Genre: Crime, thriller, sci-fi

Rated: 16

Written by: Marco van Belle

Directed by: Timur Bekmambetov

Starring: Chris Pratt, Rebecca Ferguson, Kali Reis

We could make a separate list of films we didn’t get a chance to see when they first hit theaters, but which fall into the “must-see” category in terms of both their basic concept and implementation. The topic of artificial intelligence is more relevant than ever. Solutions utilizing various language models are already part of our daily lives, representing the latest way to access information. In terms of genre classification and premise, Mercy is sci-fi, but in terms of the overall experience, it is first and foremost an extremely thrilling crime thriller.

In the future depicted in the film, advances in technology have taken law enforcement to a whole new level. An AI system called Mercy analyzes available evidence and assigns probability scores to every case and suspect. Homicide detective Chris Raven (Chris Pratt) played an active role in implementing the system. One day, however, he finds himself on trial before the machine, and he has 90 minutes to prove his innocence.

Mercy is a breathtaking work that keeps you on the edge of your seat from the very first minute. If anyone starts watching it, we’re almost certain they’ll stay glued to the screen until the very end. It achieves all this by essentially taking place in a single location, and for the most part, we see images on monitors and smart devices. Don’t let the sci-fi trappings deter those who dislike the genre, because the crime element is much more prominent.

There are just a few downsides worth mentioning to give a complete picture. *Artificial Mercy* is a Hollywood film through and through, a fact most noticeable in its overly didactic message and a few self-serving twists. The final 20 to 30 minutes slightly spoil what is otherwise a spectacular final product.

If you love stories full of twists and turns, and have even a passing interest in technology and moral dilemmas, go ahead and give it a try. It’s far from perfect, and seasoned crime drama fans will likely find fault with it, but with its unique visual style and fast pace, it makes for an excellent movie-at-home experience.

Which movies would you like to stream that you missed in theaters? Let us know in the comments. We’ll be back soon with a special Cineblog post. Watch lots of movies and TV shows, and share your thoughts on our social media pages. And if you’re craving a tasty snack for your movie night at home, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Comedy

Rated: 16

Creators: Bill Lawrence, Matt Tarses

Starring: Steve Carell, Danielle Deadwyler, Phil Dunster

NOTE: This recommendation refers to the first two episodes of the season.

While most people prefer reliable, tried-and-true franchise titles, here at POPZ Cineblog we strive to seek out promising new releases for you as well. These days, it’s becoming increasingly rare to find quality comedy series that we’re happy to sit down and watch at the end of the day.  We’ve been eagerly awaiting Rooster, starring Steve Carell, which quickly won us over with its charming setting and choice of theme.

Greg Russo (Steve Carell) is a bestselling author who, despite a successful career, isn’t doing so well in his personal life. He visits Ludlow College to give a lecture on his career so far. The real reason for his visit, however, is his daughter, Katie (Charly Clive), who is also struggling with her relationships. Our hero wants to help her, but despite his best intentions, he ends up getting them both into even more trouble.

Rooster’s greatest strength is its outspokenness. It offers an excellent reflection of today’s society, particularly addressing sensitive issues affecting the younger generation. Although the characters are portrayed in a somewhat stereotypical way, each one is entertaining. The father-daughter relationship between Greg and Charly is also a great choice of theme, one that is undeservedly underrepresented. The entire series is permeated by a certain lightheartedness, making it a good choice for anyone.

The experience is mostly marred by the weaker jokes and the highly unrealistic situations. Throughout the plot, things often happen that would have serious consequences in real life, but here the actions and decisions carry no weight. You need to be generous to enjoy it. However, if you can accept and look past its illogicalities, it’s a pretty good comedy series that will put a smile on your face every week until mid-May.

What comedy series from recent years do you know that are worth watching? We look forward to your answers in the comments. We’ll be back in two weeks, and we’ll continue to feature streaming content. Watch lots of movies and series, and follow us on social media. And if you’re looking for a truly delicious snack to enjoy while watching movies at home, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Comedy

Rated: 12

Written by: Chris Kekaniokalani Bright, Mike Van Waes, Chris Sanders

Directed by: Dean Fleischer Camp

Starring: Maia Kealoha, Sydney Agudong, Chris Sanders

Streaming services offer not only current content, but also a wealth of previous cinema hits. The live-action/CGI hybrid remake of Lilo & Stitch was a huge hit at the box office. The positive reception from audiences was a good recommendation for us to catch up on it in the comfort of our homes. We feel that the hype was completely deserved.

The main character of the story is Lilo, a little girl living on the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, who is raised by her sister Nani. In their difficult yet loving relationship, Nani strives to fulfill her role as the breadwinner. In addition to financial problems, parenting Lilo is also a huge challenge. One day, a new friend arrives in their lives. Stitch, or Subject 626, comes from the distant planet Turo and is the result of a secret genetic experiment. He is practically invulnerable, turns everything upside down, and is extremely quick to learn. Over time, Lilo and Stitch become inseparable friends.

Due to the large number of live-action remakes of varying quality, there is justified skepticism surrounding productions that are re-shot with actors. We can be open to such attempts if they respect the original material while adding something new. The new version of Lilo & Stitch was worth making mainly because of the excellence of the acting and the quality of the CGI animation. In addition to old fans of the cartoon, it will also provide enjoyable cinematic entertainment for newcomers.

Winter is still here, but the new adaptation of Lilo & Stitch will bring a wonderful Hawaiian atmosphere to your living room. This is a touching family film about sibling bonds, friendship, and love. We wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for high-quality family entertainment.

What do you think about live-action adaptations? We look forward to reading your comments. In March, we will choose our favorite among the films nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars, and we will also review a comedy series coming to streaming. Watch lots of movies and series, and make your voices heard on our social media platforms. And if you’re craving a tasty snack to enjoy while watching movies at home, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Sci-fi, action, adventure

Rated: 18

Creators: Geneva Robertson-Dworet, Graham Wagner

Starring: Ella Purnell, Aaron Moten, Walton Goggins

The winter season is truly exciting for those who prefer streaming platforms, especially TV series. In addition to many new releases, there are also sequels to existing shows. Fallout joins the ranks of the new wave of high-quality video game adaptations. With its dry humor and sometimes raw, sometimes dramatic tone, it stands out from the now rather saturated and clichéd genre of post-apocalyptic works.

The second season picks up right where the first left off. Lucy MacLean (Ella Purnell) continues to search for her father, Hank MacLean (Kyle MacLachlan), a devoted follower of Vault-Tec, the organization responsible for the world’s desolate state. Her companion, the Ghoul Cooper Howard (Walton Goggins), learns several important details about her family. The clues lead through the Mojave Wasteland to New Vegas, where the mysterious Mr. House (Justin Theroux) is pulling the strings.

Those who loved the first season will find what they are looking for in the second. The outspoken, morbid humor continues to appear not as an end in itself, but as a perfect complement to the series’ socially critical message. All this is presented to viewers in a way that doesn’t forget to be exciting and entertaining. At the same time, in terms of its theme and visual world, Fallout is clearly intended for adult audiences. Lucy and Cooper’s wanderings and adventurous journey captivate the viewer’s attention throughout. The characters continue to deepen. Lucy faces even more moral dilemmas. Even in the midst of the struggle for survival, she tries to hold on to the principles she learned in the shelter. We also get a more detailed picture of Cooper’s past through numerous flashbacks.

Although the plot progresses more slowly than in the first season, the dynamics between the characters and the quality of the world-building fill each episode with content.  We enjoyed spending time with it, even though we have seen dozens of post-apocalyptic films and series in the last decade. Give it a try if you are familiar with the genre and are looking for something new.

Did you see the series? Or maybe you played the games? Let us know in the comments! We’ll be back soon. Until then, watch lots of movies and series, and choose POPZ popcorn for the perfect home cinema experience!

Genre: Fantasy, action, adventure, drama

Rated: 18

Creators: George R. R. Martin, Ira Parker

Starring: Peter Claffey, Dexter Sol Ansell, Daniel Ings

NOTE: This recommendation refers to the first two episodes of the season.

Since the success and controversial ending of Game of Thrones, a second spin-off series is coming. House of the Dragon may not have approached the quality and complexity of the original series, but the conflicts of the Targaryen dynasty have captured our attention. A knight of the seven kingdoms, however, takes a completely different path. Instead of power struggles affecting the whole of Westeros, it tells a much smaller-scale but very personal story.

Ser Duncan, the hedge knight (Peter Claffey), mourns his former master as he travels through the Seven Kingdoms. His great dream is to one day become a member of the Kingsguard. House Targaryen will soon hold a jousting tournament, where he can finally prove his worth. He is accompanied along the way by his young, outspoken squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell). Many trials await them on their adventures, which will require not only sheer courage and strength, but also their camaraderie.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms presents Westeros with an approach that has been forgotten over the years. Through Dunk and Egg’s subjective filter, we get to know the dragon-ruled land, which feels much closer to the original spirit of the books. By focusing on interpersonal relationships, individual motivations, and everyday realities, it has managed to make the world of Game of Thrones interesting again. The dialogue is flavorful and well-written, while the visuals are sophisticated yet restrained. Instead of the grandeur of King’s Landing, we are greeted by the dust of the streets and the rawness of the villages. This is a very strong concept, as it makes the up-and-coming, noble-hearted hero much more relatable than the royal scions hungry for power. As it is a completely independent story set a hundred years before the main series, it is also perfect for attracting new viewers. Long-time fans will be delighted to see legendary characters previously known only from the pages of books.

We can imagine that the series’ greatest strength, its character-driven narrative, will strike some viewers as a weakness and cause them to lose interest. For now, there is no sign of grandeur, spectacular clashes, or intricate storylines set in multiple locations. For us, however, its greatness lies in its simplicity. Another, more problematic feature of the production is that even the second episode felt a bit like filler. We hope that, contrary to current trends, they will not artificially extend the series, diluting it with completely uninteresting details and tailoring it to multiple seasons.

A knight of the Seven Kingdoms is a down-to-earth fantasy series that focuses on the characters’ emotions, individual destinies, and personal relationships with each other. Based on what we’ve seen so far, it will be a regular part of our streaming schedule, and we recommend it to everyone.

How do you like the series? Will you watch it? Let us know in the comments. We’ll be back soon to introduce another series from the current streaming lineup. In the meantime, follow us on social media and pop a big bowl of delicious POPZ popcorn to enjoy while watching at home.

Genre: Sci-fi, fantasy, action, horror

Rated: 18

Creators: Matt Duffer, Ross Duffer

Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder

NOTE: This article contains summary statements about the entire series. We have tried not to reveal any important plot points, but we recommend that you watch all episodes of the series before reading our overview to avoid spoilers.

It’s time to leave 2025 behind us. Although we’ve already taken a brief look at this year, there’s one unfinished business. The final episode of Stranger Things arrived on the last day of the year, and we had some thoughts about the show.

An era came to an end. We followed the adventures of the town of Hawkins on our TV screens for almost 10 years. Stranger Things has grown into a defining pop culture phenomenon over time. It was the first to make 1980s retro nostalgia appealing to today’s youth, forming a bridge between generations. It paid charming homage to classics such as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) and Goonies (1985). It is almost certain that the Duffer brothers’ creation also contributed significantly to the success of Stephen King’s IT remake.

