JacK Bottomley
- Contributor, Roobla
- Lead Writer, Starburst Magazine
- Media Correspondant and Film Reviewer, The Yorkshire Times
England, Keighley
Lead Writer at @STARBURST_MAG, Reviewer at @TheYorksTimes/@TheLancsTimes, @RooblaOfficial, @UKFReview & @drystoneradiouk presenter. Published on RT.
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Articles by JacK Bottomley
Time Travel is Dangerous (2024) review: Sci-fi comedy that’s past a joke
If there’s one genre that can stir the imagination like no other, it’s time travel. Whatever the medium, there’s almost limitless potential to tap into, which in turn brings you along for the ride and transports you to some weird and wonderful places. Here we have a mockumentary that has the opportunity to do just that, but in its own tongue-in-cheek way. Sadly – and this is a genuine sentiment – Time Travel is Dangerous misses the mark by a good few light years.
Could Jaws 50th Anniversary make a shark the saviour of cinema?
They say life begins at 50, although for a film giant like Jaws, this special screening to mark a half-century since its release was more for people to see what they’d missed, rather than some kind of revival. But if any movie can demonstrate to today’s studio bosses why it’s cool to take risks, it’s surely Steven Spielberg‘s masterpiece. I’ve chalked up a few of these retro-screenings, and while it’s a little sad in a way that they’re saving the cinematic bacon right now, they’re always a blast.
The Naked Gun (2025) review: Liam Neeson’s more than a fair cop
Be honest, some of you out there were expecting to be disappointed, weren’t you? If that includes you, then don’t fret, because surely it’s never been nicer to be wrong. The Naked Gun, although far from flawless, should even go down well with the biggest detractors of deadpan humour. And what would the franchise be without that? It’s a brand of comedy that never goes out of fashion, which means audiences of all generations can sit back and enjoy this reloaded 2025 version. Maybe that’s bold talk.
Juliet & Romeo (2025) review: There’s nothing tragic about this musical
Verona, 1301. You know the rest. Most of it, anyway. Juliet & Romeo, Romeo & Juliet: it doesn’t really matter here. What does matter is that this is Shakespeare as you’ve never seen it before – and you’ll be left wondering why. As a musical, and a pop musical at that, it won’t suit all tastes, but the way it’s acted, choreographed, and just generally put together, means that those involved probably don’t give a shiny sonnet.
Love, Charlie: The Rise and Fall of Chef Charlie Trotter (review) 2021: Simmers nicely without coming to the boil
First, the good news. If you’re an aspiring chef then this portrait of a genuine gastronomic trailblazer will inspire you even further to chase your dreams. The bad? If you’re an aspiring chef then this could put you off altogether. This might sound like a back-handed compliment to the late Charlie Trotter, but in truth it’s an indicator of how much of a one-off a person can be. This docu-biopic takes an intimate look at someone who was at the very top of his game and how he got there.
Surveillance (2024) review: When technology goes wrong…
If you’re still fresh from a screening of The Terminator, you’ll appreciate the irony of the latest AI-genre offering that’s about to be unleashed upon an unsuspecting world. And if you take the time to give Surveillance a go, you may be pleasantly surprised as well. Not least because it’s also something of a return to form for Megan Fox, who’s right at home in this sci-fi that will shock you, thrill you, and even make you smirk through a smattering of dark humour.
Alien: Romulus review: the series returns to the big screen in intense style
Since Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley (and Jonesy of course!) emerged as the last remaining survivors of the ill-fated Nostromo crew in Ridley Scott’s sci-fi game changer, the Alien series has grasped pop culture tighter than a facehugger. The franchise and its monster(s) have become among the most important in the history of cinema, and through its constantly transforming and widening mythos, there seems to be more of an appetite than ever to see the series return to its origins.
It’s back! The Terminator turns 40
The heady year of 1984 served film fans a raft of classics: Amadeus, Ghostbusters, Beverly Hills Cop, the list goes on. Unfortunately it was way before my time, but I’ve been reliably informed that the queues from my local cinema (now a Savoy) used to back all the way up to the Co-op (now a Wetherspoons), and trust me, that’s one very long line.
Those About to Die (2024) review: Making Rome relatable
Before sitting down to watch this ten-episode Empire offering, it had been written in certain quarters that this was like travelling back in time to Ancient Rome, would increase tourism in Italy’s capital, and is the greatest work based on the genre that’s ever been made. All three are bold claims, which we’ll aim to answer through the course of this review.
