REVIEW: Assassin's Creed Shadows (2025 Video Game)

Assassin's Creed Shadows takes players to 16th-century Japan during the brutal final years of the Sengoku period, offering a detailed world rich in historical architecture, seasonal changes, and dynamic lighting. Players control two characters with contrasting styles: Naoe, a nimble shinobi with classic stealth mechanics, and Yasuke, a fictionalised African character based on a novel, built for heavy combat. Naoe brings the familiar thrill of classic Assassin's Creed gameplay, while Yasuke's missions feel sluggish and disconnected from the franchise's roots.

While the story touches on real historical events and figures like Oda Nobunaga, the game struggles with pacing, bugs, and a world that often feels empty. Missions are non-linear and the stealth mechanics have moments of brilliance, but poor character balance and frustrating design choices undercut the experience. Shadows is not a complete failure, but it's a clear step down from what long-time fans have come to expect. There's a decent game buried in here, but it never quite breaks through.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/06/review-assassins-creed-shadows-2025.html

REVIEW: The Amateur (2025 film) - Starring Rami Malek and Laurence Fishburne

The Amateur follows Charlie Heller, a reclusive CIA cryptographer whose life is upended when his wife is killed in a terrorist attack. What begins as a quiet story of personal grief spirals into a slow-burning spy thriller, as Charlie unearths a conspiracy within his own agency and sets out on a global pursuit of revenge. With Rami Malek at the centre, the film explores what happens when a man built for silence steps into chaos. The first act grips tightly, showing how Charlie's intelligence becomes his weapon as he navigates the world of killers and cover-ups.

But while the setup and early tension promise a standout revenge tale, the film struggles with its pacing. At two hours, it loses momentum, and the quiet introspection that once felt compelling starts to drain the energy. The ending pulls back from real catharsis, favouring resolution over impact. Despite strong performances and clever sequences, The Amateur falls short of its potential. It's a decent thriller with smart ideas, but it never quite hits the emotional or action highs it seems to reach for.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/06/review-amateur-2025-film-starring-rami.html

REVIEW: Redmi Watch 5 (2025 Release)

The Redmi Watch 5 is Xiaomi's most advanced smartwatch yet, combining a sharp 2.07-inch AMOLED display, robust fitness tracking, and a reliable 24-day battery life in a sleek, lightweight package. With a premium aluminium alloy frame, improved haptic feedback, and built-in GNSS for accurate outdoor tracking, it offers a genuinely solid experience straight from the wrist. Its dual-mic Bluetooth calling and on-board voice recorder add useful functionality without feeling gimmicky, and the comfort-focused design holds up all day.

What really stands out is how well it all works without drawing attention to itself. Everything from heart rate and blood oxygen monitoring to answering calls and logging voice notes feels natural and easy. The only hiccup is Xiaomi's confusing naming scheme across the Watch 5, 5 Lite, and 5 Active, but once you've got the right one, it's an impressively complete smartwatch for the price.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/06/review-redmi-watch-5-2025-release.html

REVIEW: Blades of Fire (2025 Video Game) - A Game of Hot Steel and Cold Frustration

Blades of Fire offers a visually striking and original action-adventure experience, centred around a cursed world, weapon forging, and tactical combat. The premise is compelling, with a warrior named Aran de Lira journeying to overthrow a steel-twisting queen, guided by a loyal scholar who helps unravel the game's secrets. There's a deep weapon crafting system, varied enemy types, and a layered world filled with alternate paths and hidden areas.

However, the game's potential is held back by some frustrating design choices. The forging system, despite being its central feature, feels awkward and unrewarding, and clunky controls limit the sense of freedom. Combat shows promise but can lack fluidity, and the level design sometimes leads to confusing backtracking. While the world and story are engaging, the execution doesn't always support the ambition behind it.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/06/review-blades-of-fire-2025-video-game.html

REVIEW: Locked (2025 Film) - Starring Bill Skarsgård and Anthony Hopkins

Locked is a claustrophobic thriller that traps its audience inside a luxury SUV alongside a desperate man who made one bad choice too many. When Eddie, played by Bill Skarsgård, breaks into what he thinks is an empty car, he finds himself caught in a high-tech trap orchestrated by William, a wealthy doctor with a vendetta and a terminal diagnosis. What follows is a tense and disturbing cat-and-mouse game where justice, punishment and survival blur together in uncomfortable ways. With Anthony Hopkins voicing the dispassionate tormentor, the film becomes a slow-burn battle of wills played out in real time.