Since its premiere in 2016, the directors have remained faithful to their original concept of evoking the past, while also making several changes to the genre framework and the tools used to make an impact. We wouldn’t call these changes unequivocally good or bad, but they are part of the overall picture we have formed. We compiled a list of the differences we noticed and explained whether we considered them to be improvements or setbacks.

Mystery VS. Spectacular action: Although we saw some fast-paced episodes in the early seasons, the emphasis was on the mystery surrounding Upside Down. Since we knew very little about what the guys were up against in the beginning, there were more opportunities to let our imaginations run wild. Later, as the creators revealed every detail of the series’ world, they tried to fill the void left by the secrets with spectacular images. In terms of visuals, we considered it a step forward, but in terms of story and atmosphere, it went to a wrong direction.

Small-town story VS. Global conspiracy: From one season to the next, there was a noticeable effort to show that the threat went beyond the borders of Hawkins and affected the entire planet. The stakes grew higher and higher, but fortunately, in the endgame, we remained in the small-town, familiar milieu. We clearly welcomed this decision regarding the choice of location and storyline.

Fast pace VS. Slow pace, padded show: The initial standard 45-50 minute episodes were slowly replaced by episodes corresponding to the length of a full movie. However, the longer running time was not filled with meaningful content. Unfortunately, there were several occasions when we were downright bored and eagerly awaiting the plot to move forward.

Unexpected twists VS. Repetitive plot: The initial variety that characterized the story and the feeling that „anything can happen” was replaced by monotony from the fourth season onwards. There was no longer any reason for us to be amazed. As much as we loved the series, perhaps three seasons would have been more appropriate than the five that were made.

Have you seen the last episodes? What do you think about them? Write your comments below! We’ll stay on the streaming track and come back with another series recommendation at the end of the month. If you’ve read our New Year’s post about the 2026 premieres, you can easily guess what we have in mind for you next time. Watch lots of movies and series, and make your voice heard on our social media pages. And if you’re craving a tasty snack to go with your home movie night, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Sci-fi, action, adventure

Rated: 16

Directed by: James Cameron

Written by: James Cameron, Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver

Starring: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver

To close out the 2025 film year, we visited the cinema to see James Cameron’s monumental work, which doubles as a technological demonstration on the big screen. The new installment further expands the wildlife of Pandora, but the conflict between the colonizing humans and the native Na’vi remains unchanged. We were curious to see if the announced innovations would give us reason to leave the theater satisfied for the third time.

This episode introduces a new group, the Mangkwan clan. They are the tribe of ash, living in the volcanic regions of Pandora. They reject the possibility of harmonious coexistence with their environment and are proponents of aggressive expansion. Their leader, the ruthless Varang (Oona Chaplin), forms a strange alliance with the human RDA forces, who are equally striving to subjugate the planet. A clash with the aquatic Metkayina clan seems inevitable. Meanwhile, Spider (Jack Champion) experiences an unusual biological process: although born human, he is able to breathe without a mask and connect organically to Pandora.

Watching Avatar: Fire and Ash is a truly challenging undertaking. 197 (!) minutes of pure sensory overload, an incredibly intense audiovisual blast. There is no doubt that we have never seen anything like this in the cinema before, but its entertainment value is debatable. In any case, the creators cannot be accused of a lack of creativity. Cinema-goers can expect an unparalleled variety of visual richness.

While acknowledging all the efforts made in terms of technical implementation, we must also point out the film’s significant shortcomings. Although new elements have been added to the story, it has not changed substantially. We see the same clash between humans and indigenous inhabitants for the third time, which is not particularly interesting. The personal conflicts intended to be dramatic also lack tension. The marathon length is completely unnecessary, and the film’s rhythm is unpleasant and unbalanced. Irrelevant details are given too much time, while the action scenes are sometimes difficult to follow.

If you are longing for a sci-fi that takes you to unseen worlds instead of post-apocalyptic visions, Avatar: Fire and Ash is an excellent choice. However, it is worth considering that beyond the visuals and sound, it does not hold many novelties.

Will you go and see the new Avatar? Let us know in the comments! All that’s left is for us to thank you for your attention throughout the year. In 2026, you can continue to count on Cineblog if you are looking for something to watch. Watch plenty of movies and series, and let your voice be heard on our social media platforms! And if you’re craving a delicious snack for your home cinema experience, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Fantasy, sci-fi, horror, drama

Rated: 18

Creators: Matt Duffer, Ross Duffer

Starring: Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder

NOTE: This review refers to the first 4 episodes of the fifth season

The well-known streaming provider saved the final season of one of its most significant series for the winter season. Like many of its other productions, Stranger Things is released in several installments. We watched the first four episodes and summarized our impressions for you.

The story picks up right where season four left off. Soldiers have flooded the town of Hawkins to monitor the Upside Down. Vecna is still a threat and is planning his return. The team must reunite to end their battle.

The latest chapter of Stranger Things has everything that fans who have grown up with the series over the years could wish for. The mystery of the parallel dimension, the tastefully dosed dark fantasy elements, and the horror parts complement each other well. It’s nostalgic to think that we saw the first episodes almost 10 years ago. The visuals and music continue to transport us back to the 1980s. This means that even those who have no memories of that era can enjoy what they see.

As comfortable as it feels to return to the world of the series, the production unfortunately shows signs of fatigue, which are mainly evident in the recycled storylines. It’s not necessarily a bad thing that the plot is built on familiar elements, but after a while, the twists and turns become very predictable. The characters have nothing new to offer, and the dialogues are also quite clichéd.

Have you been waiting for the final season? What are you looking forward to watching during the holidays? At the end of the year, we will be back with a Christmas special and a movie review of Avatar 3. Until then, watch lots of movies and series, and pop a big bowl of POPZ popcorn for the perfect home cinema experience.

Genre: Animation, adventure, comedy

Rated: 12

Directed by: Erik Benson

Written by: Erik Benson, Alexander Woo, Stanley Moore

Starring (voice): Hailey Magpali, Simu Liu, Cristin Milioti, Jolie-Hoang Rappaport, Elias Janssen

The attractive feature of modern animated films is their ability to simultaneously entertain younger viewers and provide meaningful recreation for the older audience, including parents. This is precisely why we occasionally include such creations in our film calendar. One of the largest streaming providers has just debuted a truly imaginative production.

Stevie (Jolie-Hoang Rappaport) is having increasingly strange dreams, mostly caused by her anxiety concerning her parents. Her mother is about to change to a new job, which may involve moving. Her greatest wish is for everything to stay the same as it was. Thanks to a magical coincidence, she is able to enter the realm of dreams. She sets out with her brother, Elliott (Elias Janssen), to find the mysterious Sandman, the master of dreams, who is allegedly capable of granting their wish: a perfect family.

In terms of visuals, In Your Dreams is what leaves the most lasting impression. Due to its theme, the dream world presented is full of creativity and excellent visual ideas. The storytelling skillfully plays with the blurring of reality and imagination, which provides a twisty plot and an exciting experience. The film does not disappoint in terms of humor either. Not every joke lands, but it provides plenty of cheerful moments. Moreover, the message and moral are simultaneously complex yet easily understandable for anyone.

In November, we were able to recommend some great series and films from the streaming platforms’ offerings. In your dreams continues to expand the range of animated films for the whole family. It is a sufficiently deep, humorous, and captivating work, which we warmly recommend to your attention.

What is your favorite animated film? Share it in the comments! You can count on us in the last month of the year if you are looking for something to watch. Stay tuned for more. Watch lots of great movies and series. And for the perfect movie night at home, don’t forget to pop a big bowl of delicious POPZ popcorn.

Genre: Sci-fi, drama, comedy

Rated: 18

Creator: Vince Gilligan

Starring: Rhea Seehorn, Karolina Wydra, Carlos-Manuel Vesga

NOTE: The recommendation refers to the two episodes of the first season

For series that have run for multiple seasons and are already well-known to us, it’s easier to make a decision about whether or not to jump into the next season. We already know what to expect; we are familiar with the show’s world, its characters, and the main conflicts. However, with new shows, the risk is greater because it can take quite a few episodes before we decide to give it our trust and commit to a potentially multi-year production. Vince Gilligan, who has already proven himself with Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, has come up with a special sci-fi show that, based on what we’ve seen so far, could be a definite must-watch for those who prefer streaming platforms.

Carol Sturka (Rhea Seehorn) is an author known to everyone as the writer of lighthearted fantasy romance novels. She is contemplating switching to more serious, deeper tone when a mysterious, global pandemic breaks out. The „infected” are overcome with complete carefree happiness and bliss. Carol is seemingly the only one immune to the disease. What awaits her in this surreal situation? Are there other „survivors” like her?

Pluribus is not a conventional sci-fi. It is devoid of all the visual elements and devices that might deter those who identify the genre with spaceships, robots, aliens, or superheroes. With its satirical tone, it is much more of a thought-provoking work that stimulates the imagination. It’s difficult to draw far-reaching conclusions about its quality yet, but what we’ve seen so far has captured our attention. The subject matter and story are unique, the cinematography is creative, and the acting is convincing. Overall, we can say that it is worth starting.

Do you prefer TV series and are looking for something new? The weekly episodes of Pluribus will provide you with something to watch at home until the end of this year. We also recommend it to those for whom sci-fi is not typically their genre, as it may still hold excitement for them.

How often do you start new series? Do you prefer to stick with what you know, or are you easily open to new things? We look forward to your answers in the comments. We’ll stick with streaming platforms for now, but for our next article, we’ve chosen an animated film. Follow us next time, and don’t forget: POPZ popcorn is the best choice for the perfect home cinema experience.

Genre: Comedy

Rated: 16

Written and directed by: Aziz Ansari

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Blanca Araceli, Aziz Ansari, Seth Rogen

A quality comedy is as rare as hen’s teeth. With the prevalence of drama, thriller, and crime genre productions, we were really looking forward to a lighter, mood-boosting form of entertainment. Among the October movie premieres, we noticed the latest film from acclaimed comedian Aziz Ansari, for which features Keanu Reeves and Seth Rogen, among others. While Good fortune may not fall into the category of a riotously funny comedy, it contains more than enough value for us to confidently recommend it.

The basis of the story is the ‘life swap’ between Jeff (Seth Rogen), a wealthy, well-off tech entrepreneur, and Arj (Aziz Ansari), a poor man struggling with financial difficulties. The angel Gabriel (Keanu Reeves) wants to prove to the two men, who have completely different existences, that material possessions alone do not guarantee happiness, which is why he places them into each other’s lives. The story holds further twists, which livens up this well-known formula.

The greatest strength of Good fortune comes from its social sensitivity and its message. It encourages us to see past appearances and focus on the values that are truly important in life. It does all this without disputing the importance of financial circumstances. It draws attention to the fragility of happiness and the need for empathy towards those less fortunate than ourselves.

