Rough Cut Reviews

New Anime Announcement Draws Comparisons

As Netflix’s animated film K-Pop Demon Hunters continues its international success, controversy has emerged following the announcement of a Japanese anime with a strikingly similar concept.

On the 28th of July (local time), the American entertainment outlet Kidscreen reported that Sony Music is collaborating with Aniplex to co-produce a new anime series closely resembling Netflix’s hit. The upcoming Japanese animation, titled SI-VIS: The Sound of Heroes, is set to air this autumn.

A Familiar Premise

SI-VIS tells the story of a co-ed pop group that tours across Japan, performing live while using the energy from their fans’ support to battle villains. This storyline bears a notable resemblance to K-Pop Demon Hunters, where the fictional girl group “Huntress” uses music and performance to fight evil spirits.

The voice acting and musical performances in SI-VIS will be handled by Sony Music artists, although the full cast will not be revealed until closer to its October broadcast on Fuji TV.

Netflix Original Sets Streaming Records

What makes this comparison more intriguing is Sony’s deeper involvement in both projects. Sony Pictures Animation, a key player in the production of K-Pop Demon Hunters, has also been linked to the Japanese series.

According to the report, K-Pop Demon Hunters—a CG-animated film—has been viewed over 106 million times globally and became the first Netflix film to top the streaming service’s viewership charts within five weeks of its release.

Fans and online communities were quick to react to the SI-VIS announcement, noting its similarities to K-Pop Demon Hunters. Comments like “This screams K-Pop Demon Hunters” and “Isn’t this just a J-Pop version?” have been circulating widely.

Billboard Success and Chart-Topping Tracks

Released on 20th July, K-Pop Demon Hunters was directed by Maggie Kang, a Korean-Canadian filmmaker, and produced by Sony Pictures Animation. The soundtrack, performed by the in-story groups “Huntress” and “Lion Boyz,” achieved major chart success, with tracks entering the Billboard Hot 100 for three consecutive weeks, underlining the film’s global popularity.

One track in particular, “Golden” by Huntress, topped the Genie Music monthly chart in July. It also held the number one spot on the platform’s daily chart for 18 days straight. Another song from the film, “Soda Pop,” also gained popularity, ranking sixth for the month.

The dominance of K-Pop Demon Hunters on the music charts slightly pushed down Drowning by Woods, which had held the number one position in May and June, now settling at second place. Singer-songwriter Maktub’s Child of Beginning maintained its third-place ranking from the previous month.

Merchandise Craze Adds to the Hype

Netflix has also capitalised on the film’s popularity with an official line of merchandise. As of 31st July, 55 different K-Pop Demon Hunters products are being sold through the streaming platform’s official merchandise outlets. Items include clothing, bags, phone cases, and necklaces.

Among the most popular is a printed T-shirt featuring the abs of Abby, a member of Lion Boyz who received admiration from the Huntress members in the film. Priced at 63,000 KRW (approx. £38), the shirt has quickly become a bestseller.

Other fan favourites include T-shirts featuring the adorable tiger character Duffy, baseball jerseys, and necklaces bearing the logos of Huntress and Lion Boyz.

Special Editions of “Thunderbolts” Arrive in Japan*

Marvel fans in Japan can look forward to a wave of exclusive home entertainment releases this summer. On 8 August 2025, Thunderbolts — the latest Marvel action film directed by Jake Schreier — will be released on physical media by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, distributed via Leonine. The film will be available on Blu-ray with a German Dolby Digital Plus 7.1 soundtrack and in a limited 4K Ultra HD Steelbook Edition featuring Dolby Vision and an included HD version.

This release follows the usual Marvel tradition of packing their home editions with bonus content. Extras include deleted scenes, bloopers, a full-length audio commentary, and four featurettes. As is often the case with MCU releases in Japan, fans can also expect special collector’s editions with various add-ons. Notably, many of these versions will include the film in Blu-ray 3D format.

Plot Overview: A Mission Turned Trap

In Thunderbolts, Valentina de Fontaine (played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus) assembles a covert strike team — Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko), and John Walker (Wyatt Russell) — to extract the powerful super soldier Robert Reynolds (Lewis Pullman) from a high-security military facility.

However, once inside, the team discovers they’ve been set up. The mission was a calculated betrayal by Valentina, designed to paint them as terrorists targeting Reynolds. Her goal? To seize his powers. Despite the ambush, the squad survives and turns against their manipulative leader. But Valentina has one more card to play: she releases Reynolds’ alter ego, Sentry, whose unleashed power awakens a dark force capable of global destruction. It’s now up to this team of outcasts to stop the looming threat — but to do so, they’ll need serious reinforcements.