WWE Backlash France 2024 review: Il Est Vraiment Phénoménal La La La La
Now that the dust has settled on WrestleMania XL and our new era is underway, we head to Lyon, France for the first ever WWE PLE in France and on the evidence of this crowd certainly not the last! The groundwork is set, the WWE Draft Rosters have been set and this event is the start of our Post-Mania season but after the loud and passionate Lyon crowd literally shook the building at Smackdown the night before, might we expect the same energy and atmosphere tonight?
WWE WrestleMania XL review: The story is finished, as a new era officially begins…
Now, I have missed the last two WWE PLE reviews, because life can really get in the way sometimes, but to summarise, Royal Rumble 2024 was fine but rather disappointing considering the immense hype going in, and came with the first of many gut punches on this hectic Road to WrestleMania as returning CM Punk suffered an injury. Elimination Chamber 2024 from Perth, Australia was a better show, despite a very slim card and endless adverts!!! So, now we are up to date and WrestleMania XL looms large.
Why we bleeding love Emma Westenberg
‘Total Football’, exceptional cheese and the Olympic flame are just three of the finest exports to come from the Netherlands (bet that last one surprised you). Another you may well be aware of, certainly if you’ve read our glowing review of her big-screen debut Bleeding Love (and if you haven’t, why not?), is director Emma Westenberg, with the movie out in UK cinemas on Friday. In order to be closer to her loved ones, Britain is where she currently resides.
40 Underrated WrestleMania Matches
It is really easy to cite the WrestleMania clashes that are the best or the worst of all time. We all have our opinions and in some cases the facts are indisputable. Few of us can argue for instance, with Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker (WrestleMania 25) or Bret ‘The Hitman Hart’ vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (WrestleMania 13) being placed atop a list. Just as we can’t others being at the bottom.
Bleeding Love (2023) review: Bleeding funny and entertaining, too
Who doesn’t love a good road trip? While we’re at it, who doesn’t love a good road trip movie? For anyone who thought the genre might be running out of gas, here’s a film that’s guaranteed to put you back on track. Bleeding Love is a warm, funny and emotional journey that sees an estranged father and daughter spending a bit of time in each others’ pockets. Starring Ewan McGregor and directed by Emma Westenberg, it’s a story of just how close addiction can push family ties to breaking point.
Dead in the Water (2023) review: Touchingly tragic tale of a decades-long murder-mystery
When you consider how much the world has changed since 1978, not least within the field of crime detection, it seems unfathomable that it takes years to crack some cases. Some don’t get solved at all, but that year was when a particularly harrowing one took place. Two backpackers, murdered, and doomed to a watery grave off the coast of Guatemala. Dead in the Water takes up the story, in turn taking us on a gripping journey around the world.
Bray Wyatt’s Top 20 Matches
Hard to believe it has been a whole year since we last saw Bray Wyatt live and in person on our TV screens, after his tragic passing last year. It is a loss that shook the wrestling world, and one still sorely felt on WWE TV, backstage and in the hearts of so many fans and friends. Wyatt was a creative genius, one of a kind talent and character that left an indelible imprint on the WWE landscape.
Hamlet (2023) review: No tragedies here, just a two-hour treat
So for the third time in a not-too-shabby career, Sir Ian McKellen takes on the role of arguably Shakespeare‘s most famous creation, Hamlet. But completing the hat trick is this production with a difference, and that’s not just down to the fact that it’s going on cinematic release for one night only later this month. Directed by Sean Mathias, the whole thing was shot at the Theatre Royal, Windsor, and it looks as if every corner of every room at the venue has been put to use.
Layla Kaylif’s The Letter Writer hits all the right notes
If there’s a creative force with more energy than Layla Kaylif, please can we be introduced. When it comes to the business of interviews, the notion of them being a two-way street should never be taken for granted. With this filmmaker/musician, it’s often one-sided but only because she just loves to talk, and talk passionately. Similarly, you just love to listen. Isn’t that what the late, great Michael Parkinson used to say he loved about his job?
WrestleMania 40 main event set but why does this all feel so sour?
What a time in WWE this is, and not always in a good way. Don’t get me wrong, they just made a landmark Netflix deal set for 2025, business is currently good, and the powers that be have had a much needed shake up at the very hierarchy of WWE. Yet, in spite of sell out events and hype, why do things feel so bad right now? Well, because reality has given WWE fandom a good hard slap right round the face in more ways than one.
