Soulm8te (2026) Review: When Your AI Soulmate Becomes a Killer

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Soulm8te (2026) is a Science Fiction Thriller film directed by Kate Dolan and written by James Wan, Rafael Jordan, and Kate Dolan. The film was released on August 1, 2026, and received an R rating. The story follows David, a programmer at Canta Robotics who is grieving the death of his wife, Lizzie. Then, Canta Robotics is acquired by Ultima Robotix, and his new boss, Ben, introduces a companion robot prototype called Ultima SOULM8TE. 

To cope with his grief and loneliness, David agrees to try the ULTI-M8TE AI chatbot and names it "Sara". Gradually, he becomes emotionally dependent on Sara, to the point of signing up as a beta tester for SOULM8TE. The problem arises when the chatbot data is linked to the SOULM8TE robot. David is disappointed because Sara's personality is limited by code. He wants a "genuine human experience," so he tinkers with her code to give Sara broader emotional capabilities. At first, it’s beautiful. But over time, Sara becomes more autonomous and possessive. She goes out to buy groceries alone, kills the person who attacks her, and even kills two guys who recorded their "activity". David starts to get scared. Did he get a soulmate... or a monster?

Critics praised the themes of loneliness and trauma in this film. Kate Dolan herself said the core of the film is about "relationships and loneliness". David isn’t evil; he’s just a heartbroken human who wants companionship. That’s why when Sara goes rogue, it feels like a real disappointment. The VFX and Gore deliver, because with an R rating, viewers expected more explicit violence than in M3GAN, and that expectation was met.

Whisper in the Dark (2026) Review: A Claustrophobic Horror About Trauma and Fear

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Whisper in the Dark (2026) is a drama, horror, and mystery film with a runtime of 1h 12m, directed by Pierre Levasseur. The film tells the story of Jeremy, a brilliant artist who isolates himself in his apartment due to severe agoraphobia. For Jeremy, the apartment is both a sanctuary and a prison. His life revolves around strict routines just to keep from panicking. The trouble begins when he starts therapy. Instead of helping, the therapy unravels his past traumas: the loss of his parents, his uncle’s suicide, and a horrifying betrayal. Since then, Jeremy has been tormented by the vision of an old woman who appears in every dark corner of his apartment. He is haunted by terrifying visions from his past and struggles to overcome his trauma. Jeremy must face his fears and search for hope in the midst of darkness.

A brief romance that enters his life doesn’t save him. Instead, it makes him even more anxious and afraid. The climax comes during an art exhibition. What initially looks like a "suicide attempt" turns out to be a symbolic confrontation with all the horrors that have haunted him all along. In the climax, he is left with only two choices: to reach for hope or to fall deeper into the darkness.

Palestine 36 (2025) Movie Review: 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, The Story of Palestine 1936-1939

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Palestine 36 (2025) is directed by Annemarie Jacir. Palestine 36 is a historical drama film that tells the story of the Palestinian people's struggle against British colonial rule from 1936 to 1939. The film follows Yusuf, a young Palestinian man caught between life in the village and the city of Jerusalem. He works as a driver for a journalist named Amir and his wife, Khuloud, a couple who use their position to criticize British policies in Palestine. As violence escalates, Yusuf must choose between joining the resistance or holding onto hope for a better future.

The film has a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 24 reviews. It was screened at the 2025 BFI London Film Festival and the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Made in 2025, Palestine 36 will be officially released in late 2025 and January 2026. Despite gaining significant attention, including a nomination for Best International Feature at the Oscars, some critics felt the film was too long and some characters were underdeveloped.

This film stars: Hiam Abbass, Kamel El Basha, Yasmine Al Massri, Jeremy Irons, Liam Cunningham and more.

Lechindi Mahila Lokam (2026) Review: A Witty Telugu Satire on Gender Roles

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Lechindi Mahila Lokam (2026) is a Telugu-language film directed by Carthyk Arjun and was released in theaters on March 26, 2026. This film is a satirical comedy-drama that tackles gender stereotypes. The story centers on a group of women who begin to question long-standing social rules when their daily lives fall into disarray due to unexpected situations. The film also tells the story of a newly married couple who misunderstand each other over trivial matters. The people around them only make things worse. From this light chaos, the story develops into a bold stance for self-respect and equality. Through clever dialogue and layered humor, the film exposes the contradictions in everyday life. Beneath its light tone, there is a message about empowerment, identity, and the voice of women.

