Spellbound: Review
Spellbound is a captivating, animated film that explores the struggles of teenager Ellian, as the film beautifully depicts the themes of the desire for normalcy. Despite its intended younger audience, Spellbound may struggle to hold their attention due to its heavy-handed themes and pacing. Despite this, the film's brilliant vocal performances from the cast make it a visually appealing film. The film's use of magic, neon-like lights, and a gorgeous costume and world design add to its appeal.
The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes: Review
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes expands the world of Panem and offers us a grittier, ruthless world than the original movies had. The areas are smaller, but the characters are bigger. Tom Blyth is exceptional as Coriolanus Snow and gives a layered performance. The world of Panem feels darker in this installment of The Hunger Games, more chaotic with escalated violence, and more focused on the Capitol to show their callous nature and how they hunger for violence as entertainment. Snow sees the world as an arena for the Hunger Games, and he will ensure he is the victor, unafraid of killing his closest companions to ensure Snow lands on top.