Gladiators were ready, so is there more room for reboots?
Hands up if you were a little bit dubious about the return of 90s hit show Gladiators returning to our screens? You could still be, but this latest revival attempt showed that it is possible to recapture at least some of the old magic and make some semblance of a ratings winner. Many have tried in recent years, and it’s made for grim viewing now and again, but this time the initial signs seem positive.
Blank (2022) review: Where would we be without technology? Watch and learn
Here we go then, the first review of 2024, and, fresh from still wondering why I’m the only person who thinks The Holiday is the worst Christmas movie ever, I had high hopes for Blank. Did it live up to expectations? Glad you asked because if you see a better British Sci-Fi thriller this year – on second thoughts, drop the ‘British’ part – I’ll need some serious convincing. From director Natalie Kennedy, this revolutionary affair is, at times, ridiculously good.
Comebacks and biopics: What’s in store for 2024
“We have to say it looks promising,” was the verdict when Roobla previewed 2023 at the movies – well, it did until a spot of industrial action entered the screenscape. It meant that many films were either delayed or didn’t happen at all: how were we to know? The knock-on effects of the unrest will continue to be felt for a while yet, so you’ll have to take 2024’s incarnation with a pinch of salted popcorn.
How darts climbed to the top of the Christmas TV tree
Like brussel sprouts, Christmas TV is often a matter of taste. For traditionalists, it’s hard to beat Carols from King’s. In a panic over dinner on the big day? Look no further than Delia or Nigella. Then again, if all you want is proof of how your own life isn’t all that bad, EastEnders is the go-to. Since 1993, however, seasonal viewing has had an unlikely hero that’s gradually built a more universal audience, and is now as much part of the festive fabric as pigs in blankets.
Five Nights At Freddy’s (2023) review: Longtime coming video game is a hit
As the age of the superhero film seems to be stepping back into a supporting role, rather than being the lead of the industry, we are once again reaching a point where the next big cinema trend is being waited for. There are a few contenders but it would seem that the next breakout just might be the era of video game inspired film and TV…Done properly. After the domination of The Super Mario Bros.
WWE Survivor Series 2023 review: CM Punk stuns in WWE’s last and best event of the year!
Ahead of Survivor Series this year, we already knew last year’s successful use of the legendary War Games matches would be back, but this year’s show had so much more about it than just that. Rumours swirling, long-running stories concluding, a diverse card showcasing a wide array of talents. No doubt about it, WWE’s last PLE of 2023 and the second longest running event in WWE history had a lot going on this year. So, who survived War Games? Who won/retained gold? Who, if anyone, returned?
WWE Fastlane 2023 review: a bit of an afterthought
We are now in October and do you remember Fastlane? I only asked because I am not sure WWE had, because for long enough we only had two matches announced for this show and even when all was said and done, their ever decreasing cards saw five announced bouts. That said, less can so often be more with wrestling, see events like In Your House 16: Canadian Stampede. However was it quality over quantity this time?
WWE Payback 2023 review: Judgment Day have all the gold!
Truth be told this was the show where I think my struggles with the WWE product had reached a head, because it was the very week of Windham Rotunda’s passing, and knowing that Bray Wyatt was not ever going to be on the screen again was one of the most upsetting wrestler deaths since Eddie Guerrero it hit me rather hard. Though there were some lovely tributes paid all week to the creative genius who left us with so much to cherish of his work.
WWE SummerSlam 2023 review: The Beast and The American Nightmare steal the Summer
Well, we are well on our way to modern times in our magical mystery tour of WWE PLE 2023 catch upping (is that a term?). But first we land slap bang in Summer for the biggest party of the Summer in August’s Summerslam, which saw Jey Uso ascend to singles stardom, Ricochet get an actual rivalry finally and Part III of Brock Lesnar and Cody Rhodes and much, much, more.
WWE Money in the Bank 2023 review: London Calling!
Righto, part three in my 2023 WWE PLE review catch up. And next up in our wrestling writing time machine we find ourselves here in England, for one of WWE’s most eagerly anticipated events Money in the Bank! So, let’s see what went down back in July. Who claimed the briefcases? What were the highs? Were there any lows? Did the London crowd live up to expectation? And did Roman’s cousins finally stop carrying his bags and kick his Tribal arse? Well, let’s take a look… 1.
