STACK #245 March 2025

YOUR

TO MOVIES, TV, MUSIC, GAMING & TECH

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

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ISSUE 245 MAR ’25

STACK Issue 245 MARCH 2025 “There’s no point regretting things. If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.” © 2025 Better Man AU Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

WIN!

INSIDE:

WE GO BACK TO ANCIENT ROME WITH GLADIATOR II LADY GAGA IS BACK WITH A NEW ALBUM

WIN AN ASUS

ROG GAMING PRIZE PACK!

PERKS see page 4 for details

CONTENTS

ISSUE 245 MAR 2025

MOVIES & TV 6 Intro/Filmmaker's Signature/Take 5/Trivia 7 Merch of the month/Charts/Socials /30 years ago this month 8 Cinema: Flow / Spit 9 Monkey Business: Better Man interview 10 Born to Hunt: Kraven the Hunter 12 When in Rome: Gladiator II 14 Sing Sing interview/ Magic Beach interview 16 The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim 17 Rosehaven : Interview with Celia Pacquola and Luke McGregor 18 New from Imprint Films 20 The Last Redemption : Interview with Natalie Burn 21 New to 4K/The latest anime 22-23 Out this month MUSIC 24 My first album/ STACK Exchange 26 New music from Lady Gaga and The Cruel Sea 28 Sydney’s Grentperez unveils debut album while Canada’s thrilling Spiritbox is back with number two 30 WA’s two piece Old Mervs release their first long player and Liz Stringer returns with her seventh album, The Second High 32-33 What new music is landing in-store at JB this month? 34 Kendrick Lamar’s excellent untitled unmastered. is our Vital Vinyl focus 36 INXS’s Listen Like Thieves turns 40 - and yes, there’s a fresh vinyl release on the cards to celebrate it 38 Rock ‘n’ roll stories with Stuart Coupe GAMING 40 Take 5/Chart/Q5/ Wham, bam, game exam! 42 Assassin’s Creed Shadows interview 44 WWE 2K25 Q+A 46 Split Fiction interview 48 Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition and Suikoden I + II HD previews 50 PlayStation Midnight Black accessories 52 HyperX Quadcast 2 S review 54 Razer Viper V3 Pro mouse/Razer BlackWidow V4 X keyboard 56 5 of the weirdest weapons in games 57 Out this month TECH FLIP MAG AND READ FROM BACK 4 Tech tips 5-6 Meet SwannShield, your AI-powered house sitter 8 Beyond security: Get creative with your smart camera 10-18 Smart homes for assisted living 20 The smart way to reduce energy bills 22 Smart home tech you won't even notice 24 Mesh networking and Wi-Fi 7 26-32 The latest in robot vacuum tech 34 Check out the new Asus ROG Phone 9 36 5 things we love about the Samsung Galaxy S25 38 Get fit with the Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds 40 Nebula Capsule Air Projector review 42 New tech at JB this month

WELCOME

A quick glance at the trailer for Better Man and you’d be forgiven for thinking that Caesar from Planet of the Apes had reinvented himself as a rock star. This is no bizarre Apes spin-off, however, but rather the warts-and-all story of Brit superstar Robbie Williams’ rise to fame, from his tenure with boy band Take That and struggles with substance abuse and mental health issues, to his successful solo career. Better Man is another novelty music biopic, following Pharrell Williams’ LEGO animated Piece by Piece , with Robbie Williams played by a CGI chimpanzee at the suggestion of director Michael Gracey ( The Greatest Showman ). It's a gimmick that surprisingly works, and Gracey invests the film with all the manic energy of a Baz Lurhmann production, staging inventive musical numbers and masterfully edited montages. And, of course, the soundtrack is a set list of Williams’ greatest hits. Shot Down Under at Melbourne’s Dockland Studios, Better Man recently swept the local AACTA Awards, claiming nine wins including 'Best Film' and 'Direction', and is now poised to send Williams’ fans bananas when it hits home entertainment formats this month. Paul Jones, Editor-in-Chief

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Founder Nic Short Editor-in-Chief Paul Jones Tech Editor Scott Hocking

Music Consultant Mike Glynn Marketing Manager Fleur Parker Chief Contributors Gill Pringle, Bob Jones Contributors Jeff Jenkins, Billy Pinnell, Bec Summer, Dan Nicholson, Stuart Coupe, Trista McConville, James O’Connor, Michael Caverzan

Social Media Manager Glenn Cochrane Production Manager Craig Patterson

Games & Online Editor Amy Flower Movie & TV Editor Glenn Cochrane Creative Director Gary Siewert Movies Consultant Kerrie Taylor Games Consultant Sachi Fernando

Correspondence STACK editor@stack.com.au

RATINGS GUIDE

Parental guidance recommended

Recommended for mature audiences

Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accommpanied by a parent or adult guardian

Restricted to 18 and over

General

Disclaimer STACK is published by Scribal Custom Pty Ltd (ACN 092 362 135). © Copyright Scribal Custom Pty Ltd, 2025 All rights reserved. All material appearing in this publication is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material or advertisement. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Scribal Custom Pty Ltd. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of advertisements or information. Whilst care has been taken in the research and preparation of this publication, the publishers, writers or anyone else associated cannot accept any responsibility for any loss, injury or hardship arising from the content contained herein or reliance therefrom, howsoever caused, and it remains your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any such content. Views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher or the editor. By the very nature of this publication, things change daily and we cannot take responsibility for any changes or inaccuracies that occur subsequent to going to press.