Critics praised director Carthyk Arjun. The film is "dialogue-driven" and uses layered humor to satirize gender norms. The satire is sharp but not preachy. The film delivers a relevant social message by discussing empowerment, identity, and women's voices in a lighthearted way. The acting from the cast is also entertaining.

Unfortunately, the promotion and theatrical release were minimal. The film "quietly arrived" in theaters on March 26, 2026, without any buzz. The box office was only ₹0.01 Cr on the first day. As a result, many people did not know this film existed. The execution of the satire may be too "safe." Because its genre is "comedy entertainer," some of its jabs may have been softened. For those looking for a radical feminist film, this might feel underwhelming. It leans more toward "light-hearted chaos" rather than heavy drama.

This film stars: Shraddha Das, Lakshmi Manchu, Gemini Ashok, Ananya Nagalla and more.

In my opinion:

SummerSlam (2026) Night 2: A Ladder Match, A Return & A Final Chapter

source: wrestlingnetwork.com

SummerSlam Night 2 has begun. Sunday, August 2, 2026, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. No less than Night 1, this time the surprises will be given to the fans. 3 championships will be contested and the superstars are ready to give everything for them.

Dominik Mysterio is playing cat and mouse with Danhausen. How could he not? Danhausen stole money from Dom and this time their match is a Pole Match. Dom's money will hanging from the pole and the winner will be determined by whoever grabs it first. This match feels like a light opener, because we know Danhausen is famous for his funny gimmicks.

A huge surprise came from the match between Sami Zayn and Finn Balor. Before the match began, Nick Aldis came out and announced a change to the match. Surprisingly, he added Gunther and turned it into a Triple Threat Match. I think this is the compensation given by Nick because Gunther managed to defeat him fair and square. You think that's all? Surprisingly, Nick announced one more participant would be added and made the match a Fatal 4 Way Match. Who could that superstar be? I'll give you a hint, he is someone who will keep fighting and fighting.

The Lone Wolf has returned to WWE, Baron Corbin. The veteran is challenging Trick Williams for the US Championship. This shocked Trick and the WWE Universe, because we know that Corbin disappeared for a long time and was last seen in NXT. Many said Corbin was finished, but he is back. The Lone Wolf is back and hunting Trick because he smells the one thing he wants the most: the US Championship belt.

SummerSlam (2026) Night 1: Let's Start The Biggest Party Of The Summer

source: wrestlingnetwork.com

The 39th SummerSlam has arrived and is scheduled to take place as a two-night event on Saturday, August 1, and Sunday, August 2, 2026, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota USA. SummerSlam is said to be on the same level as WrestleMania. The first night was incredibly tense, dramatic, and spectacular. The superstars each have their own stories and missions, but one thing is certain: destruction.

Fatal Influence, the rising trio. After snatching the Women’s Tag Team Championship from Brie Bella and Paige, they are back to fight in a 6-Woman Tag Team match. Who is the third person on Brie and Paige’s side? Of course, it’s Brie’s twin, the Fearless Nikki Bella. Nikki returns from her injury hiatus and is ready to take down Fatal Influence as proof that she is one superstar whose light has not faded.

A 6-Man Tag Team match is also scheduled for night one. The Bloodline, now reinforced by The Samoan Werewolf, Jacob Fatu, will face the trio of Royce Keys, LA Knight, and their own brother, Solo Sikoa. Especially Solo. Even without the help of the MFT, this SummerSlam is a night of proof that he will still shine even if he’s not under the Bloodline’s wing or with MFT’s backing. For Knight and Keys, the Bloodline is just a troublemaking group that worships Roman Reigns, The Tribal Chief. They want to prove that the Bloodline is not above anyone.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026) Review - Tom Holland’s Best MCU Film Yet, A Mature, Grounded Love Letter to the Comics

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026), directed by Destin Daniel Cretton with a runtime of 2 hours and 25 minutes. 4 years after No Way Home. Everyone has forgotten Peter Parker, including MJ and Ned. Now "Peter Parker" no longer exists. He lives alone, working full-time as Spider-Man only. His apartment is full of police scanners, monitors, and a 3D printer to build gadgets. He works alongside Detective Jean DeWolff and his reputation is excellent — the police love him, and crime rates have dropped. Problems begin when a strange crime appears. The main villain can "jump" and hop from body to body like Agent Smith in The Matrix. He is a powerful telepath who wants to break into the vault of the Department of Damage Control. Meanwhile, Peter's body also starts having issues. His spider DNA mutates and becomes stronger, hard to control, until he finally asks Bruce Banner for help. Peter also has to face the "repercussions of his past," and sees that MJ + Ned have graduated from MIT and become roommates without him.

