Tag: Movies

‘Finding Nicole’: A True Story of Survival, Strength, and Justice

‘Finding Nicole’ is available to rent or purchase. Photo: Fandango

“Finding Nicole: A True Story of Love, Loss, Betrayal, Fear, and Hope”

By Nicole Beverly

In her powerful memoir, Finding Nicole: A True Story of Love, Loss, Betrayal, Fear, and Hope, author and advocate Nicole Beverly shares an unflinching, deeply personal account of her journey from domestic violence victim to survivor—and ultimately, to warrior. (Amazon, 2025)

The Cycle of Abuse

Nicole met her ex-husband in college, and over the course of a decade, found herself trapped in a progressively abusive and violent relationship. Like so many victims, she stayed for a complex mix of reasons: love, financial dependency, her children, and fear. In 2009, she finally left—but the danger didn’t end there.

For more than two years after leaving, Nicole endured relentless stalking, threats, and harassment. Her powerful victim impact statement at his sentencing eventually led to her ex-husband’s conviction for stalking. Yet even behind bars, he continued to pose a lethal threat—attempting to hire inmates to kill Nicole and their children.

A System That Failed Her

Nicole’s story also sheds light on the failures of the criminal justice system. Due to errors by law enforcement, breakdowns in communication, and a hesitant prosecutor, her abuser was almost released despite these credible threats. In a desperate bid to protect her family, Nicole even considered identity change—only to discover how difficult it would be to start over without a past.

Fighting Back—and Winning

Instead of disappearing, Nicole chose to fight. She turned to social media to share her story and rallied support from family, friends, fellow survivors, and strangers across the globe. In just a few weeks, her plea for justice went viral.

Thanks to public pressure, the Attorney General of Michigan took on her case. After 13 months, multiple court hearings, and unwavering courage, Nicole’s abuser was found guilty of new charges and sentenced to a longer prison term—giving Nicole and her children some much-needed peace.

A Guide for Survivors

Nicole’s book doesn’t end with her story. In its final chapters, Finding Nicole serves as a guidebook for survivors of domestic violence, stalking, and toxic relationships. With practical advice and heartfelt encouragement, she offers tools to help others leave safely, reclaim hope, build resilience, and ultimately, find themselves again.

A story of fierce determination and the power of collective voices, “Finding Nicole” is a must-read. It’s not just a memoir—it’s a call to action for justice, awareness, and unwavering support for survivors everywhere. The film adaptation is available to rent or purchase on YouTube, Google Play Movie, Fandango at Home, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.

Movie Review: Finding Nicole — A Powerful Story of Survival and Strength

If you’re looking for a film that will leave a lasting impression and stir your soul, Finding Nicole is a must-watch. Based on the true story of Nicole Beverly, this film chronicles her harrowing journey through domestic abuse and her courageous fight to protect her children and reclaim her life.

Nicole’s story has been featured on Inside Evil with Chris Cuomo, Til Death Do Us Part, and in her top-selling book of the same name. The movie adaptation does a remarkable job of bringing her experiences to life with authenticity and emotional depth. Rather than sensationalizing the violence, the film focuses on the psychological impact of abuse and the long road to healing.

Kaiti Wallen delivers a standout performance, capturing Nicole’s quiet strength and vulnerability. Through gripping courtroom scenes and haunting flashbacks, we witness not only the terror Nicole endured but also her unwavering determination to break free.

Finding Nicole is more than just a film—it’s a powerful statement about resilience, justice, and hope. It’s an emotional, necessary watch that sheds light on the very real issue of domestic violence and the courage it takes to survive it. This is storytelling with purpose.

