Jaula/The Chalk Line (2022)

A couple temporarily adopts a young girl that they found wandering around alone in the high road.

My thoughts: More thriller than horror; more exasperating than thrilling. The big reveal hinges on an implausible coincidence.

2.5/5

Nocebo (2022)

A fashion designer is suffering from a mysterious illness that puzzles her doctors and frustrates her husband, until help arrives in the form of a Filipino carer, who uses traditional folk healing to reveal a horrifying truth.

My thoughts: You’ll be required to squint at some of the fuzzy logic but, overall, an engaging little movie that sticks the landing.

3.5/5

The Apology (2022)

20 years after the disappearance of her daughter, a recovering alcoholic is preparing her family’s Christmas celebration when her estranged ex-bother-in-law arrives unannounced, bearing nostalgic gifts and a big secret.

My thoughts: A highly predictable mostly two-hander.

3/5

Nanny (2022)

Immigrant nanny Aisha, piecing together a new life in New York City while caring for the child of an Upper East Side family, is forced to confront a concealed truth that threatens to shatter her precarious American Dream.

My thoughts: Technically accomplished and strong performances with a compelling dramatic narrative, but the horror elements feel superfluous and detract from the whole.

3.5/5

Christmas Bloody Christmas (2022)

It’s Christmas Eve and Tori just wants to get drunk and party, but when a robotic Santa Claus goes haywire and begins a killing spree through her small town, she’s forced into a battle for survival.

My thoughts: Futurama already did it. And better. But perfectly fine if you’re looking for a cheesy holiday diversion.

3/5

Today’s Yes/No…

Matcha Marshmallow Shake? Yes/No https://t.co/WPr1djHwpd

— Joseph Mallozzi 🏴‍☠️ (@BaronDestructo) January 6, 2023