CYPRUS CINEMA GUIDE & FILM REVIEW
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THE CUNJURING: LAST RITES (18)
This film contains explicit scenes of horror
FILM SYNOPSIS
Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren take on one last terrifying case involving mysterious entities that they are compelled to confront. Â
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Horror
Director: Michael Chaves
Cast:Â Â Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Madison Lawlor
Runtime: 155 mins
Recommendation Score: 7/10
Loosely based on a true story, this film features yet another horrifying story based on the experiences of America’s most documented paranormal investigators. The opening scenes set the stage for several instances of suspense, horror, and intrigue, allowing the audience to quickly embrace the film and all it has to offer. This film has several things going for it, offering something fresh, different and a little unexpected, but it also occasionally feels out of place when compared to other films of this genre.Â
As the story unfolds, the intrigue helps to create a nice caveat after a slightly confusing start. This enhances an otherwise basic plot that becomes far more fulfilling as the film progresses.  to the surface. This allows the film to fully develop the suspense element of the film which goes on to create an interesting narrative. This also allows the audience to engage more with the central character, who is often seen making random split-second decisions. Although the pace of the film is very slow, it does manage to deliver a quite fresh take on a story of horror.
The film constantly maintains the horror element, allowing for the escalation of danger and risk to the central characters. This helps to keep the movement of the film thrilling and a little unpredictable. Its climax, however, follows the classic Hollywood mandate that every horror film must end with an epic showdown. All in all, a must-watch for fans of horror and mystery.
ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER (15)
This film contains scenes of action, adventure, violence, & fantasy elements
FILM SYNOPSIS
When their evil enemy resurfaces after 16 years, a group of former revolutionaries reunite to rescue one of their own’s daughter.
Genre: Comic, Action, Adventure
Director:Â Paul Thomas Anderson
Runtime: 161 minutes
Cast:Â Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro
Recommendation Score: 8/10
Films, which seem to rely on action, often lack substance, and in the absence of a good storyline, they often fall apart. This is not the case here! Although this film has been created as a high-octane action story, it’s also clear to see the softer side of the main characters as they are forced to reunite in adversity. Drawing inspiration from previous classics from this genre, films like this are no longer made in this way, and with this in mind, it could be said that this film offers something completely different.
The film’s action scenes are first-class, and its direction successfully bounces from scene to scene, engulfing audiences with some stellar appearances from its great cast. Each scene is cleverly overlaid with comical dialogue, which further enhances it. The film also includes several endearing moments that provoke both thought and compassion.Â
This film has all of the makings of a classic, making it essential viewing for fans of this genre. Along with this, it also manages to deliver a few surprises in the form of comedy along the way. This provides several little caviats that form nice little surprises from the main characters along the way. This, along with the action, seems to keep viewers constantly engaged throughout the mayhem that ensues. This film has the makings of a classic, and I will not be surprised if it is followed by a sequel.
LILO & STITCH (K- Family)
This film contains scenes of violent action and horror.
FILM SYNOPSIS
Set in Hawaii, this sun-soaked live-action remake sees Lilo once again team up with Stitch to confront an alien threat.Â
Genre: Family, Comedy, Science Fiction AdventureÂ
Director:Â Â Dean Fleischer Camp
Runtime: 140 Minutes
Cast:Â Â Chris Sanders, Hannah Waddingham, Billy Magnussen, Jason Scott Lee
Recommendation Score: 7/10
This film is a faithful, albeit uninspired, adaptation of the original animated story. Although a little cliché, it does manage to offer something quite different. It also does a good job of transforming Stitch into a furry 3D live-action hero with some impressive teeth.Â
The film successfully manages to capture the core elements of the original story. It takes full advantage of a winning formula in the form of a classic good vs evil mould. This remake largely adheres to the major plot points and storyline of the original film. Equally, it also exploits the relationship between Lilo, Nani and Stitch. This film also effectively portrays the importance of ‘ohana,’ or family, which is also a core theme of the original film.Â
Some clever direction enables the audience to accept the story. This keeps the film relevant and the audience continually engaged. The happy atmosphere and the often bright scenery tend to enhance the film’s entertaining message. All of this is aptly complemented by the happy-go-lucky soundtrack. The expertly done 3D animation also enhances the viewer’s experience. This makes this film a must for all fans of animated characters! I am sure this winning formula will be repeated soon, and I am already looking forward to Disney’s next film in this mould.
SMURFSÂ Â (12)
This film features comedic elements and mild action sequences.
FILM SYNOPSIS
When Papa Smurf is taken by evil wizards Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette leads the Smurfs on a mission to the real world to save him.Â
Genre: Family, Adventure, Comedy, Drama, Musical, Fantasy
Director:Â Chris Miller
Runtime: 100 Minutes
Cast: Rhianna, Natasha Lyonne, Hannah Waddingham, Kurt Russell
Recommendation Score: 7/10
A message of endearing friendship and companionship is at the heart of this story. This one-of-a-kind reboot centres on the emotional rollercoaster that surrounds the main character, Smurfette. The audience is taken to a whole new level as she rallies the other Smurfs behind her and then leads her band of merry Smurfs into the real world in search of the abducted Papa Smurf.
The film manages to portray messages of kindness, respect and friendship that will appeal to both young and old viewers. It also has some amazing colourful characters and an exciting plot. There are also several sweet and endearing moments that all come together nicely. The fact that the Smurfs reach into the real world also plays along nicely, creating a plethora of comical scenes that are duly remembered.
The cinematography is accompanied by a creative musical score that enhances the film’s several credentials. All of these elements help to get this film firmly over the finishing line. The film is dominated by computer-generated graphics, but this is done very tastefully. This also intricately allows the script to tailor a path through both worlds. The chemistry between the Smurfs, who are constantly at odds, not only with each other but also with their new environment, creates a good sub-plot and several comedic moments that work well with the dynamic action scenes. All in all, a great film to watch!
SUPERMAN (12)
This film contains scenes of extreme action and mild violence, incorporating elements of fantasy and science fiction.
FILM SYNOPSIS
Superman, the embodiment of truth, justice, and the American way, now finds himself part of a world that has changed and views his values as old-fashioned. This forces the superhero to reconcile his heritage with his human upbringing.Â
Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure, Science Fiction
Director: James Gunn
Runtime: 135 Minutes
Cast:Â Nicholas Hoult, Isabela Merced, Frank Grillo
Recommendation Score: 8/10
This film is a wildly entertaining superhero action-adventure. It successfully offers the audience something a little different, and whilst it sticks to the genre’s superhero saves the world formula, it remains unlike other Superman films. Overall, the film offers something a little more thought-provoking. The film manages to take the audience on a rollercoaster ride that sees the all-action superhero once again struggle to save the world.
The film successfully delivers several of the same superhuman action scenes that have helped carve a niche for the Superman franchise over the years. However, whilst the film takes full advantage of the comic book hero winning formula, it does see Superman begin to question the world’s changing narratives. This film, although predictable, effectively creates a tipping balance between good and evil. This is often set against a slightly darker, gritty atmosphere that helps to further enhance the film’s message.Â
Although the film sees our hero constantly battling mental as well as physical challenges, there are several ‘feel-good’ moments. The subtle music score aptly enhances the storyline as the predictable, yet entertaining plot progresses. With misinformation and lies at the forefront, Superman continues to battle adversity to set everything right again. With this in mind, the film sends a wonderful message of traditional values, kindness, goodness, and hope! Ultimately, a worthwhile watch for action and comic book fans.
