Novocaine (2025) delivers a potent mix of dark comedy and hyper-violent action, a film that embraces its outrageous premise with enthusiasm. Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, and starring Jack Quaid, the movie centers on a man who can’t feel pain.

Quaid plays Nathan Caine, a bank employee with Congenital Insensitivity to Pain with Anhidrosis (CIPA). His condition, usually a serious detriment, becomes the film’s core when his love interest, Sherry (Amber Midthunder), is kidnapped during a bank heist. Nathan, driven by his pain-free state, embarks on a rescue mission, evolving from a cautious individual into a surprisingly resilient, if somewhat inept, action hero.
The film’s strength lies in its commitment to this outlandish premise.

The directors don’t shy away from the graphic implications of Nathan’s condition. He withstands a series of increasingly gruesome injuries – impaling’s, shootings, and bone-crunching impacts – reacting with a mixture of bewilderment and mild annoyance. This comparison of extreme violence and Nathan’s nonchalant reactions creates a unique and darkly, humorous tone.

Quaid delivers a performance that balances Nathan’s initial timidity with his later, pain-fueled tenacity. He’s both relatable and ridiculous, making the audience root for this unlikely hero. Midthunder, while somewhat seen as a damsel-in-distress role, brings a quiet strength to Sherry.

Novocaine (2025) has flaws. The plot, while functional, is straightforward, and the film sometimes favors extreme set pieces over narrative coherence. Some humor may miss the mark, and the intense violence might be off-putting to some. However, for those who enjoy the absurd and can stomach gore, Novocaine 2025 offers a wild and entertaining ride. It’s a film that embraces silliness, delivering a blend of action and comedy that is both shocking and surprisingly fun. I’d recommend checking out ‘Novacaine’ and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of three stars. You can watch it at your local Cinema today. Director: Dan Berk; Robert Olsen – Rating: 16– Genre: Action/Thriller – Run Time: 1h 50m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

With Adrian Maben’s 1972 film, “Pink Floyd at Pompeii,” returning to cinemas in stunning IMAX from April 24th, its only right to review this classic. The film is less a concert film and more a hypnotic, surrealist document of a band at their creative zenith. Filmed over four days in the eerily silent ruins of Pompeii’s ancient amphitheatre, it captures Pink Floyd performing without an audience, stripped bare of spectacle, and bathed in the stark, natural light of the Italian sun.

The absence of an audience transforms the performance into a ritualistic exploration of sound and space. The band, young and intense, play with a raw energy that contrasts sharply with their later, more polished stadium shows. Visually, the film is a masterstroke. Maben’s use of long, sweeping shots, close-ups of the band members’ intense concentration, and the stark, sun-drenched ruins create a powerful sense of isolation and timelessness. The lack of stage lighting or special effects focuses the viewer’s attention on the music itself, allowing the viewer to truly appreciate the band’s artistry. The intercut footage of the band in the studio, working on the “Dark Side of the Moon” sessions, provides a fascinating glimpse into their creative process, hinting at the masterpiece that was to come.

The upcoming IMAX release promises to elevate this experience to a whole new level. The sheer scale and clarity of the IMAX format will undoubtedly enhance the film’s visual and incredible sound. Imagine the vastness of the amphitheatre, the intricate details of the ruins, and the raw power of the band’s performance, all rendered in stunning detail on a giant screen.

The panoramic shots of Pompeii will be breathtaking on the IMAX screen, immersing you in the film’s unique atmosphere. This IMAX release is not just a remaster; it’s a reimagining of a classic film, a chance to experience the magic of “Pink Floyd at Pompeii” in a way that has never been possible before.
I’d recommend checking out “Pink Floyd at Pompeii,” and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of FIVE stars. You can watch it at Odean or the Lighthouse Cinema. Director: Adrian Maben– Rating: 12A – Genre: Documentary/Musical – Run Time: 1h 32m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

In a world where technology seamlessly integrates with daily life “Companion” (2025) explores the complex relationship between humans and A.I. The film follows Iris, a young woman who discovers she is a companion android designed for human companionship. As Iris grapples with her identity and the limitations of her programmed existence, the line between human and machine blurs, raising questions about autonomy, control, and the very nature of love.

