A ghostly whodunnit in the heart of Venice

Sir Kenneth Branagh takes on the iconic role of detective Hercule Poirot once again in A Haunting in Venice, a murder mystery that puts a new spin on Agatha Christie's Hallowe'en Party. Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Italian city, this film takes viewers on a suspenseful journey as Poirot is lured out of retirement to solve a murder at a haunted palace. However, while the film has its moments, it ultimately falls short of the chilling atmosphere it aims to create.

A comedic twist with Tina Fey

One standout aspect of this production is the casting choice of comedic actress Tina Fey as Poirot's murder mystery writer friend Ariadne Oliver. Fey's portrayal adds a delightful comedic element to the film, providing a perfect foil for Branagh's Poirot. The two actors share a great chemistry, effortlessly shifting between light-hearted banter and deep discussions on topics like religion. Fey's performance brings much-needed levity to the film and is one of the highlights of the production.

A mixed cast and missed opportunities

While Branagh and Fey shine in their respective roles, the rest of the cast is hit or miss. Michelle Yeoh delivers a standout performance as the mesmerizing psychic Joyce Reynolds, while young Jude Hill impresses audiences with his talent. Unfortunately, Jamie Dornan fails to convince as a war veteran, and the rest of the cast fails to create a sense of fear or urgency. This lack of conviction detracts from the overall suspense of the film and prevents it from reaching its full potential.

A haunting experience

Despite its shortcomings, A Haunting in Venice does keep viewers guessing until the end. The film succeeds in creating a sense of mystery and intrigue, keeping audiences engaged as they try to unravel the identity of the killer. However, it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression, offering an enjoyable but forgettable experience. If you're a fan of murder mysteries and the iconic character of Hercule Poirot, this film may still be worth a watch. Just don't expect it to send shivers down your spine.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Written by Grant Rollings

Cassandro review: An enchanting sporting biopic

The inspiring true story of a gay Mexican wrestler

Cassandro tells the incredible true story of Saul "Cassandro" Armendariz, a gay Mexican wrestler who sought acceptance through his beloved sport. Gael Garcia Bernal delivers a captivating performance as Cassandro, capturing the essence of a man searching for his place in a world that often rejects him. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Texas, this film delves deep into Cassandro's personal journey of self-discovery and the role that wrestling plays in his life.

An honest portrayal of an unconventional hero

Director and co-writer Roger Ross Williams takes a refreshing approach to the traditional sports biopic genre. Rather than focusing solely on the triumphs and victories of its protagonist, Cassandro delves into his struggles and vulnerabilities. Williams beautifully balances intimate fight sequences with emotionally impactful moments, creating a well-rounded portrait of a complex individual. Through its authentic portrayal of Cassandro's journey, this film reminds us of the power of embracing our true selves.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Written by Hanna Flint

Rally Road Racers review: An animated adventure that falls flat

A predictable caper on the Silk Road

Rally Road Racers takes audiences on a predictable animated adventure through China's Silk Road. The story follows Zhi, a wide-eyed primate voiced by Jimmy O. Yang, who dreams of becoming a rally driver. Inspired by his childhood hero, the villainous Archie Vainglorious, Zhi embarks on a treacherous journey to win the Silk Road Rally and prove himself. Unfortunately, this film fails to stand out in a genre filled with more compelling and visually stunning options.

A lackluster animation and uninspired characters

While Rally Road Racers has a few moments of entertainment, such as a fun racing sequence reminiscent of A-ha's "Take On Me" music video, the animation falls short. The landscapes are dull and uninteresting, lacking the vibrant colors and detail that audiences have come to expect from animated films. The characters, including Zhi and his love interest Shelby, offer little in terms of originality and fail to engage viewers on a deeper level.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

Written by Hanna Flint