Film Review

‘In Cold Light’: A Misstep on Maika Monroe’s Stardom Trajectory

As Helen Hunt’s character, Claire, says to Maika Monroe’s character, Ava: “You can’t just walk away”. Maybe Ava can’t. But you can.
‘In Cold Light’: A Misstep on Maika Monroe’s Stardom Trajectory
Ava (Maike Monroe) takes on a drug cartel, in "In Cold Light." Elevation Pictures
Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson
Film Critic
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R | 1h 36m | Thriller, Drama | 2025

Jamie Lee Curtis originated the movie-character category and moniker “Scream Queen” in the first “Halloween.” Former professional-kiteboarder-turned-actress Maika Monroe has been crowned the latest scream queen (“It Follows,” “Watcher,” “Longlegs”).

Mark Jackson
Mark Jackson
Film Critic
Mark Jackson is the senior film critic for The Epoch Times and a Rotten Tomatoes-approved critic. Mark earned a bachelor's degree in philosophy from Williams College, followed by classical theater conservatory training, and has 20 years' experience as a New York professional actor. He narrated The Epoch Times audiobook "How the Specter of Communism Is Ruling Our World," available on iTunes, Audible, and YouTube. Mark is featured in the book "How to Be a Film Critic in Five Easy Lessons" by Christopher K. Brooks. In addition to films, he enjoys Harley-Davidsons, rock-climbing, qigong, martial arts, and human rights activism.
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