In a world saturated with sequels and blockbusters, stripped-down stories still have their place. As a prime example, In Cold Light is a solid character-first thriller that gets the job done without overstaying its welcome. Written by Patrick Whistler with Maxime Giroux at the helm as director, the film is effective and emotional, despite its weak final act.

Fresh out of prison, a young woman struggles to transition back to society as her family becomes threatened by a ruthless crime boss. Maika Monroe leads the cast and is joined by Jesse Irving, Troy Kotsur, Allan Hawco and Helen Hunt.

In Cold Light successfully combines drama with thrills, but its true strength lies in its approach to characters. The script itself is neither watertight nor exciting, but the individuals at the centre of the story allow the movie to stand out from similar features. The problems in the final act are regrettable, as a stronger ending could have elevated the picture to greatness.

Focusing on the positives, the characters on display are layered, flawed and not always likeable. This is a human story that doesn’t shy away from mankind at its worst. Maika Monroe proves to be a genre superstar once more. There aren’t many young actresses who possess her emotional range. Troy Kotsur must be commended, too. Born deaf and portraying a deaf character, he is exceptional and offers next-level facial reactions to the dire situation at hand.

A final element worth discussing is the cinematography by Sara Mishara. Utilising bursts of colour and neon light streaks, the film’s visual palette is striking. While occasionally gaudy, the unique style of photography is welcome, considering how bland most movies look these days.

In Cold Light is a really good film that excels with its characters, but struggles to deliver a well-rounded story. If nothing else, it’s an exercise in showstopping acting from Maika Monroe and Troy Kotsur.

Arriving with its seventh instalment, the iconic slasher series Scream returns with a brand-new entry directed by the writer of the first film, Kevin Williamson. An extremely entertaining experience, Scream 7 delivers thrilling kills, solid character moments, and a story that, unfortunately, keeps it from being one of the series’ best.

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With recent releases such as The Super Mario Bros. Movie, we are firmly in an era where video games can succeed on the big screen. But while the spotlight has been focused on blockbusters, some indie games are beginning to seep into the cinematic landscape. Co-written and directed by Genki Kawamura, Exit 8 is a Japanese film based on the game of the same name. An eerie journey of mystery through a scenario crafted in dream logic, this is a captivating film that successfully utilises its unique concept to the fullest.

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Crafted in the vein of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Dolly is a grimy horror experience. Co-written and directed by Rod Blackhurst, this tribute to old-school slashers is a violent delight, despite its thin story and padded structure.

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In horror, the simplest premises often end up being the most effective. But as is the case with any film, a solid concept is only as good as the story that carries it from scene to scene. Directed by Corin Hardy, Whistle is a fine enough movie that could have been great in someone else’s hands. That being said, the picture is a decent time at the cinema for those searching for an easy watch.

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