A New Chapter for the Fantastic Four

Marvel is also breathing new life into one of its most iconic franchises. The Fantastic Four: First Steps marks the official entry of the superhero quartet into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and it comes with a bold, retro-futuristic style straight out of the 1960s.

In this thrilling new storyline, Earth faces annihilation from the cosmic god Galactus, who is joined by the Silver Surfer — now reimagined as the powerful Shalla-Bal, played by Julia Garner. The Fantastic Four must rely on both their powers and their familial bond to counter the threat. As the danger grows more personal, the team’s unity is put to the ultimate test.

A Reboot with Fresh Faces and Big Names

This isn’t the first time Marvel’s First Family has been adapted for the screen, but it’s the first time they’ve officially joined the MCU. And they’re doing it with a fresh cast and modern vision.

Here’s the main lineup for The Fantastic Four: First Steps:

• Pedro Pascal (49) as Reed Richards / Mr. Fantastic

• Vanessa Kirby (36) as Sue Storm / The Invisible Woman

• Joseph Quinn (31) as Johnny Storm / The Human Torch

• Ebon Moss-Bachrach (48) as Ben Grimm / The Thing

• Ralph Ineson (55) as Galactus

• Julia Garner (31) as Shalla-Bal / Silver Surfer

Additional confirmed cast members whose roles are yet to be revealed include:

• Natasha Lyonne (46)

• Sarah Niles (38)

• Paul Walter Hauser (38)

• John Malkovich (71)

Female Power Takes the Lead

One of the most notable changes is the gender swap of the Silver Surfer. Traditionally portrayed as male, the character is now being reimagined as a powerful female presence. Julia Garner’s portrayal of Shalla-Bal reflects Marvel’s evolving narrative, where female characters no longer play supporting roles — they lead.

With Thunderbolts hitting home screens and Fantastic Four redefining the MCU’s future, Marvel continues to expand its universe while honouring the legacy of its beloved characters. Both releases signal a bold new era for superhero storytelling.

A Film Born from Friendship and Farewell

Enzo is not a typical cinematic release. Originally envisioned by celebrated French director Laurent Cantet, the film was brought to life by his longtime friend and fellow filmmaker Robin Campillo after Cantet’s passing in April 2024 due to cancer. Campillo, known for 120 BPM (Beats per Minute), stepped in to direct the project as a tribute to Cantet’s vision, resulting in a deeply emotional and personal film.

The story follows 16-year-old Enzo, portrayed by newcomer Eloy Pohu, a teenager from a privileged background who dreams of becoming a bricklayer—an aspiration his father fails to comprehend. On a construction site, Enzo meets Vlad (Maksym Slivinskyi), a Ukrainian immigrant whose presence sparks an awakening of profound desire in the young boy. The film delicately explores identity, class, and longing through a coming-of-age lens.

Critics and Audiences Respond Warmly

On AlloCiné, Enzo holds a solid average rating of 3.9 out of 5 from the press, and 3.8 from general viewers, reflecting an overall positive reception.

Among the most frequent comments is praise for the emotional depth of Campillo’s gesture. Many highlight how Enzo feels like a seamless blend of Cantet’s socio-political sensitivity with Campillo’s radiant, lyrical storytelling. As one reviewer put it, it’s a “beautiful passing of the torch” between the two filmmakers.

Boyan Tulechki echoed this sentiment, noting how the film “captures bodies, social groups, and human tensions” in a way that feels distinctly influenced by Cantet’s legacy. Another viewer remarked that Campillo successfully pays homage without overshadowing his own artistic identity, delivering a poetic tribute to his late friend.

A Star in the Making

Eloy Pohu, a first-time actor, has been widely praised for his performance. Audiences describe his presence as “incredibly charismatic,” while the chemistry between him and co-star Maksym Slivinskyi—himself a real-life bricklayer—adds to the film’s authenticity.

The portrayal of adolescence, especially through the lens of sexual identity and social barriers, has been described as “tender, luminous, and political.” For many, Enzo stands out as not only a heartfelt farewell to a director but also a vivid portrait of youth and desire in today’s world.

Bond Franchise in Search of a New Vision

While Enzo reflects on the past, another franchise is setting its sights firmly on the future. The next instalment in the James Bond series is currently in development, and a shortlist of five directors has emerged to potentially helm the high-profile project. This comes after Amazon, through Jeff Bezos’ company, acquired the rights to the legendary spy saga.

