Joe Bloggs About Films

Ever rewatch a classic and think, "They don’t make films like that anymore"? Well, Paul Thomas Anderson’s 'One Battle After Another' proves they still can.This latest release from PTA feels like a standout in his filmography. Rich in character, layered in tone, and packed with that nostalgic density of ’80s and ’90s cinema. The genre bending too has that perfect balance of intensity, with sharp satire and surprising humour, all displayed and executed terrifically via its leads Leonardo DiCaprio, Chase Infiniti and Sean Penn. 'One Battle After Another' simply is a must see for cinema lovers. Not only is it shot on VistaVision for the first time in 60 years, but too its backed by a powerful Jonny Greenwood score that accompanies the film beautifully. Its a spectacular reminder of why we fall in love with movies in the first place.

The announcement that came at last years comic con regarding yet another Dexter series starring Michael C Hall had me a little concerned that this was getting a tad silly... but boy, oh boy, was I wrong - this latest season was a blast from start to finish. Despite the clumsiness of how Dexter evaded prison (as well as surviving) on the back of 'New Blood', Dexter: Resurrection delivers as a terrific legacy sequel. It recaptures what made the original great, while adding a fresh twist by dropping Dexter into the vast, chaotic world of New York City — the perfect new hunting ground for his dark urges.With some brilliant storytelling, 'Resurrection' jumps high in the list of best Dexter seasons, which is a huge achievement considering twice now they've tried to end the show altogether. What's more impressive, is that I want more.Full thoughts in this review.

I was lucky enough to attend an early screening of 'The Long Walk', and it's absolutely worth your time. The premise is simple: young men walk over 300 miles in a brutal competition. Fall below 3mph, get three warnings—then you're executed. It's a harrowing concept that delivers both shocking visuals and emotional gut-punches as characters you grow attached to are picked off.While the full ensemble is strong, it's Cooper Hoffman and David Jonsson who shine. Their performances and growing bond give the film real emotional depth, anchoring the relentless journey. Despite the straightforward setup, the film explores its characters deeply, thanks in large part to their dynamic.'The Long Walk' earns its place among the best Stephen King adaptations. Francis Lawrence captures the bleak, psychological toll of the journey with precision, making this not just a survival story, but a powerful character study.

The third and final season of the highly popular streaming sensation 'Squid Game' premiered a couple of months back - and whilst 'Squid Game 3' raised the stakes and gave Seong Gi-hun a dramatic send-off, the story often felt forced and messy; especially when compared to the stronger, more cohesive seasons that came before.There are still some standout moments – particularly, the hide-and-seek game, which only demonstrated how brilliant a writer Hwang Dong-hyuk is. The performances, too, are a high point—Lee Jung-jae delivers arguably his best work of the series, bringing real depth and intensity to Gi-hun’s final arc.But as a concluding chapter, this season is a mixed bag. It lacks the tight, purposeful storytelling that made the first season so impactful. It’s far from a disaster, but considering the heights Squid Game has reached, the finale feels like a missed opportunity.Full thoughts in this review.

'Weapons' is the latest release from 'Barbarian' director Zach Cregger, and once again, he delivers something brilliant.While marketed as horror, 'Weapons' leans more into thriller territory, similar to 'Prisoners', exploring a chilling mystery surrounding missing children that unfolds with a gripping story, tone, and performances that keep you fully immersed from minute one.Much like 'Barbarian', Cregger’s structure here is unique - told in multiple chapters from different perspectives, revisiting the same events through new eyes. It’s one of my favourite storytelling methods, and it's executed masterfully. Cregger generates enough thrills that even if you’re a little unsatisfied with the overall reveal, you’re still on board down to the creativity behind this one.'Weapons' is easily another standout of the year. It blends supernatural elements with real-world themes like grief, addiction, and police brutality, all while maintaining edge-of-your-seat suspense. A must-see that’s sure to land on many top 10 lists.Full thoughts in this review.

Leslie Neilson cemented himself as one of the comedy greats with his roles in classics such as 'Airplane' and 'The Naked Gun', packed with timeless gags and quotable lines. Thankfully, the same can be said for this new sequel/legacy sequel starring Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson - because boy, is this a blast from start to finish. Sure, not every joke will land, but for every small chuckle, comes a huge belly laugh with some outrageously funny jokes and sight gags courtesy of Neeson and Anderson. There is a charm within thanks to these characters being well played, coming across serious in a very un-serious film that's sole purpose is to make its audience laugh - and it works excellently. 'The Naked Gun' is one of 2025’s best films, as well one of the best legacy sequels that Hollywood has delivered. In a time where the world is going to shit, we could all do with a laugh - and 'The Naked Gun' delivers just that.Full thoughts in this review.