OWN IT ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD MARCH 26 While Stocks Last

Strong coarse language, drug use and mental health themes

© 2024 Better Man AU Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

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RIDLEY SCOTT

At 87, Ridley Scott remains one of Hollywood’s legendary filmmakers. The visionary director has delivered countless classics over the decades, including Alien (1979), Blade Runner (1982), and Gladiator (2000). With his latest epic, Gladiator II , now upon us, let’s explore three of his signature trademarks. Epic scale From the sprawling dystopian cityscapes of Blade Runner to the war-torn battlefields of Napoleon , Ridley Scott excels at crafting epic spectacle. Using sweeping wide shots and meticulous attention to detail, he blends grandeur with realism, immersing audiences in breathtaking cinematic worlds. Themes of leadership and power From American Gangster (2007) and House of Gucci (2021) to G.I. Jane (1997) and All the Money in the World (2017), Scott’s films often portray ambitious figures, exploring their rises and falls within complex power dynamics, while unflinchingly examining the consequences of authority. Use of introductory info card to set context A recurring motif in Scott’s films is the use of introductory title cards. Whether brief or detailed, these cards set the scene, providing essential context for complex stories. Notable examples include Blade Runner , Gladiator , Kingdom of Heaven (2005), and The Martian (2015). Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II is out this month, but it could have been very different. After the original’s success, Paramount pushed for a sequel. Scott considered a new story far from Rome, while Russell Crowe wanted a fantasy plot to revive his character. Crowe enlisted Nick Cave to write the script, which involved Maximus waking up in the afterlife and travelling through time to Hell and back. Bonkers, right? FUN FACT A legacy sequel to Romy and Michele’s High School Reunio n has just been announced - something we didn’t exactly see coming! While we can’t say for sure if anyone was asking for it, a follow-up to the 1997 cult classic certainly wasn’t on our bingo card. Still, it makes sense. After all, Bill & Ted got a legacy sequel, and Happy Gilmore has one on the way, so why not Romy and Michele ? Especially with the movie’s enduring fanbase. Fun fact: there was actually a made-for-TV prequel, Romy and Michele: In the Beginning , released in 2005. But now, Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino are back for more of their signature dim-witted hilarity and we’re kind of down for it. IN DEVELOPMENT

letting your ambitions be smothered by what society expects of you. It was a truly life-changing experience, becoming a forever

MARCH

favourite of mine.

What’s one of your all-time favourite films, and why? Interstellar - one of Nolan’s greatest for a reason! The performances, cinematography, score, and screenwriting simply can’t be beaten. Seeing it recently in IMAX was a borderline religious experience, and it’s a film I think appeals to anyone’s interests. What’s one of your all-time favourite TV series, and why? As a lover of all things vampirism (and attempting to fill the NBC Hannibal -shaped hole in my heart), the current adaptation of Interview with the Vampire perfectly blends themes of romanticism, horror, found-family and loneliness specific to immortal beings, and it’s truly addictive. What have you been watching lately that you’d recommend? The Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End anime is arguably one of the most impressive series that I’ve been devouring - fans of fantasy and DnD-esque media will fall in love. I’ve been recommending it a tonne with Part 1 released recently.

’ s ROVING REPORTER

SHANNON MADDEN @ JB Rosny Park, TAS

What’s the best thing about working at JB? The best thing would have to be the dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. The team culture is incredible, and there’s real passion for music, tech, and entertainment! What’s a movie you saw as a child that has left a lasting impression on you? Dead Poets Society kickstarted my love for poetry and Robin Williams, the importance of being vulnerable and creative, and not

QUIZ

Q7 Who portrayed Wyatt Earp’s father, Nicholas, in Lawrence Kasdan’s 1994 biopic Wyatt Earp ? Q8 “You’re a big man, but you’re in bad shape. With me it’s a full-time job. Now behave yourself” is a memorable quote from which classic British gangster movie? Q9 What was Quentin Tarantino’s contribution to the film True Romance ? Q10 Robert De Niro is to Marlon Brando as Ewan McGregor is to Alec Guinness. How exactly?

movie did James Dean have a small uncredited role? Q4 What was David (Kiefer Sutherland) and his teenage gang collectively known as in a 1987 movie? Q5 In which classic film does a drug baron outsmart a narcotics detective and escape on a subway train, waving at him as the train departs? Q6 Which British actor who appeared in The Great Escape (1963) was actually a prisoner of war himself during WWII?

Q1 Which movie had Sidney Poitier shackled to Tony Curtis? Q2 Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now was inspired by which Joseph Conrad novel? Q3 In which John Wayne

FEBRUARY 2025 (Issue 244) ANSWERS - A1. Joaquin Phoenix and his late sibling River Phoenix A2. Mel Gibson ( Braveheart ) A3. Cocker Spaniel A4. Steve McQueen A5. Saving Private Ryan A6. Forbidden Planet A7. The psychopath Max Cady in both versions of Cape Fear A8. The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) A9. Alan Ladd A10. The Thing - the closing line delivered by MacReady (Kurt Russell)

MARCH 2025

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THIS MONTH at

EXTRAS

Corpse Bride - Fashion Backpack

Beetlejuice - Fashion Backpack

STACK SOCIAL

DC Comics - Batman Fashion Backpack

Join us on social media and stay updated with the latest news, reviews, and monthly competitions. See exclusive unboxing videos, the newest movie trailers, gameplay videos, and red carpet pics from film premieres. Make sure you get involved and follow us on: STACK Magazine stackmagazine @stackmag @STACKMag STACKPresents What you've been loving on socials this month: There’s something about bad hair pics that always tickles the funny bone, and our recent post featuring celebs with horrible hair days clearly hit the spot - it’s become one of our most popular Facebook posts! If only they’d had a Dyson AirWrap i.d. Multi-styler.

Gremlins - Gizmo Fashion Backpack

Spy X Family - Anya Backpack

One Piece - Luffy Fashion Backpack

IT - Time to Float Fashion Backpack

The Lord of the Rings - Fashion backpack

TANK GIRL Tank Girl is one of those bizarre, must-see films that has to be experienced to be believed. Although a box office flop upon its 1995 release, the movie quickly gained a cult following. Starring Lori Petty as the titular antihero, it’s set in the drought-stricken Australian outback, where she and her

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genetically modified footsoldiers battle against an oppressive superpower led by Malcolm McDowell. Co-starring Naomi Watts and Ice-T, Tank Girl is a high-octane, comic book adventure that’s well worth revisiting.