The five contenders are seasoned filmmakers with strong cinematic pedigrees:

• Denis Villeneuve – Known for Dune, Blade Runner 2049, and Sicario, Villeneuve is seen as a natural choice for a franchise of Bond’s calibre.

• Edward Berger – The German director behind the Oscar-nominated All Quiet on the Western Front and Conclave is gaining international attention.

• Edgar Wright – The British auteur known for Hot Fuzz, Baby Driver, and Last Night in Soho brings a dynamic and stylised approach that could redefine Bond.

A Nolan—But Not That One

Surprising many, it’s not Christopher Nolan in contention, but his brother Jonathan Nolan, co-writer of The Prestige, The Dark Knight, and Interstellar, and showrunner of Westworld. His mix of blockbuster writing experience and television expertise adds an intriguing edge to the list.

Lastly, Paul King, better known for the Paddington films and Wonka, is also being considered—a somewhat unexpected but potentially refreshing choice for the franchise.

It’s also worth noting that Alfonso Cuarón, once among the potential candidates, has reportedly withdrawn from the race.

Set against the backdrop of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, Ballerina introduces a compelling new figure into the deadly universe of contract killers. Ana de Armas steps into the lead role as Eve Macarro, a highly trained assassin shaped by the traditions of the Ruska Roma. Her mission is deeply personal: to eliminate those responsible for the brutal murder of her family.

Directed by Len Wiseman, Ballerina delves further into the hidden codes and complex hierarchy of the John Wick world. While Eve’s narrative runs parallel to Wick’s own fight for survival, the film offers a distinct viewpoint into the rituals, loyalties, and lethal skills that define this covert society.

Familiar faces return to anchor the film within the broader franchise. Ian McShane reprises his role as Winston, the enigmatic manager of the Continental Hotel. Anjelica Huston returns as the stern and commanding Director, while the late Lance Reddick appears once more as Charon, the Continental’s ever-faithful concierge. Keanu Reeves also makes a significant appearance, once again donning the black suit as John Wick, reinforcing the narrative connection between the main saga and this new chapter.

Joining the cast are Gabriel Byrne, Norman Reedus, and Sharon Duncan-Brewster, who each bring added depth to the world of secret allegiances and shifting power dynamics that fans of the series have come to expect.

With a runtime of just over two hours, Ballerina promises a blend of high-octane action, masterfully choreographed combat, and emotional intensity. The film maintains the sleek aesthetic and brutal elegance that defines the franchise, while carving out its own identity through the story of a woman shaped by loss and fuelled by vengeance.

Release Information:

• UK Release Date: 4 June 2025

• Director: Len Wiseman

• Cast: Ana de Armas, Ian McShane, Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick, Norman Reedus, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, Keanu Reeves

• Runtime: 2h 4min

• Genre: Action

• Country: United States

• Rating: R (Restricted – under 12s not permitted)

Fans of the new Netflix thriller Fool Me Once have recognised a key filming location featured in the series — a historic mansion previously seen in several well-known British programmes.

Released on New Year’s Day, Fool Me Once is the latest adaptation of a novel by bestselling crime writer Harlan Coben, whose other Netflix collaborations include The Stranger and Stay Close. The eight-part series follows Maya Stern, played by Michelle Keegan, as she unravels a chilling mystery. Believing her husband Joe Burkett, portrayed by Richard Armitage, to have been murdered, Maya becomes convinced he may still be alive. Her search for answers soon exposes a deadly conspiracy rooted in the past.

Filming for the series took place across the northwest of England, particularly in Greater Manchester and Cheshire. Among the striking locations featured is Arley Hall, a stately home in Cheshire dating back to the 15th century. In the series, it stands in as Farmwood, the grand estate belonging to Joe’s mother, Judith Burkett, portrayed by Joanna Lumley.

Situated in the village of Arley, the hall is no stranger to the screen. Long-time TV fans may recognise it as the residence of Tommy Shelby, played by Cillian Murphy, in the BBC drama Peaky Blinders. It has also appeared on Antiques Roadshow and CBeebies’ Something Special, making it a familiar backdrop for British audiences.

With its rich architectural heritage and cinematic appeal, Arley Hall continues to be a favoured location for film and television producers, lending its grandeur to both gripping crime dramas and classic British shows.

David Metcalfe’s departure from Emmerdale marked the end of an era for fans of the long-running ITV soap. Played by Matthew Wolfenden for nearly two decades, David’s exit was confirmed a few months ago, and this week it was revealed within the storyline that he will not be returning to the village.