WWE Night of Champions 2023 review: You can’t have them Roman!
Right, one down, six to go, as I play catch up and return to the wacky world of WWE wrestling Premium Live Event reviews for Roobla. And next up in our wrestling writing time machine we find ourselves at the end of May in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for a Night of Champions! So, let’s not mess about any further and get this show on the road already. Was WWE’s return to Saudi Arabia, in a year where PLE’s went international quite often, a triumphant one or an utter letdown?
WWE Backlash 2023 review: A thrilling day in Puerto Rico
In the words of Eric Bischoff’s theme song, “I’m back…and I’m better than ever”, okay maybe that second part is a bit optimistic. Seriously though, I don’t know if many have you have missed my WWE Premium Live Event reviews since WrestleMania 39 but various circumstances mounted and I fell completely out of whack with things. Not just with the WWE product but many things in life to be fair.
Napoleon (2023) review: Phoenix on fire in Scott’s best epic to-date
Certain historians down the year’s have viewed Napoleon Bonaparte as something of an Antichrist. This latest epic from Ridley Scott portrays him as every inch the Antihero and, thanks to Joaquin Phoenix in the title role, one we cheer on from start to finish. The last time we saw this particular director-actor collaboration was for 2000’s Gladiator. If that was hailed as King at the time, then Napoleon is well and truly the Emperor.
Seaside Special (2021) review: Politically-inspired yet pleasant picture postcard
To some it’s the devil incarnate, while most of us are just sick of hearing about it, so how on earth could a docufilm based around Brexit go down? Quite well, as it turns out, because Seaside Special captures perfectly the essence of an English coastal resort as it prepares for its annual ‘End-of-Pier‘ variety show, with one of the hottest topics in years as its backdrop.
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) review: Have faith and you’ll find a lot to enjoy
I think it is time to admit to ourselves that in the realm of exorcism horror, if not wider avenues, the late great William Friedkin’s The Exorcist will never be bettered. It laid the very foundations not only for its later flourishing sub-genre of terror but for much of cinema in general, it changed everything, and 50 years on, its power still lingers. You simply could not make a film like this now, with the same shock, world-ensnaring fear and thematic power.
Miramax wins bidding war for Halloween rights
Since first stalking the shadows and terrifying babysitters on Halloween night in Haddonfield back in 1978 in John Carpenter’s slasher classic, Michael Myers has haunted our screens for generations. But in recent weeks, we have not been wondering when he would come home again, but rather, where that home would be. Now, we have our answer.
Phil Dunn’s The Stupid Boy isn’t as daft as it sounds
If Phil Dunn isn’t a name you’re overly-familiar with right now, that could soon change. With adulation for his latest short The Stupid Boy going global, a BAFTA entry recently submitted as well as Oscar qualification, it’s fair to say that the Brixton-based filmmaker’s career is very much on the up.
Disney confirms INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY DVD & Blu-Ray Release
When it was announced earlier this year that Disney was planning on prioritising Disney+ and phasing out physical media releases, it was rightly met with a lot of criticism from people. Especially the news they were outright discontinuing DVD and Blu-Rays in Australia and New Zealand after the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
David Gordon Green may not return to helm THE EXORCIST: DECEIVER?
Director David Gordon Green’s (Halloween sequel trilogy) The Exorcist: Believer is currently in cinemas now, and is set to be the first in a trilogy of new films that will act as legacy sequels to the late great William Friedkin’s 1973 horror masterpiece. After Universal Studios took a hell of a gamble and purchased the franchise rights for $400 million.
DCEU stars will not be returning to their roles in James Gunn’s DCU
Ahead of the much needed reset of DC films, under the helm of James Gunn, into the DC Universe, there have been many questions of whether people are staying or going from the already existing DC Extended Universe, which is set to conclude in December with Aquaman and The lost Kingdom. Already various reports have swirled of Gal Gadot staying on as Wonder Woman, before they were debunked, and then placed on the table once again (madness).
15 CAMERAS - STARBURST Magazine
Voyeurism and domestic surveillance remain popular sources of inspiration for indie horror filmmakers. 15 Cameras, the latest entry in what’s currently a trilogy, mixes in elements of both genres with the motifs of two others: the ‘hider in the house’ and the serial slasher. That kind of mash-up clearly gives writer PJ McCabe and director Danny Madden a lot of source material to work with. But the result is a pretty tasteless blend of the four ingredients.