Anchored almost entirely by Skarsgård's intense performance, Locked builds its tension on physical confinement and psychological breakdown. The script plays with shifting power dynamics as Eddie tries to stay alive, appeal to reason and eventually fight back against his captor. While the premise is stretched to its limits, the film manages to hold together thanks to the strength of its two leads and its unsettling atmosphere. It's a compact, morally murky thriller that makes the most of its limited setting and cast.

Full Review

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/06/review-locked-2025-film-starring-bill.html

REVIEW: Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro (2025 Release)

The Xiaomi Buds 5 Pro deliver an impressive mix of comfort, audio quality and smart features in a lightweight design. They're ideal for everything from mobile gaming to travel, with noise cancellation that genuinely cuts through background hum and lets you focus on your audio. Sound performance is well-balanced, with rich bass and clean mids and highs, enhanced by custom EQ profiles. The dual-device connectivity and long battery life add to the convenience, and the ability to get over four hours of playback from a quick 10-minute charge is a real bonus.

One of the standout features is the audio recording function, which lets you capture sounds or conversations by simply tapping the case. It's surprisingly useful and feels like a thoughtful addition. If there's a downside, it's that the buds are so comfortable and discreet that you might not notice if one ever falls out. Still, that's a small concern in an otherwise excellent product. Stylish, affordable and full of advanced features, the Buds 5 Pro are a strong choice.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/06/review-xiaomi-buds-5-pro-2025-release.html

REVIEW: Fountain of Youth (2025 Film) - Starring John Krasinski, Natalie Portman, Eiza González, and Domhnall Gleeson

Fountain of Youth is a lively heist action adventure directed by Guy Ritchie that follows disgraced archaeologist Luke Purdue and his sister Charlotte on a global treasure hunt. The film combines fast-paced action, clever puzzles, and a touch of humour, anchored by strong performances from John Krasinski and Natalie Portman. While the story revisits familiar themes of secret societies and ancient mysteries, the engaging characters and well-executed set pieces make it an enjoyable watch.

Visually impressive and well shot, the film takes viewers from London to Cairo, delivering a mix of chase scenes and tense confrontations. Though the plot can feel predictable at times, the chemistry among the cast and the blend of mythology with family dynamics keep the story compelling. Fountain of Youth offers a fun, old-fashioned adventure that, despite its lack of originality, is entertaining from start to finish.

Full review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/06/review-fountain-of-youth-2025-film.html

REVIEW: A Minecraft Movie (2025 Film) - Starring Jason Momoa, Jack Black, Danielle Brooks, Emma Myers, and Sebastian Hansen

A Minecraft Movie translates the game's signature blocky world into a vibrant fantasy adventure led by a group of misfits who must master creativity to survive. With performances from Jason Momoa and Jack Black, the film blends humour and heart while capturing Minecraft's spirit through familiar elements like the Overworld, Piglins and crafting mechanics.

While the narrative leans heavily on established Minecraft lore, its visual inventiveness and family-friendly tone make it an enjoyable watch for younger audiences and fans of the game. It may not reach far beyond that demographic, but its understanding of its source material ensures a faithful and entertaining adaptation.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/05/review-minecraft-movie-2025-film.html

REVIEW: American Arcadia (2025 Video Game) on Xbox

American Arcadia is a distinctive and highly original puzzle-platformer set in a dazzling 1970s-inspired retro-futuristic metropolis. Players follow Trevor Hills, a mild-mannered everyman who learns that his seemingly perfect world is a 24/7 broadcasted reality show where popularity is the difference between life and death. As Trevor attempts to escape the city's deadly ratings system, he's aided by Angela Solano, a stage technician working behind the scenes who manipulates the environment and hacks systems to clear his path to freedom.