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Joke of the day: Q: What do Alexander the Great and Winnie the Pooh have in common? A: They both have the same middle name A happy birthday to QUENTIN TARANTINO who turns 62 on March 27 Hollywood’s ultimate movie geek got his start at the Video Archives video store in Manhattan Beach, California, working alongside fellow writer/director Roger Avary. His debut film, Reservoir Dogs (1992), launched him into the spotlight, but it was his follow-up, Pulp Fiction (1994), that cemented his status as a pop culture icon. Over three decades, he’s delivered instant classics like Kill Bill (2003/2004), Inglourious Basterds (2009), and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019). Now, we eagerly await his next - and self-proclaimed final - film with bated breath. STACK ’s fave celebrity quote: “They should make phones for full figured girls” - Fluisa ( Deuce Bigelow: Male Gigolo )

CHARTS

DVD BEST-SELLERS in FEBRUARY 2025

BLU-RAY BEST-SELLERS in FEBRUARY 2025

4K UHD BEST-SELLERS in FEBRUARY 2025

1 VENOM: THE LAST DANCE 2 SMILE 2 3 LEE 4 THE LAST BREATH 5 THE ROOKIE: SEASON 5 6 MEGALOPOLIS 7 KNUCKLES: SEASON 1 8 ARMORED 9 JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX 10 JUSTIFIED: CITY PRIMEVAL - SEASON 1

1 VENOM: THE LAST DANCE 2 SMILE 2 3 DUEL 4 WATERWORLD 5 GODZILLA MINUS ONE 6 SERENITY 7 DO THE RIGHT THING 8 JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX 9 THE WILD ROBOT 10 GALAXY QUEST

1 VENOM: THE LAST DANCE 2 SMILE 2 3 MEGALOPOLIS 4 THE SUBSTANCE 5 GEN V: SEASON 1 6 KNUCKLES: SEASON 1 7 TERRIFIER 3

8 SATURDAY NIGHT 9 THE WILD ROBOT 10 LEE

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CINEMA FEATURE

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SPIT

T he film, which also starred screen icons Timothy Spall, Gary Sweet, and David Field, was a critical and box office success, with Wenham’s standout performance widely praised. Now, 20 years later, Johnny ‘Spit’ Spitieri gets his own movie in this highly anticipated spin-off sequel, Spit . The story picks up two decades after the events of Gettin’ Square . Johnny, after years on the run overseas, sneaks back into Australia using a fake passport. However, his return is anything but smooth - he’s caught and lands in an Immigration Detention Centre, where a fat target is quickly stuck on his back. Wenham - a simple-minded, small-time crook and loyal mate to Sam Worthington’s Barry. Words Glenn Cochrane Back in 2003, the Australian crime comedy Gettin’ Square introduced audiences to Johnny ‘Spit’ Spitieri, played by David

T he story of Flow follows a displaced cat navigating a disaster-ravished world after a devastating flood destroys its home. Stranded and alone, the cat finds refuge on a small boat, where it encounters a variety of other animals seeking safety. From a loyal Labrador to a quirky capybara, a watchful secretary bird, and a clever lemur, the group must set aside their differences and learn to work together to survive the perilous journey ahead. Flow has earned widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. The film is a feature-length adaptation of Gints Zilbalodis’s 2013 short film Aqua . Zilbalodis, a Latvian filmmaker known for his minimalist, evocative storytelling, also directed the award-winning Away (2019). With Flow , he weaves a subtle yet powerful social commentary about unity, resilience, and the importance of overcoming divisions to face common challenges. Despite its simple premise, the film resonates deeply with its viewers, delivering a universal message without a single line of dialogue. anthropomorphised. Instead, Zilbalodis focused on capturing realistic animal behaviour, with meticulous research going into how each species moves and interacts. The absence of dialogue is offset by an immersive sound design that uses real animal recordings, allowing the creatures to communicate in an authentic and compelling way. Adding to the film’s innovation, Flow was created entirely using Blender, a free and open-source 3D creation software. While Blender is widely used for pre-visualisation and visual effects in the commercial industry, it is rare for a feature-length film to be entirely produced with it. Flow sets a new precedent for what independent creators can achieve. Flow , the multi-award-winning animated film from Latvia, speaks volumes without dialogue, captivating audiences with its universal appeal and emotional depth. Words Glenn Cochrane FLOW A unique aspect of Flow is its portrayal of animals. Unlike many animated films, the characters are not

With old enemies closing in and long-standing scores to settle, Johnny must stay one step ahead of danger or risk landing in even deeper dung. Along the way, he finds unexpected allies among the other detainees, who teach him valuable lessons about identity, resilience, and what it means to be a true Aussie. Gary Sweet, David Field, and David Roberts also return. Fans of the original film have plenty to be excited about, and if the trailer is anything to go by, Spit promises to deliver a worthy follow-up. Wenham’s iconic performance in Gettin’ Square set the bar high, but this film might just see him outdo himself. Jonathan Teplitzky returns to direct, having previously helmed acclaimed films such as The Railway Man (2013), Burning Man (2011), and Churchill (2017). Joining him is Gettin’ Square writer Chris Nyst, who brings his sharp legal expertise and rich personal experience to the script, crafting a story brimming with authenticity and humour. Spit is shaping up to be a must-see celebration of Australian cinema.

Spit is in cinemas Mar 6

Flow is in cinemas Mar 20

MARCH 2025

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FEATURE MOVIE

Better Man is a major Australian production, filmed at Docklands Studios in Melbourne. With a reported budget of $110 million, it ranks

among the most expensive Australian films ever made. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring acclaimed local talent such as Damon Herriman, Kate Mulvany, Rachelle Jasmine Banno, and Anthony Hayes. This ambitious project cements Australia’s growing reputation as a powerhouse for high-calibre filmmaking.

GENRE: Musical fantasy RUN TIME: 2h 16m

Damon Herriman (centre)

Pop superstar Robbie Williams has been making the rounds explaining why he’s depicted as a monkey in Michael Gracey’s fantasy musical biopic Better Man - but he hasn’t always been truthful. Until now. Words Gill Pringle ”H e’s a monkey, he’s in a boy band, he’s a solo artist.

