. Brendan...

Ricky Stanicky (2024)

The story follows three best friends, Dean (Zac Efron), JT (Andrew Santino), and Wes (Jermaine Fowler), who have known each other since they were young kids. In the present day, the trio are still close friends, but they also share a dark secret. When they were young,...

The Mist (2007)

In a small town, David Drayton (Thomas Jane) is an artist who paints movie-related posters. A horrific storm begins one night, and the following day, he and his family investigate the aftermath. The storm has caused extensive damage; large trees have been uprooted,...

Road House (1989)

Dalton, played by Patrick Swayze, is a highly skilled bouncer. He prefers to handle any trouble professionally and quietly, but sometimes, he must use his fists and kicks to defend himself. One night, Dalton gets into a fight in a club and ends up getting wounded by a...

Cabrini (2024)

In Italy, in 1889, Francesca Cabrini (Cristiana Dell'Anna) is a nun in the Roman Catholic Church. Cabrini is passionate about helping young children who live in poverty and roam the streets. Her dream is to start building a network of orphanages in Lombardy....

The Great Escaper (2023)

Set in the year 2014, Bernard (Michael Caine) is a World War II veteran who spends his days living in an aged care home with his wife Irene (Glenda Jackson). As the anniversary of D-Day approaches, Bernard attempts to book in to attend the D-Day commemorations in...

How to Have Sex (2023)

Three teenage girls, Tara (Mia McKenna-Bruce), Em (Enva Lewis) & Skye (Lara Peake), are travelling on a holiday in Malia, Greece. The close friends hope to have a wild and fun time, spending their time being loud, drinking heavily, visiting various clubs, meeting...

Desperation Road (2023)

Maben (Willa Fitzgerald) is currently doing everything she can to get by and survive while attempting to be a good mother to a young daughter. With no home or money to their name, the pair often move around from one place to the next. One evening, Maben is approached...

History of Evil (2024)

In the future, many things have changed. Firstly, corruption plagues America, and local police now enforce a religious government. Those who refuse to submit to religious law enforcement are known as ‘The Resistance’. One member of the Resistance is Alegre Dyer...

You’ll Never Find Me (2023)

In a mobile home in a caravan park, Patrick (Brendan Rock) sits alone by his dining table while a wild storm rages outside. Soon, a loud knock at the door startles Patrick. Upon opening the door, he finds a woman (Jordan Cowan) begging for help and seeking shelter...

Interview: Cast & Director of Combat Wombat: Back 2 Back (2023)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Director Ricard Cussó, along with lead actors David Wenham, Ed Oxenbould, Grant Denyer & Elizabeth Cullen, during the Queensland premiere of Combat Wombat: Back 2 Back (2023) at...

Combat Wombat: Back 2 Back (2023)

Several months have passed since Sanctuary City was introduced to Maggie, aka Combat Wombat (Deborah Mailman), and her sidekick Sweetie (Ed Oxenbould). Thanks to the latest technology developed by tech genius Lenny (David Wenham), the people within the city can now...

Weekend at Bernie’s (1989)

Two best friends, Larry (Andrew McCarthy) and Richard (Jonathan Silverman), work at an insurance company and are doing everything possible to receive a promotion. Each day, they dream of earning more money and living a life of luxury, even more so when they see their...

The Mountain (1956)

When a large plane crashes just below the summit of Bald Mountain, rescue parties are formed to climb to the disaster. The aircraft was on a routine flight from Calcutta to Paris when something unexpected caused the flight to crash. Each moment means less possibility...

This Is Me…Now: A Love Story (2024)

Prepare yourself for a one-of-a-kind journey that you won't experience anywhere else as you join Jennifer Lopez, a renowned celebrity artist and actress. Through song, dance, story and spectacular picture, she takes you on a tour of her mind, heart, and soul, guiding...

Subtraction (2022)

Farzaneh (Taraneh Alidoosti) is a driving instructor. During a lesson where she tries to teach someone who is completely ignorant and careless about basic driving rules, she sees something unusual far away outside the car window. From a distance, she can see her...