With alternating gameplay styles, players control Trevor in stylish 2.5D platforming sequences and Angela in immersive first-person puzzle sections. The story is rich with humour, tension and twists, brought to life by excellent voice performances and a unique visual style. American Arcadia cleverly critiques media culture while delivering compelling and cleverly designed gameplay. It's a thrilling experience that balances light-hearted charm with high-stakes action, and stands as one of the most original indie games in recent years.

Full review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/05/review-american-arcadia-2025-video-game.html

REVIEW: DOOM™: The Dark Ages (2025 Video Game) - on Xbox

Doom: The Dark Ages takes the franchise into a bold new direction, trading the usual fast-paced combat for a heavier, more tactical experience. Set in a techno-medieval world before the events of the 2016 Doom, players control the Doom Slayer as he battles the demonic invasion in Averno City. The introduction of the Shield Saw, slower combat pace, and new melee weapons create a fresh, weighty feel that emphasizes timing and strategy over frantic action. Vehicle sections featuring cybernetic dragons and colossal mechs add variety and spectacle to the gameplay, while a deeper narrative with cutscenes provides insight into the Doom Slayer's origins.

The game's atmospheric setting and inventive combat mechanics make it a strong entry in the series, even if some visual elements feel muted compared to previous titles. The storytelling is more prominent, enriching the player's connection to the characters and the world. Although the soundtrack does not reach the heights of earlier Doom games, the overall package delivers a compelling experience for fans seeking a new challenge. Doom: The Dark Ages is a successful evolution for the franchise.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/05/review-doom-dark-ages-2025-video-game.html

REVIEW: The Precinct (2025 Video Game) Law, Order, and a Touch of Neon Noir - Out On Xbox Now

The Precinct, developed by Fallen Tree Games and published by Kwalee, is a top-down action-adventure that flips the early Grand Theft Auto formula on its head. Set in a neon-soaked version of 1983 New York called Averno City, players step into the shoes of rookie officer Nick Cordell Jr., armed with a revolver, baton, and a procedural handbook. From issuing parking tickets to chasing down gang leaders in squad cars or helicopters, the game blends police simulation with action-packed sandbox gameplay, all under the shadow of the murder mystery surrounding your father.

The game captures its 1980s noir influences brilliantly, with atmospheric visuals, strong voice acting, and a day/night system that brings the city's gritty underbelly to life. Though some mechanics can feel repetitive over longer sessions, the gameplay shines in shorter bursts, making The Precinct a perfect pick-up-and-play title. With potential for future updates and DLC, this is a compelling first entry in what could become a standout series in the indie crime sim genre.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/05/review-precinct-2025-video-game-law.html

REVIEW: The Legend of Ochi (2025 Film) Starring Helena Zengel, Finn Wolfhard, Emily Watson, and Willem Dafoe

The Legend of Ochi, Isaiah Saxon's directorial debut, offers a unique blend of puppetry, animatronics, and computer animation to tell a heartfelt family fantasy story. Helena Zengel leads as Yuri, a farm girl who risks everything to return an injured baby Ochi to its family, challenging her community's fearful myths. The film opens with a gripping hunt scene and closes on a satisfying note, demonstrating Saxon's confident storytelling and eye for atmosphere.

Despite its strengths, the film struggles with pacing, spending long stretches without significant plot development, which may test the patience of younger viewers. While the beautiful cinematography and charming creature design capture attention, the performances lack energy, and the overall mood is often too dark and lethargic for its intended family audience. Still, it remains a promising debut with a solid foundation for future projects.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/05/review-legend-of-ochi-2025-film.html

REVIEW: The Ugly Stepsister (2025 Film) - Starring Lea Myren, Thea Sofie Loch Næss, Ane Dahl Torp, and Flo Fagerli

The Ugly Stepsister is a bold and disturbing retelling of the Cinderella myth through the lens of body horror and social satire. Set in a grotesque fairy-tale world obsessed with physical perfection, the film follows Elvira, a young woman manipulated and mutilated by her mother in a desperate bid to win over a prince. Through sickening surgeries, parasites, and relentless humiliation, Elvira is transformed into a cautionary symbol of the lengths people will go to for beauty. Director Emilie Blichfeldt's debut is visually striking and deeply uncomfortable, turning familiar tropes into something uniquely grotesque.

