The Fostered is now available on digital and on demand. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
The Fostered – A Chilling New Thriller Debuts This Week
Available on Digital and On Demand starting June 24, 2025
🎬 Synopsis
After their parents’ tragic murder-suicide, twin sisters are taken in by a gentle foster mother and her resentful husband. As tensions rise in the dysfunctional household, it becomes unclear whether the real danger comes from the cruel foster father—or from the girls themselves.
“Don’t be afraid of what you see… Be afraid of what you don’t!”
⭐ Review
The Fosteredis a tense, slow-burning psychological thriller that explores grief, trauma, and the thin line between victim and threat. Following the horrific loss of their parents, twin sisters find themselves in the care of a seemingly kind foster mother, Amy, and her cold, volatile husband, Kevin.
Directors Gunnar Garrett and Ritchie Greer build a suffocating atmosphere, using dim lighting and claustrophobic spaces to mirror the emotional intensity inside the home. Real-life twins Serena and Savina Perey deliver eerie, pitch-perfect performances that keep the audience guessing. Are they survivors—or something more sinister?
The film thrives on emotional ambiguity and psychological tension. It refuses easy answers and leans into moral complexity. Is this a tale of children in danger, or is something darker lurking behind their wide eyes?
With its haunting tone and loaded silences, The Fostered is a psychological puzzle that lingers long after the credits roll.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
*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.
🎥 Film Details
Written by: Gunnar Garrett Directed by: Gunnar Garrett & Ritchie Greer Starring: Robert Palmer Watkins, Brittany Underwood, Serena Perey, Savina Perey Genre: Thriller Run Time: 1 hour 16 minutes
Brendan Devane’s ‘The Sound’ opens theatrically and on Video On Demand nationwide on June 27. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
🎬 THE SOUND – A High-Stakes Horror Thriller Set Against a Vertical Nightmare
Release Date: In Theaters and On Demand – June 27 (US) Genre: Thriller / Horror / Action Rating: R Running Time: 104 minutes
🔥 Synopsis
In the gripping new horror thriller The Sound, a team of elite climbers is given rare access to the Forbidden Wall—a towering, remote rock face that has remained closed off for decades. Among them is Sean (Marc Hills), a seasoned climber haunted by the memory of his grandfather’s doomed attempt on the same wall 63 years prior.
But what begins as a high-adrenaline expedition soon devolves into a terrifying fight for survival. As the team ascends, they encounter a chilling and malevolent force lurking within the rock, one that will push them far beyond their physical and psychological limits—hundreds of feet above solid ground.
The Sound courtesy clip, used with permission.
🎥 Key Cast
Marc Hills (Elephant Department)
Rachel Finninger (American Horror Story)
Nicholas Baroudi (The Hating Game)
Jocelyn Hudon (The Strain)
William Fichtner (Crash, Armageddon)
Christina Kirkman, Jolene Kay, David Clennon, and elite climbers Hazel Findlay, Brette Harrington, Adrian Ballinger, and Alex Honnold (Free Solo) add realism and intensity to the climbing sequences.
🎬 Creative Team
Written, Directed & Produced by: Brendan Devane (The Canyonlands)
Executive Producer: James Devane (Sadieland Productions)
On VOD – Available on all major platforms including:
Apple TV
Amazon Prime Video
Fandango At Home
And more
🧗♂️ Final Thoughts
The Sound promises an intense blend of claustrophobic fear, psychological horror, and heart-pounding action—all set on a precarious vertical battlefield. With real-life climbing legends in the cast and a chilling supernatural twist, this is one summer thriller that will leave audiences hanging… literally.
‘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.
Wellwood is available on Video On Demand. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Wellwood: Creature Effects Legend Alec Gillis Returns to His Indie Roots
Renowned creature effects artist Alec Gillis—known for his groundbreaking work on the Alien and Predator franchises, Starship Troopers, and most recently Smile 2—is returning to his independent film roots with Wellwood, a new creature-feature produced under his company Pro Machina, Inc. (Roberson Public Relations, 2025)
Alec began his career working with low-budget film icon Roger Corman and has long been an advocate for the art of practical effects. His latest venture, Wellwood, embraces that passion. Produced through Pro Machina, a studio focused on practical effects-heavy, lower-budget films, Wellwood showcases the craftsmanship and creativity that have become Alec’s hallmark.
Now Available on VOD
Wellwood, executive produced by Alec Gillis, was released in April 2025 by Uncork’d Entertainment and is now available on all major video-on-demand platforms, including streaming, satellite, and cable.
Practical Effects at the Forefront
True to Gillis’ legacy, every creature and corpse in Wellwood was built using practical effects. Alec and his team created the alien creature at the center of the film using rod puppets, a full-body suit, and mechanized heads. They also designed several human and animal “bodies” for key scenes—don’t worry, no animals were harmed in the making of this film!
A Legacy of Creature Creation
In addition to his work on Wellwood, Alec’s effects company Studio Gillis has recently contributed creatures and effects to major films such as Smile 2, Alien: Romulus, the upcoming I Love Boosters, and the Naked Gun reboot.
Previously, Alec co-founded Amalgamated Dynamics, Inc. (ADI), where he was nominated for an Academy Award for his work on Alien 3. Other notable credits from his ADI tenure include Death Becomes Her, Tremors, Prey, and of course, Starship Troopers.
Wellwood — A Sci-Fi Thriller With Heart
Tagline: A man takes a dangerous creature hostage after he convinces himself the creature’s blood is the key to curing his sick wife.
Question: In the end, what would you believe?
Synopsis
When Laura Harper (Camille Balsamo-Gillis) is diagnosed with a terminal illness, her husband Nick (Reid Collums) is driven to the edge in his search for a cure. His desperate journey leads him to an extraterrestrial being he believes can save her. But as Nick’s obsession grows, their actions draw the attention of law enforcement, including Deputy Gracie Marsh (Keisha Castle-Hughes) and the steadfast Sheriff Bradley (Lance E. Nichols). What follows is a harrowing exploration of love, belief, and the consequences of crossing the line.
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.
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 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.
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.
‘First Moon’ stars Lauren Esposito, Julian Curtis, and Shannon Ryan. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Why Werewolf Movies Still Howl at the Moon
Werewolf movies have captivated audiences for decades with their potent blend of horror, folklore, and human emotion. From classics like The Wolf Man (1941) to modern cult favorites like Ginger Snaps and An American Werewolf in London, these films explore themes of transformation, inner conflict, and the beast within.
What makes werewolf stories so enduring? The genre taps into our primal fears and fascination with the supernatural. The werewolf is often both victim and monster—a symbol of identity struggles, rage, and loss of control. This duality, paired with suspenseful storytelling and visceral special effects, keeps the genre fresh and alive in horror cinema.
A new chapter in werewolf horror has arrived—First Moon is now available to rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)
Starring The Conjuring 2‘s Lauren Esposito and featuring creature design by Emmy Award-winning SFX artist Thomas E. Surprenant (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Halloween H20, The Grinch), First Moon offers a chilling, cult-inspired twist on werewolf lore.
Written & Directed by: Peter McLeod Starring: Lauren Esposito, Julian Curtis, Shannon Ryan
Plot: A young waitress is abducted by a religious cult determined to “cure” her of a werewolf virus—by any means necessary. With her first full moon fast approaching, she must escape before it’s too late.
First Moon still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
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.
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.
SA Examiner 