By Jack Shanley

The Exorcist: Believer is a prime example of how a once-beloved horror franchise can lose its way. Clocking in at just over two hours, this film feels like an eternity of clichés and jump scares that fail to deliver any real terror. The plot, which attempts to rekindle the demonic horror of the original film, is a convoluted mess. It follows a group of ill-fated individuals who stumble upon an ancient artifact that supposedly holds the key to unleashing the ultimate evil. As they unwittingly awaken a demonic force, were subjected to a series of overly predictable events, from eerie whispers in the dark to objects moving on their own. The film leans heavily on the tropes of the genre without bringing anything fresh or innovative to the table. One of the major drawbacks of is the lacklustre character development. The ensemble cast, which includes some seasoned actors, is given very little to work with. They are reduced to mere vessels for the demon’s malevolence, making it impossible to invest in their fates. Theres no emotional connection to these characters, and their struggles are lost in a sea of uninspired dialogue and wooden performances. The special effects, while technologically advanced, fail to impress. The CGI-heavy sequences often come across as overdone, distracting from any genuine horror the film might have hoped to achieve. Moreover, the reliance on jump scares grows tiresome as they become predictable, offering little more than momentary jolts. The film’s pacing is a significant issue as well. It struggles to maintain a consistent atmosphere, vacillating between slow, plodding exposition and frenetic, chaotic scenes. This inconsistency disrupts the build-up of tension and ultimately dilutes the horror. In conclusion, The Exorcist: Believer is a forgettable addition to the once-proud franchise. It lacks the storytelling depth and character development that made the original a classic. With a disjointed plot, uninspired performances, and an overreliance on worn-out horror tropes, this film misses the mark in delivering genuine scares. In all truth I’d recommend checking out The Exorcist: Believer and see what you think of it. I shall give it a score of two stars. Director: David Gordon Green – Rating: R– Genre: Horror/Supernatural – Run Time: 1h 51m – Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram/
Editor’s note. Jack’s opinion on this film is his alone based on his vast knowledge of film and does not necessarily reflect the opinion or views of the owners, management or staff of Local Magazine. We suggest you do as Jack recommends and go and view the film yourself and form your own views.

By Siobhan O’Neill White It’s November which means we can now officially talk about Christmas right?! If you’ve got a festive night out, check out MyKindOfDress.com for glam dresses and partywear to make you into a total Glammy! Use promo code MAMS30 for a whopping 30% discount! If you’re more of a ‘jeans and a nice top’ kind of gal, we’ve got a fabulous 20% off our absolute Freddy Jeans. They feel like a legging but give an incredible shape and instant bum lift! Use promo code Mams.ie for a wonderful 20% off! On wintery nights, get cosy and snuggled in a Wooliee! They’re so oversized you can get your legs tucked inside for maximum warmth and comfort. For 10% off, use code ‘Mams’ at the checkout! TanOrganic gives a golden glow on nights out and wintery days. Their products are luxurious and Irish too! The facial oil gives a healthy glow without or under make-up and their gift sets make wonderful Christmas presents. Special mention to their wonder balm and kabuki brush – ab fab! I’m wearing TanOrganic in the cover pic above, it gives a natural glow. Use code to get MAMS15 for a 15% discount! For Christmas shopping we buy Irish as much as possible. Hampers & Co. have hampers for loved ones at home and abroad. Quirky Dublin company Don’t Kill my Vibe’s funky jewellery is a cool gift. For meaningful pieces, we adore Little Light Jewellery. Their Nurture set is perfect for Mammies – the ultimate nurturers! Gray Robin make wonderful personalised gifts, we love the matching Pyjamas. Tipperary Crystal has a huge range of bags, accessories and home décor for gifting and sprucing up your home for Christmas. Dublin City is magical at Christmas and Ilac Shopping centre is wonderful for festive shopping. Quiz has gorgeous glam outfits, including curvy sizes. Hoco and Gadget Geek have clever tech gift ideas and Regatta has colourful cosy coats and fleeces including some fab Dare2B collaborations. For a sugar hit mid-shop, there’s a Krispy Crème too! Stay tuned to mams.ie and follow our socials for more competitions offers and discount codes!