Inspector Sun and the Curse of the Black Widow (2022)

The film is set in Shanghai in 1934 and follows the story of Inspector Sun (played by Ronny Chieng), a brilliant and confident huntsman spider. Inspector Sun is known for working alone, and when we meet him, he has been tasked with solving the ultimate unsolved case -...

Riceboy Sleeps (2022)

Found on a cold winter’s evening as a baby wrapped in a blanket, no one knew where So-young was from. As she grew up, she bounced around from one orphanage to the next before packing her bags when she got older and leaving to live in a big city. So-young hoped for...

Interview: Mark Leonard Winter / The Rooster (2023)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Mark Leonard Winter, director and writer of The Rooster (2023), which is Available in Australian Cinemas from February 22nd. When the body of his oldest friend is found buried in a...

The Rooster (2023)

Dan (Phoenix Raei) is a police officer working within a small community. Life presents many challenges and struggles for Dan, and he finds himself walking around in what feels like a real-life nightmare. Pushing him even further over the edge is the discovery of a...

The Jester (2023)

One evening, a man named John (Matt Servitto) walks around alone in a small community. While walking, it's evident that something, or perhaps someone, is following him from a distance. John also appears to have strange and unexplainable visions of a little girl. The...

Dario Argento Panico (2023)

Introducing a documentary focused on the well-known horror director, writer, producer, actor, and composer Dario Argento. Today, many public figures would say Dario is like a painter or a musician in the film style. Dario's films have always featured fantastic camera...

May December (2023)

Elizabeth (Natalie Portman) is an actress working on her newest film. To prepare for her upcoming leading role, Elizabeth has the opportunity to study the real person she will be portraying, a woman named Gracie (Julianne Moore). It's been over twenty years since...

Birth/Rebirth (2023)

Celie (Judy Reyes) is a single mother who works full-time as a nurse. At the same hospital is Dr. Rose Casper (Marin Ireland), a morgue technician who is working in the field of pathology. Even though they work at the same hospital, Celie and Dr. Rose Casper are...

Interview: Simon Emmett / Welcome to the Darkness (2023)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Simon Emmett, director of Welcome to the Darkness (2023), available on Digital from January 24th, thanks to Lightbulb Film Distribution. Have you been a long-term fan of The...

Anatomy of a Fall (2023)

Over the last year, a family of three consisting of Samuel (Samuel Theis), Sandra (Sandra Hüller), and their vision-impaired son, Daniel (Milo Machado Graner), have been living in an isolated location in the mountains. The film opens with Sandra attempting to share a...

Interview: Josh Forbes / Destroy All Neighbors (2024)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) enjoyed chatting with Josh Forbes, director of Destroy All Neighbors (2024), Now Available Exclusively on Shudder. How did you become connected with Destroy All Neighbors, and what was the biggest attraction to working on...

Welcome to the Darkness (2023)

It's incredible to think of it now, but in 2002, The Darkness was an unsigned band. By 2004, its key members- Justin Hawkins, his brother Dan Hawkins, Frankie Poullain and the original drummer Ed Graham- had sold over a million records. But in 2006, something...

The Iron Claw (2023)

Based on a true story set in the early 1980s, The Iron Claw follows the Von Erich brothers and their journey within the world of professional wrestling. Firstly, we are taken back in time to glimpse wrestling icon Fritz Von Erich (Holt McCallany), delivering a final...

The Jungle Bunch: World Tour (2023)

The Jungle Bunch is a group of animals who, when called upon, will help and save the day. Whether it's another animal in need of urgent help or an area in the jungle that requires their attention, their goal and desire is to help maintain peace and harmony. When one...

The Canterville Ghost (2023)

In the late 1800s, there's a wild storm during the night right at bedtime for Lord Monroe (Bill Lobley), the proud owner of a stunningly large manor house in Canterville Chase, England. However, before going to bed with his teddy bear, Lord Monroe encounters something...

