Companion (2025)
Written & directed by Drew Hancock this film stars Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quad. A young woman and her boyfriend go to stay at the house of a rich Russian with his friends.
There are a few interesting concepts here but the film tips its hand too early to work as a mystery thriller and does not go deep enough on any of the higher concepts to be thought provoking. Seems like something of a wasted opportunity. Much better versions of this story out there.
2/5
The Queen and the Queen Mother on the Palace Balcony Responding to the Call of the Populace (Coronation of Wilhemina) (1898)
Directed by William K. L. Dickson this is an early short film. Royalty wave to the crowd.
Very milky in the surviving footage so not exactly easy to make out what is happening. The camera is a bit far away to make out the individuals which also does not help. Not the best in this series.
2/5
Review of the Royal Netherland Guard in the Costumes of the Middle Ages (1898)
Directed by William K. L. Dickson this is an early short film. Guards on parade for the coronation of Queen Wilhemina.
Fascinating to see soldiers in what was out of date costumes even for the day. Decently framed shot and good image quality. A nice piece of history.
3/5
The 12 Inch Pianist (2025)
Directed by Lucas Ansel this is an animated short film. A familiar joke extended to surreal conclusions.
I really enjoyed this short, it takes a simple concept and stretches it out nicely. The animation style is pretty cool and does not look cheap at all. A very fun short.
3/5
1 in the Chamber (2024)
Directed by Diana Wright & Annie Girard this short film stars Mary Elizabeth Ellis and Yara Martinez. A woman is sent to kill her co-worker.
A one note joke extended out to 7 minutes fairly well. Obviously made a bit on the cheap side. Fine for what it is I guess.
2/5
Mickey 17 (2025)
Directed by Bong Joon Ho this film stars Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie and Steven Yeun. A man signs on to be an expendable in a colonization mission.
Much like some of the director's other films this is a dystopian dark comedy. There is a lot to enjoy here even if the film could maybe do with a just a tiny bit more depth. Pattinson does a great job in multiple roles.
4/5
Arrival of the Queen at the Palace, Amsterdam, Sept 6th (Coronation of Wilhelmina) (1898)
Directed by William K. L. Dickson this is an early short film. People arrive at the palace for a coronation.
A nice elevated shot shows people on parade. Decent for what it is and survives in good condition. A slice of history.
3/5
