Category: crime

Scooby-dooby-doo. “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” (2025)

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directed by Rian Johnson
© 2025 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to day 4 of 2026! How many of your resolutions are already postponed to 2027? Come on, be honest, we know how things work. I just hope that you’ll be regularly checking my blog and watching lots of good films. The rest can be done later. Let’s begin the year with something funny, thrilling and mysterious – so retired 007, Daniel Craig, playing Sherlock Holmes. This is the third film of the Knives Out series, where we follow Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig), who each time has a different crime to investigate. If you haven’t seen the previous two parts – no worries, because it’s made in a similar way like other detective stories, so each part is a separate story. In this one, I’m taking you to church (just like Hozier wanted – wink, wink), where a young priest Jud (Josh O’Connor) becomes an assistant of Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin). Since it’s a little town they serve in, new things aren’t very welcome here. Still, Jud notices Jefferson’s strange behaviour that influences the parishioners and he tries to make some changes, which is difficult on many levels. One day, Jefferson gets murdered in an unusual way and, obviously, Jud is the main suspect. However, here comes our mastermind Benoit Blanc whose job is to learn about this village’s secrets and find the actual murderer. I’ve seen all three parts of the series and as much as I enjoyed the first one, the second film wasn’t that exciting. So I didn’t feel like checking out the third part, but somehow I did out of boredom and actually got surprised. In my opinion, it’s almost as good as the first one. The mystery is so weird and complex that it makes it even funnier to be solving it. Not to mention the magnificent cast that you could watch for hours. I guess I had extra fun because not that long time ago I took part in a city game where the main task was to solve the mystery of a stolen object in a church. It was all made up, obviously, but we had to analyse how the thief actually managed to hide, steal and escape. So this film reminded me of that game and I was watching it thinking “yeah, Blanc, I know how you’re feeling, been there, done that.” I believe this is an awesome title to begin your year with. Let’s just hope you won’t need to wake up any dead men in 2026. Crossing my fingers for that.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Daddy, are you there? “Clean, Shaven” (1993)

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directed by Lodge Kerrigan
© 1993 DreamWorks Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

We’ve just lost Peter Greene, a very characteristic actor known from “Pulp Fiction” or “Mask”, but today, in order to remember his work, I’d like to recommend you a film you probably haven’t heard of. In this story, we get to know Peter Winter, a man suffering from schizophrenia, who’s just left a mental institution and is about to start his life in the real world. He actually has a daughter that has been adopted by another family and he wishes to find her. But, as you can imagine, with his disorder, it’s a big challenge. Generally, this film was made to present what schizophrenia looks like from the perspective of a person suffering from it. Some critics say it looks horrible, dark and disturbing – but hey, that’s what mental illnesses look like, you know? Luckily, I’m not schizophrenic myself, but the topic of mental issues is close to me, so I was very curious how the director created the character of Peter. And in my opinion, he did a marvellous job. Do you know that 1 in about 300 people in the world has schizofrenia? And no, they aren’t all in hospitals or any other institutions. Many of them live among us, struggling to survive and not let the disorder exclude them from the society. It’s an everyday battle that healthy people can’t understand. That is why I’m glad and thankful for this film, because it may actually open your eyes and make you realise what it’s like to fight with your own mind. It’s very raw and realistic, so if you’re a sensitive person, then make sure you’re ready to experience it. Peter Greene had an incredibly difficult task as an actor, yet he nailed it. I had chills watching him, which means he’s either very talented or spent a lot of time preparing. Could be both. Anyway, what else makes this film important? It spreads a message that we shouldn’t judge the book by its cover. I know, I know, boring phrases. But just think about it – even if we’re aware of that, we still tend to misjudge others. If a homeless person approaches you on the street, what’s your first thought? I bet it’s “oh they’re an addict who needs money for more alcohol/drugs”. Do such people exist? Yes, but it doesn’t mean everyone shares the same story. The same with mental illnesses – they don’t define people, so please, be open-minded and try to get to know the person before creating their picture in your head. A very important film for humanity, so make sure to watch it. Peter Greene – rest in peace.