Career Opportunities (1991)

Jim (Frank Whaley) isn't the brightest bloke in the community. He struggles to hold a job, still lives with his parents, continually lies to everyone around him, and has failed to discover his true purpose as an adult. When Jim loses his job at an animal shelter, his...

Destroy All Neighbors (2024)

William Brown (Jonah Ray) is a passionate rock musician and composer with one major issue: he's unable to create the perfect song to take him further. When William isn't working on his music or spending time with his partner, he works at a recording studio as an...

The Holdovers (2023)

Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti) is a teacher at a prep school located in New England during the 1970s. Paul is a firm, strict, and extremely cranky teacher and is disliked by students and co-workers alike. As school breaks up for another year over Christmas, many students...

Stargate (1994)

In 1928 Giza, Egypt, an incredible, large artifact is discovered by a group of archaeologists. We then jump to the present day and are introduced to Dr. Daniel Jackson (James Spader), an archaeologist knowledgeable about ancient Egypt, including translating the...

The Man in Half Moon Street (1945)

Who was Julian Karell, and where did he come from? What manner of man was he? For some, he was a fine, incredibly courageous scientist who lost track of truth. Another man claims that Karell was a cold-blooded murderer and a remarkable criminal. Lastly, we hear from a...

Kane (2023)

The film opens with a game of chess being played by two mysterious men and a voiceover letting us know who they are: Abe (Jeremy Lindsay Taylor) and Frankie (Nathan Phillips). Abe is an old-school gangster who has dissociative identity disorder, meaning there are...

Top Rated Films of 2023

You can agree that 2023 was another outstanding year for cinema. Below is a list of my favourites and, once again, my top ten titles. Trust me when I say it: it was a challenge to narrow it down to number one. On behalf of my family and myself, I would like to take...

Anyone But You (2023)

It all begins when Bea (Sydney Sweeney) rushes into a local cafe, hoping to use the toilet. The cafe staff are not helpful, but Bea is rescued by a nearby knight in shining armour, Ben (Glen Powell). Regardless of a few funny and awkward moments between Bea and Ben,...

Ferrari (2023)

Set in 1957, Enzo Ferrari (Adam Driver) is an ex-race car driver and the current owner of a well-known Italian car company. However, Ferrari is currently in hot water due to the lack of sales. Enzo's wife, Laura (Penélope Cruz), also works with him as a business...

Dream Scenario (2023)

Paul (Nicolas Cage) is a biology professor with a wife and two teenage daughters. There are multiple challenges for Paul, including trying to fulfil his long-term dreams of writing and publishing a book. Many around Paul live a life of success and wealth, but for...

The Shift (2023)

While sitting at a bar and drinking alone, Kevin (Kristoffer Polaha) meets his true love, Molly (Elizabeth Tabish). Instantly, Kevin is smitten by her to the point he is willing to make significant changes in his life, such as taking a deeper step into church and...

The Boys in the Boat (2023)

In the 1930s, Joe (Callum Turner) is studying to become an engineer at university. Financially, he is struggling to make ends meet as he pays off school fees. Unsuccessful at finding a job, he is sleeping in his car each night. Joe hears of a paying job for the...

Coup de Chance (2023)

When Fanny (Lou de Laâge) walks along a busy street, she soon hears her name being called out from afar. A man approaches her, claiming to know her from high school. At first, Fanny is surprised but soon learns the man is Alain (Niels Schneider). Once upon a time,...

Wonka (2023)

After seven years of living on the ocean, Willy Wonka (Timothée Chalamet) has decided to say farewell to the sea and start afresh in a city over the horizon. Willy Wonka is a skilled magician and chocolate maker with determined dreams of opening a brand-new chocolate...

Merry Little Batman (2023)

It's the Christmas season in Wayne Manor, and the only thing that six-year-old Damian Wayne (Yonas Kibreab) wants is to fight crime with his father, Batman, aka Bruce Wayne (Luke Wilson). On Christmas Eve, Bruce decides to give Damian his present early. Damian eagerly...

