The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part; Lacks the charm and surprise of the original, is slow going out of the gate, but eventually finds its footing and delivers a decent landing in the final acts. Batman is still the best part, which makes this sequel seem rather unnecessary; B-
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms; Lavish production and costuming can’t dress up or disguise this dud. The film’s best aspects are its hundred years old musical score and brief dance performance. Disney would have been better off filming and releasing the stage ballet; D+
Room For Rent; Dismally plodding film that makes several conceits in the script and fails to make use of it all. Comedic cast is left to languish in the scripted nonsense, struggling to deliver a tone that’s neither funny nor creepy at the times it tries to be; D
The New Romantic; A strong cast led by Jessica Barden (in a revelatory lead role turn), playfully explores the complications of female empowerment/disempowerment with heart, humour and honesty. Lovingly gives nods to rom-com classics, while crafting a unique tone all its own; A-
The Negotiation; Nicely unfolding tension propels this film that captivates on account of two charismatic leads. Standard hostage movie beats with expected twists and layers, well executed entry into the genre; B+