While its pacing could have benefited from tighter editing, the film thrives on its strong performances, especially from Lea Myren as the emotionally hollowed-out Elvira. The violence is intentionally repulsive, not gratuitous, and the themes are never subtle. This is a fairytale stripped of its innocence, exposing the raw underbelly of expectations placed on women. The Ugly Stepsister is not for the faint of heart, but it leaves a lasting impression as a ferocious critique of societal beauty standards.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/05/review-ugly-stepsister-2025-film.html

REVIEW: GUNNAR Optiks Kista Collection – ELIN, INGRID & SOFIA - Gaming/Office Glasses

The Kista Collection by GUNNAR Optiks blends Scandinavian-inspired design with proven screen protection. With styles tailored specifically for women, these glasses offer a fashionable way to guard against eye strain, dry eyes, and fatigue caused by hours of screen time. My girlfriend tested each pair — ELIN, INGRID and SOFIA — in both office and gaming scenarios, and the results were consistently impressive.

From the sleek, versatile ELIN to the stylish INGRID and the retro-chic SOFIA, each model delivers comfort, clarity, and strong blue light protection. Whether you're powering through spreadsheets, editing video, or gaming into the early hours, these glasses do exactly what they promise without compromising on looks. Read the full review to see how each one stacks up.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/05/review-gunnar-optiks-kista-collection.html

REVIEW: Thunderbolts* (2025 Film) - Starring Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, Wyatt Russell, Olga Kurylenko and Lewis Pullman

Marvel's 2025 team-up leans into moral ambiguity by focusing on a mismatched group of antiheroes drawn together under false pretences. Tasked with covering up a government scandal, they are double-crossed by CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine and must work together to survive. Central to the plot is Bob, a forgotten test subject from a failed super-soldier programme, whose transformation into the unstable Sentry gives the film a more psychological edge than most Marvel fare. Themes of trauma, addiction and self-worth are explored through his arc, while the team's journey shifts from survival to reluctant unity as they try to prevent a supernatural catastrophe in New York.

Florence Pugh anchors the film with an emotionally grounded performance as Yelena, while Lewis Pullman's take on Bob brings surprising depth. David Harbour provides effective comic relief, and the group's dysfunctional energy adds tension, even if several characters remain thinly written. Visually ambitious and at times genuinely affecting, the film struggles with pacing and some inconsistent CGI. It does not escape comparisons with the Avengers but still manages to find its own voice through darker subject matter and a few standout scenes. It may not become a fan favourite, but it offers a fresh take on familiar Marvel formulas.

Full review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/05/review-thunderbolts-2025-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Spirit of the North 2 (2025 Video Game) on Xbox

Spirit of the North 2 builds upon the visual beauty and atmosphere that made the original game stand out. Once again, players guide a lone fox through a mystical world, this time alongside a raven companion, in search of ancient guardians. The game introduces character customisation, an expansive open world, and a host of new abilities. With its peaceful tone and lush soundtrack, it offers a calm alternative to more action-heavy titles, especially for fans of exploration and light puzzle-solving.

Despite its ambitions, the sequel falters in key areas. Performance issues, awkward new mechanics like the jump system, and a lack of clear direction make parts of the experience frustrating. The world still looks fantastic, but design decisions and technical problems chip away at the immersion. While it may still appeal to returning players, newcomers or those seeking polish may find it a bumpy journey.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/05/review-spirit-of-north-2-2025-video.html

REVIEW: Death of a Unicorn (2025 Film) Starring Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega

Death of a Unicorn is a uniquely offbeat comedy horror that follows a father and daughter who accidentally injure a unicorn and trigger a bizarre chain of events involving billionaire exploitation, ancient myth, and interspecies revenge. Directed by Alex Scharfman in his feature debut, the film is part family drama, part creature feature, and part satire. With its surreal premise and creative visual flourishes, it takes risks few mainstream films attempt, offering something both genuinely strange and strangely sincere.

Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega carry the story with grounded performances that contrast effectively against the absurdity of the plot. The supporting cast, including Will Poulter and Richard E. Grant, lean into the satirical tone with flair. Though the film suffers slightly from genre indecision and inconsistent CGI, its originality and inventive use of unicorn lore make it stand out in a crowded genre landscape. It's a wild mix of magic, menace and moral reckoning.

Full review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/05/review-death-of-unicorn-2025-film.html

REVIEW: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered (2025 Video Game) - Xbox

Oblivion Remastered brings Bethesda's 2006 classic into the modern age with a full graphical overhaul using Unreal Engine 5, updated animations, reworked menus, and improved AI. The remaster stays true to the original game's mechanics, with real-time combat, faction-based questlines, and open-world exploration all intact. It includes both original expansions, Knights of the Nine and Shivering Isles, while modern touches like ray tracing and refined sound design enhance the atmosphere. For returning players, it's a nostalgic return to Cyrodiil that looks and sounds better than ever.

However, not everything has aged gracefully. Long-standing issues like uneven level scaling, exploitable mechanics, and stiff combat remain mostly untouched. While the world looks stunning from a distance, close-up character models can still feel dated. This remaster is less a full reimagining and more a high-quality polish job—ideal for those who loved the original but potentially off-putting for newcomers expecting a ground-up remake. 

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/05/review-elder-scrolls-iv-oblivion.html

REVIEW: Fight or Flight (2025 film) Starring Josh Hartnett and Charithra Chandran

Fight or Flight is a high-energy action-comedy directed by James Madigan, set almost entirely on a flight from Bangkok to San Francisco. Josh Hartnett stars as Lucas Reyes, an exiled agent tasked with identifying a mysterious figure known as The Ghost, all while battling a plane full of assassins. The film thrives on chaotic, cartoonish violence and fast-paced action, with Hartnett delivering a dry, confident performance. The supporting cast, including Charithra Chandran and Katee Sackhoff, adds strength to the film, although the relentless pace leaves little room for character development.

While entertaining, Fight or Flight struggles with a weak plot and repetitive fight scenes that occasionally drag out the runtime. Although the film is filled with high-concept B-movie fun and sharp comic moments, it treads familiar ground and lacks the depth needed to leave a lasting impression. Despite its flaws, the commitment to fast-paced chaos and Hartnett's engaging presence make it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/04/review-fight-or-flight-2025-film.html

REVIEW: Hot Rod Mayhem (2025 Video Game on Xbox)

Hot Rod Mayhem is a colourful and accessible racing game from Casual Brothers Ltd, offering light-hearted competition across dozens of inventive tracks. Players can customise their racer, choose from 15 distinct vehicles, and use a range of strategic items to disrupt their rivals. With two main modes (Racing and Campaign), the game provides a variety of challenges, including special trials that test both driving skill and creativity. The miniature perspective, where humans appear as giants, adds a playful visual twist to the lively course designs.

While the game features strong graphics, fun handling, and an impressive range of content, it does suffer from a slightly slower racing pace compared to more established titles in the genre. Its weapon system, although enjoyable, feels somewhat unoriginal. Hot Rod Mayhem is best suited to younger players or those seeking casual racing fun rather than a demanding experience. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it delivers enough charm and variety to entertain its target audience.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/04/review-hot-rod-mayhem-2025-video-game.html

REVIEW: Razer Kishi V2 Pro

The Razer Kishi V2 Pro transforms any compatible smartphone into a powerful handheld console, offering tactile, responsive controls and console-quality gameplay. I tested the controller with a POCO M7 Pro and found it to be a genuinely premium-feeling accessory. Its ergonomic design, secure grip, and USB-C connection provide a smooth, lag-free experience that enhances mobile gaming significantly. I particularly enjoyed using it for Android games like Real Racing 3 and Genshin Impact, as it made touch-screen frustrations a thing of the past. It even outperformed my Nintendo Switch Lite in comfort and handling.

While the Razer Cortex streaming software didn't work on my PC, the Steam Link app worked flawlessly, allowing me to stream PC games to my phone without issue. This made it clear that the problem likely lay with my setup, not the hardware or app compatibility. The Nexus launcher included with the controller also worked well and helped organize games neatly. Overall, the Razer Kishi V2 Pro is an excellent piece of gaming gear, especially for players who want a more immersive, console-style experience on their smartphones.