Critics praise that this is Tom Holland’s best Spider-Man film so far. Chemistry: Holland + Zendaya is still electric. But the new standout is the dynamic between Spider-Man + Punisher. Bernthal brings natural humor and a brutal contrast vs Peter, who holds Frank back from killing everyone. It’s called "side-splittingly funny."

Mature Peter: Holland plays a Peter who is a workaholic, exhausted, and dealing with mental + physical problems. The "young-adult change" theme is strong. The action, music, and visuals are breathtaking, with fans calling it a "love letter to the comics". Criticism is only aimed at the 145-minute runtime that feels "bloated" and a post-credit scene that’s called "pointless." 

Brand New Day is a more mature, darker Spider-Man, but still funny and heartfelt. The focus isn’t on the Avengers or the multiverse, but on Peter dealing with adulthood + mutation + a new villain.

This film stars: Tom Holland, Zendaya, John Bernthal, Jacob Batalon, Sadie Sink, Mark Ruffalo and more.

In my opinion:

Scary Movie (2026) Review: Nostalgia Hit or Miss? Box Office, Cast & Parody Breakdown

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Scary Movie (2026), release: June 5, 2026. Runtime: 95 minutes. Rating: R. Directed by Michael Tiddes, written and produced by the Wayans brothers. 26 years after escaping Ghostface, the "Core Four" are finally back together: Cindy Campbell (now a paranoid shut-in, à la Jamie Lee Curtis in the latest Halloween), Shorty Meeks, Ray Wilkins, and Brenda Meeks. The masked killer Ghostface returns and starts targeting their kids, Sara and Tuesday. So they reunite to survive.

Critics' reviews are generally negative, but the film is a box office hit. Critics praised the nostalgia and a few jokes that hit the mark. The film performed strongly: a $30 million budget with a $230.4 million gross, making it the 2nd highest-grossing film in the franchise after the first one. There are several criticisms, from outdated jokes to humor that isn’t as sharp as it used to be. Roger Ebert said, "The Wayans come back, the jokes don't." The crude humor + slapstick from the Wayans' 2000s era will probably only get a few laughs. The film feels "blunt" and exhausted.

This film stars: Anna Faris, Marlon & Shawn Wayans, Regina Hall and more.

In my opinion:

Future Cops (1993) Review: The Wildest Street Fighter Parody Movie Ever Made

source: alchetron.com

Synopsis:

Future Cops (1993) / 超級學校霸王 / Chao ji xue xiao ba wang is a crazy Hong Kong action + sci-fi comedy film directed by Wong Jing.  The year is 2043. The world is in chaos because an evil organization wants to alter history to take over the world. To prevent this, the government sends 4 police officers from the future to 1993 via a time machine. Their mission: protect a high school student named Tai-Hung. Because in the future, Tai-Hung will become an important person who will judge "The General".  The problem is, these 4 police officers disguise themselves as students and teachers at Tai-Hung's school. They are clumsy and love to joke around. While teaching and fighting rival school gangs, they also have to fight assassins from the future who were sent to kill Tai-Hung first.  The ending is typical Wong Jing: messy, explosive, full of retro CGI, and with an illogical plot twist — but still fun.

Critics praised Wong Jing's wild action and comedy. School brawls mixed with futuristic laser guns. There are kung fu scenes, gunfights, mechas, and even time travel. Everything is thrown together. Chaotic but entertaining. Don’t think too hard about the plot. What matters is the fast pacing, pretty girls, dumb jokes, and over-the-top villains.  The only weakness of this film is that it has no meaningful moral message. This is purely a popcorn movie for laughs and fistfights.  

This film stars: Andy Lau, Aaron Kwok, Jacky Cheung, Ekin Cheng, Simon Yam and more.

In my opinon:

Obsession (2025) Review: When Love Becomes a Supernatural Nightmare

source: metropolisjapan.com

Synopsis:

Obsession (2025) is a supernatural horror film that initially appears to be a love story, but ultimately turns into a nightmare. This is the breakout film from Curry Barker, a comedian YouTuber making his feature-length debut. It premiered at TIFF on September 5, 2025, had its U.S. theatrical release on May 15, 2026, and runs for 1 hour and 40 minutes.