Cast

Kaiti Wallen – Kaiti Wallen
Mari G. – Warren Beverly
Sean Whalen – Cameron Banks
Shawntay Dalon – Shonda Wright, Esq
Richard Tyson – Judge Carter

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this film and received a screener link. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Clowns, Cornfields, and Carnage: A Look at Horror’s Creepiest Villains

The movie adaptation of Adam Cesare’s ‘Clown in a Cornfield’ is in movie theaters now. Photo: Barnes & Noble

The Terrifying Appeal of Clowns in Horror

Clowns have long been a staple in horror movies, tapping into a deep-rooted fear known as coulrophobia. Their exaggerated makeup, forced cheerfulness, and unpredictable behavior create a sense of unease, making them perfect villains.

From It’s Pennywise to Poltergeist’s creepy toy clown, these characters distort childhood innocence into pure terror. The contrast between their playful facade and sinister intentions fascinates audiences, offering a twisted reflection of trust gone wrong. Over the years, horror clowns have evolved from quirky jump-scare devices to complex symbols of chaos—continuing to captivate moviegoers who crave both fear and fascination in equal measure.

Book Spotlight: “Clown in a Cornfield” by Adam Cesare

Bram Stoker Award Winner for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult Novel

In Adam Cesare‘s terrifying young adult debut, Quinn Maybrook finds herself caught in a battle between old and new, tradition and progress—a conflict that may cost her life. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

Quinn and her father move to the tiny, seemingly boring town of Kettle Springs, hoping for a fresh start. But since the Baypen Corn Syrup Factory shut down, the town has split in two:

  • The adults, desperate to return to a conservative past
  • The teens, eager to move on, party, and escape

Enter Frendo, the town’s former factory mascot—now a homicidal clown in a pork-pie hat. As tensions boil over, Frendo takes it upon himself to “cull the rotten crop” of local teens in a bloody attempt to restore order.

The series also includes:

  • “Frendo Lives: Clown in a Cornfield Book 2”
  • “The Church of Frendo: Clown in a Cornfield Book 3”

The movie adaptation is now in theaters nationwide.

Movie Review: Clown in a Cornfield

Clown in a Cornfield is a slasher horror film that blends old-school gore with modern teen angst, offering a chilling—if somewhat familiar—ride through rural Americana. It follows Quinn and her father as they settle in Kettle Springs, only to encounter terror when the clown-masked Frendo begins a gruesome rampage.

The movie taps into generational tension, pitting rebellious teens against a town stuck in the past. Frendo’s clown mask is genuinely unsettling, as is his menacing giggle, and the film delivers scares in everything from cornfield chases to abandoned farmhouses.

While the story doesn’t break new ground, its brisk pace, creative kills, and intense finale make it a solid entry in the teen slasher canon. If you’re in the mood for bloody fun with a side of small-town social commentary, Clown in a Cornfield delivers just enough thrills to satisfy.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Having read the book before watching the movie, I can attest that the major plots present in the book made it into the movie and it has just a couple of major differences: Quinn’s father Glenn is given a more heroic role in the movie and Janet, the teen group’s queen bee, is not as deeply developed in the movie as she is in the book.

J. Horton’s ‘A Hard Place’ Brings Monsters, Mayhem, and a DIY Roadshow Spirit

, J. Horton’s star-studded monster opus A Hard Place comes to VOD on May 27, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

A Hard Place Hits Digital May 27: J. Horton’s Genre-Bending Thriller Comes Home

Following a successful theatrical run, J. Horton’s apocalyptic crime thriller arrives on Digital VOD just in time for summer.

After months on the road, filmmaker J. Horton is bringing his latest film, A Hard Place, to audiences across North America via Digital VOD on May 27, 2025. Viewers will be able to rent or own the film on major platforms, including Apple TV and Prime Video. Pre-order on Apple TV. (Justin Cook PR, 2025)

From Indie Roadshow to Digital Release

The A Hard Place road show began on January 12 at Englewood Cinema, just outside Dayton, Ohio. From there, the film made its way through theaters and drive-ins across the country, especially in the Midwest. With many sold-out screenings and in-person Q&As with Horton, the film built momentum as it connected directly with audiences.