Read the full review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/04/review-razer-kishi-v2-pro.html

REVIEW: Drop (2025 Film) - Starring Meghann Fahy and Brandon Sklenar

Drop is a fast-paced thriller that combines classic suspense elements with modern technology, creating a fresh yet familiar viewing experience. The plot centers on Violet, a widowed mother who is terrorized by anonymous messages while on a date, with the stakes rising as her son and sister are threatened. The film makes effective use of its single-location setting, which adds to the tension while maintaining a sleek, modern edge. Strong performances, particularly from Meghann Fahy as Violet, help anchor the story, and the direction ensures that the film maintains a steady rhythm throughout its 95-minute runtime.

While Drop excels in its pacing and entertainment value, some of its plot twists may feel overly ridiculous, especially in the final act where the film's tension starts to give way to sillier moments. Despite the occasional lapse into implausibility, the film remains a fun, no-frills thriller. It's an enjoyable, light option for viewers who are looking for an efficient and engaging film without too many expectations. Though it has its flaws, Drop is a solid choice for a Saturday night thriller, knowing exactly what it wants to be.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/04/review-drop-2025-film-starring-meghann.html

REVIEW: Commandos: Origins (2025 RTS Video Game)

Commandos: Origins revives the classic real-time tactics formula with a modern twist, placing players in control of an elite World War II squad known for daring, behind-enemy-lines operations. The game stands out with its detailed environments, strategic stealth mechanics, and diverse character abilities, allowing for creative problem-solving and multiple paths to mission success. With 14 missions spread across global war zones and the ability to play solo or in two-player co-op, it delivers a solid mix of challenge and variety. The game's visual presentation and voice acting are strong, helping to immerse players in its gritty, covert atmosphere.

Despite its strengths, the game isn't without flaws. Some missions can feel repetitive over time, and a clunky save/load interface detracts from the otherwise polished experience. That said, for players new to the genre, or those unfamiliar with the legacy of the original Commandos games, it offers a surprisingly accessible and rewarding entry point. Taking a patient, thoughtful approach to each level is key, and when done right, the gameplay can feel deeply satisfying and well-earned.

Full Review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/04/review-commandos-origins-2025-rts-video.html

REVIEW: The Amateur (2025 film) - Starring Rami Malek and Laurence Fishburne.

The Amateur (2025), directed by James Hawes, is a compelling action spy film starring Rami Malek as Charlie Heller, a CIA cryptographer seeking revenge after the tragic death of his wife in a terrorist attack. The film focuses on Charlie's journey across Europe, hunting down the criminals responsible for her death. Malek delivers a strong performance, capturing the inner turmoil and resolve of a man driven by loss. Laurence Fishburne adds depth as Charlie's mentor, Robert Henderson, while other supporting roles, such as Caitríona Balfe's Inquiline and Michael Stuhlbarg's Horst Schiller, enhance the film's mystery and tension.

While The Amateur excels in tension, character-driven storytelling, and suspense, it does fall into some predictable tropes. The plot, though engaging, follows a familiar revenge narrative, and the film's pacing can feel slow at times, especially with a runtime of over two hours. Despite these flaws, the film avoids the usual bombastic action scenes, focusing instead on grounded, realistic action that adds to the film's charm. Overall, it's a solid and enjoyable film, offering a satisfying experience for fans of understated spy thrillers, though it may not leave a lasting impact on the genre. 

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/04/review-amateur-2025-film-starring-rami.html

REVIEW: Black Bag (2025 FIlm) - Starring Cate Blanchett, Michael Fassbender and Pierce Brosnan

Black Bag (2025) is a gripping spy thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh, starring Michael Fassbender as George Woodhouse, a British intelligence officer, and Cate Blanchett as his wife, Kathryn. The film revolves around George's investigation into a leaked software program, with his wife one of the key suspects. As George delves deeper into the case, he becomes increasingly suspicious of Kathryn, leading to a series of tense and dramatic revelations. The story is filled with psychological tension, complex relationships, and a plot full of twists and turns that keep the viewer on edge.

