Demise

Film, movies, cinema, Hollywood, the dream factory. The whole business has come to a pretty pass when B-movie dross like DEMISE can get itself reviewed in a national newspaper. Disney's atrocious Snow White reboot having failed so spectacularly a Jason Statham actioner outlasted it at the box office, and with Mine Craft being excoriated as we speak, is it any wonder any thing, any little thing that seems remotely related to people and their problems can get industry attention. Even amateurish junk like this.

DEMISE begins with the sound of sexy time, lady's heels scattered on the carpet, man's shoes sat neatly side-by-side. We then see the lady riding high with her undies still on. Admittedly we are talking classy lingerie, but still, one senses we're in Hollywood prudish infantilisation territory. Subsequent clinches don't become any more explicit, nor realistic.

The opening titles wouldn't look wholly out of place on a James Bond movie, if Bond was no longer a spy and merely a gigolo. (Who knows, maybe that's where the franchise will go in the future. Double-Oh Demise, perhaps?) Later we get generic Spanish guitar during one quickie (17 secs, in real time), and generic videogame music, Super Mario maybe, around the 45 minute mark. The music, like the editing, like the dialogue, is a muddle. And what dialogue!

• Wow. Tonight was such fun. I think we needed that.

• I had SO MUCH fun.

Who talks like that with their wife, after dinner and nookie? Do people have 'date nights' when they're still childless? From the first words one senses that Demise is not predicated on life experiences but on genre recognition. The dialogue sounds like it could have been written by, you guessed it, AI.

• Fiona! Look, I know you think you're getting the short end of the stick here.

• You're right. I AM getting the short end of the stick.

(The short end of the stick?) Demise has been compared in the press to 1990s era skin flicks, bonkbusters, T&A movies, only now we have to cope with computer-generated dialogue and what could be intimacy-coordinator-coordinated sex scenes. Even movies like Animal Instincts had better dialogue than Demise.

• Well don't worry, I didn't f*** him in my new dress.

• You BETTER not have.

• I took it off first.

• OOh! I probably deserved that.

(Was that meant to be a witty scolding?) You get the point. I'll have to presume the writer/director is a breather and not a bot, and let's face it, plenty of Hollywood 'content' is based not upon observation of lived experience but rather upon genre pictures, brand recognition. Just as AI works by recycling what's already out there, so can real life human beings, possessing more ambition than talent.

DEMISE deserves to be studied in film schools. Much can be learned from such fare.

Great film! Sexy, hilarious, twisted, and jaw dropping. I loved how the characters were believable, realistic, and even relatable Angelenos vs. Botoxed-out and expressionless. More of the European style in that regard. Fun to see all the cameos. I've recommended it to several friends. I don't watch a while lot of TV and most of the films watch are historical epics or documentaries. Or what my kids are watching. I truly enjoyed watching Demise.

Looking forward to finding out how Celine's character develops and what transpires between the new character. Would love to see Caleb show a little more Latino cultural values that are typical in these types of men in LA.

An absolute disaster from start to finish. This movie is a walking cliché, stuffed with every overused plot twist you could possibly imagine - and somehow still manages to be painfully predictable. The acting? If wooden planks could talk, they would have delivered more emotion. Every scene feels like a bad parody of a better film, and the dialogue is so flat it could put a cup of coffee to sleep. Watching this was not just a waste of time; it was a direct assault on my patience and common sense. I wouldn't recommend this to my worst enemy. If you value your time, run in the opposite direction.

"Demise," the latest thriller by the talented Yara Estrada, is a masterful exploration of love, loyalty, and the intricate webs we weave in our lives. Estrada, a seasoned actor who has transitioned into filmmaking, has poured her heart and soul into this project, and it shows in every frame. Her debut feature film showcases her extraordinary ability to blend emotional depth with intense drama, resulting in a cinematic experience that grips you from start to finish.

The film follows Caleb Castillo, portrayed by the compelling Carlo Mendez, a man torn between his obligations and his desires. The intricate relationships between Caleb, his wife Celine (played by the powerful Liz Fenning), and the charismatic fashion designer Fiona (brought to life by Crystal Hernandez) drive the narrative forward, creating a tension-filled atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Estrada's direction is nothing short of visionary. She deftly navigates the complex narrative, ensuring that each character's journey is portrayed with authenticity and sensitivity. The film's pacing is impeccable, maintaining a perfect balance between suspense and emotional resonance. The vibrant cinematography and meticulous attention to detail further elevate the storytelling, making every scene visually captivating.

What sets "Demise" apart is Estrada's passion and dedication to her craft. Having been an actor for many years, she brings a unique understanding of character development and storytelling to her directorial debut. Her personal touch is evident in every frame, reflecting her deep connection to the story and characters. This film is a testament to her perseverance and commitment to bringing her vision to life.

In addition to the stellar performances and exceptional direction, the film's soundtrack and production design are noteworthy. They seamlessly complement the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

"Demise" is a testament to Yara Estrada's talent and vision. It is a compelling, heart-wrenching tale that will leave you reflecting long after the credits roll. For fans of intense dramas with a touch of noir, "Demise" is an absolute must-watch.

Estrada has undoubtedly made a significant mark with this film, and we eagerly anticipate her future projects. Her ability to craft such a poignant and thrilling story in her directorial debut is truly commendable. "Demise" is not just a film; it's a powerful cinematic journey that showcases the brilliance of a passionate filmmaker.

What I loved most about this film was how it evoked memories of one of my all-time favorites, "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle." Writer and director Yara Estrada Lowe masterfully blends elements of suspense and psychological intrigue, crafting a modern-day, more seductive thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. With its captivating storyline and intense performances, this movie promises an unforgettable cinematic experience that's perfect for a thrilling night in with your significant other. Even better, the movie grows on you with each viewing, revealing new layers and nuances that make it even more compelling the second or third time around.