Sophie Thatcher delivers a captivating performance as Iris, portraying her vulnerability and strength with nuance. Jack Quaid shines as Josh, the man who initially appears to be Iris’s loving companion but whose true motives become increasingly ambiguous. The supporting cast, including Lukas Gage as the enigmatic Patrick, adds depth to the narrative, each character embodying a different facet of the human-AI dynamic.
The cinematography captures the beauty and unease of Iris’s world, while the soundtrack amplifies the film’s emotional core. The script is thought-provoking, exploring themes of identity, free will, and a view of advanced technology.

“Companion” is not without its flaws. Some plot developments may strain credulity, and the film occasionally relies on familiar tropes of the sci-fi genre. However, its strengths may far outweigh its weaknesses. The film’s exploration of complex themes, combined with its strong performances and compelling visuals, make it a decent watch for fans of science fiction and thought-provoking cinema.
Ultimately, “Companion” is a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement. It somewhat of a scary view of the future and with the film being told from an A.I perspective, I naturally felt a bit uneasy. I also understood that the humans were at fault., but It all goes back to Kubrick’s great 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) in which he views it as humans becoming far too comfortable with technology that it would eventually consume us empower A.I and take over. Its with ‘Companion’ that you can kind of feel the same energy.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘Companion’ and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of three stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Drew Hancock– Rating: 16 – Genre: Horror/Sci-fi – Run Time: 1h 37m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu is a visually stunning and terrifying reimagining of F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent film. Eggers meticulously recreates the gothic atmosphere of the original film, immersing viewers in a world of shadows, decay, and dread.

The film follows Thomas Hutter (Nicolas Hoult), a young estate agent tasked with selling a remote Transylvanian castle to the enigmatic Count Orlok (Bill Skarsgård). Hutter’s journey into the heart of darkness unleashes a wave of terror upon his unsuspecting village, as Orlok’s insatiable hunger for blood spreads like a plague.

Bill Skarsgård delivers a truly great performance as Count Orlok. Showing a more romanticized portrayal of vampires, Skarsgård embodies Orlok as a creature of pure pestilence, his gaunt frame and piercing gaze radiating an aura of ancient evil. He is less a seductive predator and more a force of nature, an embodiment of death itself.

Eggers’ signature style is on full display, with an unwavering commitment to historical accuracy and a meticulous attention to detail that borders on the obsessive. The film’s sets, costumes, and even the way light falls across the screen are all beautifully crafted to evoke a sense of authenticity.

While the film’s pacing is deliberate, mirroring the slow creep of the darkness to come, it can feel a little sluggish. I enjoyed it as much as the other adaptations, but do understand it not being for everyone, it’s essentially a film for a particular audience. The tension builds relentlessly, punctuated by moments of shocking violence and unsettling imagery.

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu (2024) is a masterful reimagining of a classic horror film. It is a visually stunning and terrifying experience that will leave a lasting impression on viewers. It is a testament to Eggers’ singular vision as a filmmaker, and a chilling reminder of the enduring power of classic horror.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘Nosferatu’ (2024) and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of 4 stars. You can watch it today at your local cinema. Director: Robert Eggers– Rating: 16 – Genre: Horror/Mystery– Run Time: 2h 12m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

David Fincher’s “Se7en” hits its 30-year anniversary this year and with it also coming back to cinemas in a stunning IMAX screening, its sure to be a fantastic cinematic experience. ‘Seven’ is a haunting exploration of morality, sin, and the depths of human depravity. This 1995 neo-noir thriller stars Brad Pitt as Detective David Mills, a hot-headed young cop, and Morgan Freeman as Detective William Somerset, a seasoned veteran on the brink of retirement. Together, they are tasked with hunting down a serial killer whose murders are inspired by the Seven Deadly Sins.

The film’s dark, gritty atmosphere is perfectly captured by Fincher’s meticulous direction and Andrew Howard’s stunning cinematography. The rain-soaked streets of a decaying city provide a bleak backdrop for the horrifying crimes committed by the killer, known only as John Doe. Kevin Spacey delivers a chilling performance as Doe, a man who believes he is punishing sinners and cleansing the world of their corruption.