The film also heart-achingly outlines how his relationship with former girlfriend, All Saints star Nicole Appleton, suffered during those difficult years. And since Williams is telling it all - naturally there were a few awkward phone calls to make ahead of the film’s release. ”The most difficult bit is watching Nicole Appleton and what we went through. With Nic, I did the wrong thing. I was an awful boyfriend, like, really awful, and I was at the height of my addiction and alcoholism. ”And it breaks my heart every time I watch it because she’s a complete angel, and there is still shame attached to who I was then - but, yeah, everybody else can go under the bus,” he says, still fiercely protective of Nicole. ”It’s such a sensitive topic to be portraying as a storyteller, and Rob was adamant that nothing about Nicole’s story be represented without her blessing,” adds Gracey. Then, of course, there was the conversation with his former Take That bandmate Gary Barlow after sending him the script. ”So, he phoned me up. We’re mates now, and I love him, and our relationship is 95% healed, and there’ll always be a scar, but he loves me. I love him. But the first script was different, right? And he phoned me up and he went, ’Rob, I can’t believe this script, I come off worse than Darth Vader in the first Star Wars ’. ”I was like, ’Just try to see from my point of

”And Michael looked at me, and kinda went, ’Monkey?’ And then he went, ’Yeah, so I’ve got this idea that everybody in the movie is human apart from you, and you’re a CGI monkey.’ Before the sentence was finished, I was totally in and sold on it. And I’m like, ’Yes, that’s genius - and I totally see it’,” he recalls.

But I also think that it’s a very, very human story about the human condition, and the lack of self-worth and the insecurities and the wanting to be loved and the wanting to be seen and wanting to be heard,” ventures the 50-year old former Take That star. But that still doesn’t fully explain why he is depicted as a monkey in the film.

Through this unusual concept, Better Man takes an unflinching look at the ups and downs of Williams's life, from his childhood growing up as an only child in Stoke-on-Trent with an absent father, through his joining Take That at 16 - the youngest member of the band - to his solo fame and subsequent spirals into alcoholism, substance abuse, mental illness, obesity, and self-esteem issues.

Robbie Williams with director Michael Gracey

”OK? So the truth is, Michael [Gracey] came over and said to me: ’Look, what is your spirit animal?’ And I was trying to find some self worth for myself at the time, and chin up and chest out, I said: I am a lion ,” admits Williams when we meet with him in Los Angeles.

view’. So we did curb a few things, but that’s the awkward thing about my life, and what I need to have the wind in the sails for the third act of my career, which is the same as everybody else, we end up doing books and documentaries, and if you’re lucky, get a biography.”

LIKE THAT? YOU'LL LOVE THESE! Bob Marley: One Love Back to Black

Bohemian Rhapsody Rocketman Elvis

• Better Man is out Mar 26

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MOVIE FEATURE

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GENRE: Action sci-fi RUN TIME: 2h 7m

BORN TO HUNT After a long wait, Kraven the Hunter is finally here! The brutal new action flick from Sony’s Spider-Man Universe stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Russell Crowe. Words Gill Pringle

• Kraven the Hunter is out Mar 19

ROGUES GALLERY Top 5 Spidey villains

K raven the Hunter - aka Sergei Kravinoff - is one of Spider-Man’s most intense and unique foes. Unlike most villains, he doesn’t want wealth or power. Instead, he’s driven by a primal obsession: to be the best hunter in the world, and that includes taking down Spider-Man as his ultimate prize.

world, but also one of its most feared. According to sources, Sony had previously approached Brad Pitt, Keanu Reeves, John David Washington, and Adam Driver for the role, but quickly decided upon Taylor-Johnson after seeing early footage of his performance in Bullet Train . One of the things that sets Kraven apart is his code of

1

Green Goblin (Norman Osborn)

Kraven is a master tracker, hand-to-hand fighter, and survivalist. With enhanced physical abilities

honour. He’s not a typical villain; he doesn’t even see himself as a bad guy. To him, hunting Spider Man isn’t about malice, it’s about proving his strength and skill. In his mind, he’s

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- thanks to a special serum that gives him the strength, speed, and endurance of a superhuman - he sees himself as a predator at the top of the food chain. Intended as the sixth film in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU), the R-rated [U.S. rating] action film stars Aaron Taylor Johnson in the title role with our own Russell Crowe portraying Kraven’s estranged father, Nikolai Kravinoff, a ruthless crime lord. Father and son share a complex relationship and the way Kraven/Sergei

adhering to a personal standard of warrior nobility, which means he doesn’t use guns or high-tech gadgets. He prefers old-school, close quarters combat with his bare hands or basic weapons. This sense of honour sometimes even earns him a strange sort of respect from other heroes, and it also makes him unpredictable - he’ll sometimes team up with Spider-Man if it

DYK?

Ironically, there Spider Man does not appear in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe. There are, however, references to his existence, most notably the birth of Peter Parker in the post-credit sequence of Madame Web .

Doctor Octopus (Otto Octavius)

3

Venom (Eddie Brock)

fits his agenda. One of the most famous stories featuring Kraven is the comic Kraven’s Last Hunt , a dark tale where he actually defeats Spider-Man and temporarily takes on his identity. It’s one of the few stories that show a villain actually achieving their goal, which is rare in superhero comics. In the end, Kraven realises that he’s proven all he needs to and lets Spider-Man live, but the victory leaves him feeling empty. This moment cements Kraven as more than just a villain - he’s a complex character haunted by his obsession. His blend of honour, obsession, and tragedy makes him one of the most memorable foes in Spider-Man’s world.

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was treated as a child, sets him down a path of vengeance with brutal consequences, motivating him to become not only the greatest hunter in the

The Vulture (Adrian Toomes)

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Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Russell Crowe

Sandman (Flint Marko)

LIKE THIS? YOU"LL LOVE THESE

Venom trilogy, Madame Web, Morbius

10 MARCH 2025

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MOVIE FEATURE

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THE ONES THAT GOT AWAY!