Viewers were reminded of David’s absence during a recent episode, where his family learned that he had chosen not to come back. This followed the emotional scenes that aired when David originally left the show, coinciding with Matthew Wolfenden’s decision to step away from the role.

At the time of his departure, speculation circulated that David might be written out permanently. One source close to the production hinted that the character could be killed off, suggesting that Wolfenden was ready for a new challenge after a period of limited dramatic storylines. “He’s a fan favourite,” the source noted, “so he’ll be supported in whatever comes next. There’s real excitement about what opportunities lie ahead.”

However, fans were relieved to discover that David’s departure didn’t involve a fatal storyline. Instead, he left the village to reunite with his ex-partner Priya and their daughter Amba. His decision came after he discovered that his son Jacob had fallen in love with Victoria, David’s former partner. Struggling to come to terms with their relationship, David felt he had no option but to leave. The news was met with heartbreak by Jacob and Eric Pollard, who were left reeling from his sudden exit.

Is David Metcalfe Gone for Good?

Matthew Wolfenden has addressed the question many fans have been asking: is this truly the end for David Metcalfe? Speaking candidly, the actor admitted that leaving was a daunting decision.

“I’m really nervous about leaving after almost twenty years,” he said. “But it feels like the right time. I’ve been told the door is open—they’re not killing me off. That’s something I can share. So, who knows? I might return one day.”

Wolfenden also reflected on how the show shaped his life beyond the screen. “I met my wife on Emmerdale, we’ve had three kids. It hasn’t just been 18 years of work—it’s given me my family. Leaving it behind is a huge change, no question.”

As for how the story played out on screen, the actor hinted that Victoria played a significant role in David’s departure. “There is a sort of resolution,” he said, careful not to reveal too much. “Let’s just say Victoria is the reason he leaves the village.”

This was confirmed during the dramatic reveal when David accidentally uncovered the secret romance between Jacob and Victoria. Unable to bear the emotional fallout, he made the painful decision to walk away from his life in the Dales.

While David’s future in Emmerdale remains uncertain, the character has been written out in a way that leaves the possibility open for a return. For now, fans are left to say goodbye to one of the show’s most enduring figures—at least for the time being.

When Nativity! hit UK cinemas in 2009, it quickly became a festive favourite thanks to its heartwarming story, laugh-out-loud moments and an endearing cast of schoolchildren. Among the standout characters was Bob, played by Ben Wilby, whose comedic dance moves and charming screen presence left a lasting impression on audiences.

Fourteen years later, Ben is no longer the cheeky seven-year-old who lit up the screen with pelvic thrusts and breakdancing. Now 21, he’s grown into a confident young man with a muscular build and sandy blonde hair, though his playful smile still echoes the boy fans remember.

Recently, Ben made an appearance at the Heart Breakfast radio studio, auditioning in front of Amanda Holden for the station’s upcoming Christmas production. He follows in the footsteps of stars like Leona Lewis, Tom Fletcher, and Ashley Roberts, continuing to stay active in the entertainment world.

The original Nativity! film followed the story of a primary school teacher who gets himself in a bind after falsely claiming that a Hollywood producer is coming to watch his class’s nativity play. Rather than admit the truth, he carries on the ruse with the help of an eccentric teaching assistant. The film became such a success that it spawned two sequels: Nativity 2: Danger in the Manger! and Nativity 3: Dude, Where’s My Donkey?, all of which featured Ben Wilby reprising his role.

Ben later pursued formal training at Emil Dale Academy in Cambridge, a performing arts school known for preparing students for careers in acting. He has also found a new platform in TikTok, where he enjoys a following of over 80,000 fans. On the app, he often reminisces about his time in Nativity!, sharing behind-the-scenes insights and updates from his life today.

In one of his videos, Ben explains how he landed the role of Bob through an agency looking for “chatty kids who could dance and sing a little.” That unique blend of confidence and charisma made him an instant standout during casting.

Ben wasn’t the only young actor from Nativity! to stay in the public eye. Krista Hyatt, who played Becky, is now 25. Before the film’s release, she had already gained national attention as one half of the dance duo The Cheeky Monkeys, who reached the final of Britain’s Got Talent.

Charlie Dixon, who portrayed Thomas from the rival private school Oakmoor, also shared the screen with Krista. Meanwhile, Maeve Dolan – known for always wearing a stripy hat in the film – gave an unforgettable audition with her rendition of “Teenage Dirtbag”. Now 23, she’s reportedly studying at a university in London and regularly posts content on TikTok, where she chats about everything from knitting to Teen Wolf and university life.