“Se7en” is a masterclass in suspense, with each new discovery leading to even greater horror. The film’s pacing is deliberate, building tension and dread as the detectives delve deeper into the killer’s twisted mind. The climax is a gut-wrenching confrontation that leaves a lasting impact.

While the film’s violence and disturbing subject matter may not be for everyone, “Se7en” is a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience. It is a timeless exploration of the darkness that lurks within humanity, and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘Seven’ and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of 4 and a ½ stars. You can watch it today at selected cinemas throughout January or rent it off YouTube for €3.99. Director: David Fincher – Rating: R – Genre: Crime/Horror– Run Time: 2h 10m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

The Penguin series kicked off back in September but as it ended last month, I felt why not do a review of a series as appose to a movie for a change. The series for me from start to finish was absolutely fantastic. It slowly unfolded into an edge of your seat gangster series with an extraordinary set of characters. One of our own in Colin Farrell reprised his role as the titular character, delivering a tour-de-force performance that is both menacing and captivating. His transformation into the Penguin is nothing short of remarkable, with his physical appearance and mannerisms perfectly capturing the essence of the character. The supporting cast, including Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone and Rhenzy Feliz as a young Edward Nygma, also deliver very strong performances.

The series excels in its dark and atmospheric tone, immersing viewers in the seedy underbelly of Gotham City. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the city’s bleak beauty and the characters’ descent into darkness. The writing is sharp and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep viewers hooked. The make-up and costume design is also spectacular with a wonderful score by the great Mick Giacchino.
However, “The Penguin” is not without its flaws. Some will argue the pacing can be uneven at times, with some episodes feeling slower than others, whereas I feel the first couple of episodes are just setting the tone before it kicks off into a big ball of chaos. Additionally, the series can be quite violent and disturbing, which may not be suitable for all viewers.In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘The Penguin’ and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of 4 stars. You can watch it today on Sky Atlantic. Creator: Lauren LeFranc– Rating: 15 – Genre: Drama/Crime – Run Time: 55 min per episode. Language: English, Italian. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

Joker: Folie à Deux hit cinemas last month and was met with mixed reviews upon its release. While some praised its visual style and the performances of Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, others criticized its pacing, narrative, and overall tone. I happened to see it on the day of its release and had my own thoughts on one of the much-anticipated films of the year.

One of the primary criticisms levelled against the film was its lack of a clear narrative direction. While the first Joker film was a character study with a focused plot, Folie à Deux felt more like a series of disconnected vignettes. The film’s pacing was also a point of contention, with some viewers finding it slow and uneven.

Another common complaint was the film’s excessive use of musical numbers. While these sequences were visually striking, some felt that they detracted from the film’s overall tone and disrupted the narrative flow. Additionally, the film’s portrayal of mental illness was a source of debate, with some arguing that it was insensitive and exploitative.

Despite these criticisms, Joker: Folie à Deux was undoubtedly a visually impressive film. The cinematography was stunning, and the production design was top-notch. Phoenix and Gaga also delivered strong performances, although some felt that their characters were underdeveloped, at times I felt it was just Gaga on screen and not Harley Quinn.

Ultimately, whether or not Joker: Folie à Deux is a successful film is a matter of personal opinion. While it offers a visually striking and thought-provoking experience, its narrative shortcomings and controversial themes may alienate some viewers.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out Joker: Folie à Deux and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of 2 stars. You can watch it today at your local cinema. Director: Todd Phillips – Rating: 15A – Genre: Musical/Thriller – Run Time: 2h 18m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

With the long-awaited reunion of Rock’n’roll stars Oasis, I felt it would be a great time to shine a light on one of the best music documentaries I’ve ever seen. Oasis: Supersonic is a nostalgic, exhilarating, and chaotic journey through the early years of one of the most iconic bands of the Britpop era. The storytelling is fast paced, much like the whirlwind journey Oasis experienced. With a great use of a mix of home videos, concert footage, and press clippings to illustrate the band’s trajectory.