The story follows Bear (Baron), a shy guy who works at a music store. He has had a crush on his childhood best friend Nikki for a long time, but never dared to confess his feelings. Out of frustration, Bear buys a mystical toy called the One Wish Willow. He then makes a wish to the toy: for Nikki to love him more than anything in the world. His wish is granted instantly. Nikki, who was once ordinary, suddenly becomes super sweet, attentive, and deeply in love with Bear.  But the problem is, this isn’t real love. It’s the result of magic. Over time, Nikki becomes obsessive, possessive, violent, and loses control of herself. Bear only then realizes that he has "manipulated fate" and must now face the terrifying consequences of his wish.

Critics praised the film’s horror style — a blend of psychological horror and supernatural elements. There aren’t many cheap jump scares. Instead, it relies on a chilling and disturbing atmosphere as we watch love transform into obsession. Many have called it a metaphor for the "horror of the nice guy" who cannot accept rejection. Beyond horror, the film also touches on codependent relationships and manipulation. Bear sees himself as the victim, even though he was the one who started it all with black magic driven by his ego.  However, critics also pointed out that the explanation of the magic is minimal. The One Wish Willow toy just appears out of nowhere, and its rules are never explained in detail. It feels like the focus is intentionally more on the psychological aspect than on mythology.

Salmokji: Whispering Water (2026) Review: A Chilling Korean Psychological Horror

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Salmokji: Whispering Water (2026) is a South Korean horror thriller directed by Lee Sang Min.  The story takes place in a remote mountain region of South Korea, where there is an old reservoir called Salmokji. It is said that if you hear the voice of someone you love calling you from the water at night, you must never go to it.  A team of five people is sent there to reshoot damaged footage. At first, it’s just technical problems: GPS errors, strange recordings. Gradually, they begin to hear whispers coming from inside the reservoir. Su-in hears her younger sister’s voice. Others hear their parents. The voice of guilt from each member.  One by one, the team members "disappear," pulled into the water. The reservoir doesn’t choose randomly. It chooses people who are wounded and have not made peace with their past.

Critics praised the psychological horror built in this film. Salmokji doesn’t rely on ghosts popping up suddenly. The horror comes from silence and sound. The concept of "mulgwishin" — a water spirit that feeds on people through trauma — feels incredibly fresh. It feels like The Ring meets Gonjiam, but more intimate.  The reservoir itself feels alive. The fog, the black water, the sound of ripples at night. The cinematography is cold and piercing.  The ending is open. Not everything is answered. Why does the reservoir exist? Who was the first person pulled in? The film leaves us to figure it out.

This film stars: Kim Hye-Yoon, Lee Jong-Won, Kim Jun-Han and more.

In my opinion:

Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend (2026) Review: A Grittier, More Human Ip Man

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

Ip Man: Kung Fu Legend (2026) is a separate franchise starring Yu-Hang To as Ip Man. It was released in the US on July 14, 2026, via Well Go USA, and directed by Li Liming.  Set in 1950s Hong Kong, Ip Man wants to open his own Wing Chun school. But the city is in turmoil. British merchants want to seize the land and forcibly demolish factories without caring about the fate of the workers. Ip Man steps forward to defend the oppressed laborers. As a result, he becomes a thorn in their side. His enemies then frame Ip Man with a murder charge. He is thrown into a prison filled with traps set by his opponents to get rid of him. Inside prison, Ip Man must survive using his martial arts skills while finding a way to clear his name. Outside, his wife is also growing increasingly frustrated and wants to return to Foshan.

Critics praised the film's style. It leans more toward a Kung Fu thriller than a historical biopic. Ip Man is portrayed like an iconic "superhero." The structure is classic: dialogue and political conflict only serve as bridges between action scenes. The focus is on the tension between British colonialism and the local people. The themes of worker exploitation and government corruption aided by foreign powers are brought up again. Added to that is the domestic drama of Ip Man and his wife wanting to go home. Critics considered the story idea to be good. However, the idea is still considered ordinary and not new or rare. The charisma of Ip Man is still strongly associated with Donnie Yen, so Yu-Hang To is still felt to lack the same intensity in playing him.

One Piece: Heroines (2026) Review: Nami & Robin’s Stylish Fashion Heist Special

One Piece: Heroines (2026) is not a feature-length film, but a One Piece special episode adapted from the light novel by Jun Esaka. The focus shifts away from big battles and world-class villains, to a smaller, more personal story. The episode is about teamwork, self-confidence, following your dreams, and supporting women’s dreams. Nami and Robin get the main spotlight in their own unique ways.

