Entertainment – PowerUp City Magazine

Power-Up City Film Review

PowerUpAdmin — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 20:36:48 +0000

🎬 Superman (2025) – Now showing at VOX Cinemas Bahrain

Genre: Action

Running Time: 130 min

Release Date: 10 July 2025

Showtimes: Superman | Now Showing | Book Tickets | VOX Cinemas Bahrain

Starring: Skyler Gisondo, Nicholas Hoult, Rachel Brosnahan, Edi Gathegi, Isabela Merced, David Corenswet, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Sara Sampaio

Language: English

Subtitle(s): Arabic

James Gunn’s Superman arrives with the weight of an entire cinematic universe on its shoulders. As the first official entry in DC’s new “Gods and Monsters” chapter, this film isn’t just another reboot—it’s a reset. The question is, can it deliver a Man of Steel that feels both timeless and fresh?

The answer: mostly, yes.

With a charismatic cast, vibrant comic-book visuals, and Gunn’s signature blend of humour and sincerity, Superman manages to be bold, goofy, and heartfelt all at once. It’s far from perfect, but it’s one of the most emotionally engaging Superman entries in years—flying higher than expected in a genre often weighed down by its own seriousness.

⭐ Overall Verdict: 4.0 / 5

📊 Ratings by Category

Category	Rating
Acting	★★★★☆
Direction & Tone	★★★★☆
Story & Pacing	★★★☆☆
Visual Effects & Style	★★★★☆
Emotional Impact	★★★★☆

From Riffa to the Rage Virus: Ghazi Al Ruffai’s Breakout Role in 28 Years Later

PowerUpAdmin — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 20:12:08 +0000

When the Rage Virus resurfaces on the big screen in 28 Years Later, one of the standout performances doesn’t come from Hollywood royalty — but from Riffa, Bahrain.

Ghazi Al Ruffai, a 30-year-old Bahraini actor, has landed a major breakout role as Jimmy Snake in the long-awaited sequel to Danny Boyle’s cult-classic 28 Days Later. Starring alongside Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, and newcomer Alfie Williams, Ghazi’s presence brings intensity, precision, and Middle Eastern grit to the post-apocalyptic franchise.

“Filming was wild — from cliffhanger scenes to fight choreography, I still pinch myself,” Ghazi says.

A New Kind of Horror Star

Set in a world still reeling from the viral outbreak introduced over two decades ago, 28 Years Later takes the series in a bold new direction. This time, it’s not just infected mobs to fear — it’s organised survivors, cults, and those who’ve learned to weaponise the apocalypse.

Ghazi’s character, Jimmy Snake, leads one such group: a militant, cult-like faction thriving in the ruins of society. With choreographed action scenes and a commanding presence, Snake becomes more than a background threat — he’s a symbol of what’s left when humanity turns on itself.

Ghazi performs much of his own stunt work in the film. A strong physical actor with theatre roots, he brings realism to the violence and emotion to the chaos. His role isn’t just thrilling — it’s memorable.

From St Chris to the Silver Screen

Raised in Riffa, Ghazi attended St Christopher’s School in Saar, where his love for drama was first sparked. School plays gave way to professional training in the UK at Guildford School of Acting and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama — both institutions known for producing serious stage and screen talent.

His path wasn’t handed to him. Bahrain’s film industry is still growing, with limited infrastructure for homegrown actors. But Ghazi made it work, building a portfolio of indie work, theatre, and regional productions before making the leap to international cinema.

Today, with over 200,000 followers on social media and a growing fanbase across the Gulf and Europe, Ghazi’s career is entering a new chapter.

What 28 Years Later Means for Regional Talent

The 28 Days Later franchise is more than a zombie horror saga. Directed by Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire), it’s credited with redefining the genre — fast-paced, socially aware, and visually striking.

Now, with the third instalment, the franchise welcomes diverse casting and global voices. Ghazi’s inclusion isn’t tokenism — it’s talent recognition. He holds his own among big-name British stars and paves the way for other Arab creatives to do the same.

His success sends a clear message:

Bahraini talent is exportable

Arabic actors can do more than “regional roles”

The Gulf has stories — and storytellers — worth spotlighting

Coming Soon: 28 Years Later – The Bone Temple

Ghazi will return in the sequel, 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, scheduled for release on 16 January 2026. Directed by Nia DaCosta (Candyman, The Marvels) and written by Alex Garland (Ex Machina), the film will deepen the mythology around Jimmy Snake and his cult faction.

Early leaks suggest that Snake’s group will be central to the plot — more militant, more dangerous, and possibly more sympathetic than first expected. Ghazi is expected to have expanded screen time, reflecting the strength of audience reception to his performance.

Production wrapped in late 2024. Post-production is underway, with teasers likely to drop before the end of this year.

More Than Acting: Representing Bahrain

Ghazi has always seen himself as more than an actor — he’s a storyteller, mentor, and cultural ambassador. His journey from Riffa to red carpets is proof of what’s possible when passion meets persistence.

