TIFF ’25: ‘The Smashing Machine’ Review

By: Amanda Guarragi In the world of wrestling, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has made a name for himself. When he switched over to acting, it was a natural shift because of how talented he was in the ring. In his early years, Johnson had taken to comedies, which showcased his talents and made him enjoyable to watch.  Once he became an action star and a … Continue reading TIFF ’25: ‘The Smashing Machine’ Review

TIFF ’25 Review: ‘Hedda’

By: Amanda Guarragi In the 1800s, Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen premiered his play “Hedda Gabler” in 1891. Ibsen’s work primarily focused on modern drama, and he wrote more realistic plays. The character of Hedda Gabler explored a woman’s resentment for being trapped in a marriage and a house she never wanted.  Hedda Gabler is considered the more complex role for any actress to portray due … Continue reading TIFF ’25 Review: ‘Hedda’

TIFF ’25 Review: ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’

By: Amanda Guarragi In the 1700s, the religious community known as “The Shakers” originated in England. It is a sector of Protestant Christians. They were formally known as “The United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing,” and eventually moved to the United States in 1774. A woman named Ann Lee led the community through their hardships.  They believed in the dual nature of God … Continue reading TIFF ’25 Review: ‘The Testament of Ann Lee’

‘Alien: Earth’ Season One Review

By: Amanda Guarragi The Alien franchise has always been centred on building suspense in the vast dark galaxy we call space. Most of the time, humans and cyborgs are trapped in a spaceship with a Xenomorph or other strange alien creatures.  Throughout the franchise, each filmmaker has left their mark in choosing which new creatures to develop with practical effects. As technology advances, it’s interesting … Continue reading ‘Alien: Earth’ Season One Review

‘Weapons’ Review

By: Amanda Guarragi The horror genre has been thriving for decades, with new filmmakers producing modern horror classics for audiences. The conventions will always be similar, but it’s up to the filmmakers to be innovative to present these scares. The beauty of horror lies in the small moments that build suspense. For those who love the genre, the anticipation and the atmosphere play an important … Continue reading ‘Weapons’ Review