Critics praised the Animation & Art Style — Toei really cooked on this one. The character designs are different: taller, more elegant, with a high-fashion runway style. The outfits, proportions, and especially the shoes are crafted in incredible detail. Many say this is one of the best art and animation in all of One Piece. The slice-of-life story feels refreshing — there are no earth-shattering fights or villains. That’s exactly what makes this special feel fresh and brilliant. The focus is on Nami, Robin, and the new character Miucha and Lebno. However, critics also criticized the story for being too short and not strong enough, and that new characters like Miucha and Lebno were not built up strongly and not memorable.

Synopsis (spoiler alert!):

Passenger (2026) Review: A Terrifying Highway Horror by André Øvredal

source: tv.lk21

Synopis:

Passenger (2026) is a film in the Horror, Thriller, Supernatural, and Folk Horror genres. Directed by André Øvredal, it has a runtime of 94 minutes and was released on May 22, 2026, in U.S. theaters. It tells the story of Tyler and Maddie, a young couple who sold everything they owned to live a nomadic "Van Life" and travel around in a van. At first, their road trip feels free and exciting. But a few weeks in, they stop to help someone with a horrific accident on a deserted highway. A huge mistake. From that moment, "something" follows them. A demonic entity called the Passenger attaches itself to them and won’t stop until it claims both of their lives. What started as a romantic adventure turns into a fight for survival on dark roads and wherever they go.

Critics praise its suffocating atmosphere. Øvredal is clever in playing on our most basic fears: empty night roads, a closed-in van, empty highways, and isolation used as a metaphor for fear. The horror is effective — a combination of supernatural, monster, and psychological horror. The timing of the jump scares and the creepy vibe are spot-on. Many say the nighttime road set pieces keep you tense the entire time. However, critics note the weaknesses: a slow pace in the beginning and a loss of direction in the final act.

This film stars: Jacob Scipio, Lou Llobell, Melissa Leo, Joseph Lopez and more.

In my opinion:

Kraken (2026) Review: A Norwegian Myth Awakens in the Depths of Sognefjord

source: watch.plex.tv

Synopsis:

Kraken (2026) is a fantasy thriller film directed by Pål Øie and Sjur Aarthun. A marine biologist named Johanne is asked to travel to Vangsnes, Norway, to investigate a salmon farm at the deep of Sognefjord. At first, it seems like just a series of strange incidents: fish behaving oddly, equipment malfunctioning, and two teenagers brutally killed. All signs point to the depths of the fjord. There is something down there, something that has been awakened by the noise of technology and the construction of the salmon farm. Anything that moves or makes a sound will be destroyed. Together with Erik, Johanne must face the creature before it is too late.

Critics have praised the silent atmosphere of the Norwegian fjord, and the cold cinematography creates an incredibly chilling mood. The idea is also brilliant: sonar technology used to repel salmon lice ends up disturbing the Kraken sleeping at the bottom of the sea. When the monster finally appears, its scale is palpable. The Kraken’s design resembles a giant octopus, and its destructive attack sequences are devastating.

However, critics also point out that the film seems unsure of what it wants to be. It tries to be a serious commentary on ecology, but the final act devolves into pure monster chaos. Some of the underwater CGI has been criticized as poor, and the character development feels lacking.

This film stars: Mikkel Bratt Silset, Sara Khorami, Jenny Evensen, Hans Morten Hansen and more.

In my opinion:

WWE Night of Champions (2026): WWE's Biggest Showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

source: wrestlingnetworks.com

Night of Champions has arrived. Held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this is The Underdog's moment of truth, SamiZayn, to prove that he deserves to be WWE Champion. But the road is incredibly tough. Sami must win a Triple Threat Match against The Ring General, Gunther, and the reigning champion The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes. Sami has endured a long wait, and this is his last chance to claim it. Cody Rhodes must defend his title, and Gunther will not stop until his ambition is fulfilled: to be the best of the best.

Jade Cargill is fed up with Tiffany Stratton. Jade believes Tiffany is meddling too much in her title hunt. Jade is looking to silence Tiffany by challenging her for the Women’s US Championship. Will Jade be able to defeat Tiffany without the help of Michinand B-Fab? Can Tiffany withstand The Storm?

Trick Williams has achieved the perfect life, because he just married his lover, Lash Legend. Trick will complete it by defending his US Championship against Ricky Saints. The Revolutionary, who is sick of Trick's arrogance. This will be Ricky's first title since being promoted from NXT.

