The Surfer (2025): Nicolas Cage shines in this psychological thriller set on a sun-scorched Australian beach. Lorcan Finnegan crafts a tense, simmering nightmare as Cage’s character, a man pushed to his limits, unravels under social and environmental pressures. The visuals are striking, with the ocean and dunes amplifying the sense of isolation. While the plot occasionally leans into predictability, Cage’s raw intensity and the film’s bold atmosphere keep it gripping. A solid, if not groundbreaking, addition to the thriller genre. Rating: 7/10.
Thunderbolts (2025)*: Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova steals the show in this Marvel antihero flick. Jake Schreier delivers a formulaic yet fun ride with sharp humor and decent action. Rating: 6.5/10.

Film critic. Reviewing the latest releases.