Possessor (2020)
An agent works for a secretive organization that uses brain-implant technology to inhabit other people’s bodies – ultimately driving them to commit assassinations for high-paying clients.
My thoughts: A nifty techno-thriller that goes to some pretty dark places in its exploration of morality, identity, and the psychological ties that bind.
4/5
Der Samurai (2014)
Set in a small German village, a bloody game of cat-and-mouse ensues between a young, straight-shooting police officer and a cross-dressing villain with a large sword and a predilection for beheadings.
My thoughts: I suppose it works as a surreal allegory on repressed homosexuality, but as a compelling and/or ultimately satisfying horror movie? Not so much.
2.5/5
No One Lives (2012)
A gang of ruthless highway killers kidnap a wealthy couple traveling cross country only to shockingly discover that things are not what they seem.
My thoughts: It’s all good cheesy fun, but I’d argue these types of movies work best when you have someone to root for. One would argue that’s the Luke Evans character, but his performance is so stiff, his dialogue so cringingly stilted that it’s hard to get on board.
3/5
Knock at the Cabin (2023)
While vacationing, a girl and her parents are taken hostage by armed strangers who demand that the family make a choice to avert the apocalypse.
My thoughts: A surprisingly staid and unscary entry from Shyamalan, devoid – for better or worse – of his trademark closing twist. Still, Dave Bautista delivers a hell of a performance as the anguished messenger of doom.
3/5
May the Devil Take You (2018)
When her estranged father falls into a mysterious coma, a young woman seeks answers at his old villa, where she and her stepsister uncover dark truths.
My thoughts: It’s a pretty basic deal-with-the-devil story, but the wild mix of witchcraft, voodoo, and demonic possession make for one hell of a chaotic ride.
3.5/5
Today’s Yes/No…
Pizza Toast? Yes/No
A visit to the birthplace of pizza toast: Is the original better than all the others out there? https://t.co/IFVtdnCv9H via @RocketNews24En— Joseph Mallozzi 🏴☠️ (@BaronDestructo) February 17, 2023