Strange World

Strange World; Fantastical creatures and landscapes feel fresh yet familiar in this exploring adventure film. Themes resonate in their combination of old and new beliefs, with family relationships at its core and bigger planetary questions weighing overhead. Good fun; B+
 

Three Thousand Years of Longing

Three Thousand Years of Longing; Intriguing storytelling starring two wonderful actors, helmed by a master visual stylist yet ultimately unfulfilling. Probably was a good read, amplified by Miller's vision still feels like the dour tale of solitude & longing it is. Decent; B-

Disenchanted

Disenchanted; Less whimsical than its predecessor, lacking the novelty & originality, playing the story beats w/minimal surprises. The actors are all game and relishing the revisit, while Disney production values are always top notch. Sadly, simple fare not worth revisiting; C+

Spirited

Spirited; Reynolds & Ferrell demonstrate how their peerless comedy comes from a heartfelt place, w/earnest attempts at singing & updating the Dickens classic. Best moments come in a Monty Pythonesque period number and when the two are riffing off each other. Sweet Xmas fare; B+
 

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever; Rises to challenging/daunting task of honouring dearly departed Boseman yet struggles at filling immense void of that loss. Burdened by sorrow & dour feelings, the film is less entertaining than it is an act of catharsis. Great craftsmanship; B-
 

Enola Holmes 2

Enola Holmes 2; Less of the fun banter found in the first film, but the stakes are higher & more deadly for the dashing heroine w/charisma aplenty. The mystery unraveled remains essential & the social relevance timely. Best display of Brown’s talents come from this franchise; A-