Brushed under the carpet

 

The Friend (2024)

Directed by Scott McGehee & David Siegel this film based on the novel of the same name stars Naomi Watts and Bill Murray. A woman inherits her mentor's dog.

There are a lot of potential pitfalls here with some really obvious cliches and I am not sure the film entirely sidesteps them. While the film does not get as overly sentimental as you might worry it does fail to deal with the issue of the mentor being that literature professor who sleeps with his students. A bit of a let down in the end.

2/5

Blown out

 

From Monte Carlo to Monaco (1899)

Directed by William K. L. Dickson this is an early short film. The view from a train ride in Monaco.

Part of what should be a nice view out over the sea appears to be completely blown out, otherwise a nice scenic short. We eventually get to see a decent wide view towards the end of the film. A fun little short similar to others of this type.

3/5

Super silly

 

Super Real Super Grounded (2024)

Directed by Margaux Susi this film stars Austin Williams. An aspiring actress is pushed to her limits in a remote audition for a tiny role.

Pretty funny and no doubt based on real experiences. Good effort by the lead actress to show her range. Works well as entertainment and a highlight reel.

3/5

It's not OK

 

It's OK, Johnny (2025)

Directed by Deniz Akyurek this short film stars Anthony Misiano. A man calls up the person he used to bully in high school to apologise.

To be honest this one comes across as an immature revenge fantasy. Needed a second or third draft. Decent performance from the star at least.

2/5

Should have been younger

 

Hector's Hell House (2023)

Directed by John Adam Krueger this film stars Gabriel Storm, Bill Mendieta, Christian Weissmann and Liesel Kopp. A young boy tries to face his fears and protect his family.

To be honest I think the kids were not cast young enough to make this one believable. Pretty decent idea just does not come off in the execution. Something that could be improved on at least.

2/5

Actually rare

 

Rare Medium (2024)

Directed by Emily Maya Mills this short film stars Dave Theune and Ryan Meharry. A man goes to see a medium but not all is as it seems.

An interesting little twist on what you would expect. A fun distraction if not the deepest short film. Pretty well done.

3/5

French-omon

 

The Last Duel (2021)

Directed by Ridley Scott this film inspired by historical events stars Matt Damon, Adam Driver, Jodie Comer and Ben Affleck. Two friends fall out and end up fighting a duel to the death.

I enjoyed Rashomon (1950) the first two times I saw it, I am not sure we really needed another version in medieval France. Fine for what it is but does not really add anything to the familiar set up. Decent performances from the cast.

3/5