10 x 10 SSMR Short + Sweet Movie Review

10x10 (2018)

A grippingly tense but often ridiculous thriller with a strong female protagonist.

Great use of its modest locations. Takes place in a fancy, expensive and secluded house and uses it well; not once does the limited set feel overplayed.

The story is mostly unpredictable and underscored with a flawless soundtrack that is simple and effective - just as the film is and excels as.

Claustrophobia is an issue however; the film feels overbearing and leads the viewer wishing it would all end - still gripped to see just how.

A twisty, violent and oddly sexy ordeal for a very quiet weekday.

#-#-#-#- - 3.6/5

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Secret in Their Eyes 2015 Review SSMR

Secret in Their Eyes (2015)

Grizzled counter-terrorism detective solves cold-case murder of Julia Roberts’ daughter.

Awesomely shot and traditionally scored, showing no sign of a modest budget. The story is perfectly paced and has a meaty twist ending.

Seems to be trying to cover all of the staples of the detective genre e.g. sports games, work-based love interests, a tunnel chase, a funny sidekick etc.

All performances are above functional, with Roberts’ portrayal of a grieving mother weighing in as the most impressive.

Provides a gripping riff on True Detective and Luther’s first seasons, with none of the sex but more emotion and similarly strong character building.

#-#-#-#- - 4.1/5

Unlocked 2017 Review SSMR

Unlocked (2017)

A female secret agent fights clandestine-organized terrorism and saves the world.

A small but well used budget makes this an ‘epic’ film that deftly globe-trots and has large set pieces. 

Noomi Rapace is a star, reliably in decent films.

Camera guy, Jaromir Sedina is invaluable. Albeit feminized, the action scenes are amazingly shot.

The film looks like a big Hollywood production at times and also has the cast to suit, with quite a few big-name stars putting on classy performances.

A thrilling and often coldly brutal view, subverting clichés at every turn in the gear of genderism. However, a limp script dampens proceedings.

# - # - # - # -   - 3.8/5