Theatrical and drive-in showings will continue at independent cinemas through May, leading up to the digital release.

A Cast of Genre Icons

A Hard Place brings together an impressive ensemble of horror and cult film veterans, including:

  • Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp, Terrifier 2)
  • Lynn Lowry (Shivers, The Crazies)
  • Sadie Katz (Wrong Turn 6, The Beast Inside)
  • Rachel Amanda Bryant (Craving)
  • Kevin Caliber (Future Man)
  • Ashley Undercuffler (Craving, 16 Bits)
  • Bai Ling (The Crow)

Horton on the Roadshow Experience

Ahead of the film’s wider release, Horton shared his thoughts on the journey:

“A Hard Place has been by far the most ambitious project I’ve ever made. This movie would not exist if not for the talent, generosity, and just general good personalities of ALL of the cast and crew, as well as our cinema partners.

In true Roger Corman style, we hit the road with A Hard Place, traveling with the film to theaters and drive-ins across the country. It’s been a complete joy to see the movie with multiple audiences — something a lot of independent movies don’t get the opportunity to do.”

What’s A Hard Place About?

After a botched job leaves a trail of bodies behind, a gang of desperate criminals seeks refuge in a remote desert hideout. But their plans fall apart fast when they discover the area is home to something far worse than the law — an ancient war between monstrous predators of day and night.

As tensions rise and the body count climbs, the crew must decide if survival is worth trusting each other — or the creatures hunting them.

Runtime: 88 minutes
Country: USA

A Hard Place still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

‘Ingress’: A Grief-Stricken Journey Through the Multiverse

Ingress is available on digital and on demand. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

New Movie: Ingress – Beyond Grief, Beyond Time, Beyond Reality.

Directed by Rachel Noll James

Starring: Rachel Noll James, Christopher Clark, Tim Dekay, and Johnny Ferro

Ingress is available to rent/buy at Amazon Prime Video and Fandango at Home.

The Story

A woman with the ability to travel between parallel realities is devastated when she loses her husband in a tragic accident. Overcome with grief, she journeys through the multiverse in search of a reality where he’s still alive. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Movie Review: Ingress – A Haunting Journey Through the Multiverse

Ingress is a gripping sci-fi drama that combines emotional depth with mind-bending concepts. At its core is Riley (played masterfully by Rachel Noll James), a woman shattered by the sudden loss of her husband in a tragic accident. But Riley isn’t like most people—she has the rare ability to travel between parallel realities. Fueled by grief and desperation, she begins a journey across the multiverse in search of a world where her husband still lives.

Director Rachel Noll James crafts a visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative that explores not only the scientific “what-ifs” of alternate realities but also the human heart’s unwillingness to let go. Every effort at a reunion gives her glimpses of hope, heartbreak, and hard truths, challenging her understanding of love, fate, and identity. Along the way she meets Daniel Cassanders, an author who tries to help her with his specialized skillset.

The production value is good and the cinematography is striking. Rachel Noll James skillfully brings Riley’s struggles to life and given Daniel’s complicated role in her life, Christopher Clark handles his role well.

Ingress skillfully combines intimate storytelling with grand speculative ideas. It’s not just about science fiction—it’s about the emotional consequences of clinging to the past and the cost of rewriting fate.

With a haunting score and a poignant conclusion, Ingress will linger long after the credits roll. It’s a must-watch for fans of cerebral, emotionally driven science fiction.

Have you seen Ingress? Share your thoughts.

Ingress movie still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

*The author was contacted for an honest review and received a link to this movie. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

‘Inheritance’ Unpacks Family Ties and Hidden Truths

Emily Moss Wilson’s new film ‘Inheritance.’ Courtesy photo, used with permission.

