Death of a Unicorn

Death of a Unicorn; A wild premise thinly executed, quickly veers into horror when greater themes and angles could be explored. Still, the ensemble is incredible and play off each other fantastically well. A trailer that intrigues but ends up half baked, with some great moments, lines and sights; B

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice; Does an excellent job respecting the original while providing decent justification for revisiting the themes and circumstances all over again. The new blood meshes seamlessly and fits right in perfectly. Ortega is a draw unto herself, but O’Hara and Keaton are legendary; B+

Scream VI

Scream VI; Switches up the locale, the leads and some of the typical moments, yet still seems to offer more of the same. This is fine if it’s your fare, but it’s becoming a bit of a bore despite the very decent cast and welcome change of scenery. Serviceable slasher sequel; B-

Studio 666

Studio 666; Fun to see the band goofing it up in a blend of gore, ridiculousness, rock & horror. Acting ability range makes it funny and creepy, with some fun supporting roles by comedy pros. Not the film I thought it would be, but filled with gruesome effects and solid rock; B+
 

Scream

Scream; What should be a tired reboot (or requel) actually entertains w/enough familiarity & twists to keep viewers guessing. Young cast is quite good & could hold their own without legacy stars showing up. Ghost face is the one thing that hasn’t aged well, more like a joke; B

The Fallout

The Fallout; A fine performance by Ortega delivers the complexity needed to explore the odd yet honest connections and reflections from the aftermath of a traumatic event. The film speaks to the horror of everyday that teens have to contend with, while seeking joy and meaning; A-