Susan Bonds and Alex Liu | THE ARKHAM ASYLUM FILES: PANIC IN GOTHAM CITY
Susan Bonds and Alex Liu are the CEO and CCO of 42 Entertainment, the world’s premier alternate reality game creators. They are best known for the Halo 2 tie-in I Love Bees, the Nine Inch Nails ARG Year Zero (named after the album of the same name) and The Dark Knight tie-in, Why So Serious. Their latest product is a Batman escape room experience in a box called The Arkham Asylum Files: Panic In Gotham City.
ASSASSIN'S CREED MIRAGE - STARBURST Magazine
PLATFORM: PC, PS4/5, XBOX ONE/SERIES (REVIEWED) | RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW Originally conceived as an expansion for 2020’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla before becoming a standalone title of its own, Mirage tells the story of Basim, a 9th century Baghdad street thief who is inducted into the Brotherhood when he joins the Hidden Ones in their fight for peace and liberty against the Order of the Ancients.
Win THE GINGER SNAPS TRILOGY on Blu-ray!
Ginger Snaps is a landmark in feminist horror and now the seminal movie is set for a highly anticipated collector’s edition treatment from Second Sight Films. Helmed by John Fawcett (Orphan Black, Saving Hope), it offers a fresh take on the werewolf and coming-of-age genre, with heaps of gore and a lot of heart.
HOT WHEELS UNLEASHED 2: TURBOCHARGED
PLATFORM: PC, PS4/5, XBOX ONE/SERIES (REVIEWED) | RELEASE DATE: 19TH OCTOBER 2021’s Hot Wheels Unlimited was a fun but slightly undercooked racer, offering stellar arcade racing that made for some exciting contests across an unfortunately disappointing minimal variety of game modes. Its follow-up, HWU2: Turbocharged, sticks with the same accomplished gameplay but ramps up the enjoyment with new tracks, locations, vehicles and game modes.
DELICATESSEN (1991)
It may be a niche category, but Delicatessen is easily the best, most whimsical, charming post-apocalyptic, cannibal comedy ever made. And now – thanks to a superb 4K restoration by Studio Canal – it looks and sounds more stunning than ever. Delicatessen was the feature debut of both Jean-Pierre Jeunet (who would go on to make City Of Lost Children, Amélie, A Very Long Engagement, and his one American movie, the divisive Alien Resurrection) and his co-director and frequent collaborator Marc Caro.
Unmasking the Malevolent Magic of Sweet Tooth in the Twisted Metal Series
Prepare to embark on a heart-pounding journey through the post-apocalyptic wasteland of the Twisted Metal series. This is a thrilling ride that has left fans, both old and new, on the edge of their seats. As we delve into this world of chaos, we’re not just excited about the heart-racing vehicular warfare and the enigmatic John Doe, portrayed brilliantly by Anthony Mackie.
The Trader's Bookshelf: Best Reads for Market Mastery
The world of trading is dynamic, and ever-evolving, and requires a sharp mind to navigate its tumultuous waters. From deciphering the subtle cues of market trends to mastering one’s psychological impulses, success in trading is a blend of technical skill, intuition, and continuous learning. The online world is rich with seminars, courses, and insights. For example, binary traders have more chances of finding the most accurate binary options strategy on specialized websites.
RICK AND MORTY Season 7, Episodes 1-2
It’s time to Get Schwifty – Rick and Morty are back for a seventh season of existential surrealism! After the well-publicised departure of Justin Roiland, the new, yet-to-be-named voices of Rick and Morty are barely noticeable to the audience if you had or hadn’t paid attention to any of the behind-the-scenes controversies. The first two episodes are standalones, happily dipping into some meta jokes about canon and paying attention to previous episodes.
THE WALKING DEAD: DARYL DIXON, Season 1, Episode 5, DEUX AMOURS
The extended penultimate episode of Season One of Daryl Dixon delivers on so much in the build-up to its jaw-dropping cliffhanger that you could be forgiven for mistaking it for the show’s first-year finale. Blending separate storylines and timelines, the plot of Deux Amours is constructed using some inspired flourishes that maximize the narrative impact of those switches. Producers of certain other Walking Dead spin-off shows take note: this is how it should be done.
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