It’s a shame that the film’s extremely powerful message isn’t accompanied by any particularly funny scenes. Of course, there are still plenty of moments that will make you smile, especially when it comes to the fate of guardian angel Gabriel. If you really want to go to the movies and are looking for something other than the usual horror-dumping, Good fortune is worth the price of the ticket and your time.

How many comedies do you watch in a year? Are genuinely good ones so rare? We look forward to your opinions in the comments. November will once again be focused on streaming premieres. Watch lots of movies and series, and make your voices heard on our social media channels. And if you’re craving a delicious snack for your home movie night, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Drama, thriller

Rated: 18

Directed by: Paul Greengrass

Written by: Brad Ingelsby, Paul Greengrass, Lizzie Johnson

Starring: Matthew McConaughey, America Ferrera, Yul Vazquez

The colder months starting in October provide the perfect opportunity to browse the latest releases from streaming services from the comfort of our own homes. This time, we chose The Lost Bus, the new film from Paul Greengrass, the director who created the thrilling action scenes in the Bourne movies. The film, based on real events, caught our attention with its unique theme and excellent cast.

The story focuses on the 2018 Northern California wildfires, which were the most destructive natural disaster in the state’s history. Bus driver Kevin McKay (Matthew McConaughey) is struggling with burnout at work and problems in his personal life. He has no idea what a hellish day awaits him in the company of 22 children in need of rescue and a teacher (America Ferrera).

Beyond the obligatory clichés typical of disaster movies, the film strives for realism throughout. We gain insight into the work of firefighters, paramedics, and emergency management specialists. An excellent director was chosen to bring the depiction of the chaos to life. The tension builds gradually, and we can almost feel the heat and the suffocating air of the forest fire on our skin.

Due to the documentary approach of The Lost Bus, the personal dramas of the characters are unfortunately not as well developed. The crises in Kevin’s life are presented schematically, almost as a list. Yet McConaughey does his best to portray an average man in trouble who becomes a hero. Mary, the teacher who looks after the children, is written with much better proportion, and Ferrera’s sincere performance clearly adds to the film’s credibility and is responsible for its most emotional moments.

A huge negative aspect of the film is its nearly 130-minute running time. It would have been much better for the production’s pace if it had been limited to 90 minutes. As it is, despite the interesting and important subject matter, the excellent visuals, and the strong performances of the actors, we found ourselves frequently checking our watches as the film approached the two-hour mark.

If you are looking for something promising to watch on chilly autumn evenings, The Lost Bus is definitely worth seeing. There are few similar films in this genre, so it may be a good tip for those looking for something new.

What are you planning to watch this fall? Let us know in the comments. Next time, we’ll be back with another genre that has been pushed into the background lately: comedy. Until then, watch lots of movies and series, and if you’re craving a tasty snack to enjoy while watching them at home, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Crime, comedy

Rated: 12

Directed by: Chris Columbus

Written by: Katy Brand, Suzanne Heathcote, Richard Osman

Starring: Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley

It is worth appreciating those months when, in addition to the many TV series premieres, streaming services also offer their own original films. In the first week of September, we chose The thursday murder club, which attracted viewers to their TV screens mainly with its illustrious cast.

The story takes place in a retirement village, where Elizabeth (Helen Mirren), Ron (Pierce Brosnan), and Ibrahim (Ben Kingsley), who are in excellent mental condition despite their age, solve long-unsolved crimes. Their active but peaceful days are disrupted by the arrival of a new investor (David Tennant), who wants to turn their home into an area filled with luxury properties. Following an unexpected turn of events, the club has to solve two murder cases.

You will see experienced, outstanding actors who, with decades of career behind them, play their roles with ease. The dialogues between them are enriched with light humor and unique message. While watching the film, we thought about how few works are about the elderly. In addition to the more somber themes of the end of life and the loneliness felt due to the absence of family members, the film also highlights hopeful, positive things, such as the vitality of community life.

The thursday murder club isn’t super interesting as a crime story, but it’s well-made. At first, the story felt pretty chaotic and unnecessarily complicated, since there’s a present-day case in addition to the past crime, not to mention the property purchase that threatens their home. Don’t expect brilliant solutions in this regard, but it’s fine for a one-time viewing.

If you are eagerly awaiting the third installment of Knives out coming in December, The thursday murder club can serve as a more or less adequate replacement for the remaining time. The actors work hard to ensure that when we get up from the couch, we don’t remember the boredom surrounding the mystery.

How did you like the movie? What good crime movies have you seen lately? Let us know in the comments. We’ll be back soon with more movie and series recommendations. Follow us on social media, and don’t forget to pop a big bowl of delicious POPZ popcorn to enjoy while watching.

Genre: Action, sci-fi, fantasy, comedy

Rated: 18

Creator: James Gunn

Starring: John Cena, Danielle Brooks, Freddie Stroma

NOTE: The recommendation refers to the two episodes of the second season

We are closing August with another streaming recommendation. Looking at the upcoming premieres, it is almost certain that we will not be reviewing any more superhero-themed productions for quite some time, but we must draw attention to the latest series from the DC Universe led by James Gunn. It’s quite possible that after the success of the Superman movie, the studio will also receive a positive reception for its TV show.

Christopher Smith, aka Peacemaker (John Cena), is a highly controversial hero. He resorts to morally questionable means to achieve his goals, which he believes to be noble. The team we met in the first season has disbanded after completing its mission. Like his companions, he spends his days unemployed, brooding over his past mistakes and the injustices he has suffered. One day, he wakes up to a startling realization: he has opened a door to „another life,” a parallel dimension where things have turned out almost perfectly for him. He reunites with his brother, whom he lost in childhood, and his father. He becomes increasingly addicted to this „found” alternative reality, which does not hold much promise for his future.