(Q) What were you like as a kid?
(A) As a kid I was very lucky that my parents let me try many things. I was always trying something new, whether it was guitar, drums, piano, singing or dancing. I played the fiddle from a young age and played in the local Irish centre in Liverpool. We would compete every year in the fleadhs and travel to Ireland. As I got a little bit older, I decided I wanted to play guitar and have done so ever since the age of 10. My brother Nathan was a huge influence on me growing up. When he started gigging, I was always with him, this is how I first became interested in performing - the rest is history.
(Q) Are you looking forward to starring in the new Beauty and The Beast Panto at The Lark
Balbriggan throughout December?
(A) I can’t wait to be playing the Beast in The Lark’s first ever pantomime. It’s such an honour for me to be included in the cast for this production in such an amazing, brand new, state of the art venue. I love the story and grew up watching Beauty and the Beast, I’m very happy to be doing my first production of this amazing story.
(Q) What’s your favourite thing to do in your spare time?
(A) In my spare time when I’m not in the studio, performing or song writing, I love chilling with Lenny my dog and travelling around with him. I try to get back to Liverpool every chance I can get to see friends and family and often take Lenny with me.
(Q) What’s your favourite food?
(A) Favourite food has to be a Christmas dinner! Can’t be beaten!
(Q) What’s one of your happiest memories?
(A) One of my happiest memories has to be winning Dancing with the Stars in 2018. This was a huge achievement for me as I’d only moved over to Ireland in 2017 and it was a huge boost for everything in my career. Another huge achievement for me was playing a headline show in Dublin’s Vicar Street.
(Q) What’s your favourite film and why?
(A) Favourite films are the Harry Potter movies and my favourite one is probably Goblet of Fire. I watch all of the films at least once, every year.
(Q) If you had to swap places with anyone for one day, who would it be and why?
(A) Completely random, but I would swap places with someone out of the Liverpool football team, probably Trent Alexander Arnold. Always been a big Liverpool supporter and would love to see what life is like on match day.
(Q) You can invite four people (dead or alive) to your dinner party, who would they be and why?
(A) Paul McCartney, John Lennon - both grew up around the corner from me and I would love to hear stories about their life growing up. Juergen Klopp - would love to chat to him about Liverpool and football in general. Peter Kay - loved watching his DVDs growing up. He’s one of my favourite comedians and I imagine he’d be great craic at a dinner party.
(Q) What else is happening in Jake Carter’s world in the coming months?
(A) I have a brand-new single coming out called Milk &; Honey which I can’t wait to release. I also have a 5 track EP which I’ll be releasing at the start of next year. I am also announcing some brand-new live shows with my band in the coming weeks including a Dublin date which I can’t for!

By Dave Kavanagh

Those that rent their accommodation privately, compared to home owners, can be a lot more vulnerable. Apart from the obvious points, like rents being increased or having to move out if a property is being sold, there are other potential events that could prove problematic for renters.

As we saw in the early part of the pandemic, where many people’s incomes were drastically reduced, those with mortgages were permitted to avail of “payment breaks” with minimal effort. Unfortunately, those renting do not usually have the flexibility of this option. When someone cannot work due to illness or injury, they may suffer a loss of income, either immediately or after a short period, resulting in the inability to pay rent. This could lead to eviction and all of the problems associated with it. While those renting may not have been exposed to the kind of financial advice as someone going through the mortgage process, there are still safeguards that can be put in place. One option is Income Protection, paying them a portion of their income if they were unable to work due to illness or injury. This could be the difference between affording rent or being evicted. Something not often considered by renters is Life Cover. If one of a couple renting passed away, this could allow the surviving partner (or family) to purchase their own home immediately without the need for a mortgage. Similarly, Serious Illness Cover could pay out a tax-free lump sum on diagnosis of one of the illnesses covered, giving another layer of financial security. Better to consider these options earlier rather than later.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing Dave at info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial well being, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.

By Jack Shanley

A raw terrifying film, said to be the scariest film ever made, but does it live up to those 50 years on from its original release? The answer well for me at least is yes. It is such a well-directed film…so patient in its pacing flawlessly acted, with brilliant editing and cinematography that really add to the eerie atmosphere of the film. Every shot, every cut is deliberate. The composition of each shot is perfect. Every element of each scene is utilized to its full capacity in each shot, and nothing in a shot lingers for too long, or too short of a time. It gives you just enough to make you feel uneasy.