The film excels in its strong performances, particularly from Fassbender and Blanchett, whose characters' evolving relationship adds emotional depth to the thriller. However, the intricate plot can be difficult to follow at times, and the pacing may feel slow for some viewers. Despite these drawbacks, Black Bag is a well-crafted espionage thriller with a clever, suspense-filled narrative that will appeal to fans of the genre. While its complexity might limit its appeal, the solid performances and engaging storytelling make it a worthwhile watch for those who enjoy psychological spy dramas.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/04/review-black-bag-2025-film-starring.html

POCO M7 Pro 5G Review: A Powerhouse Smartphone at an Affordable Price

The POCO M7 Pro 5G (12GB + 256GB) delivers outstanding value for money, offering flagship-level performance at a mid-range price. Powered by the Dimensity 7025-Ultra processor and paired with 12GB of RAM, it handles multitasking and gaming effortlessly. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display is vibrant and bright, even outdoors, with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate that makes scrolling and gaming feel fluid. Dual speakers with Dolby Atmos, a 50MP Sony main camera, and a long-lasting 5110mAh battery with 45W fast charging make it a well-rounded phone suitable for a wide range of users. The inclusion of NFC, dual SIM support, and minimal bloatware add to its appeal.

In real-world use, the POCO M7 Pro 5G performs exactly how a modern smartphone should. Apps run smoothly, background activity is handled without slowdown, and both the front and rear cameras produce sharp, balanced images. It comes with a protective case and screen protector out of the box, and the green version in particular stands out with its stylish design. The phone also offers reliable 5G connectivity, excellent audio quality, and intelligent battery management that helps extend the phone's lifespan. For its price, it's an easy recommendation and a smart choice for anyone seeking power, features, and future-proofing on a budget.

Full detailed review at

https://www.gamingcouchpotato.co.uk/2025/04/review-poco-m7-pro-5g-12gb256gb-stylish.html

REVIEW: Mickey 17 (2025 Film) Starring Robert Pattinson and Mark Ruffalo

Mickey 17 is a visually stunning but ultimately uneven sci-fi black comedy from director Bong Joon Ho. Adapted from Edward Ashton's novel, the film follows Robert Pattinson as a disposable worker who is cloned each time he dies during missions on an alien planet. While the premise is rich with potential and the film begins with promise, it gradually loses focus. The mix of satire, slapstick, and philosophical reflection feels disjointed, and the film's overlong runtime only adds to its pacing problems. Despite a top-quality production and an elegant score, the narrative struggles to maintain momentum.

Pattinson's casting as the lead is one of the film's weaker elements, as he fails to bring the kind of warmth or comic sensibility the role demands. The supporting cast, including Naomi Ackie, Mark Ruffalo, and Toni Collette, offer more grounded and dynamic performances, but the lack of character development across the board holds the film back. While Bong's imagination and technical skill are evident, Mickey 17 never fully delivers on its intriguing concept, resulting in a film that looks great but falls short emotionally and thematically.

Full Review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/04/review-mickey-17-2025-film-starring.html

REVIEW: Popeye the Slayer Man (2025 Film) – Starring Jason Robert Stephens

Popeye the Slayer Man is a low-budget horror reimagining of the classic cartoon character, reinventing Popeye as a mutated slasher villain born from corporate greed and contaminated spinach. The film follows a group of curious students who enter an abandoned cannery, only to be picked off one by one by the legendary "Sailor Man." With surprisingly strong practical effects and a solid backstory linking Popeye to Olive Oyl and a hidden corporate cover-up, the film delivers gruesome kills and a ridiculous but entertaining twist on cartoon lore.

While the film suffers from a few budget-related issues, like a cheap-looking face mask and a tone that perhaps takes itself too seriously at times, Popeye the Slayer Man succeeds as a fun B-movie horror flick. It offers a fast-paced 85-minute runtime, some clever nods to the original characters, and potential for sequels or even crossovers with other horror-adapted franchises. Fans of the genre will likely enjoy its over-the-top charm.

Read the full review at

https://www.beentothemovies.com/2025/04/review-popeye-slayer-man-2025-film.html