Paige Wilcox

Visually, Alien: Earth is a stunning addition to the franchise, with each of its eight episodes presenting a compelling foundation for a larger narrative. The series successfully lays out a host of intriguing ideas, yet it ultimately feels like an extended setup rather than a satisfying story in its own right. Despite its visceral gore, the show surprisingly falls short in generating the signature tension and terror that defines the Alien universe. The lack of genuine scares leaves the viewer with a sense of anticipation that is never fully rewarded. While it’s clear the creators were building toward a grander conclusion, the season concludes feeling more like a prologue than a standalone chapter. I sincerely hope the series is greenlit for a second season, as it has built a solid, if unfulfilling, foundation that deserves to be explored further.

New Zealand film Tinā is an emotional powerhouse, driven by a stunning lead performance from Anapela Polataivao. Prepare for an intense ride – tears, laughter, and pride – as this film grabs you and doesn't let go. Tinā beautifully showcases Samoan culture, featuring moving waiata (songs) and authentic humour, while exploring powerful connections as different walks of life collide. The story tackles universal themes of loss, love, motherhood, courage, and transformation with poignant depth and features standout supporting performances.

This latest offering from the Radio Silence team known for Ready or Not and the Scream requels, spins vampire tropes with a balletic flair, deftly navigating familiar territory with style and a committed cast. Despite the trailer's reveal robbing some of the mystery and intrigue of the first act, the film's twists and turns keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Seamlessly blending scares with laughter, the movie delivers a rollercoaster of emotions, anchored by stellar performances, especially from the young actress portraying Abigail. From the realistic special effects to the terrifying yet endearing titular character, "Abigail" emerges as a standout vampire movie, combining horror and humor reminiscent of Jordan Peele's work. It's a must-watch that leaves a lasting impression, promising a bright future for its talented cast and crew.

High-octane action and thrilling races can't make up for its representation of women. Throughout the movie, women are consistently objectified and reduced to little more than eye candy. The most prominent female character, Trixie, is portrayed as a helpless damsel in distress who is only there to support the male protagonist, Speed. She is often seen in revealing clothing and is rarely given the opportunity to showcase her skills or intelligence. Moreover, the film's treatment of female characters reinforces outdated gender roles and stereotypes. In one scene, Speed's mother is shown as a passive housewife, while his father is depicted as the driving force behind the family's racing business. Its portrayal of women is disappointing and reinforces harmful gender norms. It's a reminder that even in a modern society, sexism continues to be a pervasive issue in media and entertainment.

Scream VI has slashed the competition with its new cast, sharp whodunit aspect, and fresh scenarios. It delivers slasher thrills, witty dialogue, and a satisfying ending that leaves viewers on the edge of their seat. The new Ghostface is gorier, scarier, and more relentless than ever, making it one of the best scripts in the franchise. Although it lacks the original final girl, Sam and Tara's emotionally invested characters make up for it, along with the return of legacy characters. The film's message about toxic fanboys, online rumors, and misinformation hits close to home in today's world. The blood-spattered sisterly duo and the subway scene create a sense of public terror, making this film a tasty slice of horror that keeps you guessing until the end. Scream VI is a satisfying sequel that breathes new life into the franchise, and it's a must-see for horror fans.

"Promising Young Woman" is a pop music-packed thrill ride that transcends genres and holds a scorching mirror up to society. Carey Mulligan delivers a masterful performance as Cassie, a feminist vigilante seeking justice for her friend who was sexually assaulted. The film explores themes of rape culture, the #MeToo movement, and culpability with an uncompromising, female perspective. Director Emerald Fennell cleverly uses a bubble-gum, rom-com style to delve into a timeless tale of female friendship and love. The film features a controversial ending that's a shock to the system, but it's a high-stakes finale that perfectly concludes the story. While it's not without flaws, "Promising Young Woman" is one of a kind and deserves a five-star rating for its unique and thoroughly entertaining perspective on a timely issue.

There are many better ways to punish yourself than to sit through this film.

Wow. I am most definitely okay with this, and can't wait to see where they take the story if they get renewed for another season.

Hold on to your screens, folks! The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a hilarious and heartwarming animated adventure that is sure to hit all the right buttons. The film is a clever commentary on our addiction to technology, brought to life by a well-animated cast of lovable misfits. Katie Mitchell, a young filmmaker, takes center stage as she embarks on a family road trip with her wilderness-loving father, Rick. But when a tech millionaire's obsession with innovation leads to a robot uprising, the Mitchells must band together to save the world from being taken over by machines. With top-notch animation and a talented voice cast, The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a visual feast that will have you laughing out loud. The rapid-fire jokes and puns are cleverly woven throughout the story, highlighting our reliance on technology while embracing the unique quirks of each member of the Mitchell family. The film's emotional depth enriches the story, making it more meaningful and engaging. But it's not just the humor and animation that make this film a standout. The Mitchells vs. the Machines also features LGBTQ+ representation, with Katie Mitchell being referenced as gay in a way that feels natural and authentic. The film strikes a balance between being topical and entertaining, making it a must-watch for families. Overall, The Mitchells vs. the Machines is a well-crafted animated comedy that delivers a message about the importance of real-life connection and communication. So, grab some popcorn and buckle up for a joyous and hilarious misadventure that is sure to leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

My favourite interpretation of Anne of Green Gables yet.