One of Hollywood’s most prolific filmmakers, Ridley Scott has nearly made many other movies - some of which were taken up by other directors, while others never came to fruition. Here are a few of them. Johnny Utah (became Point Break ) 3001:The Final Odyssey Tristan and Iseult Dune (1984) The Battle of Britain I Am Legend

GENRE: Action adventure RUN TIME: 2h 28m

Set two decades after the events of his historical epic Gladiator , Ridley Scott re-enters the arena with his long-anticipated sequel Gladiator II . Words Gill Pringle WHEN IN ROME

Blood Meridian Shadow Divers Dudes (1997) RKO 281 (1999)

“I t’s well worth the wait. It’s possibly even more extraordinary than the first,” teased the veteran director of classics like Alien (1979) and Blade Runner (1981) ahead of the film’s theatrical release. While still editing the film in London, Scott spoke via Zoom at this year’s CinemaCon, joined by Paul Mescal, who plays the central role of Lucius Verus - the son of Maximus (Russell Crowe) and Lucilla (Connie Nielsen) - and Nielsen herself. “Working on this film was one of the standout moments in my life to date. Getting to go to work every day and have Sir Ridley Scott behind the camera is a good day's work in any context,” said the Irish actor, who rose to fame in the TV miniseries Normal People . For Nielsen - who alongside Derek Jacobi’s Senator Gracchus represents the only returning key cast members - it’s an emotional return to the Gladiator world. “To return to the big screen as Lucilla once again - and alongside this extraordinary cast - is a feeling that defies description,” she says. This new chapter in the Gladiator

Riddley Scott and Paul Mescal

Perfume:The Story of a Murderer (2006) Monopoly Concussion (2015)

DYK?

Ridley Scott sold the set of the Kingdom of Heaven (2005) to the Moroccan government for just $10, as it would have cost $300,000 to dismantle. Fifteen years later he paid $1 million to rent it back to shoot one sequence for Gladiator II .

story further features Denzel Washington’s Macrinus, a former slave who plots to

Denzel Washington

control Rome. He keeps a stable of gladiators and mentors Mescal’s Lucius. During the film’s press campaign, Washington said of his character, “He’s trying to use everybody. He’d use his own mother, he’d use his own children; he’s already used up his soul, so he didn’t have any left. He’s in bed with the Devil!” Likewise, Scott has described Washington’s character as "pretty f-cking cruel" to the arena fighters, with Washington further adding that he "wants to be Emperor and he's willing to do anything to get there”. Gladiator II is an absolute riot with Scott upping his gladiatorial opponents in this sequel, featuring violent rhinoceroses, vicious apes, and man-eating sharks, amongst other things!

Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal

• Gladiator II is out Mar 5

Connie Nielsen and Derek Jacobi

REWIND ON RIDLEY SCOTT

Blade Runner, Black Hawk Down, House of Gucci, The Last Duel, American Gangster

12 MARCH 2025

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MOVIE FEATURE

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A SPLASH OF MAGIC Celebrated Australian director Robert Connolly ( The Dry ) ventures into Magic Beach , a fantasy adventure crafted exclusively for preschoolers. GENRE: Animation - family film RUN TIME: 1h 16m

Robert Connolly has been an integral part of the Australian film industry for three decades. He began as a producer on films like The Boys (1998) and The Monkey’s Mask (2000), before making his directorial debut with The Bank (2001), which set him on course to become one of Australia’s most respected filmmakers.

B ased on Alison Lester’s 1990 best-selling children’s book, Magic Beach is an unconventional celebration of imagination, with each of the ten chapters illustrated by a different artist from a collective of local talents. ” Magic Beach has been a passion project for me for about ten years,” Connolly explains to STACK , excited and relieved for audiences to see the film finally, proudly adding, ”It’s in my family film genre. I did Paper Planes (2014) ten years ago and it was after that film that I seriously started looking at Magic Beach . ” Paper Planes was for primary school, and then I did Blueback (2022) for high school, and now this is my film for preschool.” If you’re unfamiliar with Alison Lester or Magic Beach ,

you might be in the minority. She’s a prolific author of over 25 children’s books and several adult works, and Robert is eager to emphasise her prolificacy. ”I mean Alison Lester, and the book Magic Beach , is on the one-dollar stamp at the moment. That’s how famous she is. And I love that in the marketing of the film the posters say, ’Alison Lester’s Magic Beach ’ in huge letters, and then underneath ’From the director of Paper Planes ’”, he laughs. ”I’ve been trumped.” The film consists of ten beautifully realised animations, each with its own distinct style - ranging from hand-drawn and stop-motion to computer-generated and abstract. This vibrant kaleidoscope of visuals is meticulously crafted to captivate a preschool audience, relying on colour and imagery to hold their attention. ”It was really challenging,” Connolly says of the film’s style and direction.

The Bank (2001) Three Dollars (2005) Balibo (2009) The Turning (2013) Paper Planes (2015) The Dry (2021) Blueback (2022) Force of Nature: The Dry 2 (2024)

”And Alison said early on, ’My books are successful because they trust kids. They trust their imagination. They don’t fill in the blanks.’” Glenn Cochrane

• Magic Beach is out Mar 26

LIKE THIS? YOU’LL LOVE THESE:

Oddball, Blinky Bill: The Movie, Storm Boy

GENRE: Drama RUN TIME: 1h 47m

SING SING Possibly the only feel-good film of awards season - with the exception of animation - Sing Sing stands out as a stirring true story of resilience, humanity, and the transformative power of art.

• Sing Sing is out Mar 26

L ed by Colman Domingo, the film stars an unforgettable ensemble of formerly incarcerated actors from New York’s infamous maximum-security prison, all of whose lives have been indelibly altered by the Rehabilitation Through the Arts program (RTA). Domingo portrays John “Divine G” Whitfield, imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit, a man who finds purpose within a theatre group alongside other incarcerated men and encouraging newcomer Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin - who actually plays himself in the film. Indeed, there are few professional actors in Sing Sing, most of the cast comprising real life RTA graduates, all grateful for their freedom and eager to give back.