Wish (2023)

When he and his family are attacked, Magnifico (Chris Pine) decides to start afresh somewhere safe. Travelling far, far away, Magnifico and his wife find an island where they can begin a new life, welcoming others to join them and live in harmony. In time, a new...

Time Addicts (2023)

Denise (Freya Tingley) and Johnny (Charles Grounds) are a pair of good mates who are lovers of all things drug-related. Both Denise and Johnny are eager to get some more drugs, having recently run out and needing a quick fix. However, when it comes to finances,...

Master Gardener (2022)

Narvel (Joel Edgerton) cares for the garden at the luxury home of Mrs Haverhill (Sigourney Weaver). During his preparations of the garden for the Spring Charity Auction, word is received that Mrs. Haverhill would like to speak privately with Narvel. Upon their...

Candy Cane Lane (2023)

It's Christmas time, which means a critical thing for family man Chris (Eddie Murphy): the opportunity to enter one of the most exciting contests of the year. Chris will again compete with his fellow neighbours, all of whom will decorate their homes to the best of...

Silent Night (2023)

After witnessing the brutal murder of his son during a drive-by shooting, Brian (Joel Kinnaman) instantly chases after the men involved. However, during a showdown, Brian is gunned down and badly wounded. The results of the chase and his wounds leave Brian recovering...

Slotherhouse (2023)

Emily (Lisa Ambalavanar) is a young student in a sorority house who lacks the confidence to raise her hand in the upcoming election for sorority president. While shopping at her local mall, an incident occurs, and she meets a stranger who has animals for sale,...

It’s a Wonderful Knife (2023)

It's Christmas Eve in the small town of Angel Falls. Winnie’s (Jane Widdop) Christmas holidays are less than pleasing. The city is dramatically changing due to the town's mayor, Henry Waters (Justin Long), who is continually forcing people out of their homes due to...

Trolls Band Together (2023)

Long before Branch (Justin Timberlake) ever met Poppy (Anna Kendrick), Branch was a member of the famous pop band "BroZone". Made up of Branch and his brothers, the band was doing well until they had a disagreement before a massive performance. The arguments and...

The Old Oak (2023)

TJ Ballantyne (Dave Turner) owns “The Old Oak”, a pub in a village north of England. The pub has seen better days and relies on a small group of regular customers who visit often. It's also evident that the community members have never recovered from the loss of the...

The Skeleton Key (2005)

Caroline (Kate Hudson) is a skilled nurse, continually exhausted from witnessing facilities and workers treat patients as disposable. Seeking a healthier environment, Caroline quits her current position and seeks alternative employment. After perusing the ads in the...

Uproar (2023)

In the early '80s, Josh (Julian Dennison) is a seventeen-year-old high school student. Each day at school, Josh does his best to keep to himself, keeping his head down to avoid conflict with fellow students. Life for Josh has its challenges. Not only is he constantly...

Christmess (2023)

Chris (Steve Le Marquand) was once a famous actor, featuring in many hit films. However, a growing addiction to alcohol changed everything for the worse. Not only did Chris find himself in rehab, but over the years, he has become highly distant from his only daughter,...

The Royal Hotel (2023)

Two backpackers and good friends, Hanna (Julia Garner) and Liv (Jessica Henwick), are having the time of their lives as the cruise ship they are currently travelling on enters Sydney, Australia. However, their wild times of travelling and partying halt when Liv...

Thanksgiving (2023)

It was supposed to be just another Black Friday sale in a large retail store located in Plymouth, Massachusetts. However, the actions of several people from the community led to something terrible occurring during the opening of the retailer, ending with tragedy,...

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)

Sixty-four years before Katniss’ The Hunger Games (2012), young Coriolanus Snow (Tom Blyth) is attempting to earn a scholarship with great rewards. On the day Coriolanus expects to receive the prize for all his strenuous efforts, unexpected changes are made to the...