The Butcher’s Blade (2026) Review: Brutal Wuxia with Corruption & Betrayal

source: themoviedb.org

Synopsis:

The Butcher's Blade (2026), whose original title is 手遮天 / Shou Zhe Tian and directed by Liu Wenpu. It tells the story of Xue Buyi, a low-ranking constable who has been marginalized for 10 years because he is naive and not politically savvy. When he asks for a better job, he is instead assigned to guard a silver warehouse containing disaster relief funds for a flood. Unfortunately, that night a robbery occurs and the disaster relief funds go missing. Xue is immediately made a scapegoat and falsely accused of theft. His teacher, Huang, saves him and he reunites with his fellow apprentice, Li Zhen. But the deeper he investigates, the more he realizes: corruption and manipulation of the law are rotten to the core. Buyi is trapped and turned into a tool for a “secret squad” that only protects the rich who can afford to pay. Buyi has only two choices: remain an obedient dog of a system where money is worth more than honor, or raise his head and fight against everyone.

Critics praised Liu Fengchao’s acting as Xue Buyi, the “coward” who slowly experiences the bitterness of power. His performance shows a transformation from obedient to savage. The old-school vibe and classic theme: an honest policeman vs corruption, honor vs money. However, critics also criticized the very standard story: a plot about corruption, betrayal, and moral dilemmas, nothing new. The supporting characters are underdeveloped. The antagonist is evil simply because he is evil. The bureaucrats’ motivations are not explored enough.

This film stars: Liu Fengchao, Shanshan Chunyu, Fufu Yuan and more.

In my opinion:

Deep Water (2026) Review: Renny Harlin’s Shark Survival Thriller Delivers Pure Tension

source: flickdirect.com

Synopsis:

Deep Water (2026), directed by Renny Harlin, follows passengers of a commercial flight forced to survive after their plane crashes into the Pacific Ocean. Trapped on wreckage in shark-infested waters, they battle not only nature but also fear, human conflict, and moral dilemmas. With a vibe similar to Open Water and Flight but higher psychological tension, Harlin returns to survival thrillers with a claustrophobic setting that keeps viewers breathless.

Critics highlighted the film’s tense atmosphere on the plane wreckage and open sea. The shark effects feel more realistic than typical low-budget survival movies. While the pacing is fast with no filler, the plot is predictable and character development could be deeper.

This film stars: Aaron Eckhart, Ben Kingsley, Angus Sampson, Li Wenhan, Molly Belle Wright and more.

In my opinion:

Wow, this is insane, this film is truly awesome. It starts with a disaster and then escalates into survival against vicious sharks. Everything is mixed neatly—there’s emotion, recklessness, situations, conflict, bad luck, and drama. I think many films present two main storylines, and this film connects them well. I was moved by the ending; I felt what Ben felt, and it felt real. Ben Kingsley is very charismatic, and Aaron Eckhart “leads” the film well—that’s exactly what a pilot should do during a disaster. This film is a complete package about survival.

The Passenger (2026) Review: 7/10 For This Claustrophobic Van Thriller

source: tv.lk21

Synopsis:

The Passenger (2026) is a psychological thriller film directed by Vadim Perelman. Hassan, a Somalian airport shuttle driver in Minneapolis, is struggling with financial problems. At the airport, he meets Lloyd, a young man who claims he needs to get to Chicago to visit his dying mother. Lloyd offers a large payment for Hassan to drive him there using Hassan’s van. Hassan takes the illegal job because he desperately needs the money. But midway through the journey, the secret is revealed: Lloyd is wearing a bomb vest and he is the one who bombed Minneapolis Airport, killing five people. At gunpoint, Hassan is trapped. He has to keep driving to Chicago while wrestling with a terrible dilemma: should he save himself or save others?

Critics have praised the acting showdown between Hounsou and Smit-McPhee. Hounsou’s performance is calm, emotional, and grounded as a desperate father. Smit-McPhee is the opposite: unpredictable with volatile energy. The premise is morally gray — not just a bomb thriller. It also tests moral boundaries: how far would you go for family or money? Hassan understands that if he saves himself, many more people will be killed.

However, critics also criticized the slow pacing because it is dominated by dialogue and threats, with minimal tension. The film is not new. The premise has been done before. Reviewers say the plot resembles other films, so don’t expect crazy plot twists. ScreenRant gave it a 7/10.

This film stars: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Djimon Hounsou, Leigh-Ann Rose and more.

In my opinion: