Reviews Archives - Page 5 of 368

Idda Review: TIFF 2026

by Hailey Passmore | September 11, 2026

Volcanic rumblings and volatile emotions complicate a trip between friends in Idda

Krux Review: TIFF 2026

by Rachel West | September 11, 2026

Tony Vahl's Krux is a haunting, deeply affecting portrait of an isolated German village in the final days of World War II.

The Uprising Review: A Muddled Political Allegory

by Colin Biggs | September 11, 2026

Paul Greengrass's The Uprising is content to ride the coattails of modern political discourse but doesn't engage with the context meaningfully.

How We Stand Review: TIFF 2026

by Sarah Gopaul | September 10, 2026

How We Stand uses the stories of three sisters to expose historical injustices against Indigenous peoples in the United States.

All of a Sudden Review: TIFF 2026

by Courtney Small | September 10, 2026

RyÃ»suke Hamaguchi's All of a Sudden is a moving film that ranks among the year's best.

In the Heart of the South Review: TIFF 2026

by Pat Mullen | September 10, 2026

Nyla Innuksuk's In the Heart of the South offers a wicked commentary about making art in a scene that exploits trauma as currency.

The Unknown: TIFF 2026

by Courtney Small | September 10, 2026

Arthur Harari's The Unknown is an existential head-spinner, both intriguing and uneven.

Hope Review: South Korean Sci-Fi Thriller Delivers Until It Doesn’t

by Mel Valentin | September 10, 2026

South Korean alien-invasion thriller, Hope , delivers...right up until it doesn't.

Yeo Yann Yann and Andi Lim in We Are All Strangers

We Are All Strangers Review: TIFF 2026

by Andrew Roberts | September 10, 2026

While We Are All Strangers documents a rapidly changing Singapore, Anthony Chen relies too heavily on despair, leaving the film less fulfilling.

Hombre al agua Review: TIFF 2026

by Lyle Kruger | September 10, 2026

A Cuban lifeguard marries into wealth and chaos in Gael GarcÃa Bernal's funny, overstuffed TIFF dramedy

Toy Gun Bandit Review: TIFF 2026

by Rachel West | September 10, 2026

A teenage prank turns into a real-life bank robbery in Toy Gun Bandit , a riotous, fast-paced Quebec coming-of-age film at TIFF 2026

Coward Review: TIFF 2026

by Pat Mullen | September 10, 2026

From the horror of trench warfare to the comfort of a concave chest, Coward is another heartbreaker from Lukas Dhont.

By Any Means Review: A Flat Take On An Important Issue

by Lauren Weiner | September 8, 2026

By Any Means is a gorgeous movie that addresses important discourse on racial injustice, but doesn't leave a lasting, positive impact.

Onslaught Review: Adam Winguard Returns

by Colin Biggs | September 7, 2026

In Onslaught , Adam Wingard distills all of his favourite '80s influences into one violent, gnarly exploitation flick.

The Runner Review: Plot Holes Aplenty

by Lauren Weiner | September 6, 2026

The Runner is a tired reiteration of movies like Run Lola Run and Speed with little visual allure, many plot contrivances and poor pacing.

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Remembering Sebastián Lelio (1974–2026). One of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Chilean cinema, Sebastián Lelio built an extraordinary body of work exploring identity, desire, faith, freedom, and the complexities of being human. His films often placed women at the centre of their own stories, approaching their experiences with sensitivity, curiosity, and an unwavering sense of humanity. He first gained international recognition with Gloria, a tender and deeply moving portrait of a middle-aged woman rediscovering herself, which earned widespread acclaim and was later remade in English with Julianne Moore. He went on to direct A Fantastic Woman, which made history as the first Chilean film to win the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. His other notable works include Disobedience, The Wonder, and The Year of the Tiger. Throughout his career, Lelio demonstrated a remarkable ability to move between languages, cultures, and genres while maintaining a distinctive cinematic voice. His films challenged conventions, made room for complicated characters, and invited audiences to see the world from different perspectives. His work leaves an important mark on Chilean cinema and international filmmaking, and his stories will continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
3 days ago
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1/9

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The Only Living Pickpocket in New York follows Harry Lehman, an aging pickpocket struggling to survive in a city that has moved on from cash and the old ways of doing business. When he unknowingly steals a USB key tied to a dangerous criminal operation, Harry finds himself caught in a race against time that forces him to confront his past and the people he has left behind. John Turturro delivers a tender, compelling performance as a man caught between nostalgia and a changing world, with Steve Buscemi and Tatiana Maslany adding to the film’s strong cast. However, an overly predictable plot and underdeveloped character motivations prevent this crime drama from reaching its full potential, despite its evocative New York atmosphere and glimpses of a more compelling story. 📝 Full review by Andrea Miller now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
7 days ago
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2/9