STACK has met with Maclin several times, and there can be no doubt that this is a man for whom the arts has been his saviour. “We need you to think of us the way we are, not the way the mainstream would like you to believe us. Because in prison, we don't watch prison movies! So I would never even consider this a prison movie. It just happened to take place in prison,” he argues. “But this is a more human story. It's about humanity. It's about growing up. It's about being accountable. It's about being a community, about being that for real, not just faking like you gangster,” says Maclin whose broad gap-toothed smile and infectious laughter has melted hearts and minds.

Clarence Maclin and Coleman Domingo

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In real life, he was one of the most feared men at Sing Sing, a self-professed “yard bandit” who made a reputation for himself by extorting money from other members of the prison population. He happened upon RTA purely by chance. One day, he was supposed to collect money from someone in the yard, but pouring rain changed their meet-up to the prison chapel, where RTA was putting on a play. “I’m down there, I get my money - and I can’t leave, because I gotta stay for the duration,” he recalls. Gill Pringle

Fisherman’s Friends Whiplash Healing Billy Elliot

DID YOU KNOW?

The entire cast and crew, from best boy to lead actor, were paid equally to help keep the budget low and maximise the potential for profit.

14 MARCH 2025

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MOVIE & TV FEATURE

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GENRE: Fantasy action RUN TIME: 2h 14m

THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE WAR OF THE ROHIRRIM The new animated movie The Lord of the Rings:The War of the Rohirrim transports us back to Middle-earth and the epic world created by Peter Jackson’s belovedThe Lord of the Rings trilogy based on J.R.R.Tolkien’s books. F ocusing on a tale set 183 years before the events of The Hobbit , this with Freca, a Dunlending lord, arriving at King is uninterested in such an alliance. A confrontation ensues, leading to Helm

• The War of the Rohirrim is out Mar 12

“We were able to visually create a consistency between the trilogy of films and this anime because of the generosity of Philippa and, actually, everybody in New Zealand who shared all the details of the world that was created for the trilogy. “In that way, we shared a common thread in terms of visual design and the look, such as what Rohan would have looked like or the landscape or how would the armour look like and many other things,” says the director. “And I think it’s been a

true collaboration in helping us stay in that world and be consistent, because that needed to be carried over to the anime film. “So, working with Philippa and the team made sure that we weren’t getting out of lane but, at the same time, staying true to what

Helm’s hall with his son, Wulf. Intending to force a marriage between Wulf and Héra, Freca’s real goal is to seize control of Rohan’s throne. However, Héra, who embodies the spirit of a shield-maiden,

new iteration delves into the saga of Helm Hammerhand, the formidable King of Rohan, and his courageous daughter, Héra. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama, the story begins

unintentionally killing Freca with a single powerful blow, earning him the moniker “Hammerhand”. This act sets off a chain of events marked by vengeance, betrayal and war. When STACK spoke with Kamiyama, he was quick to give thanks for the support he received from the original producing team behind The Lord of the Rings , in particular producer Philippa Boyens.

we do best, which is to make anime,” he adds. Gill Pringle

Kenji Kamiyama directed the popular anime series Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex . DYK?

RETURN TO MIDDLE EARTH ON 4K

The Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit trilogy collections.

GENRE: TV drama

THE PENGUIN When Colin Farrell first debuted his Penguin character in 2022 comic book film The Batman , his performance was so well received it earned him his own eight-part TV series.

• The Penguin is out Mar 26

F ollowing a three-hour makeup transformation to give his Penguin - aka Oswald Cobb - his signature beaky nose and pock-marked skin, Farrell’s usually slim physique would disappear inside an enormous body suit to create the character’s bulky body. But, in-between takes, he would overheat, therefore a special tent - known as the igloo - was created on set so that he didn’t perspire and ruin his makeup. “Three industrial air conditioners would pump into the tent and there was one chair and I would sit there and be bored and just stare into space. And so, I’d leave messages for my kids on the phone, ‘How you doin’? What’s up, kid’,” laughs the Irish actor, using The Penguin’s brash New York accent while chatting with STACK . “I’m sure maybe they liked the first one.

But then they’re like: Here he is again, yeah, the f-cking Penguin, very good. Impressive,” quips the Oscar nominated actor with typical self-deprecation. “But I did that just to keep myself going and stave off the boredom.” If we often hear about actors packing on the pounds for a role - think Renée Zellweger in Bridget Jones’ Diary , Robert de Niro in Raging Bull - then Farrell was not prepared to put on the weight for The Penguin . “When I read the script first for The Batman , I was a bit baffled as to what I could do with it or how I would look. I met director Matt Reeves to talk about it and I had just come off a series called The North Water that I’d put on 50 or 60 pounds for. And Matt was like, oh my god, you look great, the body’s great,” he recalls.

“And I was like, well tough sh-t, say goodbye to it because I’m dropping pounds now. I’ve got to get healthy again. I just finished being bigger for six months,” says Farrell, 48, who instead relied on bodysuit technology. Celebrated for his roles in The Lobster , The Banshees of Inisherin, and In Bruges , amongst countless others, he admits to actually enjoying his makeup process, rendering him unrecognisable from his usual handsome self. “I felt like the circus was in town every morning that I stepped into the makeup trailer - and we had our own trailer just for Penguin. No one could come in, because the last thing you want to do is have somebody come in when the nose is half on.” Gill Pringle

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Gotham: Seasons 1-5, Titans: Seasons 1-4, Peacemaker, Doom Patrol: Seasons 1-4

16 MARCH 2025

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FEATURE TV

his family’s real estate agency while his mother is in the hospital. His best friend, Emma, shows up uninvited after a failed honeymoon, and together they navigate the quirky dynamics of small-town life. “We like the small-town thing,”

• Rosehaven: Series 5 and Series 1-5 are out Mar 12

says Celia, “because it’s where small problems can be big issues.” “The name was a placeholder from