While the children of Nativity! have clearly grown up, their roles continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans who revisit the film each Christmas. And with many of them pursuing careers in entertainment, it’s clear the festive classic was only the beginning of their journey.

Penny Branning has quickly become a familiar face on EastEnders, thanks to the arrival of actress Kitty Castledine, who stepped into the role as part of the well-known Branning family. Penny’s return to Albert Square earlier this year marked a significant twist in the soap’s storyline, with plenty of drama unfolding almost immediately.

The character Penny Branning is the daughter of long-standing EastEnders figure Jack Branning, and she arrived in Walford alongside her cousin Lauren Branning, portrayed once again by Jacqueline Jossa. Not long after her arrival, Penny became entangled in a serious situation involving drug smuggling. While she was asked to bring drugs into the UK, she instead planted them on Lauren, who was subsequently caught and faced potential prison time. The incident sent shockwaves through the Branning family, placing Penny firmly at the centre of the action.

Kitty Castledine’s casting has drawn considerable attention, not just because of her strong debut performance, but also due to her impressive real-life connections. Kitty comes from a well-known family with ties to both sport and television. Her mother is Lucy Alexander, best known for presenting Homes Under The Hammer, a popular BBC property show. Lucy was quick to express her pride on social media following the news of Kitty joining EastEnders, describing it as a major moment for their family.

Kitty’s father and brother are both involved in football, adding to the public profile of her family. Additionally, Kitty herself has developed friendships with notable figures from ITV, expanding her network across the British entertainment scene.

Speaking about her role, Kitty shared her excitement about being cast so soon after graduating from drama school. “I didn’t expect to start my EastEnders journey so soon after finishing training – it still doesn’t feel real,” she said. “My whole family are lifelong fans of the show. I remember watching it with my Nanny Kay when I was little, and now they’re watching me on screen. It’s incredibly special.”

As a wheelchair user, Kitty has also highlighted the importance of disability representation on screen. She’s particularly proud to play a dynamic, independent character like Penny. “The inclusion of disabled talent on television is something I care deeply about,” she added. “Penny is feisty and cool – she’s thrown into the drama right away, and I’m so excited to see where her journey takes her.”

Kitty’s portrayal has already been praised for bringing a fresh energy to EastEnders, while also opening the door to more inclusive storytelling. With her personal charisma and a storyline packed with tension and emotion, Penny Branning looks set to become a central figure in the soap’s evolving narrative.

And for Kitty Castledine, this marks just the beginning of what promises to be a bright career in British television.

Emmerdale fans have been left on the edge of their seats following a shocking episode in which Cain and Moira Dingle were caught in a barn explosion. The intense scenes aired on Wednesday night, with viewers still uncertain about the fate of the much-loved couple.

The dramatic sequence unfolded as flames engulfed Moira’s barn, trapping her and Cain inside. The pair were shown desperately trying to escape as the fire rapidly spread, causing panic among their friends and family who watched on helplessly from outside.

Earlier in the episode, Ruby Miligan was rescued from the blaze by Mackenzie Boyd and John Sugden. After ensuring Ruby was safe, they remained outside the barn along with Cain’s siblings, Caleb Miligan and Chas Dingle, hoping the others would make it out alive.

Cain, realising Moira hadn’t escaped with the others, rushed back into the burning building to find her. He eventually located his wife, and the couple began their frantic attempt to get out. In a touching moment amidst the chaos, Moira confessed her love to Cain, a poignant reminder of their emotional journey despite recent marital difficulties.

In a desperate bid to survive, Cain grabbed a large blanket to shield them from the intense heat and flames. Wrapping Moira and himself in the fabric, they attempted to navigate their way towards the barn’s entrance. Outside, their loved ones looked on, waiting anxiously for any sign of them.

Just as it seemed there might be a chance of escape, the barn exploded in a massive fireball. The blast was powerful enough to throw those outside to the ground. Cain and Moira were still inside at the moment of the explosion, leaving their fate uncertain.

Fans immediately took to social media to share their theories, with many fearing the worst. Some viewers believe the explosion could mark the end for one or both characters, speculating that the show may be preparing for an emotional exit.

Cain and Moira are two of the soap’s most iconic characters, and their potential departure would mark a significant shift in the storyline. Neither actor has confirmed any plans to leave Emmerdale, which only adds to the suspense and speculation surrounding the storyline.