Marvel’s First Family has finally arrived in the MCU with 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' - and yes, the fourth time really is the charm.Matt Shakman delivers a stunning, retro-futuristic world that visually is Marvel’s best yet, elevated by outstanding costume and production design, as well another brilliant score by Michael Giacchino.Question marks surrounded some of the casting choices upon announcement, however, all of the key players in here are terrific. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach all shine, bringing heart, charm, and real chemistry to the screen. Some get more spotlight than others, but the cast’s authenticity makes the family dynamic feel both genuine and lovable.While 'First Steps' isn’t flawless and feels like it’s missing something, it still delivers on spectacle, emotion, and the nostalgic spirit of classic comic book films—making it a strong, heartfelt addition to the MCU.Full thoughts in this review.

The DC Universe has officially launched under James Gunn's direction, and his first outing with 'Superman' is nothing short of remarkable.Gunn brings a fresh and heartfelt take on the iconic Man of Steel. 'Superman' delivers everything fans hoped for—epic action, strong performances from David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, and Nicholas Hoult, and a perfectly balanced script full of warmth, humour, and heroism.Even for those who didn’t grow up loving Superman, this version rekindles admiration for the character, presenting him as a true symbol of hope. With standout moments (including a scene-stealing Krypto), 'Superman' marks a powerful and emotional start to the new DCU—reminding audiences just how great superhero films can be when guided by the right vision.Full thoughts in this review.

Joseph Kosinski returns with the high-octane and adrenaline pumping, 'F1' . Though I'm not a fan of the sport, nor did everything fully work for me within this release, it's hard not to be impressed with the films thrilling and up-close racing sequences, and the techniques used to capture them. Brad Pitt brings in another top performance, alongside a great supporting cast, delivering on drama and emotional weight that has you rooting for the team in every race. Fans of the sport will find plenty to love, and Kosinski’s direction delivers the energy and visuals you’d expect. The story is good, but it's the racing that truly shines.Full thoughts in this episode.

After the lacklustre 'Dominion', it seemed the Jurassic saga was set to go extinct. However, life indeed has found a way, as Universal and Gareth Edwards have unleashed the 7th instalment 'Jurassic World: Rebirth'.. and I had a pretty fun time with this one - even if the ride is a little bumpy.It's very much back to basics; dinosaurs on an island and the humans trying to avoid being chomped. It does have its flaws due to its paper thin script. It plays things safe and throws in as many nods and references to the original as they can, but 'Rebirth' still serves some absolutely stunning visuals and set pieces that puts it higher up that Jurassic ranking list.An all-star packed cast, as well some stunning looking dinosaurs (mutants aplenty), 'Rebirth' has moments that are exceptionally impressive, as well as underwhelming components too.Full thoughts in this review.

Danny Boyle and Alex Garland reunite to bring the highly anticipated sequel '28 Years Later', thrusting audiences into how survivors are coping nearly three decades after the initial outbreak; and its excellent.'28 Years Later' highlights the beauty in human survival and the evolution of a community over time, shaped by their harsh environment. At the same time, it explores the surprising endurance and adaptation of the infected, who seem to have evolved and thrived over 30 years. The comparison between human and infected evolution is seen as a compelling and well-executed concept, making this release a different experience when comparing to the earlier films in the series.As far as storytelling goes, this is one of 2025’s standouts. The breathtaking visuals and expertly crafted effects elevate the film into a truly visceral experience—heightened even further by exceptional performances from Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, and a scene-stealing turn by Alfie Williams. Without question, it ranks among the best legacy sequels ever made.Full thoughts in this review.

Live action remakes are all the rage these days, and with that, DreamWorks have finally released their new reimagination of the fan favourite 'How to Train Your Dragon'... and it's just as great as the original.I wasn't overly keen on a live action adaptation for this story upon its announcement. The animation was pretty much perfect (as too was the whole trilogy, to be fair), but credit where credit is due, as this release conjured all the same feelings and emotions that the original delivered.The sets are fantastic, as too the CGI used in bringing the loveable Toothless to life. Mason Thames and Nico Parker take over responsibility as the films leads, and both were pretty ace in their respected roles.If you're sick of the live action films that have been coming our way of late, I'm pretty confident that 'How to Train Your Dragon' will make you change your mind.Full thoughts in this review.

Ana De Armas takes centre stage in this highly entertaining new spin off from the world of John Wick; 'Ballerina'. It's hard finding anyone that doesn't like at least one of the Wick films. They are full of incredible spectacles thanks to the sets, locations, and of course, action - and 'Ballerina' continues this trend, with de Armas showing off her skills for some terrific viewing. Though the story is a little safe, it's the different scenarios and choice of combat approach that really shines through - catapulting some sequences within 'Ballerina' to the top of the list for best moment in the Wick-verse. 'Ballerina' definitely scratches that itch if you're missing some Wick action. Full thoughts in this review.

The first season of HBO's adaptation of 'The Last Of Us' was met with mostly high praise from fans and critics. But much like the second game, the second season has been met with a lot of criticism... But I’m not too sure as to why.I might be in the minority, but I felt the second season was another incredible spectacle that delivered a brutal story of love, loss and revenge. It’s not a perfect season by any stretch, but the scope and scale of the show (as well terrific performances) made it all the more compelling to watch.Bella Ramsey grew more and more with each episode as she delivered a top notch display of grief, and how that can take you to such dark places. Pedro Pascal’s departure did leave a big mark, but it also allowed for a richer and hard hitting display from all the shows leads on the back of his exit.It essentially was a lose lose situation for creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mason, knowing how polarised the second game was… But all in all, season two of 'The Last Of Us' carried on the exceptional storytelling from the season prior and sets up for an exciting third season.Full thoughts in this review.

Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt in what seems to be the finale to the pretty darn good Mission Impossible franchise. Aptly titled 'The Final Reckoning'. Cruise and his IMF team try to save the world from the AI entity known as.. well, the Entity. Cue death defying stunts, lots of running and a whole lot of exposition. I wasn’t the biggest fan of 'Dead Reckoning', and sadly, 'The Final Reckoning' was even more disappointing. Granted, there is your classic suspenseful beats, and the action (of course) is highly impressive. Cruise doing what he does best to give audiences the best experience whilst watching him cheat death. But the plot, as well as the sheer amount of exposition, is exhausting - making the film a bit of a slog to get through.There is enough to make this an 'ok' watch, but it seems the dazzling heights that the franchise reached with ‘Fallout’ are but a distant memory.Full thoughts in this review.

'Final Destination' returns to the big screen with it's newest addition; 'Bloodlines'. This time, death is taking down a whole family tree due to their ancestor cheating death years prior.It certainly felt like a new and refreshing creative team were involved with this release. The franchise had reached a point of becoming stale and repetitive - afterall, there's only so many times you can watch people cheat death, only to then be killed in some freak accident. An argument can be made that it still feels stale this time round, however, the concept of a family that technically shouldn't be here and now being hunted was a fascinating spin. Whilst the film does have its flaws, there's no denying that the ,mousetrap-like kills are as entertaining as ever. 'Bloodlines' also includes arguably the franchises best ever opening disaster, which given we're now 6 films deep, that is some going! Full thoughts in this review.

Growing up, there was a good amount of horror/thrillers to choose from – but none more so impactful or impressionable, for my generation, than the 'Final Destination' series.Having originally been penned as a potential episode of 'The X Files', co-writers James Wong and Glen Morgan repurposed the story into the feature that we all love today – and the franchise has never looked back. The concept and idea was so unique; death stalking those that cheated its plan, it’s no wonder the original release from 2000 has spawned four (soon to be five) sequels following its success.The suspense and anxiety that drips into each scene for the survivors of Flight 180 is remarkable yet excruciating to endure. As well the ingenuity with its well-thought and equally terrifying 'freak accidents' that death pits the characters in, are just another reason as to why the 'Final Destination' franchise remains a favourite and highlight for so many. It may be 20 years since the originals released, but it holds up very well.Full thoughts in this revisit.

Marvel’s latest entry 'Thunderbolts*' is a much needed, and frankly brilliant, return to form. It wasn’t at the top of my anticipated list, but its certainly left its mark.Unlike most of the recent MCU releases, this feels raw and sincere with its narrative - whilst also being incredibly fun. The film tackles darker themes which allows for some excellent character exploration of its leads. It’s a film that most can resonate with, taking Marvel into places they haven’t before - all being executed perfectly.The cast fire on all cylinders, the script is polished and well crafted, action on point with terrific cinematography and choreography.. 'Thunderbolts*' feels like the Marvel of old and I am ALL for it.Full thoughts in this review.

Alex Garland teams up with Ray Mendoza for their new release 'Warfare'; bringing to the screen Mendoza's real life experience as a Navy SEAL during the Iraq war.. and it is brutal. This boots on the ground, real life/real time viewpoint makes this film stand out higher than any other war film you may have seen before. It is nerve-racking, anxiety inducing, as well as feeling extremely real due to this being director Mendoza's own experiences. Everything from the cinematography, which captures the events hauntingly, to the impeccable sound design for this film, gives off that impact of what it is like to be in the firing line and making you truly believe you are in the chaos with these soldiers.It's a film that is not only another stand out for this year, but one that audiences need to experience at least once in their life. Full thoughts in this review.

Ryan Coogler's 'Sinners' is arguably the filmmakers most ambitious, yet impressive, to date. Diving into American history, the film fully explores those themes of oppression and freedom, whilst also leaving its mark with its bite.It's a film that sets itself apart from the rest due to the execution and talent both on screen and off. Michael B Jordan is tremendous in the dual role of twin brothers Smoke and Stack, Jack O'Connell is creepily jovial as the malevolent Remmick, Hailee Steinfeld is gorgeously excellent - but stand out goes to young Miles Caton as Sammie aka Preacher Boy because boy oh boy, does he have a bright future ahead of him.'Sinners' will leave you transfixed and blown away by each sequence as it unfolds - the horror is dark, the world building though is on another level, as Coogler fleshes every location and character brilliantly, making 'Sinners' a rich and immersive experience from start to finish. And not to mention the score for this one courtesy of Ludwig Göransson.. Utter genius how the score and imagery go hand in hand together. Film of the year so far? No doubt about it.Full thoughts in this review.