FOLLOWING FILMS

Horror and thriller films occupy unique yet sometimes overlapping spaces that elicit powerful emotional responses from audiences. Though both genres aim to engage viewers with suspense and tension, they do so through different thematic lenses, narrative structures, and emotional impacts. Let's look at the defining characteristics of horror and thriller films, exploring their distinct qualities and examining why they resonate so profoundly with audiences. Understanding Horror Films Horror films are primarily designed to evoke fear, dread, and shock. Their core purpose is to tap into the audience’s primal fears, whether through supernatural elements, psychological terror, or visceral imagery. Classic examples include films like The Exorcist, Halloween, and Hereditary, all of which explore themes of the unknown, mortality, and existential dread. Key Elements of Horror Fear as a Central Theme : The hallmark of horror is its ability to instill fear. This can manifest in various forms—mo...

Eduardo Casanova’s provocative film "La Pietà," which recently clinched the Special Jury Award at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, is set to premiere on VOD, digital platforms, and Film Movement Plus on January 17, 2025. This highly stylized drama is garnering attention for its unique blend of dark humor and poignant storytelling, establishing itself as a must-watch for fans of innovative cinema. Described by critics as reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s aesthetic due to its meticulous framing and pastel color palette, "La Pietà" tells the gripping story of Mateo and his mother Lili, portrayed by the exceptional Ángela Molina. Their tightly woven bond takes a dark turn when Lili is diagnosed with a terminal illness, prompting the duo to navigate their toxic relationship in increasingly extreme ways. The film explores themes of love, dependency, and the complexities of familial ties, all wrapped in a tragicomic narrative that echoes the best works of Todd Sol...

Amazon MGM Studios is gearing up for the release of "Unstoppable," an inspiring biographical drama that tells the remarkable true story of Anthony Robles, a wrestler who defied the odds to achieve greatness despite being born with one leg. Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker William Goldenberg, "Unstoppable" is set to premiere on Prime Video on January 16, 2025, following a special one-night-only screening event in theaters across the U.S. on January 8. Starring Jharrel Jerome as Anthony, alongside Jennifer Lopez as his devoted mother Judy, and Don Cheadle as one of his coaches, the film is a celebration of determination, family, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Jerome's performance is expected to resonate with audiences as he embodies Anthony's unyielding spirit and commitment to wrestling, a sport that traditionally emphasizes physical prowess. The screenplay, penned by Eric Champnella and Alex Harris, is based on Anthony Robles' own book co-autho...

In the annals of cult cinema, few films elicit as much intrigue and confusion as Incubus (1966), a supernatural horror film that stars none other than Star Trek legend William Shatner in a decidedly different role than audiences were accustomed to. Directed by the underrated Leslie Stevens, Incubus is a strange, atmospheric blend of Gothic horror, eroticism, and psychological dread. It may not be the easiest film to digest, but its unique place in cinematic history, as well as its use of an experimental technique, has cemented it as a fascinating curio in Shatner's illustrious career. The plot of Incubus is as bizarre and haunting as the movie itself. Set in an unnamed Eastern European village, the film follows a man named Charles (Shatner), a sensitive but troubled priest, who becomes entangled in a series of strange events surrounding the mysterious and supernatural force of an incubus—an evil demon who is believed to sexually prey on its victims. As the townsfolk are increasingl...

While holiday films are often synonymous with Christmas, a wealth of cinematic treasures celebrates the spirit of the season without the jingle bells or twinkling trees. These films may not revolve around the trappings of the traditional Christmas movie, but they tap into the universal emotions of family, reflection, togetherness, and the human condition. Whether it's the joyful chaos of New Year’s Eve or the quiet introspection of Thanksgiving, the holiday season is fertile ground for filmmakers to explore deeper emotional themes. Here’s a curated list of the greatest non-Christmas holiday films—movies that make us laugh, cry, and reflect, offering something just as heartwarming as the festive classics we all know and love. 1. Groundhog Day (1993) – Punxsutawney’s Unlikely Philosopher What better way to celebrate the potential of a new season than with Groundhog Day, a film that has achieved mythic status as not just a comedy, but as a meditation on life, love, and self-improvemen...

From Osgood Perkins, the visionary director behind the acclaimed horror Longlegs, comes a new nightmare steeped in suspense and supernatural dread: The Monkey. This spine-chilling film takes audiences on a dark journey, unraveling the sinister secrets behind an innocent-looking vintage toy monkey. Twin brothers Hal and Bill uncover their father's old toy monkey in the attic, awakening a string of horrifying deaths. What begins as an unsettling coincidence soon spirals into a nightmare as the brothers realize the toy carries a malevolent curse. Desperate to escape its deadly grip, Hal and Bill discard the monkey and separate, hoping distance will end the terror. But years later, when the deaths resurface, they are forced to reunite and confront the horror they thought they had left behind. Together, they must unravel the mystery of the cursed toy and attempt to destroy it before it claims more lives. Renowned for his atmospheric storytelling and innovative approach to horror, Osgood...