The most compelling theme of Oasis: Supersonic is the tension between Noel and Liam Gallagher. Their contrasting personalities fuelled both the band’s creative output and their infamous feuds. Their dynamic is central to the narrative, as we witness their passionate collaborations and explosive arguments.
“Supersonic” showcases the band’s iconic performances, from intimate gigs to massive stadium shows, highlighting their undeniable stage presence and infectious energy. It also provides a glimpse into the band’s personal lives, exploring their friendships, rivalries, and the challenges they faced as they navigated the pressures of fame. It’s the idea of essentially a group of local lads brought up on a council estate with a battered acoustic guitar that took over the world of music, it’s just quiet amazing.

While the documentary primarily focuses on Oasis’s early success, it also hints at the band’s eventual decline. “Supersonic” is a must-watch for fans of Oasis and anyone interested in the history of British rock music. With a look into Noel’s genius songwriting, Liams Rock’n’roll charisma and the infamous Knebworth gigs, its truly a fascinating watch.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out Oasis: Supersonic and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Five stars. You can rent it on Amazon Prime Video for €3.49. Director: Mat Whitecross– Rating: R – Genre: Documentary/Drama – Run Time: 2h 2m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

Longlegs is a horror thriller that taps into the dread of being watched, following the classic yet effective trope of a mysterious killer with an unsettling aura. Directed by Osgood Perkins, known for his atmospheric and slow-burn approach to horror, Longlegs explores the intersection of the supernatural and the psychological with a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very end.

Nicolas Cage, who portrays the titular character, is mesmerizing as the enigmatic and unnerving Longlegs. His performance is a masterclass in controlled terror, with his eerie calmness and occasional bursts of unhinged behaviour. Cage’s ability to shift between charm and menace adds a layer of unpredictability that elevates the film’s tension. The supporting cast, including Maika Monroe and Alicia Witt, deliver solid performances, grounding the film in a grim reality that contrasts sharply with the more surreal elements of the plot.

The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, allowing the tension to build gradually. This choice may not resonate with viewers expecting a more fast-paced horror experience, but for those who appreciate a slow-burn, the payoff is well worth the wait. The cinematography enhances the unsettling atmosphere, with dim lighting and claustrophobic framing that leaves you feeling as though something sinister is always lurking just out of sight

Longlegs thrives on its atmosphere, creating a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s a film that isn’t afraid to leave questions unanswered, trusting the audience to piece together its fragmented and often disturbing narrative. While it may not be a crowd-pleaser for everyone, Longlegs is a haunting and memorable addition to the horror genre, particularly for those who relish ambiguity and psychological depth in their scares.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out Longlegs and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Four stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Osgood Perkins – Rating: R – Genre: Horror/Crime – Run Time: 1h 41m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Jack Shanley

Ti West caps off his deranged horror trilogy with a bang in “MaXXXine,” the most entertaining and violent entry yet. Mia Goth continues to shine as Maxine Minx, the tenacious survivor of the Texas massacre in “X” who now sets her sights on Hollywood stardom in the neon-drenched, cocaine-fuelled landscape of 1985.
West’s love letter to the era is impeccable. The grime, the synth soundtrack, and the lurid excess are all meticulously recreated, with a dash of “video nasty” aesthetics thrown in for good measure. Los Angeles transforms into a dangerous playground, with the Night Stalker real-life murders casting a long shadow and a copycat killer emerging from the darkness.

Goth is a revelation. She embodies Maxine’s ambition and vulnerability with equal intensity. We see her navigate the sleaze of peep shows and B-movie auditions with a steely resolve, all while haunted by the trauma of her past. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Elizabeth Debicki as the demanding director who sees potential in Maxine, and a trio of detectives (Bobby Cannavale, Michelle Monaghan, and Kevin Bacon) adding a layer of suspense.

“MaXXXine” is a genre mashup, blending classic slasher elements with a dash of dark humour and a surprisingly poignant exploration of female ambition in a cutthroat industry. The kills are brutal and creative but in sense not all that necessary sometimes, they showcase West’s mastery of practical effects. However, the film doesn’t shy away from exploring the emotional toll of violence, particularly on Maxine.
The film isn’t without its flaws. The plot can be predictable at times, and some might find the constant barrage of 80s references a bit overwhelming. The film lacks a bit of a drive sometimes but is arguably one of the best in the trilogy.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out “MaXXXine” and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Three stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Ti West– Rating: R – Genre: Horror/Suspense – Run Time: 1h 44m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.