rodgere

As a lifelong fan of horror, Stream (2024) had all the ingredients for something truly special: a fantastic cast of horror legends and jaw-dropping practical effects by the great Damien Leone. The gore was spot on, delivering in ways that will delight gorehounds and practical effect enthusiasts alike. Every blood-soaked scene was a testament to Leone's expertise, and the visual craftsmanship was the film's undeniable highlight.

Unfortunately, that's where the magic ends. The plot, writing, and pacing all fell flat, leaving the movie feeling more like a missed opportunity than a genre-defining experience. The story struggled to find its footing, leaving the audience with a disjointed narrative that lacked the tension and coherence needed to truly shine.

That said, credit must be given to the cast. These horror legends brought their A-game, doing everything they could with the material they were given. Their performances were strong, but even their talent couldn't elevate a script that simply didn't deliver.

In the end, Stream (2024) is a mixed bag: visually stunning and gore-filled, but narratively underwhelming. For fans of practical effects and horror royalty, it's worth a watch. Just don't expect much beyond the surface-level thrills.

5/10 stars.

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, aspires to be a thought-provoking psychological thriller that delves into themes of power, privilege, and exploitation. While the film boasts impressive visuals and a talented cast, it ultimately falls short due to pacing issues and an underdeveloped narrative.

The story follows Frida (Naomi Ackie), a cocktail waitress who is unexpectedly invited to a tech billionaire's private island. Channing Tatum portrays Slater King, the enigmatic mogul whose charm masks a more sinister agenda. The premise promises a blend of luxury and suspense, but the execution leaves much to be desired.

One of the film's primary drawbacks is its sluggish pacing. The first half is dominated by repetitive scenes of partying and indulgence, which do little to advance the plot or develop the characters. This prolonged buildup tests the viewer's patience, making the eventual shift into thriller territory feel rushed and unearned.

Thematically, Blink Twice attempts to tackle a multitude of issues-ranging from toxic masculinity to societal privilege-but ends up spreading itself too thin. The result is a muddled message that lacks the depth and nuance needed to make a lasting impact. The film's commentary feels heavy-handed at times, detracting from the suspense and diluting the overall experience.

Performance-wise, Naomi Ackie delivers a commendable portrayal of Frida, bringing authenticity to her role despite the script's limitations. Channing Tatum steps out of his comfort zone, offering a glimpse of menace beneath his character's charismatic facade. However, the supporting characters are largely underdeveloped, making it difficult to invest in their journeys or care about their fates.

Visually, the film shines with its stunning cinematography and effective use of color symbolism. Kravitz demonstrates potential behind the camera, crafting scenes that are aesthetically pleasing and atmospherically rich. Unfortunately, style cannot compensate for the lack of substance in the storytelling.

In conclusion, Blink Twice is a film with admirable ambitions that are undermined by its execution. The sluggish pacing, combined with a convoluted narrative and superficial character development, results in an underwhelming experience. While Zoë Kravitz shows promise as a director, this debut serves as a reminder that compelling visuals and a strong cast need to be matched by a cohesive and engaging story.