He’s committed to:

Supporting Bahraini creatives through mentorship and collaborations

Advocating for stronger film education and funding locally

Encouraging young artists to aim beyond borders

As Middle Eastern representation in global media grows, Ghazi’s rise couldn’t come at a better time. With festivals like the Red Sea International Film Festival and filmmakers like Haifaa Al-Mansour gaining momentum, Bahraini cinema may soon have a stronger seat at the table.

Final Takeaway: Bahrain to the World

Ghazi Al Ruffai is more than a character in a film — he’s a living example of how regional roots and global reach can coexist. His performance in 28 Years Later doesn’t just entertain — it inspires.

Reflection:
If a kid from Riffa can become part of one of the most iconic horror franchises in modern film, what’s stopping the next generation of Bahraini creatives?

📍 Watch this space — 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple lands January 2026.
🎥 Follow Ghazi on Instagram @ghazialruffai for behind-the-scenes stories, upcoming projects, and exclusive content.

The Top 5 Marvel Movies Ready for Your Next Movie Night!

PowerUpAdmin — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:50:51 +0000

Marvel movies have exploded beyond superhero cinema—these are now modern myths, pop-culture milestones, and the fuel for a thousand fan debates. Whether you’re a die-hard Avenger or just joining the universe, these are the five Marvel films you cannot miss.

1. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) – The Game Changer

Review
Infinity War is pure adrenaline. Thanos finally steps out of the shadows—and wins. The Avengers assemble (and clash) across the universe, but nothing can prepare viewers for that gut-punch ending. This is the MCU at its boldest: dazzling battles, sharp quips, and a villain who, somehow, makes you understand his cause.

PowerUp City says: This is not just a superhero movie—it’s an emotional rollercoaster and a masterclass in ensemble storytelling.

Must-watch scene: The snap heard around the world—fans are still reeling.

Watch with: Popcorn and friends who don’t mind a few tears.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. Avengers: Endgame (2019) – The Emotional Finale

Review:
Endgame is the victory lap fans deserved. It balances nostalgia, epic action, and heartfelt goodbyes—paying off a decade of investment. Every character gets their moment, and the final battle is the cinematic equivalent of a standing ovation.

PowerUp City says: See it big and loud—this is a pop-culture event, not just a film.

Must-watch scene: Cap wielding Thor’s hammer (goosebumps!), Iron Man’s final sacrifice (bring tissues).

Watch with: The whole family or your oldest friends. Everyone will find their hero.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

3. Captain America: Civil War (2016) – The Ultimate Showdown

Review:
This isn’t just “Avengers 2.5”—it’s the smartest, tightest Marvel outing. Friend turns against friend, and the airport brawl alone redefined superhero action. New arrivals Black Panther and Spider-Man steal every scene, and the moral lines are so blurred you’ll debate which side you’re on for days.

PowerUp City says: Civil War delivers real drama and impossible choices—think action chess, not just a fist-fest.

Must-watch scene: Team Cap vs. Team Iron Man at the airport—pure comic book joy.

Watch with: Anyone who loves a good argument (Team Cap? Team Iron Man? You decide).

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

4. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) – The Animated Revolution

Review:
Spider-Verse swings in as a visual revolution—bold, bright, and bursting with heart. Miles Morales takes center stage, and every frame is a living comic book. With laugh-out-loud humor, stunning action, and genuine emotion, this is animation—and superhero cinema—at its finest.

PowerUp City says: You’ve never seen Spider-Man (or animation) like this before.

Must-watch scene: “Leap of Faith”—Miles’ defining moment, set to a soundtrack that gives you chills.

Watch with: Teens, animation buffs, or anyone in need of pure inspiration.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

5. Black Panther (2018) – The Cultural Icon

Review:
More than a superhero film, Black Panther is a movement. Wakanda’s world-building is vibrant, the cast delivers on every level, and Killmonger is Marvel’s most layered villain. It’s visually stunning, musically powerful, and socially relevant—a blockbuster that stands for something.

PowerUp City says: The kind of film that leaves you proud, moved, and craving more Wakanda.

Must-watch scene: T’Challa’s challenge on Warrior Falls; Killmonger’s final line—iconic and thought-provoking.

Watch with: Anyone—this movie transcends genres.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐ Summary Table: PowerUp City Marvel Movie Rankings

Rank	Movie	Year	Star Rating	Must-See Moment
1	Avengers: Infinity War	2018	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	The Snap
2	Avengers: Endgame	2019	⭐⭐⭐⭐½	Cap wields Mjolnir, Iron Man’s finale
3	Captain America: Civil War	2016	⭐⭐⭐⭐½	The airport battle
4	Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse	2018	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Miles’ “Leap of Faith”
5	Black Panther	2018	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Wakanda revealed, final duel

🎥 PowerUp City Recommends:

Binge order: Start with Civil War for drama, hit Infinity War and Endgame back-to-back for the ultimate emotional ride, then close out with Black Panther and Spider-Verse for inspiration and fresh visuals.

For families: Spider-Verse is universal fun.

For movie night debates: Civil War and Black Panther spark the best conversations.

Final Word

Marvel’s top five are more than popcorn flicks—they’re blockbusters with brains, heart, and impact. Pick any from this list and you’ll see why the Marvel Cinematic Universe is the modern epic of our time.