Don’t be misled by the series’ basic theme; Peacekeeper is a series for adults in every respect. What makes it special, however, is its use of the currently popular multiverse concept in a way that has not been seen before. It’s great to see that there are finally creators who don’t just use the idea of multiple dimensions to have several versions of Flash, Wolverine, or Spider-Man appear at the same time, but who focus on the drama in the situation. There are still plenty of jokes, but there is a definite shift in emphasis towards the tragicomedy genre. It was a very strange decision to link this series to this year’s Superman movie, because although it is part of the same DC franchise , it is aimed at a completely different audience. It is an outstanding piece in its category, but in contrast to the lighthearted mood of the first season, it is much darker and more melancholic. The phrase „not for everyone” pretty much sums up how we feel about it.

Peacemaker is one of the most popular titles in the end-of-summer streaming lineup, and deservedly so. However, we’ve had our fill of superheroes for a while. The subject of our next article promises to be a more traditional crime story. What’s more, in September you can read short reviews on our Facebook page. And for movie nights at home, you can continue to count on POPZ’s delicious products.

Genre: Crime, fantasy, comedy

Rated: 14

Creators: Alfred Gough, Miles Millar

Starring: Jenna Ortega, Hunter Doohan, Emma Myers

NOTE: The recommendation refers to the four episodes of the second season

For those who prefer series, streaming platforms are a real gold mine. In August, Nevermore Academy will open its doors again to provide a location for Miss Addams’ investigation. The timing is a little strange, as we were basically expecting it around Halloween. In any case, the sequel promises even more unexpected twists, morbid humor, and mystery.

Summer vacation is over. Wednesday (Jenna Ortega) didn’t slack off during the break. She studied her special abilities more thoroughly, and her work as a writer is also progressing well. Everyone sees her as the savior of the institution, and she is now considered the most popular student. Her younger brother, Pugsley (Isaac Ordonez), is also starting the school year as a student, and Morticia (Catherine Zeta-Jones) and Gomez (Luis Guzmán) are also taking on more roles in the story. Most of the characters from the first season return, and new ones join them. Barry Dort, the academy’s new director, is played by Steve Buscemi, which is a pleasant surprise for us.

Unlike anthology series, the second season builds entirely on the previous one, so we suggest that new viewers catch up on the first one. The new episodes offer more in every aspect. They are more visually spectacular, the locations are more varied, and there is a much more experimental approach behind the directorial work. The opening episode already features a stop-motion animated scary story segment, which fits into the plot in a truly creative way. There are also many more bizarre jokes, and some episodes are downright frightening and violent, so treat the age rating with caution. It seems as if the story itself, the current crime plot, contains many more twists and turns, but we will only get the full picture when we reach the end of the second part, which is coming in September.

The second season of Wednesday is like memorable sequels: better, greater, and improved. Viewers who have watched it so far are unlikely to be disappointed, while those who are just getting into it can look forward to even more entertainment infused with dark humor.

Have you been waiting for the new season? Let us know in the comments. Our next recommendation will also be about a series available on streaming. Follow us on social media, and don’t forget to pop a big bowl of delicious POPZ popcorn to go with your watchlist.

Genre: Sci-fi, action, adventure

Rated: 12

Directed by: Matt Shakman

Written by: Josh Friedman, Eric Pearson, Jeff Kaplan

Starring: Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach

Marvel’s first family

The month of July continues to be dominated by comic book movies. It’s time for Marvel to make its presence felt, and in quite a significant way. One of the publisher’s most iconic works, The Fantastic Four, serves as the opener for Phase 6 of the MCU. We’ve been eagerly awaiting its release because, for us, the Reed family and Spider-Man is our absolute favorite. We were in a difficult position when it came to reviewing it, but we tried our best to give a comprehensive summary on both the movie’s strengths and its weaker aspects.

Regarding the story, avoid any detailed spoilers online. The trailers didn’t reveal much, which was a smart move by the marketing team. We find ourselves on Earth-828, an alternate 1960s, a completely different dimension from previous Marvel movies. The members of the Fantastic Four are known worldwide. They’re deservedly revered for saving humanity on numerous occasions. One day, a herald, the Silver Surfer (played by Julia Garner), arrives, delivering the threat from Galactus, the Devourer of Worlds: their entire planet will soon become cosmic sustenance for the entity. Our heroes go to negotiate with him, but in exchange for mercy, he demands something that is both dishonorable and merciless.

The film outlines a very serious conflict, one that, on a conceptual level, goes beyond typical blockbusters. We get the feeling they tried to introduce such an overwhelming premise that they ultimately pulled back from it. It’s strange that despite a two-hour runtime, the pacing of the plot feels rushed. Furthermore, there are many gimmicky elements, which make the scenes intended to be serious appear comical, almost bordering on parody.

Regarding the characters, we had to set aside our previous expectations. Reed Richards, or Mr. Fantastic, hasn’t changed much in personality: he’s still a cool-headed scientist capable of making the most rational decisions in any situation, completely excluding emotional aspects. The creators intended Sue to be his antithesis, but they went a bit overboard. They sculpted her into an emotionally very unstable character. While her behavior is understandable given her role in the story, in the comics and animated series, she’s a much more competent member of the team. Ben is also quite different from what we’re used to. He observes the events around him with almost stoic calm and even in pivotal situations needs to be prodded to use his powers. There’s no trace of the purposeful, at times short-tempered, cynical, yet lovable Thing we’ve grown so fond of. Johnny Storm, the Human Torch, however, remains the funny, cool, womanizing character. Luckily, the whole is more than the sum of its parts: they work well together as a team.

