In a Nutshell. Mini reviews of movies old and new. No fuss. No spoilers. And often no sleep.
Showing posts with label Damian McCarthy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Damian McCarthy. Show all posts

Saturday, 2 May 2026

Hokum (2026)


An American writer visits a quaint Irish hotel, inquiring about the honeymoon suite where his parents once stayed. From the director of Caveat and Oddity, this supernatural thriller has that same isolated feeling and haunting imagery throughout (and bunnies), which reminded me a bit of The Babadook. It's not as strong as McCarthy's prior works, but still makes for some compelling viewing.

3 servant bells out of 5

Thursday, 16 October 2025

Caveat (2020)


An amnesiac drifter is tasked with watching a catatonic woman on an island. He's restrained by a harness and chained up to the property which limits his access. So many red flags already. This film is a masterclass in building up tension and unease. A lot of it doesn't hold up to scrutiny, but it's designed to make the viewer feel uncomfortable without allowing for any easy answers.
The creepy rabbit drumming doll seems tailor-made for the Bunny Collection.

3 holes in the wall out of 5

Sunday, 22 September 2024

Oddity (2024)


I walked into this screening completely blind, which has become my preferred method of watching movies nowadays because trailers spoil everything. I much prefer to "discover" movies on my own, without any pre-existing hype. It's rare that it happens these days, but I really love the feeling of going into a film knowing absolutely nothing about it beforehand; not a synopsis, teaser or nary a screenshot (even the poster above I feel gives too much away).
Out of respect for the reader, I won't spoil this one so you can enjoy it under the exact same circumstance. It's a creepy little movie to watch in a darkened room after midnight. This was definitely a slow-burn, but incredibly effective and well done.

3½ cabinets of curiosities out of 5