The Exorcist isn’t just a typical ‘girl is possessed’ film. It is much more involved and deeper than that. For much of this film you question if Regan is just crazy or if she is actually possessed. Even during the exorcism scene, the priests are fully convinced she is even possessed. Which gets to the heart and core of the film: it is a film about faith. Despite the religious nature of the film, there is quite a bit of science and psychology involved to make even the most religious people question how realistic their beliefs really are. And despite all this doubt and questioning of faith during the film, the exorcist puts all their conceived notions, beliefs, and logic aside, taking a leap of faith to try to save Regan in one of the greatest climaxes in all of cinema. It didn’t feel like an exorcism just for the sake of an exorcism, it felt earned. With a new Exorcist film on the horizon ‘The Exorcist: Believer’ and the sad recent passing Exorcist director and cinema great William Friedkin, now is a great time if any to watch the horror masterpiece. The Exorcist is being screened for its 50th Anniversary in the Light House Cinema in late September into early October. In all truth I’d recommend checking out The Exorcist and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of five stars. Director: William Friedkin – Rating: 18 – Genre: Horror/Thriller – Run Time: 2h 12m – Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

By Dave Kavanagh

When it comes to the important task of making sure that you have the most appropriate life and serious illness cover in place, many people often keep putting off making time to arrange it, (it’s not the most fun exercise!) despite the fact it can give them peace of mind, knowing that in the event of a fatality or a serious illness, their family do not suffer substantial financial loss. But what are they really saying? “I’ll have a look at that after Christmas”. Often replaced with “after Easter”, “after the holidays”, “after the kids go back to school” and a few others. What is actually being said is “I’ll name sometime in the future so that I don’t have to deal with it now” (a bit like “I’ll start the diet on Monday/in January”). Let’s face it, you can easily find 30-60 minutes once a year to deal with something this important. You’ll be glad you took the time. “We have cover in place already”. Great. That is if it’s been reviewed in the last few months, but on closer examination, it often hasn’t been looked at in years and circumstances have changed, it may no longer be suitable. It’s important to keep things relevant to your current personal circumstances. “Our bank sorted everything for us”. Your bank may have sorted a few things, but in most cases, banks are tied to one life company, so a fair comparison cannot be made, meaning you could be paying way over the odds for whatever the bank has put in place for you. Dealing with an advisor who is not tied to one company and can compare other options is the only way to make sure you get the best value. “I’m busy at present, I’ll give you a shout in a few months”. But the fact remains, if there is an activity that you like you will make time for it. Burying your head in the sand is rarely a successful solution to most problems. Someone once told me that they had no time and in the same conversation told me they had queued for over an hour in a drive-through for doughnuts. (They were also up to date on all the soap storylines!) If it’s important, make the time.

There have been TV and radio programmes recently featuring the late Dr. Noel Browne. As Minister for Health, Browne is credited with waging a successful total war on Tuberculosis. However, his attempt to implement the Mother and Child Scheme in effect brought down the First Inter-Party Government of Taoiseach John A. Costello in 1951 and remains one of the greatest political controversies in modern Irish political history. One radio programme included Liveline on RTE Radio 1, Wednesday August 2nd., featuring artist Robert Ballagh, whose portrait painting of Noel Browne is hidden away in storage. Among other details mentioned in that broadcast was that Dr. Noel Browne lived in Malahide for 6 months each year! Does anyone know or have any more details/information on where in Malahide he lived or any details of his life here? If you have you can contact Malahide Historical Society on their email at: malahidehistoricalsociety2@gmail.com (courtesy of Malahide Historical Society)

By Jack Shanley

‘Oppenheimer’ is a breathtaking masterpiece and perhaps one of the finest biopics ever made. Christopher Nolan manages to yet again skilfully combine the elements of action, audio, acting, direction, and scene design into an unforgettable cinematic experience, proving once again why he is one of the greatest directors of our time. Christopher Nolan’s visionary film making is mesmerising, with the movie taking audiences on an electrifying journey weaving together heart- pounding action sequences, exceptional performances, stunning visuals, and the very meticulous direction. Incredible performances from all including quite extraordinary performances from both Robert Downey Jr. and Emily Blunt. It’s one of our own in Cillian Murphy who truly steals the show with a mesmerising performance that is Oscar worthy. It is those big blue eyes, the stern look, you can really feel the stress that J. Robert Oppenheimer was put under. What makes the film so captivating is this story of a man with weight of the world on his shoulders and the idea that you either view J. Robert Oppenheimer as a hero or villain, it’s just fascinating. From the very very beginning, the film grips you with its captivating storytelling and seamless blend of the historical accuracy and cinematic artistry. The narrative unfolds chronologically, taking the audience on an enthralling journey through Oppenheimer’s early life, his academic pursuits, and eventually, his pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb during World War II. The experience I had in the cinema was riveting, pure cinematic magic as It’s a film you must see in IMAX. I felt locked into the movie as if I was taken back in time to the 1940’s. The film score complements the truly emotional depth of the story, heightening every scene’s impact and leaving a lasting impression on the viewers minds. With ‘Oppenheimer’ being quite dense. I’d suggest perhaps maybe you watching a documentary before going to see it. Lastly, I’ll finish by saying ‘Oppenheimer’ isn’t merely a biopic about a renowned physicist; it transcends into a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. In all truth I’d recommend checking out Oppenheimer and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of five stars. Director: Christopher Nolan – Rating: R – Genre: Drama/Thriller-Run Time: 3h – Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.

by Síobhán O’Neill White

It’s September and we’ve got some tips to make the back to school transition smooth.

