BEAST | MOVIE REVIEW | LYNNMALL

© 2022 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. (From left) Meredith Samuels (Iyana Halley) and Dr. Nate Samuels (Idris Elba) in Beast, directed by Baltasar Kormákur.

First, we had JAWS, now in this new thriller wild-animal-gone-rogue Director Baltasar Kormakur brings us BEAST.

I’ve always wanted to go on an African Safari but whilst the South African wilderness is absolutely gorgeous – after watching this movie, I am definitely not going any time soon!

This movie takes King of the Jungle to a whole new level. When poachers kill a lion’s pride, its sole mission is to go on a murderous rampage against a young family. If you are into gore this movie is definitely for you! With close-up camera shots of bodies torn to shreds, including a decapitated head, you can’t get any better than that!

© 2022 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. (From left) Norah Samuels (Leah Jeffries), Dr. Nate Samuels (Idris Elba) and Meredith Samuels (Iyana Halley) in Beast, directed by Baltasar Kormákur.

Idris Elba really brings the character Dr. Nate Samuels to life – with his perseverance and determination to protect his daughters no matter the cost, his character is truly astounding. I couldn’t help but hold my breath when Dr. Nate is hiding in the water from the lion, anxiously praying not to be found. I’m surprised the lion couldn’t smell being so close. With a few jumps scares thrown in – the suspense just doesn’t stop!

I will admit that the characters did frustrate me at times. I mean we all know that teenagers are not the best listeners but when a wild rampaging lion is on the loose I feel as though “stay in the car” is a fairly reasonable request to abide by! Although I was frustrated, the strength of Dr. Nate’s children Nora and Meredith Samuels played by Leah Jeffries and Lyana Halley respectively was amazing to see. I can’t imagine the sheer guts it would take to carry on and continue to take care of each other while injured and in extreme fear. It was great to see a family that was not close still come together to try to win the battle of survival in the African jungle.

© 2022 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. (From left) Meredith Samuels (Iyana Halley) and Martin Battles (Sharlto Copley) in Beast, directed by Baltasar Kormákur.

Check times & dates for Reading Cinemas HERE, then head to LynnMall and grab yourself some popcorn to have during the movie.