Body Snatchers (1993)
The Invasion (2007)
Escape From New York (1981)
The Man From Toronto (2022)
The Report (2019)
20segi Sonyeo (20th Century Girl) (2022)
Black Crab (2022) ///
Body Snatchers (1993) A military base provides increasingly oppressive setting for alien pod invasion, with rebellious teen Gabrielle Anwar uncovering secrets and Meg Tily proving a malevolent step-mother. Effectively creepy and nervy without quite delivering a lasting resonance.
The Invasion (2007) After alien infection is brought to earth by crashed space shuttle, gradual buildup of paranoia rapidly disintegrates into superficial chase thriller as Nicole Kidman attempts to protect her son. Sleek visuals can't compensate for lack of story and character.
Escape From New York (1981) Jumping off from concept of New York City transformed into a dystopian prison, cynical Kurt Russell is sent to rescue crashed president. Ticking clock narrative spurs controlled visual style, action and suspense set pieces melded with dark future and iconic hero.
The Man From Toronto (2022) Mistaken identity forces famed assassin Woody Harrelson to team up with incompetent fitness instructor Kevin Hart, Unfortunately, storytelling and technique undermine potential comedy and thrills, only flashes of interest amid flashy production values.
The Report (2019) Sober, methodical production details the decade-long obsession of political staffer Adam Driver to reveal truth of CIA's use of torture in wake of 9/11 attacks. Committed performances allied to clear story dynamics is compelling, revealing the dark of US politics.
20segi Sonyeo (20th Century Girl) (2022) With an endearing cast and affectionate 1999 setting, energetic tale of young love sees enthusiastic Kim You-Jung mistake identity of best friend's affection with inevitable comic and romantic confusion. Emotional rush leads to quietly moving conclusion.
Black Crab (2022) Some striking imagery as resilient Noomi Rapace and desperate soldiers skate across frozen landscape, facing dangers of nature and enemy attacks in bleak, post-apocalyptic world. Swift pace adds excitement to individual scenes, though lack of context leads to muted conclusion.