My rating: 8/10
S.

Welcome to the headquarters of the human resistance. “Bugonia” (2025)

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directed by Yorgos Lanthimos
© 2025 Focus Features. All Rights Reserved.

With each new film, I like Lanthimos more and more. I have to admit that I wasn’t such a big fan of his productions before. To me those were good ideas, but in the end I was a bit disappointed with the final outcome. However, his latest films are totally my cup of tea, and “Bugonia” excited me way more than I’d expected. At the beginning, we follow Michelle (Emma Stone), who’s a CEO of a pharmaceutical company, and one day she’s kidnapped by two men – Teddy and Don (Jesse Plemons & Aidan Delbis). When the woman wakes up in a basement, she notices that her hair has been shaved. One of the kidnappers explains that it’s to prevent Michelle from contacting her ship. If you feel confused, no worries – that’s the point. Generally, Teddy believes that he detains an alien who, together with its alien buddies, wants to destroy humanity and… honeybees. And since Teddy’s hobby is beekeeping, then you understand it’s clearly necessary to do something about it. As ridiculous as it seems, the film is fantastic. At first, you have no idea what’s going on and you feel like you’re missing something, but in fact, it’s just such a weird story. Then, you may start questioning the genre of this production, because at one point you laugh, at another you are concerned, and then, when you think nothing will surprise you anymore, Yorgos decides to blow your mind. Personally, I still don’t know exactly what this film is about. Of course, I have lots of scenarios in my head, but I guess I don’t feel like choosing just one option. Also, after watching, I recommend you to read a bit about the ritual of bugonia, so you can find out where the title comes from. It actually helps understanding the whole story, but make sure to watch the film first. Is it the best picture of 2025? I don’t know, but surely it’s on top. Should Emma Stone get another Oscar? I believe so. Maybe I’m not being objective because I adore her as an actress, but she again showed a new set of skills in building the character of Michelle. So if she ends up with her 3rd Oscar, I wouldn’t complain at all. Also, the marketing team did a great job. Apparently, you could find fake materials online about the Michelle’s company and herself. Plus, in Los Angeles there was a special free screening of “Bugonia”, but in order to see the film, you had to be bold. They even provided a barber at the entrance so you could shave your head on the spot. I love it! Would you shave your head?

My rating: 8/10
S.

The bait always dies. “Taking Lives” (2004)

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directed by D. J. Caruso
© 2004 Warner Bros. Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome to the film where you can see probably the best role of Ethan Hawke (obviously, according to my personal opinion). What’s funny is that the same actor, when asked about the film many years later, said it was “terrible”. Oh well… I mean, I wouldn’t say it was terrible. But first, let me say a few words about the plot. So we begin by watching two teenage boys who meet on a bus and this way we get to know the antagonist – the details are for you to see, no spoilers. Over twenty years later, Illeana Scott (Angelina Jolie), an FBI agent, is trying to catch a very sneaky murderer. The man steals his victims identities, which makes it difficult to find him. It looks as if each crime was committed by someone else, but it’s still the same guy. At some point she interviews James Costa (Ethan Hawke), who was a witness of the latest murder, and the man becomes a very important person in this case. In fact, except being helpful in tracking the murderer, he bonds with Illeana on a personal level. From now on, the woman has to be incredibly careful, because her new companion might actually be in danger. So, let’s get back to Hawke’s opinion – I wouldn’t say it’s a terrible film. It’s actually a quite entertaining story with plot twists and great acting. I felt engaged and liked the ending very much, which isn’t that common for me when I watch thrillers. However, in my opinion, this story could have been told in a more attractive way. I didn’t feel enough thrills to consider it an actual thriller. It was a nice production, but I feel like the director didn’t make a thriller that it should be out of it. Still, if you’re looking for some action, brilliant actors, some suspense and a mystery to solve – then you will enjoy it for sure. Perhaps someone could remake it in the future and make it darker, more intense? That’s just a humble suggestion from my side.

My rating: 7/10
S.

No pain, no gain. “Novocaine” (2025)

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directed by Dan Berk & Robert Olsen
© 2025 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Hell yeah! That’s what’s I’m talking about! A superhero who flies? Boring. A superhero that is very fast? Lame! A superhero that’s huge and green? Cute, but nah. Let’s take a random guy with a rare disorder who makes use of it to save the love of his life. Yay! Welcome to “Novocaine”. We get to meet Nathan (Jack Quaid), who used to be called “Novocaine” when we went to school. Why? Because he cannot feel pain. At all. And in case you didn’t know, novocaine is the drug that doctors use to make you stay still during the procedure. Sounds fun not to feel any pain, right? Well, not really. It can also be dangerous, so Nathan has to be very careful and because of that his life has always been quite boring. Getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new seems like a chance to hurt yourself without noticing it. However, there’s a person who changes his way of thinking – Sherry (Amber Midthunder), a colleague working at the same bank. Those two have a great chemistry between each other, but they need to learn to be together – because he’s a very reserved introvert, and she’s a yolo extrovert. Unfortunately, one day their bank is robbed and Sherry is kidnapped by the criminals. At this moment, Nathan stops worring about himself and decides to save his girlfriend. And his annoying disorder may actually become quite useful. I had so much fun watching this film! We really needed such superhero, because those old ones are way too copy-paste, aren’t they? Nathan is adorably clumsy, yet clever and dedicated. That’s a character you simply cannot dislike. The story is simple, but the lines – hilarious! I don’t remember when was the last time I felt so hyped watching an action film. Even though I know sequels are usually worse than originals, I really hope for another part about Novocaine. No more to say – it’s probably the best action film made this year.

My rating: 8/10
S.

That’s why the secret is lethal. “Closed Circuit” (2013)

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directed by John Crowley
© 2013 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

What is it like to be defending a terrorist? Well, you may find out in this film. In the past I thought I didn’t like political dramas, but apparently I was just watching the wrong ones. Today, I have something mysterious, exciting and also thought-provoking for you. Are you ready? Let’s go! One day, at a Borough Market in London a bomb hidden in a lorry explodes killing 120 people. The police are anonymously informed that the responsible one for this act of terrorism is Farroukh Erdogan (Denis Moschitto), an immigrant from Turkey. The man gets arrested and he’s the only suspect, as other people said to be involved are already dead. When at some point Erdogan’s defender commits suicide, Martin Rose (Eric Bana) is asked to continue the process. Since the case is very complicated and some part of the trial has to be closed, another lawyer is chosen – Claudia Simmons-Howe (Rebecca Hall). From now on, Martin represents Erdogan during public sessions, and Claudia during the closed ones. Those two advocates cannot contact each other, which is quite challenging because they used to be lovers, which is something they kept in secret. However, they try to do their jobs as best as it’s possible. While analysing documents and evidence, Martin realises that Erdogan might not be just a typical terrorist, but in fact a puppet in other people’s hands. At first I thought it would be a story about a lawyer, who has to protect a criminal and we would observe his inner battle – whether to win the case or be morally fair. Turned out it’s nothing like this. The story is way more complex and it shows how manipulated we might be as ordinary people. That the ones that should protect us are actually the bigger evil. And at some point I asked myself a question: so whom should we believe? And I haven’t got an answer, and probably never will. Or wait. Let’s trust ourselves – that’s the only right choice. Anyway, this is a damn well-written thriller with interesting characters and surprising plot twists, so if you want to reflect on our manipulated world and have a reason to take an additional dose of antidepressants, then this one should do.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Mess with the best, die like the rest. “Hackers” (1995)

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directed by Iain Softley
© 1995 United International Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Let’s do some hacking, shall we? Or better watch people who can actually do that and enjoy the 90s vibes. I needed some entertaining thriller film, but not another car racing and shooting one. If you’re also in need for some fun, yet you’re feeling nostalgic about the 90s, then this story might catch your attention. We get to know Dade (Jonny Lee Miller), an incredibly talented IT guy who can hack into whatever he wants. He’s known as “Crash Override” and you really don’t want him to hack your business, trust me. However, one day he “bumps into” another hacker online with the nickname “Acid Burn” (Angelina Jolie), who seems to be even smarter than him. They actually meet in real life, because they both end up in a school group of hackers. They are all quite clever and successful in what they do, but soon, they will have to face an old hacker known as “The Plague” (Fisher Stevens), who comes up with a insidious idea – he will use the young hackers to put the blame on them and in the meantime he’ll be responsible for a huge scam. So now, the youngsters have to hack the hacker, which already sounds like a difficult task. Maybe it’s not the most fascinating film I’ve seen, but it’s surely entertaining and relaxing. Seeing young Angelina Jolie as a computer geek is actually adorable. Plus, Fisher Stevens is made for playing antagonists (it’s a compliment!), so you should be satisfied with this character. Fun fact, after this film, Crash Override and Acid Burn, so Jonny and Angelina got married in real life. The marriage wasn’t long, but we can still say that hacking the world brought those two together. Isn’t in romantic? And if you think typing was the only skill the cast had to practise before filming, I’ll surprise you. They also had to learn to… rollerblade. How fun! Imagine just enjoying your time rollerblading and they actually pay you for that.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Where nothing is as it seems. “Red Rock West” (1993)

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directed by John Dahl
© 1993 Roxie Releasing. All Rights Reserved.

As you know (if you’ve been following me for some time) I’m not the biggest fan of westerns. However, seems like using western-like structures in film is actually my cup of tea. Today’s film isn’t a classic western, but it’s considered a post-western, which is a strange creation to me, but hey – I liked the film so I don’t care much about its labels. Our protagonist here is Michael (Nicolas Cage), a drifter who’s in need of finding a job. That is why he comes to Red Rock town, walks into a bar and… gets hired. But in a specific way. You see, Michael is mistaken for a hitman that the bar owner was waiting to meet. The job is to kill the man’s wife, which Michael obviously doesn’t want to do. He just pretends to be the killer, takes the first half of the money and wishes to leave the town. Since he’s a good-hearted protagonist, he actually visits the bar owner’s wife and tells her about his task. She offers him even more money to kill her husband instead, which again Michael isn’t going to do. Unless the town won’t let him out… I was looking for some relaxing action film from the 90s and that’s exactly what I got here. The story is simple like in a western, but there are some slight plot twists, a pinch of humour and Nicolas Cage in a pretty enjoyable role. A film that was supposed to be a background noise to my cooking became a decent entertainment. I kind of moved back in time to my childhood: Sunday dinner at my grandma’s place and such cinematic gems on TV. I guess I have nothing more to add, because it’s not a masterpiece that has to be analysed for hours – it’s a film that should cheer you up at the weekend and give you nostalgia vibes. And who doesn’t like that from time to time?

My rating: 7/10
S.

We don’t want to steal, right? “Vinci 2” (2025)

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directed by Juliusz Machulski
© 2025 WFDiF. All Rights Reserved.

Not that long time ago I shared a post about “Vinci” by Juliusz Machulski and I said that if I like this year’s sequel to it, I’ll let you know. So, here I am, letting you know that “Vinci” is still a must-see, but “Vinci 2” isn’t as bad as I thought it would be. There’s absolutely no point for you to be learning about this part if you haven’t seen the first one. Plus, there’ll be some SPOILERS, so be aware. 20 years have passed since the famous heist. Cuma (Robert Więckiewicz) lives in Spain, drinks wine and swims in the pool. Perfect life, huh? However, one day he has a visitor from Poland, who asks Cuma to take part in another “boom boom”, for big money of course. The thief doesn’t agree at first, but then changes his mind and goes to Kraków in Poland, where the first part of the film was set as well. But when he contacts the other criminal, that one changes his mind saying that Cuma is too old for such games and he has younger guys to do it. As you may guess, Cuma definitely won’t just let it be. He decides to stop the other one from stealing the “thing” and also steal it himself. So, robbing the thief. How cool is that? And that “thing” is for you to discover, because the heist is about to be just like the first one, yet different… I was feeling super nostalgic seeing those characters again on a big screen. The second part is way more dramatic, which is something I disliked. So Julian (Borys Szyc), Cuma’s bestie, has relationship problems and instead of a fun action production we get a bit of Brazilian soap opera. As I think about it now, this plot was rather pointless, because it doesn’t affect the main story that much. Speaking of unnecessary parts – the dancing scene. Very pretty, but what the hell for? Also, I know Cuma is 20 years older, but come on – he’s not a senior in a wheelchair. I expected him to be more involved in some actions instead of just managing them. So now you might think this post will be generally negative and my rating will be quite low? No, because I think that Machulski treated the characters with respect and he didn’t ruin the main story like most directors do in sequels. Also, he was aware that the two parts cannot be similar, because there’s a 20-year gap between them, so we have lots of elements from the modern world included like AI or even electric scooters. Another thing that made me enjoy the film are those Easter Eggs and references to his previous work. If you like Machulski, I’m sure you’ll spot some. My favourite egg, however, is the book. In one scene, Cuma is talking to a woman (you’ll see, you’ll know) and she’s holding a book in her hands. That book is “Wisząca Małpa” written by… Juliusz Machulski. Fun surprise or smart marketing? Either way, I smiled seeing it. And generally, I wanted to rate this part 6/10, but then the ending happened. Each time I watched “Vinci”, I couldn’t clearly understand what happened with the painting and the copies, who has which, who has the original one. And in the second film, after 20 years, we finally get the answer, which is a marvellous way to close the story. I was incredibly satisfied with that, so my rating goes higher. Generally, I recommend you to see both parts and simply relax with the cleverest art thief in Kraków.

My rating: 7/10
S.

Entertainment based on disgusting crimes. “Predators” (2025)

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directed by David Osit
© 2025 MTV Documentary Films. All Rights Reserved.

Today’s documentary hit me hard, so get ready for some rollercoaster and a literal head explosion. But before I shake your brain like Shakira’s hips, let’s talk a bit about reality shows. To be absolutely honest, I watch them. Maybe not all of them, but there are some that really boost my serotonin level in the evening. And even though I enjoy watching such programs, I sometimes reflect on their influence on viewers. I mean, the participants of such shows are ordinary people, who suddenly become popular. We may laugh at their silly statements or some awkward situations, but we don’t think of the consequences. Perhaps such participant may feel ashamed and later deal with mental issues. Or the other way round – their actions might inspire viewers, who start behaving in some inappropriate way. Still, the reality shows that I watch are mostly about dating or solving puzzles (“The Traitors” are my top of the top!). However, in 2004 an unusual reality show was released in the USA, which I haven’t had a chance to see, but I learned about it thanks to today’s documentary. The show was called “To Catch a Predator” and its idea was to simulate meetings between minors and adults in order to prove the adult is committing a crime. Shortly speaking – this program was showing pedophiles being caught red-handed. Obviously, those men didn’t have a chance to touch the minor anyhow, but in the episode we could listen to disgusting conversations between the abuser and the victim. We could listen to the way those adults manipulate the children in order to use them. As I said, I didn’t see the full show, but in this documentary we get to see some parts. And that’s enough for me. As you can imagine, the program was a success, meaning a lot of people watched it and all those criminals were arrested. So why don’t we continue? Showing a pedophile feeling ashamed of his actions – isn’t that pure joy? Well, yes and no. As a person who would vote for even more serious punishment for such abusers, I wouldn’t enjoy watching this program. Because I don’t see the point of making a disgusting crime a source of entertainment. I’d be satisfied with such simulations being done without any cameras. There are some things that shouldn’t be used as a way to attract people and boost TV ratings. Not the most pleasant documentary, but horribly important, so I hope you’ll find time for it.

My rating: 7/10
S.