Paddington 2; Brit bear is Pee-Wee sweet causing all kinds of cute escapes from harrowing moments. Cast indulges playfully, with Grant relishing his villain role especially. Critic proof fun; B+
The Boss Baby; Does some neat elements with animation and doesn’t ever drag despite a premise that’s equally bizarre and filled with contrived plot conveniences. Gags land more often than not; B
The Shape of Water; A simple tale with deeper themes, weaves his fantastic magic over a love story between those cast to the margins of our society. Great performances all around add gravitas and genuine sweetness and humour; A-
The Breadwinner; Expertly animated to devastating effect. Not sure if I could handle the subject matter in documentary style, yet the film doesn’t shy away from the horrors while maintaining hope and optimism in the lead character’s strength; A-
Kong: Skull Island; Interesting conceit to frame the monster myth with a war context and colonial invasion. Delivers on monster size action while offering elements of humour and character growth from cleverly cast roles; B+
The Fate of the Furious; For a first time Furious watcher, this was a solid fun action film that knows what to do with its pieces, making the most of the insanely amazing ensemble, giving them all plenty to flex at; A-
Where to Invade Next; A neat conceit for Moore to travel the world to show off some of the better socialist ideas that America should reconsider. Some land bitingly well, others come across too heavy handed; B+
Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle; Fun casting makes this action comedy work. Too much shown in the previews and trailer but still funny and action packed; B
Daddy’s Home; Ferrell and Wahlburg make a great team and play off each other well. Unnecessarily goes to mature areas it doesn’t really need to making it feel undecided if it’s for families or adults. Either way it works but choose one; B-
I Am Your Father; Foreign documentary lovingly tells Prouse’s story using the Moore method positioning Lucas as the absentee Roger villain. Unfortunately, it can’t deliver the triumphant moment it hopes to; C+
The Greatest Showman; Songs are bigger than the film, needing a grander treatment or arc. Inspired performances by all involved. Story’s themes resonate for today’s era; A-