Celia Pacquola and Luke McGregor walk down memory lane with STACK to discuss small-town shenanigans, comedic chemistry, and why Rosehaven is worth the wait. Words Glenn Cochrane F our years after its final episode aired, the quirky Aussie comedy series is finally Celia Pacquola and Luke McGregor RETURN TO ROSEHAVEN

memory,” explains Luke. “We were trying to find a town name that didn’t exist in Australia, and we just called it Rosehaven until we thought of a better name.” “Yeah, we were thinking, ‘Something like Rose Haven,’” adds Celia. “And then it just stuck.” “The original title was going to be something like Selling Houses Australia ,” admits Luke with amusement. “But Rosehaven just became the default because we never got back to it.” Recalling one of season one’s standout moments, where Luke’s character is struck in the face by a huntsman spider, they share the real-life inspiration behind the scene. “It was Mum,” says Luke, much to Celia’s amusement. “There was a huntsman in our backyard, and Mum threw it over the neighbour’s fence, which led to them throwing the spider back a few days later. I think it landed on one of us, so there was a spider war.” “And there was a real spider on set,” adds Celia. “But the spider that hit Luke in the face was a fake one, and they CGI’d its legs so it looked like it was moving a bit. And there was a spider lady who turned up, and everyone was like, ‘Ahh, the spider lady’s here!’” Luke interjects: “They had a dead spider too, which they taped to my face. And it smelled disgusting.” The magic of Rosehaven lies in its relatable simplicity. Emma and Daniel (and by extension, Celia and Luke) are incredibly likeable, and tuning in each week felt like catching up with good mates. So what now? It’s been four years since Rosehaven ended. Is there more story to tell? Celia teases a possible return. “We do occasionally discuss the idea of a Christmas movie. Who knows? I mean, they’re not dead! I have an idea, but I can’t tell you. Although I reckon Daniel might have had a kid by now. And Emma would not be allowed to hold the baby.” Chatting with Celia and Luke feels like getting an exclusive look into their creative process. Their friendship and ability to riff off each other are as entertaining off-screen as they are on. “This has been really nice to talk about,” says Celia. “We don’t talk about it very often, so it was lovely to think about it again.” Luke McGregor would also like you to know he’s hitting the road this month for a new stand-up comedy tour, Okay, Wow! , running nationwide until August. He’s too modest to say it, but we’re more than happy to spruik it for him.

getting the physical media release it deserves. Fans can now own the long overdue fifth season or the much-anticipated complete collection. “We strike while the

Photo courtesy of ‘The Old Bank of Geeveston’ restaurant

iron's hot,” laughs co-creator Celia Pacquola, reflecting on the long gap between releases. Despite their busy schedules, Celia and Luke McGregor made time to chat with STACK about the show that’s meant so much to them. Luke joined the conversation via speakerphone while navigating traffic from Sydney to Newcastle, while Celia parked outside her home to avoid toddler distractions. “It’s all me. I’m the genius behind the show,” says Luke jokingly when asked about the origins of Rosehaven . “We met doing comedy and stand-up, but then we spent a lot of time together on the set of Utopia ,” explains Celia, referring to the award-winning ABC series created by the Working Dog team ( The Castle, Have You Been Paying Attention? ). “The show was a combination of Luke’s family having worked in real estate, and I’m from a small town. We wanted a vehicle for the two of us to talk sh-t and play to our strengths, which is just the two of us hanging out and being silly.” The premise sees Luke’s character, Daniel, move from Melbourne to the sleepy Tasmanian town of Rosehaven to manage

The mud on Celia and Luke is actually chocolate cake mix. FUN FACT

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MOVIE FEATURE

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Thanks to Imprint Films, we’re spoiled for choice this March with a massive slate of exclusive releases. Let’s dive into their TV offerings and explore the Asian Imprint titles available this month! Words Glenn Cochrane NEW FROM IMPRINT FILMS

UFO:THE COMPLETE S.H.A.D.O. FILES (1970)

TV MOVIE OFTHEWEEK: COLLECTION 2 (1981-1986) Imprint is bringing forgotten TV movies back to life with stunning Blu-ray restorations. This hardbox collection includes Terror Among Us (1981), a gripping police pursuit of a paroled offender; Fallen Angel (1981), about a young girl caught in a sinister racket; and Shattered Spirits (1986), featuring Martin Sheen as a self-destructive alcoholic father. Essential classics revived, these are must-haves for film junkies.

MONKEY GOES WEST (1966) When it comes to Chinese pop culture, there’s no escaping the magic of Monkey , rooted in the 1592 novel Journey to the West . This vibrant adaptation combines fantasy, humour, and adventure, following the mischievous Monkey King and his companions on a quest to retrieve sacred scriptures. This stunning world first release features new commentaries, interviews, and more, and is essential for fans of the hit cult TV series.

We’re thrilled for this release! UFO , the first live-action series by Thunderbirds creators Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, follows S.H.A.D.O., a secret organisation defending Earth from alien invaders. This eight-disc Blu-ray set includes all 26 episodes, the 1980 film compilation, and is restored in high definition with new and archival special features. A must-have for sci-fi fans!

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

VENGEANCE OF A SNOW GIRL (1971) Martial arts fans will be thrilled by Vengeance of a Snow Girl , directed by Wei Lo, renowned for his Bruce Lee classics. This gripping tale follows a woman seeking revenge for her family’s murder. Released before Lady Snowblood (1974), it influenced Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill . This release includes new audio commentaries, interviews, and

THE SNAKE PRINCE (1976) From the legendary Shaw Brothers Studios, The Snake Prince is a vibrant fantasy adventure blending martial arts with mythological storytelling. The film follows a prince transformed into a snake, battling enemies to regain his

human form. Packed with stunning special effects, fight sequences, and costumes, it earned cult status. This release also includes new audio commentaries, interviews, and more.

behind-the-scenes features, offering a deeper look into the film’s legacy.

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

Worldwide first on Blu-ray!

Also out this month

MAN BITES DOG (1992) Full uncut version

SAVIOR

SHATTERED GLASS (2003)

IN THE BEDROOM (2001)

THE WEIGHT OF WATER (2000)

FACTORY GIRL (2006)

(1998)

• The new Imprint range is out on MAR 26 for a limited time only, while stocks last.

18 MARCH 2025

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MOVIE FEATURE

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THE LAST REDEMPTION GENRE: Fantasy adventure For fans of epic fantasies like The Lord of the Rings and Game ofThrones , The Last Redemption is a must watch.With a sweeping storyline and larger-than-life characters, it also shines a spotlight on Natalie Burn, a star and producer to keep an eye on.

Ellen Ripley (The Alien saga): Resilient and resourceful. Sarah Connor (The Terminator saga): Courageous, protective, and selfless. Lara Croft (Tomb Raider): Intelligent and adventurous. Eowyn (The Lord of the Rings): Loyal, brave, and determined. Imperator Furiosa (The Mad Max saga): Fierce and rebellious. Alice (Resident Evil): A strong moral compass and adaptable. KICK ARSE HEROINES!

A lso starring Angus MacFadyen ( Braveheart ), James Cosmo ( Trainspotting ) and Kevin Sorbo ( Hercules ), the film follows a band of outlaws on a quest to protect an innocent princess from a treacherous lord and bring peace to their war-torn land. Speaking with STACK , Natalie Burn shares her experience with working alongside Kevin Sorbo. “I love Kevin Sorbo, I did not know him beforehand,” she admits. “And when I met him on set, he was such a nice person. Of course, I watched him in Hercules when I was growing up, and finally working with someone like him on set was incredible. “He said to me, ‘Oh my God, of course you totally look like Xena the Princess Warrior. You should totally play that part,’” she explains with amusement. “So, let’s call whoever owns the rights and push for that,” she adds, laughing. The guy to speak to would

be The Evil Dead creator Sam Raimi, of course, who we jokingly offer to connect her with. “Yes, Sam Raimi. That’s right! Sam, hello? Please watch The Last Redemption. ”

Burn is no stranger to this genre, having started her career with the polarising German director Uwe Boll in BloodRayne: The Third Reich (2011) and In the Name of the King: Two Worlds (2011). When asked about the appeal of the genre, she doesn’t hesitate to respond.

Natalie Burn

“That’s easy. Strong women!” she says proudly. “Powerful women. Strong and determined who, at the end, whether they succeed or not they have the power of love, and hope, and family, and the will to go on.” Glenn Cochrane

• The Last Redemption is out Mar 5

MORE FANTASY FILLERS

Conan the Destroyer, Highlander, the Mythica saga, Red Sonja

XX XXXXXXXXX 2025

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HIGHLIGHTS 4K UHD

Words Amy Flower

DISCS OF THE MONTH

SE7EN (JB EXCLUSIVE STEELBOOK) David Fincher’s classic serial killer cop drama, starring Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt, hits 4K Ultra HD inside a stylish, JB-exclusive, limited edition steelbook. Join Somerset and Mills as they investigate a serial murderer who’s basing their diabolical acts on the seven deadly sins. On the technical side, expect a native 4K transfer with HDR10 visually, and

VANILLA SKY Almost Famou s and Jerry Maguire director Cameron Crowe’s Tom Cruise-starring sci-fi thriller finds its way to 4K Ultra HD, bringing its story of romance, comedy, suspicion, love, sex, and dreams, based on Alejandro Amenábar’s 1997 Spanish film Open Your Eyes , to us like never before. If you haven’t had the pleasure, Cruise plays a magazine

a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 track aurally. The two disc – one 4K, one standard Blu-ray – set also houses a host of extras, including four audio commentaries, deleted scenes, alternate endings, and several featurettes. Out Mar 12

publisher who starts questioning reality after being injured in a car accident. The native 4K transfer features both Dolby Vision and HDR10, while sonic duties are carried out efficiently by DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1. Out Mar 5

SUPER 8 Sci-fi superstars Steven Spielberg and JJ Abrams collaborated on this onscreen explosion of imagination from 2011. Adding mystery and adventure to the mix, it follows a group of six friends who are busy making a Super 8 movie when they witness a terrible train accident – but that’s just the start, as something terrifying escapes the crash…

CONSTANTINE Keanu Reeves and DC collide, in this horror-meets-superhero tale of a cynical exorcist who possesses special powers. John Constantine can not only communicate with half angels and half demons in their true form, but he can also flit between Earth and Hell. Thankfully the transfer is more on the heavenly side, with a native 4K restoration

Take your pick between Dolby Vision and HDR10 on this one, with sound ably supplied via Dolby TrueHD 7.1. Bonus goodies include an audio commentary, nine featurettes, and a selection of deleted scenes. Out Mar 5

toting both Dolby Vision and HDR10 enhancement. Meanwhile, The audio comes to us in a new Dolby Atmos mix. The numerous extras include audio commentaries, and a meaty collection of featurettes. Out Mar 12

THE LATEST

Words Michael Caverzan

DEMON SLAYER: SWORDSMITH VILLAGE ARC Tanjiro, along with his little

THE STRONGEST TANK’S LABYRINTH RAIDS Working as a member of

TO YOUR ETERNITY An immortal orb is sent to Earth to act as an observer. Anything it comes across, it can take the shape of, and what starts out as a meditation on the concept of immortality artfully blossoms

sister Nezuko, makes his way to a secret village of swordsmiths to repair his broken sword. There, he meets the smith who made it, and what should have been

the hero’s party during their labyrinth raids, Rud hopes

to find a wish-granting treasure that he can use to cure his sister’s illness. Unaware of the true extent of his power as a tank, Rud is blamed for the party’s recent failings and is ousted from the group, so he decides to return home. On his journey back, he comes across a woman with an extremely rare skill that allows her to see someone’s true power – revealing that Rud has a defense stat of 9999, the most powerful in history. Blu-ray | Available Mar 19

into a thought provoking discussion of what it means to be human. Throughout the series, the power of relationships and the effects on human lives that they have are explored quite deeply. Each and every person that the orb – who takes on the name Fushi – comes across leaves an indelible mark on Fushi’s developing psyche. Just have some tissues nearby. Blu-ray | Available Mar 5

some routine repairs is disrupted by the arrival of demons. At this point, Demon Slayer is anime comfort food, though it’s a cut above standard fare thanks to its high-quality animation. Swordsmith Village serves as a fine recap of the arc of the same name, so if you’re going through a rewatch and are short on time, this movie is a fine way to do it. Blu-ray | Available Mar 5

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