When it comes to films, dramas contain emotional depth, compelling characters, and exploration of the human experience. They often tackle complex themes such as love, loss, identity, and morality, allowing viewers to connect with the story on a personal level. This emotional resonance is a key reason for their enduring appeal. Whether based on true events or fictional narratives, dramas invite introspection and empathy, offering a mirror to society and the self. Their ability to evolve with cultural shifts while maintaining timeless emotional truths ensures their continued popularity across generations, making them a cornerstone of cinema around the world.

The new drama film Inheritance will be showing in select US theaters from May 6 through May 22 and will be available on digital and on demand on June 3. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

‘Inheritance’…The Past Never Dies

Directed by Emily Moss Wilson
Starring Austin Highsmith Garces (Scream TV Series, Criminal Minds, Dolphin Tale), Rachel Noll James, Wes Brown (True Blood, 90210, Hart of Dixie), Michelle Hurd (Star Trek: Picard, Blindspot Hawaii Five-0)

Estranged sisters Lucy and Paige reluctantly reunite to bury their father, only to find themselves drawn back into the tangled web of their painful past. As old wounds resurface, they discover that they’ve inherited far more than just money.

CINEMA SCREENING TIMES BELOW

LOS ANGELES, CA
May 6th @ 7p.m. – Laemmle Glendale – MORE INFO HERE
*Talkback with actors Michelle Hurd & Austin Highsmith Garces
May 8th @ 7p.m. – Laemmle Santa Monica – MORE INFO HERE
*Talkback with actors Michelle Hurd & Austin Highsmith Garces
May 9th – May 22nd – Laemmle Santa Monica (Various Times – TBA)

WASHINGTON STATE
May 9th – 22nd @ 6:30p.m. daily – Bainbridge Island Cinemas – TICKETS HERE
*Talkbacks on May 13th and 22nd with actor/writer Rachel Noll James and producer Sienna Beckman
May 9th – 15th @ 6p.m. daily – Historic Admiral in West Seattle – TICKETS HERE
May 21st @ 7p.m. – Kingston Firehouse Theater – TICKETS HERE
*Talkback with actor/writer Rachel Noll James and producer Sienna Beckman

NEW ORLEANS, LA
May 18th @ 3p.m. – The Broad Theater – TICKETS HERE
*Talkback with director Emily Moss Wilson, editor Misty Talley, producer Daniel Lewis

Inheritance still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Healing Towers: When Therapy Turns to Terror

Healing Towers is available to rent or buy. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Why do we love horror movies so much? Could it be that by tapping into our primal fears, they offer a safe space to explore the unknown and confront anxiety? Moviegoers like the genre’s ability to thrill, shock, and provoke deep emotional responses. From supernatural terrors to psychological thrillers, horror evolves with cultural shifts, reflecting society’s fears and concerns. Its relevance endures because it pushes boundaries, sparks conversation, and allows viewers to experience fear without real danger. Whether through jump scares or creeping dread, horror remains a cathartic experience for many, making it a timeless and ever-popular genre that continues to reinvent itself for each new generation.

Now available on digital and on demand is the new horror movie Healing Towers. It is available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video and Fandango at Home.

Healing Towers is directed by Shuja Paul and stars Andrew Keegan, William McNamara, and Nikki Leigh.

The only cure is waking up…

A detective’s search for his missing daughter uncovers a horrifying link to a twisted psychiatrist’s dream therapy treatment, where deranged patients are forced to enact their darkest fantasies on innocent victims. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Healing Towers still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Justice, Grief, and Espionage: The Amateur Brings Robert Littell’s Spy Thriller to Life

The movie adaptation of ‘The Amateur’ starring Rami Malek is now in theaters. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Spy thrillers are filled with high-stakes tension and secret missions. These stories blend action, suspense, and intelligence, keeping readers on edge as they navigate conspiracies and betrayals. The best part are the fast-paced plots and complex characters who often operate in moral gray zones. The movie adaptations elevate these elements by vividly portraying exotic locations, pulse-pounding chases, and charismatic spies. Through dynamic visuals and compelling performances, films bring the intricacies of espionage to life, allowing audiences to experience the thrill firsthand and deepening their connection to the characters and the dangerous worlds they inhabit.