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Wicker follows a lonely Fisherwoman, played by Olivia Colman, who has grown tired of being judged by her medieval village for failing to meet its beauty standards and expectations of womanhood. She asks a local Basketweaver to make her a husband, resulting in a devoted companion made entirely of willow. But as their unconventional romance blossoms, their happiness begins to threaten the village’s established social order. Blending fairy-tale fantasy with raunchy humour and heartfelt romance, the film offers a thoughtful exploration of gender politics, societal expectations, and the freedom to define happiness on your own terms. Colman and Alexander Skarsgård share charming chemistry, while the imaginative craftsmanship and beautiful visuals bring this strange, whimsical story to life. What begins as an absurd premise becomes a surprisingly tender celebration of love beyond convention. 📝 Full review by Rachel West now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
1 week ago
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3/9

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A Talent for Murder follows reclusive author Patricia Highsmith during her final years in Switzerland, where a publishing representative named Edward Ridgeway arrives hoping to convince her to write another Tom Ripley novel. What begins as a battle of wills soon turns into a dangerous game of manipulation, lies, and murder as the two collaborate on a new story. Helen Mirren relishes the chance to play the sharp-tongued, unpredictable author, trading deliciously cutting insults with Alden Ehrenreich in a gripping battle of wits. While the film occasionally loses momentum and its psychological thriller elements could go further, the strong performances, dark humour, and eerie atmosphere make for an entertaining mystery. 📝 Full review by Colin Biggs now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
1 week ago
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4/9

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Rest in peace, Patrick Stewart (1940–2026). A distinguished actor whose career spanned more than six decades, Patrick Stewart brought an unmistakable presence, intelligence, and depth to every role he inhabited. Best known to generations of audiences as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, he helped define one of science fiction's most beloved characters, carrying that legacy across films, television, and countless adventures throughout the Star Trek universe. He also became an iconic part of the X-Men franchise as Professor Charles Xavier, bringing warmth, wisdom, and humanity to the legendary mutant leader. Beyond these defining roles, his remarkable filmography includes Excalibur, Dune, Robin Hood: Men in Tights, and Green Room. Before becoming a household name on screen, Stewart spent years honing his craft with the Royal Shakespeare Company, building a celebrated stage career that reflected his extraordinary command of language and performance. Equally at home in Shakespearean drama, science fiction, comedy, and animation, he was an actor whose versatility extended far beyond his most recognizable characters. His contributions to theatre, film, and television leave behind an extraordinary legacy. Live long and prosper, Sir Patrick.
1 week ago
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5/9

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La Bola Negra weaves together three timelines to explore queer love, identity, and the stories that survive across generations. From a musician navigating love and survival during the Spanish Civil War to a playwright uncovering a forgotten piece of queer history in contemporary Spain, the film connects lives shaped by stigma, loss, and the courage to be true to oneself. With soulful music, a richly interconnected narrative, and outstanding performances led by Guitarricadelafuente and Penélope Cruz, the film becomes a moving tribute to queer artists and the histories that deserve to be remembered. Directors Javier Ambrossi and Javier Calvo build on Federico García Lorca’s unfinished play to create an expansive, deeply felt celebration of LGBTQ+ lives, love, and artistic expression. 📝 Full review by Pat Mullen now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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6/9

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With just 34 days before reporting to federal prison, Elizabeth Holmes invites filmmakers Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim into her home for an unrestricted look at her life. What begins as an offer of complete access becomes an unsettling exploration of truth, performance, and the difficulty of knowing who someone really is. Balancing uncomfortable humour with a fascinating sense of ambiguity, the documentary refuses to offer easy answers about Holmes or her carefully constructed public image. Through intimate cinematography, intricate editing, and Fielder’s signature awkwardness, it challenges audiences to question what they’re seeing, making for an ambitious, thought-provoking film that lingers long after it ends. 📝 Full review by Lyle Kruger now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
2 weeks ago
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7/9

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Rest in peace, Tom Skerritt (1933–2026). A familiar and commanding presence on screen for more than six decades, Skerritt built a remarkable career across film and television, bringing a quiet authority and understated humanity to every role. From Captain Dallas in Alien and Viper in Top Gun to his performances in MASH*, The Turning Point, Steel Magnolias, and A River Runs Through It, he became part of some of cinema’s most enduring stories. On television, he earned an Emmy Award for his portrayal of Sheriff Jimmy Brock in Picket Fences, a role that showcased his ability to balance strength, warmth, and humour. Whether playing a military commander, a father, or a small-town sheriff, Skerritt had a way of making his characters feel grounded and real. With a career spanning generations and more than 170 film and television credits, he leaves behind a body of work that will continue to find new audiences. Thank you for the performances and the lasting mark you left on cinema.
2 weeks ago
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8/9

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Street Fighter brings the iconic video game franchise back to the big screen, following estranged brothers Ryu and Ken as they reunite for the World Warrior Tournament. But with M. Bison plotting to harness the fighters’ power for his own sinister purposes, the competition soon becomes a battle for the fate of the world. Packed with spectacular fight sequences, nostalgic references, and a soundtrack that takes audiences straight back to the ’90s, the film delivers a major upgrade over its predecessor. With a perfectly matched cast, genuinely funny dialogue, and faithful recreations of the game’s signature moves, it balances fan service with entertaining action that newcomers can enjoy, too. 📝 Full review by Sarah Gopaul now up on That Shelf (and at the link in our bio).
3 weeks ago
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9/9