PREVIEW: Don’t Turn Out The Lights (2025 Film) - A Blood-Soaked Nightmare Awaits

By Jon Donnis

Prepare for a relentless ride into terror with Don't Turn Out The Lights, a brutal new supernatural horror from Anaconda producer Andy Fickman, hitting digital platforms on 17 March 2025 courtesy of 101 Films. What starts as a carefree road trip quickly spirals into a gruesome fight for survival, as a group of friends headed to a music festival find themselves lost in the middle of nowhere with no signal, no help, and something horrifying lurking in the shadows.

The friends set off in their camper van with high hopes of a weekend filled with music, partying, and wild memories. But as they take a wrong turn and the daylight fades, their excitement is replaced by mounting dread. The darkness brings more than just the fear of being stranded,  it awakens something sinister, an unseen force watching, waiting, and ready to strike. As paranoia sets in and tensions rise, the group's bonds begin to fracture, leaving them even more vulnerable to whatever malevolent presence haunts the night.

One by one, they meet their end in a series of increasingly brutal and imaginative deaths, each kill more gruesome than the last. The film leans heavily into its gore-soaked roots, delivering practical effects and blood-drenched sequences that call back to classic slasher films while maintaining a supernatural edge. The relentless pace ensures that no one is safe, and even the brief moments of respite are shattered by shocking bursts of violence.

The claustrophobic setting of the camper van adds to the suffocating atmosphere, turning what should have been a symbol of freedom and fun into a prison of terror. Fickman's direction makes excellent use of the darkness, with the unseen threat always lingering just out of view, playing on primal fears of what might be lurking in the shadows. As the survivors scramble to escape, the horror only intensifies, leading to a climactic showdown that leaves a lasting impact.

For horror fans craving an unflinching, blood-soaked thrill ride, Don't Turn Out The Lights promises to deliver in spades. It is a relentless, no-holds-barred experience that refuses to let up, leaving viewers as breathless as the doomed characters on screen. So, gather your bravest friends, lock the doors, and maybe keep a torch close by,  because when this film drops on 17 March 2025, you might just find yourself afraid to turn off the lights.

Apple TV - https://apple.co/3D71aXj

REVIEW: Captain America: Brave New World (2025 Film) – Starring Anthony Mackie, Danny Ramirez, Liv Tyler and Harrison Ford

Review by Jon Donnis

Captain America: Brave New World attempts to chart a bold new course for the MCU, but it stumbles under the weight of its ambitions. Picking up after The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, the film follows Sam Wilson as he struggles to define what it means to be Captain America in a world still haunted by past mistakes. Anthony Mackie brings depth to the role, portraying Wilson as a man torn between duty and doubt. The relationship between Wilson and Joaquin Torres is a highlight, with Torres stepping into the Falcon mantle with youthful enthusiasm. Their dynamic is heartfelt, but the film repeatedly reminds viewers that neither of them has superpowers, which feels like an unnecessary attempt to underline their vulnerability. Isaiah Bradley's presence adds emotional gravity, as his painful history with the government contrasts with Wilson's hopeful vision for the future.

The plot revolves around the discovery of adamantium on Celestial Island and the political turmoil that follows. President Thaddeus Ross, played with gravitas by Harrison Ford, tries to prevent an arms race, but his hidden dealings with Dr Samuel Sterns spiral out of control. Sterns, now fully transformed into the Leader, manipulates events from the shadows, using mind control to orchestrate an attack on the White House. The action sequences are well choreographed, with standout moments like Wilson and Torres intercepting mind-controlled pilots over the ocean. The fight against the Red Hulk is intense, though the CGI struggles to keep up, resulting in visuals that feel rough and unpolished. It is a recurring issue in recent Marvel films, and it detracts from what should be jaw-dropping set pieces.

Brave New World attempts to explore political themes, but its commentary is surface-level at best. The adamantium treaty and its global implications could have been a rich narrative thread, but the film rushes through these elements to make room for action. The inclusion of numerous cameos and easter eggs adds to the sense of overcrowding, making the story feel more like a setup for future projects than a cohesive standalone film. Ross's transformation into Red Hulk is a powerful moment, especially when Wilson talks him down by reminding him of his estranged daughter, but it is not given enough time to breathe. The emotional beats are there, but they are often overshadowed by the film's need to keep the plot moving.

Despite its flaws, the film still delivers moments of genuine excitement and heart. The bond between Wilson, Torres, and Ruth Bat-Seraph feels authentic, and their teamwork in the final act is satisfying to watch. The film ends on a hopeful note and the post-credits scene, teasing an otherworldly threat, hints at bigger things to come, but whether the MCU can regain its footing remains uncertain.

Captain America: Brave New World is a serviceable entry in the franchise, propped up by strong performances and thrilling action, but dragged down by an overstuffed plot and inconsistent visual effects. It is a film that wants to be more than it is, and while it never quite reaches its full potential, it is still an enjoyable watch for fans invested in the MCU's ongoing saga. It may not be the triumphant return to form that some hoped for, but it is a step in the right direction for Sam Wilson's Captain America. I would give it a solid 7.5 out of 10, not spectacular, but far from a failure.

In Cinemas Now!

COMPETITION: Win New Religion/Neu Mirrors Limited Edition on Blu-ray

From Third Window Films comes the award winning debut of Keishi Kondo, New Religion and his short, spin-off movie Neu Mirrors, released for the first time on Blu-ray March 10th

And to celebrate we have a copy on Blu-ray to give away!

Synopsis:

After her daughter's death in an accident, Miyabi gets a divorce, starts working as a call girl and moves in with her new boyfriend. In a meeting with a new customer, he asks to take a picture of her body, first her spine, then, her feet, and after that, he begins to photograph her every time they meet. One day, while at home, Miyabi feels a small hand touching her leg and soon realizes that every time she allows her body to be photographed she can feel her daughter's spirit reaching closer and closer. 

Neu Mirrors is a spin-off short film that attempts to answer certain unanswered questions of New Religion and begins just after a scene in the previous film.

Aizawa wakes up in a strange hotel room. A voice calls him from his earphone. Aizawa notices a man in a white shirt in the room and a photo book at his feet. There are the faces of many strangers and his own face printed on it.

Then, Aizawa's reality dissolves into a nightmare world.

Pre-Order from https://hmv.com/store/film-tv/blu-ray/new-religion-neu-mirrors

Enter now for a chance to win.

Who directs New Religion?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions - For full T&C click here

1. Closing date 17-03-25

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

The Most Iconic Casino Scenes in Hollywood Films

Hollywood has always been captivated by the glitz, glamour, and high stakes of casino life. From the spinning roulette wheels to the tension of a high-stakes poker game, casinos have provided the perfect backdrop for filmmakers to craft scenes packed with drama, suspense, and unforgettable characters. Over the years, many films have showcased iconic casino sequences, immersing viewers in the thrilling world of gambling and chance.

For those who love the adrenaline rush of a casino, finding a place to play online can be a great way to experience the excitement without leaving home. If you're looking for a casino not on GamStop, there are plenty of options that provide a variety of games and immersive experiences that rival the atmosphere of the movies. But until you place your next bet, let's take a look at some of the best casino scenes ever captured on film.

One of the most legendary casino movies is Martin Scorsese's Casino (1995). Starring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci, the film dives deep into the mob-run casinos of Las Vegas in the 1970s. The scene where Sam "Ace" Rothstein meticulously oversees every detail of his casino captures the intense precision and power struggles that ruled the Strip. The film paints a gritty, realistic picture of casino life, showing both its seductive allure and the dark consequences that come with it.

Another classic is Ocean's Eleven (2001), where George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and their team of thieves plan an elaborate heist to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously. The film's slick style and charismatic performances make every scene feel like a jackpot. The climax, where the team executes their meticulously crafted plan, is a masterclass in building tension, with the glitzy casino setting serving as the perfect stage for the action.

For poker enthusiasts, Rounders (1998) starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton, delivers one of the most gripping gambling narratives. The underground poker games, filled with shady characters and high-risk plays, show the psychological battle that unfolds at the table. The final showdown between Damon's character Mike McDermott and John Malkovich's Teddy KGB is a nail-biting sequence that perfectly captures the intensity of competitive poker.

The Hangover (2009) takes a more comedic approach to the casino genre. While most of the film focuses on the aftermath of a wild Las Vegas bachelor party, the blackjack scene where Alan (Zach Galifianakis) counts cards to win enough money to save the group is a hilarious homage to classic casino films. His serious demeanor and the dramatic slow-motion sequences add a humorous twist to the high-stakes gambling trope.

Of course, no list would be complete without mentioning James Bond's Casino Royale (2006). Daniel Craig's first outing as Bond features an unforgettable poker scene where he faces off against the villainous Le Chiffre. The sequence is masterfully shot, with every card flip and subtle facial expression heightening the tension. The luxurious casino setting, combined with Bond's cool confidence, makes it one of the most iconic gambling scenes in cinematic history.

These films capture the allure of casinos in different ways, whether through high-stakes heists, intense poker games, or comedic misadventures. They show that casinos are more than just places to gamble, they're arenas where characters are tested, fortunes are won or lost, and unforgettable stories unfold. Whether you're a seasoned gambler or simply love the excitement of a great movie, these scenes are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat, craving just one more spin of the wheel.

PREVIEW: Lyla (2025 Film) - Psychological Thriller Unveils Dark Secrets on Digital 31 March

By Jon Donnis

Jolene Andersen, known for her roles in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and V/H/S/Beyond, gives a powerfully sinister performance as Lyla in this brooding psychological thriller. The film, written, directed, and shot by Gordon Cowie, is set to arrive on digital on 31 March, courtesy of Miracle Media.

In an attempt to escape the distractions surrounding him, writer Mark, played by Clark Moore (Monsters, Yellowstone), takes his wife Lyla and their son on a secluded getaway. Unbeknownst to him, Lyla is harbouring a dark secret she will do anything to protect. As tensions mount, Mark's growing suspicions threaten not only his family but his sanity as well, sending him into a downward spiral.

Mother knows best in this darkly disturbing thriller that grips audiences from start to finish. Lyla arrives on digital on 31 March from Miracle Media.