The latest to be adapted into the big screen is “The Amateur” by Robert Littell and is now in theaters everywhere.  It is a remake of the 1981 movie of the same name but they differ in their approach to the story’s themes and how they depict the protagonist’s transformation. The new version, starring Malek, is a more modern, action-packed spy thriller, while the 1981 film, starring John Savage, is a more grounded revenge thriller.

Robert Littell was born, raised, and educated in New York. A former Newsweek editor specializing in Soviet Affairs, he left journalism in 1970 to write fiction full time. He has been writing about the Soviet Union and Russians since his first novel, the espionage classic “The Defection of A.J. Lewinter.” He is the author of 18 novels, including the critically acclaimed “The Debriefing,” “The Sisters,” “The Once and Future Spy,” the New York Times bestselling “The Company, and Legends.” (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

“The Amateur” – Charlie Heller is an ace cryptographer for the CIA, a quiet man in a quiet back-office job. But when his fiancée, Sarah Diamond, is murdered by terrorists at the American Embassy in West Germany and the Company refuses to pursue her killers, Heller takes matters into his own hands.

Tracking down Sarah’s killers behind the Iron Curtain in Czechoslovakia, Heller becomes both the hunter and the hunted—an amateur facing off against the world’s deadliest assassins and spies. But nothing will stop him from getting revenge.

Expertly plotted with shocking twists and pulse-pounding suspense, “The Amateur” is a sleek and stunning novel that belongs on the shelves of every espionage fan.

My thoughts:
The Amateur, directed by James Hawes, is a modern espionage thriller that explores the themes of grief, revenge, and institutional betrayal. Rami Malek stars as Charlie Heller, a CIA cryptographer whose life is shattered when his wife is killed in a terrorist attack.

Frustrated by the agency’s inaction, Heller embarks on a global quest for justice, utilizing his analytical skills to navigate the dangerous world of espionage. Laurence Fishburne delivers a compelling performance as Heller’s mentor, adding depth to the narrative.

While the film boasts a strong cast and high production values, some critics note that it struggles with pacing and relies on familiar genre elements. Nevertheless, The Amateur offers a thought-provoking take on the spy genre, highlighting the personal costs of vengeance and the complexities of moral ambiguity. He realizes that he can’t pull the trigger when it comes down to it, so he takes care of business his way. And he’s awesome at it. I’m a big fan of Rami Malek, so that’s a big plus for me and I always enjoy spy movies similar to Jason Bourne and Mission Impossible. It’s entertaining and full of action and suspense without gratuitous violence, gore, or sex. Since I haven’t read the book, I can’t comment on how the movie measures up to it, but I’ll definitely add it to my TBR list.

‘It’s Our Time’: A Fresh Take on Love, Laughter, and Second Chances

Written and directed by Joy Hopwood, It’s Our Time will be available starting April 15, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Romantic comedies, or rom-coms, hold a timeless charm that continue to captivate audiences. Blending humor with heart, they offer a lighthearted escape into worlds where love triumphs and laughter heals. Viewers are drawn to the chemistry between characters, the witty dialogue, and the hopeful endings that promise happiness despite obstacles. Rom-coms often mirror real-life relationships, making them relatable while still idealized enough to be comforting. Their universal themes of connection, vulnerability, and second chances resonate across cultures. In an often chaotic world, romantic comedies provide a feel-good refuge—a reminder that love, with a little humor, can be beautifully uncomplicated.

For fans of romantic comedies, here’s a new one that will be available on digital and on demand starting April 15, 2025: It’s Our Time.