From the above, it might seem like we didn’t like the movie. While it’s true we didn’t get what we expected, we were easily able to set aside our preconceived notions. We found plenty of positives. The visuals are excellent. Finally, we saw a Marvel movie with a rich color palette. The retrofuturistic art design is eye-catching. We, anyway, adore works set in an alternate past, similar to the steampunk genre. Although the theme of starting a family is touched upon superficially, it leads to some humorous situations. Despite not being entirely satisfied with the characters, the casting is superb. The music is also spot-on, and Michael Giacchino deserves credit. Its sound reminded us of The Jetsons, which perhaps isn’t a coincidence.

The new Fantastic Four isn’t outstanding, but it’s a well-made, entertaining addition to Marvel’s cinematic lineup. The question is whether it will be enough to draw audiences into Phase 6. We’re rooting for it. Be sure to stick around for the first post-credits scene, as true to tradition, you’ll get another taste of the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.

Thank you for reading our review. If you’ve already seen the film, share your thoughts about it in the comments. In August, we’ll be back with streaming content recommendations. Join us next time!

Genre: Action, adventure, sci-fi

Rated: 12

Directed by: James Gunn

Written by: James Gunn, Jerry Siegel, Joe Shuster

Starring: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Nicholas Hoult

As usual, the summer is the time for big-budget, blockbuster productions. In the cool darkness of the cinema, fans are treated to films from two of the biggest comic book publishers. First up is DC Comics, and one of the world’s most iconic heroes, Superman, arrives on the big screen. It’s also a commitment from the creative mind behind the studio, James Gunn, who has made no secret of his ambition to open a new chapter in comic book movie history.

Our current recommendation is retrospective and comparative. Our focus is to give you a sense of how the current incarnation of the well-known hero is similar and different to previous film and series versions and what you can expect from it. As this is a key point of the film, we hope that it will make it easier for everyone to decide whether to give David Corenswet’s Kal-El a chance.

In most of the previous films and series, the charismatic, sympathetic side of the protagonist was in the foreground. We loved the movies starring Christopher Reeve, and we were delighted to follow the adventures of Lois and Clark. Although Superman Returns and Smallville were not bad, they failed to maintain our previous interest. But what those films had in common was that they presented Superman in his classic form. The legendary figure who was the archetype of the perfect superhero. Not only did he possess superhuman physical skills, but he was also morally irreproachable. As the last survivor of Krypton, he was in the absolute best service of humanity. The presence of the icon, played mainly by Reeve and Cain, brought serenity and hope to even the most desperate situations.

The real change came with Henry Cavill’s Man of Steel. The casting was excellent, and we had no complaints about the visuals, but the tone was radically different. In the style of the successful Dark Knight films of the time, Superman returned in a more serious, gloomy mood. But what suited Bruce Wayne, didn’t necessarily work well for Clark Kent. Cavill’s character, while still respectable, was more mysterious and lacked the friendliness and playfulness that made him a likeable character.

And how did the current approach work out? We’ve seen that the latest Superman implementation mostly goes back to the original direction, but it’s just brave enough to have been made with changes. Corenswet is a good-hearted, humorous, but morally principled title character ready to make tough decisions. He is not yet at the prime of his powers and is very fallible. But his real virtue lies in his ability to move on after his failures, to put aside his own egoism, and to be a good team player. And he has plenty of help. Superman 2025 introduces many new faces and conflicts to be resolved. He also serves as a touchstone for a new era of DC. As a result, the first 30-45 minutes feel extremely concentrated. Still, we can advise you to be patient for the first third, because things will come together nicely by the end of the story.

Gunn’s direction was a remarkable way to bring the superhero of nearly a century’s history to the screen. He even managed to live up to the extremely high expectations placed on him. It was more than a promising start for the rebooted DC Universe. We laughed a lot, were amazed by the thrilling action sequences, and got emotional. Overall, we had a great time and look forward to the sequel.

Which Kal-El is closer to you? Cavill’s mysterious, epic figure or Reeve’s serene, optimistic hero? How did you like the Corenswet version? Leave your answers in the comments. We hope we’ve inspired you to watch the film and that you leave the screening as satisfied as we were. We’ll be back soon with Marvel’s famous superhero family. In the meantime, watch lots of movies and series, and don’t forget to make a big bowl of delicious POPZ popcorn to complete the experience.

Genre: Thriller, drama, action

Rated: 18

Written and directed by: Hwang Dong-hyuk

Starring: Lee Jung-jae, Tom Choi, Greg Chun

It seems like only yesterday that Gi-Hun’s fight was interrupted, leaving so many unanswered questions. Half a year is enough time for the internet to be flooded with theories about the fate of the characters, the plot’s essential details or the ending. The time for speculation is over, and on the day of the premiere we were finally able to continue the story that was left unfinished last December.

Every little hint about the plot is a spoiler, so we won’t give anything away. It will be worth returning for the third season, because right from the opening episode, events take an unexpected and exciting turn. The dynamic of the previous seasons is still present. We were able to pick up the thread of events almost immediately without re-watching the final chapter of the previous segment. There will be no shortage of disturbing, heart-wrenching moments. We had to take long breaks at intervals because we were so overwhelmed by what we were seeing. Of course, those who have been following the series will know that Squid game has never been a cheerful, light-hearted matinee, but even the more experienced may be caught unprepared by one or two key scenes.

It’s still an interesting streaming content that keeps you in front of the screen, but it hasn’t gained any new depths or dimensions. Beyond the presentation of human cruelty, meanness and selfishness, we have already got all the valid messages from the previous seasons. The drama works well, thanks to excellent acting and authentic dialogue, but the thriller genre is more prominent. The central theme remains survival, and the serious moral choices made to achieve it. The pressure on the contestants is increasing, and the tension builds steadily until the finale. Meanwhile, on a parallel thread, Detective Hwang Jun-ho (Wi Ha-Joon) searches for the organizers of the ruthless games.