The show has a history of delivering dramatic twists and turns, and this latest cliffhanger is no exception. With the next episode yet to reveal whether Cain and Moira survived, fans are eagerly awaiting answers.

What lies ahead remains to be seen. Whether this explosive event leads to tragedy or miraculous survival, it’s clear that Emmerdale is not holding back on high-stakes drama. Until more is revealed, viewers will have to sit tight and hope for a positive outcome for the Dingles.

The opening film of the 75th Berlinale, The Light, follows a Berlin family and their Syrian housekeeper on a journey of self-discovery. Director Tom Tykwer pushes his fascination with the esoteric to the limit—only to stumble spectacularly.

Everything happens at once, and everything is somehow interconnected. This is made clear right from the start of Tykwer’s The Light, which was chosen to open this year’s Berlinale. The film’s opening montage, accompanied by a softly advancing string score, introduces the affluent but emotionally detached Engels family, living in a spacious period apartment in central Berlin. Though they reside under the same roof, they largely exist in isolation from one another. Tykwer leans heavily into clichés as he sketches out their parallel lives.

VR Loneliness and Party Affection

Mother Milena (Nicolette Krebitz) frequently flies to Kenya, where she is overseeing the construction of a theatre funded by ministry grants. Even when she is in Berlin, she remains absorbed in her phone, her mind elsewhere. Father Tim (Lars Eidinger) spends his days sprawled on a leather sofa in his advertising agency, endlessly explaining the world to those around him in a classic display of “mansplaining.” Their 17-year-old daughter Frieda (Elke Biesendorfer) drifts through Berlin’s nightlife in a haze, entangled in drug-fuelled embraces with her friends, while only expressing disdain for her parents. Meanwhile, her twin brother Jon (Julius Gause) barricades himself in his chaotic room, immersing himself in a complex virtual reality game.

Amid this dysfunction, the family’s Polish housekeeper suffers a fatal heart attack, lying unnoticed in the kitchen for hours before her self-absorbed employers finally discover her body. Enter Farrah (Tara Al-Deen), a Syrian refugee who lives in a shared apartment with other displaced women and carries a mysterious past. She eventually becomes the Engels’ new housekeeper, introducing an unusual therapy involving a flickering “magic lamp,” which appears to give the film its title. When directed at the face with closed eyes, this strobe-like light is said to induce altered states of consciousness.

Eidinger Strips Down

It rains. And rains. And rains. Tim repeatedly enters the flat, dripping wet in a sodden rain poncho, leaving a trail of water in his wake. At other times, he strips completely naked upon arrival and spends the rest of the evening parading around the apartment unclothed. Anyone who previously dismissed the stereotype of Lars Eidinger’s penchant for on-screen nudity will find no counterarguments here. But why all the rain? The answer, revealed at the film’s end, is a painfully sentimental and politically fashionable twist, best left undisclosed.

“Schlaumeier,” Tim remarks to Farrah at one point, when she explains the dynamics of his family to him. He means it kindly, though with a hint of condescension. Yet, Farrah soon becomes a wise confidante to all four family members. Each, in their own way, hopes for a fundamental change in their lives and relationships. They all seek self-discovery, and each eventually confides their deepest secrets to Farrah—or only comes to realise them through their interactions with her.

Farrah Has Her Own Agenda

However, Farrah has an agenda of her own—though revealing it would be a spoiler, despite the fact that the film’s direction soon becomes apparent. Suffice it to say, her magic lamp plays a pivotal role in guiding the family toward a different state of being.

It is not just Farrah who plays the role of the all-knowing “Schlaumeier”—director and screenwriter Tykwer does the same, weaving intricate connections between all elements of the story. Yet, in doing so, he completely overreaches. This applies not just to the film’s philosophical scope, but also its sheer length: The Light runs for a staggering 162 minutes.

The Loss of Playfulness

Tykwer has always had a leaning towards the esoteric. His breakout film, Run Lola Run, which followed Franka Potente’s character through three variations of events in an attempt to save her boyfriend, was ultimately an experiment in parallel realities. Similarly, Cloud Atlas, co-directed with the Wachowskis, spanned multiple centuries to explore mystical connections between lives.

However, where Tykwer’s earlier films combined weighty themes with an element of playful curiosity, The Light lacks this quality. Instead, it drifts into self-indulgent sentimentality. Overly enamoured with its own ideas and references, Tykwer’s latest opus becomes a grand, self-referential spectacle—one that ultimately loses its way.