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Ryan Coogler's "Sinners" blends vampire horror with a profound exploration of cultural identity through the lens of a 1930s juke joint under siege by Irish vampires. The film's exceptional cinematography and soul-stirring soundtrack elevate it to our highest-rated movie yet.

• Michael B. Jordan delivers a standout dual performance as twins, creating two distinct characters who share significant screen time
• The film uses aspect ratio changes brilliantly, expanding the screen as the narrative's scope widens
• Score and soundtrack integrate blues and Irish music to tell a story about cultural preservation and amalgamation
• Vampires as Irish immigrants creates a powerful metaphor about historical racial dynamics in America
• The contrasting approaches to cultural blending—sharing versus consuming—forms the core thematic tension
• Cinematography shines particularly during musical sequences where visuals and sound become fully integrated
• Despite some third-act predictability, the film maintains its artistic integrity and emotional impact

Watch Sinners in IMAX if possible for the full intended experience with its expansive visuals and immersive sound design.

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We dive into the recently released zombie thriller 28 Years Later, exploring its place in the franchise and evaluating what makes it stand out in the horror genre.

• Film serves as both sequel and standalone story accessible to viewers unfamiliar with earlier films
• Strong performances from Aaron Taylor Johnson and Ralph Fiennes anchor the emotional core
• Cinematography blends nostalgic handheld camera work with innovative visual techniques
• Soundtrack creates unexpected emotional resonance, particularly during pivotal scenes
• Story explores coming-of-age themes through a post-apocalyptic lens
• Different types of infected expand the franchise mythology in interesting ways
• Tracksuit-wearing cult hints at fascinating directions for future sequels
• Film makes thoughtful points about death, acceptance, and human nature amid horror
• High rewatch value with many subtle details to discover
• Earns a solid 4 out of 5 rating from High and Dry Podcast

If you enjoyed our review of 28 Years Later, please subscribe to High and Dry Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and let us know what you thought of the movie.

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Robert Pattinson delivers a masterful dual performance in Bong Joon-ho's Mickey 17, a sci-fi satire that explores identity, expendability, and the dark side of colonial expansion. The film follows a man who is repeatedly cloned and sacrificed for a fledgling colony on an alien planet, ultimately challenging the authoritarian leadership threatening both human settlers and indigenous life.

• Pattinson plays both Mickey 17 and Mickey 18, showcasing distinct personalities despite being clones
• Mark Ruffalo portrays Kenneth Marshall, a Trump-like authoritarian leader complete with red-cap-wearing supporters
• The film features strong performances from Naomi Ackie and Toni Collette in supporting roles
• Bong Joon-ho's direction creates a deliberately muted visual palette that brightens only when characters experience freedom
• The storyline draws clear parallels to contemporary politics while examining the ethics of colonialism
• Originally scheduled for release in 2022, the film faced multiple delays including one following an assassination attempt on Donald Trump

If you enjoyed our review of Mickey 17, please rate and subscribe to High and Dry Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. We'll be back next week with another film breakdown!

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