The latest season of Squid game may not offer more discussion on issues relevant to today’s society, but it is still one of the must-see shows of the year. With its incomparable visuals and gripping storyline, it has emerged as a standout in the survival thriller genre. Viewer discretion is advised.

Have you seen the new season? We are looking forward to your comments in the comments section. If you’re curious about the end of the series, we suggest you watch it as soon as possible, because it’s easy to run into spoilers on social media. Watch lots of movies and series, and stay tuned for more. And if you’re looking for a really tasty snack for the excellent home cinema experience, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.

Genre: Fantasy, adventure, action, drama

Rated: 12

Directed by: Dean BeBlois

Written by: Dean DeBlois, Cressida Cowell, William Davies

Starring: Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler

We are living in the age of live-action adaptations. Today, almost all well-known cartoons have been recreated with famous actors and using modern animation techniques. As the adventures of Hiccup and Toothless have become classics in a relatively short period of time, the creators of the original work felt it was time to bring their work back to the public in a similar way. For our part, we do not consider such productions to be entirely unimaginative if they can add extra content and value to the source material by using new techniques. Fortunately, the remake of How to Train Your Dragon is a good example.

For those who don’t know the story, here’s a brief summary. For the Viking tribe of the Isle of Berk, dragons are a constant threat. They have been fighting the mythical creatures for generations. Hiccup (Mason Thames) realises that he is unwilling to slay dragons when he becomes a man. His resolve is strengthened by an encounter with the legendary Night Fury, Toothless, with whom he forms a lifelong friendship.

The new adaptation has enriched the well-known tale, especially on the visual side. For those who want to make up for the absence of House of the Dragon, the cinema is the perfect place to satisfy their cravings. Every journey through the Night Fury is beautifully scenic and an extremely intense experience. If there had been reins near us, we would have instinctively grabbed them. Of course there are plenty of other beasts in the film that also have an impressive look. And its Toothless appearance retains the traits that made it a cute, lovable, yet still respectable ancient creature. In some scenes we even liked it better than the cartoon version. If you’re specifically interested in this aspect, there are plenty of comparison videos online.

The live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon is best recommended for those who already loved the original or are looking for a fun, sophisticated family experience in the summer holidays. The difficulties of the father-child relationship and the theme of adolescence’s search for identity are also skilfully portrayed, adding emotional depth to the entertainment. To be fair, the story itself doesn’t have any huge twists and turns, and the actors don’t promise the moon, but anyone who goes to see it will not be disappointed.

What is your opinion of the original cartoon? Will you watch the new version? What do you think about remakes of this kind? We’re looking for your thoughts in the comments. Next time, we’ll be back with an overview of a much-anticipated series coming to streaming. Until then, watch lots of films and series. Remember, the ultimate home cinema experience is provided by POPZ popcorn.

Genre: Action, adventure, thriller

Rated: 16

Directed by: Christopher McQuarrie

Written by: Bruce Geller, Erik Jendresen, Christopher McQuarrie

Starring: Tom Cruise, Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames

The latest instalment of the modern spy movie franchise has arrived. Ethan Hunt’s nearly 3-hour adventure is both a direct sequel to the last film and the conclusion to the entire cinematic series. To end nearly 30 years in a way worthy of the title is a huge undertaking, especially in light of the press coverage of every episode’s stunts of extreme recklessness. While there’s still no shortage of adrenaline-pumping images, The final reckoning is much more emotional.

The story revolves around defeating an artificial intelligence called the „Entity”. In the age of rapidly evolving language models, it was an obvious and interesting choice to choose the omniscient AI as the main villain. As IT systems and cybersecurity have played a major role in previous films, it fits in perfectly with the episodes so far. In fact, the film has a lot of flashbacks and surprises for viewers who have been following the series since its beginning. The rest of us are strongly advised to catch up with the prequels, because it’s easy to feel like a clueless stowaway on this nostalgia ride.

The latest Mission: Impossible is a stunningly spectacular, thrilling action film that has been brought to the big screen. It can deliver its ultimate experience only in the cinema. It’s exhilarating to hear the film’s iconic theme music, the familiar „this tape will self-destruct in five seconds” warning, and to see the astonishing action scenes. For the latter, we urge those who may be struggling with vertigo watch the final chapter with the right accompaniment. For us, it was a challenge, and we were truly terrified in our seats.

There were two closely related problems, which did not make us completely happy. The length of the running time and the lack of tension in the story took a lot of the fun out of the final result. 170 (!) minutes is a very long time, especially if the otherwise touching nostalgia and reminiscence of the past predominates instead of a meaningful plot. Understandable, since Cruise has been playing Agent Hunt for most of his career, but The final Reckoning is less intense than, say, The Phantom Protocol or Fallout. The finale, on the other hand, is guaranteed to put everyone on the edge of their seats.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is an excellent conclusion to a film series that has been running since 1996. Despite the fact that a full hour could have been cut from the finished material, and the flashbacks could bore us after a while, we had a good time overall. It’s not worth waiting until the streaming release, because you’re missing out on a real cinematic experience.

As a final thought, it occurred to us that the world of cinema would be a less prosperous place if the spy film genre was dominated solely by James Bond or Jack Ryan. No doubt Tom Cruise’s character is synonymous with the role of Ethan Hunt, but who could you imagine a reboot with? Your tips are welcome in the comments. Watch a lot of movies and series – and if you’re in the mood for a tasty snack, POPZ popcorn is the best choice.