It’s Our Time: Filmmaker Emilia Kong is about to be evicted and her screenplay might just be her ticket to success. But when her ruthless script funding officer falls for her best friend, Emilia’s plan spirals into a hilarious mess of misunderstandings, friendship, and love. It will be available on digital and on demand on April 15, 2025. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

Written & directed by Joy Hopwood
Starring Peter Thurnwald (XO, Kitty), Tiana Hogben, Bianca Bradey

It’s Our Time movie still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Justice, Lies, and Mystery: The Interrogation of Anna Goode

The gripping crime thriller The Interrogation of Anna Goode is coming to digital and on demand on April 8, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Crime thrillers captivate audiences with their intense narratives, suspenseful twists, and morally complex characters. These films often explore the darker sides of human nature, weaving intricate plots filled with deception, mystery, and high-stakes action. Viewers are drawn to the adrenaline rush of solving crimes alongside detectives or navigating the minds of criminals. The unpredictability and psychological depth keep audiences on edge, making each moment gripping. From classic noir to modern psychological thrillers, crime films provide an escape into a world of danger and intrigue, where justice is uncertain and the line between good and evil is often blurred.

The new crime thriller The Interrogation of Anna Goode is coming to digital and on demand on April 8, 2025. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

The Interrogation of Anna Goode – While questioning a murder suspect, FBI Agent John Savage inexplicably finds himself on the opposite side of the table. Now framed for the crime, he must go to extreme lengths to reveal the shocking truth.

Written & directed by DC Hamilton
Starring Max Adler, Neil Hopkins, Brinna Kelly

The Interrogation of Anna Goode movie still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Two to One: The New Comedy Hitting UK Theaters This May

Sandra Hüller stars in the heist comedy Two to One. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Heist comedies blend the thrill of elaborate adventures with sharp humor, making them a favorite among movie lovers. These films captivate audiences with clever schemes and unexpected twists, all wrapped in a lighthearted tone. The balance between tension and comedy—watching a team of misfits outwit authorities or rival thieves keeps viewers engaged while delivering laughs. Classics like Ocean’s Eleven and The Italian Job showcase stylish execution, witty banter, and satisfying payoffs. The genre’s mix of high stakes and humor makes for endlessly entertaining, feel-good storytelling that invites audiences to root for the underdogs.

London, UK: Tull Stories is delighted to announce that Natja Brunckhorst’s Two To One (Zwei zu eins) will be hitting UK cinemas from May 2nd after its UK Premiere at Glasgow Film Festival. (Strike Media, 2025)

A light-hearted ensemble comedy about friendship, community, love, and capitalism, Natja Brunckhorst’s Two To One is set in the long, hot East German summer of 1990.

Maren, Robert and Volker have known and loved each other since childhood. In the final weeks before reunification and with Germany about to change forever, the trio stumble across a fortune in soon-to-be-worthless East German currency, left to rot in Government storage.

With just days to work out what to do with this unexpected windfall before it becomes useless, the three assemble the friends and neighbours living in their crumbling apartment block and together hatch an elaborate plan to exchange the cash for goods – outwitting the incoming Westerners and their capitalism before time runs out.

But can a community previously living under strict socialist values handle this sudden wealth…?

Two To One had its World Premiere opening Munich Film Festival, where Screen Daily said it was a “comedy with heart.” It features stand-out performances from Oscar nominee Sandra Hüller (Anatomy of a Fall, The Zone of Interest, Toni Erdmann), Max Riemelt (Berlin Syndrome, Sense8,) and Ronald Zehrfeld (Phoenix, Barbara).

Distributed By: Tull Stories
Theatrical Release: May 2nd 2025
Short Synopsis: As German reunification looms in the summer of 1990 three close friends in Socialist East Germany hatch an elaborate plan to make a fortune when they find a bunker full of soon-to-be-worthless currency. With the help of their friends and neighbours they tackle progress and capitalism head-on.
Directed By: Natja Brunckhorst
Cast: Sandra Hüller, Max Riemelt, Ronald Zehrfeld, Ursula Werner, Peter Kurth, Martin Brambach and Kathrin Wehlisch
Run Time: 116 minutes