One of the most important things to do is LABEL EVERYTHING!! Uniforms, bags, coats, shoes – we label with iron and stick on personalised labels from MyNametags.ie Pick the colour and style your child likes and add your contact number. Then, if an item gets lost, you’re more likely to get it back! For young children, Smiggle is fun for back to school essentials, as well as colouring goodies and games. We love the vibrant colours, ideal for all kinds of little personalities. Their Ilac SC store is fab for kids to explore. My children love the scented markers, crafty packs, fun pencil cases and quirky water bottles. For school tech, ipad and phone covers are very important to keep devices intact! HOCO have a wide range of styles in store at Ilac and online at hoco.ie reasonably priced and the staff are super helpful too. Headphones and earbuds are great for teens and tweens on grumpy mornings when they don’t want to chat in the car or bus on way to school! Gadget Geek has a colourful, well priced range. Regatta wind and rainproof coats have reflectors for additional safety on dark wintery mornings and evenings to make sure kids are always visible. We love the Dare2B collabs with Laura Whitmore, Fleur East and Jermaine Jenas. I especially love their warm fleeces to throw on for chilly school morning runs. And check out the Peppa Pig clothing for little ones, very cute.

If you’re thinking ahead to a mini break during the October mid-term? Pillo Hotel Ashbourne has a
pool, spa and offer excellent family packages, with trips to Emerald Park, Dublin Zoo and more. See pillohotelashbourne.com Ashbourne is such a quaint village, with cute shops and cafes. We especially love Chez Emily for hot chocolates and their delicious handmade chocolates are really irresistible! For couples’ romantic breaks, Bellinter House, nestled in the truly gorgeous Meath countryside is ideal for some child free time! My husband and I had a lovely time there with spa treatments, delicious dinner and a comfy stay in their converted stables. Romantic and Cosy!As we get into Autumn, we’ll have lots going on at mams.ie - logon for competitions, chat and more! It’s a fantastic support network for parents in Ireland, is free and full of great product reviews, blogs, offers and giveaways.

Shortlisted for Golden Spider Award & Infant & Maternity Award
As seen on RTE and Virgin Media Ireland & Weekend AM and as heard on Today FM’s Ian Dempsey & Dermot & Dave; RTE’s Ray D’Arcy Show, 98FM, LMFM Late Lunch, WLRFM & Shannonside FM

By Dave Kavanagh

There are many situations where homeowners have limited or no savings but may have requirements that need funding, even though their income does not permit them to commit to unaffordable, regular repayments. Imagine you’ve worked diligently to pay off a substantial portion or all of your mortgage, and you find yourself in need of additional funds due to unforeseen circumstances. A lifetime mortgage allows you to tap into this equity without selling your home. The borrowed amount, along with accrued interest, is typically repaid when the property is sold or when the last borrower passes away or moves into long-term care, so there are no regular repayments to make. There are, of course, reasons why they may not be appropriate for everyone’s circumstances. Some of the benefits include access to funds, whether it is to cover medical expenses, modifications to your home, to assist children in purchasing their own home, or any other urgent needs, no monthly repayments and ownership of your property is retained. Some of the factors to consider, include interest accrual, as interest is added to the borrowed amount over time, this may reduce the equity remaining in your property. It can reduce the value of your estate, potentially affecting any inheritance you leave behind. Financial implications: it’s crucial to understand the impact of a lifetime mortgage on your overall financial situation, including potential entitlements to state benefits. The amount that can be advanced will depend on the ages of the homeowners and the value of the property (minimum age is 60). Choosing a lifetime mortgage is a decision that should be made carefully, taking into account your unique circumstances, goals, and needs, including situations where there may be still some of your children living at home and you may have planned to leave them the home to live in after your passing. For further information on lifetime mortgages, you can email info@financialcompanion.ie and put “lifetime mortgages” in the subject line.