Interview: Madeleine Dyer / A Savage Christmas (2023)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Madeleine Dyer, director and co-writer of A Savage Christmas (2023), which is available in Australian Cinemas from November 16th. After years of estrangement, trans woman Davina...

Next Goal Wins (2023)

The American Samoa soccer team is famous but for all the wrong reasons. They are known for their tragic losses, including the embarrassing defeat by Australia in which American Samoa lost 31-0. Conversely, Thomas Rongen (Michael Fassbender) has been sacked from...

The Marvels (2023)

Captain Marvel/Carol Danvers (Brie Larson) continues to protect and serve all in our universe. A new enemy named Dar-Benn (Zawe Ashton) has arisen, seeking a pair of powerful ancient armbands that she hopes will restore her home planet, Hala. While Dar-Benn...

Shortcomings (2023)

In a Californian cinema, a new film is introduced during a film festival, and among the audience are Ben (Justin H. Min) and his current partner, Miko (Ally Maki). As the film credits roll, Ben is utterly unimpressed, while his partner and the audience around him are...

The Dive (2023)

Two sisters, May (Louisa Krause) and Drew (Sophie Lowe) are spending the day together by driving and heading to a mysterious location. While driving, the pair engaged in basic catch-up conversation and got up to date with their present lives. Soon, May and Drew arrive...

Scarygirl (2023)

The Keeper (Anna Torv) is seeking a rare mythical octopus and is currently offering various bandits and bounty hunters a high-paying reward. While the reward is impressive, the only problem is that it's nearly impossible for anyone to find one! After a brief...

When Evil Lurks (2023)

In a small remote village, we follow a pair of brothers, Pedro (Ezequiel Rodríguez) and Jimi (Demián Salomón), who hear strange noises from afar. Working together, the pair investigate, discovering that a demon has heavily infected a man, and it is ready to give...

Hot Potato: The Story of the Wiggles (2023)

I would be utterly speechless if you told me you've never heard of the greatest band in Australia. This band, many would claim, is like The Beatles but made for toddlers. You may have heard of The Wiggles, Anthony (The Blue Wiggle), Murray (The Red Wiggle), Greg (The...

Night of the Hunted (2023)

Alice (Camille Rowe) is travelling a long distance home after attending a work conference. Spending the night at a hotel before another long day of travel, Alice receives a phone call from her partner at 2 a.m. in the morning, confirming that she will make it to her...

A Savage Christmas (2023)

It's Christmas Day, and following tradition, the Savage family is all coming together in a sweet home in Australia. It's no secret that the family has had challenges and past disagreements. Nevertheless, the Savages have decided to come together and celebrate the day...

Monolith (2022)

A mysterious man opens the film with a narrative, telling viewers how he wants to share a secretive story, revealing that there was something different about his family when he was a young child. In this story, he shares critical details of a stalker who claims to be...

The Crime is Mine (2023)

The film opens with an upset and frustrated woman named Madeleine (Nadia Tereszkiewicz), who is leaving a luxury house and walking home. Returning home to her roommate, Pauline (Rebecca Marder), Madeleine reveals that her audition for the upcoming performance was a...

Bring Him to Me (2023)

A skilled getaway driver (Barry Pepper) receives an unexpected phone call from a ruthless crime boss named Veronica (Rachel Griffiths). The getaway driver is told to drive to a bus stop outside a local hardware store and pick up a passenger (Jamie Costa). This...

Mercy Road (2023)

With a story all set on one night, we first meet Tom (Luke Bracey) when he is dashing to his truck and urgently driving off. Tom is panicking and frantically trying to run away as quickly as possible, hoping nobody nearby sees him. While driving, Tom attempts to call...

V/H/S/85 (2023)

Welcome back to the most remarkable period ever (well, in my opinion): the '80s. V/H/S/85 serves as the sixth instalment in the popular V/H/S series, where viewers are introduced to various segments (or short films), all played directly from a mysterious videotape....

