Pandorum - 4/5

This is a stellar entry into the space horror genre, offering a slightly less satanic and gory option than Event Horizon. Its amnesia plot works better here than in most films, though it’s a bit of a plot contrivance for the story to unfold in a tense, satisfying way. There’s some violence and light gore, but the film quickly moves on instead of making it the focus like so many films in the genre. The special effects have held up over time, and it feels more like a high budget indie film than a low budget blockbuster.

Closest comparison: It’s like a mashup of Dead Space, Cube (1997), Titan A.E. and Pitch Black.

Setting: Space Sci-fi
Plot: Creature Horror
Tone: Action

Hell or High Water (2016) - 3/5

This is a straightforward cops and robbers tale in rural modern Texas. It’s good at showing why the robbers are robbing, and how the cops are pursuing, but beyond that it’s a bit boring. It’s not as compelling and tense as No Country for Old Men, nor as gleefully anarchist as Thelma and Louise or Bonnie and Clyde. Mostly it plays out as expected, and while it’s not bad by any means it doesn’t present anything particularly special.

Closest comparison: It’s like What’s Eating Gilbert Grape? by way of The Highwaymen (Netflix, 2019).

Setting: Western Drama
Plot: Cops and Robbers
Tone: Family Drama

Time Trap (2017) - 3/5

This movie is fine. It’s a low budget high concept sci-fi story that’s executed pretty well. There’s less sci-fi than one might expect, and where a sci-fi-heavy movie will explain the science behind the incredible occurrences, Time Trap settles for exploration of the phenomenon without solid answers. It’s a fun rescue adventure movie that doesn’t presume to be anything more and doesn’t outstay its welcome.

Closest comparison: It’s like Parallels (2015) by way of The Cave (2005).

Setting: Exploration
Plot: Rescue
Tone: Sci-Fi Adventure