Interview: Nathan Phillips / Wolf Creek (2005)

Walkden Entertainment (aka Peter Walkden) had the honour and pleasure of chatting with Nathan Phillips, lead actor of Wolf Creek (2005), which is Now Available on Blu-ray thanks to Via Vision Entertainment. Are you a lover of horror films in general? If so, what are...

Wolf Creek (2005)

After a creepy warning that the film is based on actual events, viewers are informed that thirty thousand people are reported missing in Australia annually. Thankfully, ninety per cent of them are found within a month, but some are never seen again. We are then...

Totally Killer (2023)

Thirty-five years ago, in 1987, three women were brutally murdered in a suburb known as North Vernon. Each victim was stabbed sixteen times. The newspaper named the killer "Sweet 16," and witnesses had spotted the ruthless murderer wearing all black and a mask. In the...

Oink (2022)

As Babs (Hiba Ghafry) tells her best friend while they’re shopping, she wants nothing more for her birthday than a cute puppy dog. After this revelation, Babs and her best friend shop for various ingredients to cook pancakes with the family. They must stop at the...

The Retaliators (2021)

Set in New Jersey, the film begins with the introduction of John Bishop (Michael Lombardi), a respectable pastor within his community. John is a single father of two daughters, Sarah (Katie Kelly) and Rebecca (Abbey Hafer). As pastor and father, John keeps his body in...

The Origin of Evil (2022)

Stéphane (Laure Calamy) is a forty-five-year-old woman living without a husband and never having children. Every day, she works at a fish cannery in Fos-sur-Mer. Given her current age, lifestyle and the challenges she's facing in the present day, including someone...

The Mean One (2022)

It was a beautiful evening on Christmas Eve until a young child named Cindy heard a noise downstairs. Cindy discovered a stranger wearing a Christmas suit, and she wasn't frightened, not one bit, even though the person in the costume was, in fact, some green monster....

Spooky Halloween (2022)

The film opens on October 31st, during a year that occurred a long time ago. We see a man named Alec Windsor (Christopher Lloyd) visiting Sacred Hearts, a home for Wayward Children, delivering a final notice and claiming their land now belongs to him. The previous...

Tom Cruise: The Last Movie Star (2023)

I'd be astonished if you'd never heard of the legendary actor Tom Cruise. In the present day, the name Tom Cruise means everything. For some, he was a heartthrob discovered in the 80s with his boyish charms, or perhaps you consider him one of the most incredible...

Saw X (2023)

John Kramer (Tobin Bell), aka Jigsaw, has been informed that he only has a few months to live due to cancer. Desperate for a miracle and a cure, John hears about a medical treatment that may change his life, healing his body completely. After researching, John decides...

The Creator (2023)

Introducing a future where humans are the highest form of artificial intelligence is at war. Here, we follow Joshua (John David Washington), an ex-special forces soldier with a tragic past. Joshua continues to grieve over the disappearance of his wife, whom he...

The Cost (2022)

It was supposed to be an easy journey coming home after a long day at work for Stephanie (Nicole Pastor); instead, her body was found dead near a city river. From this opening credit scene, we are introduced to three different men. First, we see Dave (Jordan...

Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993)

"Bobby Fischer was a man unlike any other. He is known for his quick smarts and fast-paced skills surrounding all things related to chess. It's unknown why, but one day, Bobby Fischer vanished, and no one knew where he went. Did he die, or perhaps he went into hiding?...

Dirty Dancing (1987)

Set during the bright summer of 1963, we follow a seventeen-year-old named Baby (Jennifer Grey). Baby and her family are travelling to a popular resort in the Catskills. We learn instantly that Baby's world is filled with promise and greatness. Family life is also...

Creed III (2023)

After a smashing career in the boxing world, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) has hung up his gloves and is currently living a retired life. He resides with his wife, Bianca (Tessa Thompson), and his young daughter, Amara (Mila Davis-Kent). Each day, Adonis mentors...