LATEST REVIEWS BY THE POPCORN PANEL
No-holds-barred reviews of movies, TV shows, and streaming services by film and TV connoisseur Alex Cearns. 

THE LAST ANNIVERSARY

Based on Liane Moriarty’s 2005 novel of the same name, this Australian drama takes place on fictional Scribbly Gum Island. When journalist Sophie (Theresa Palmer) inherits a house on the island following the death of matriarch Connie (Angela Punch MacGregor), intrigue surrounds her choice as beneficiary. Several of Connie’s family members still live on the island and are fiercely protective of their secluded home. Scribbly Gum itself holds secrets surrounding the disappearance of an immigrant couple Jack and Alice, who are presumed dead, and their abandoned baby, Enigma (played as an adult by Helen Thomson), who was taken in by Connie and her sister Rose (Miranda Richardson) five decades earlier. The discovery of Enigma is known as ‘The Baby Monroe Mystery’ and is treated like the greatest unsolved crime case on the planet. The island’s residents profit off the story, hosting paid tours of the shack where Jack and Alice lived. As Sophie digs into the family’s hidden past, she opens up old wounds and uncovers truths that have long been buried. Filmed in the Hawkesbury River region of NSW, the landscape provides a stunning backdrop but the series itself falls short. The acting feels wooden and unconvincing, with the exception of Palmer, and the script lacks any suspense or depth. There are too many subplots involving a dozen characters for anything meaningful to stick. The end provides adequate conclusions for the different cluttered storylines, but feels rushed. A mundane muddle.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.5/10

Amanda’s Score 6/10

GOOD AMERICAN FAMILY

This eight-part drama is inspired by the story of Ukrainian orphan Natalia Grace (Imogen Faith Reid), who was born with dwarfism and adopted by American couple Michael and Kristine Barnett (Mark Duplass and Ellen Pompeo) at the age of seven. The Barnetts falsely believed that Natalia was an adult and alleged that she was a sociopathic who had significant emotional issues. When she was eight, they persuaded a judge to amend her birth certificate to state that she was twenty-two years old, before abandoning her in an apartment to fend for herself. The wife of a pastor, Cynthia Mans (Christina Hendricks) crossed Natalia’s path and took her in, leading to the revelation of the horrific abuse she suffered at the hands of the Barnetts. The scenes depicting Natalia’s struggle for survival in her apartment are harrowing, and to see her spoken to aggressively as if she was an adult is heartbreaking. This series initially felt a bit like a ‘Hallmark’ production, due to the portrayal of the Barnetts as shiny happy people, but their complex personalities unfold as the story progresses and everything moves into darker territory. Presenting the episodes from different perspectives adds to the intrigue of who is telling the truth. The performances of the three lead actors are outstanding, with Reid skillfully navigating the fine line between childlike and sinister. It’s shocking to learn that this tale of neglect and mistreatment is based on actual events but the facts are still blurry. Powerful and unsettling.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

PANGOLIN: KULU’S JOURNEY

This 90 minute documentary focuses on the most trafficked mammal on earth – the pangolin. It tells the story of an endangered pangolin named Kulu who is seized during a trafficking sting in South Africa. Following his rescue, Kulu undergoes intensive rehabilitation for six months under the care of passionate conservationist Gareth Thomas. As Gareth prepares Kulu for life in the wild, he finds himself reconnecting with nature. Director Pippa Ehrlich (‘My Octopus Teacher’) follows Kulu’s journey from a traumatised baby to an independent young adult. Up-close macro filming provides an intimate glimpse into the world of this reclusive creature and the footage is truly remarkable – like Kulu enthusiastically scraping ants from his tongue. Another scene where Kulu curls into a ball and is quivers with fear, will bring a tear to your eye. The trauma he suffered at the hands of his poachers is immeasurable. Complemented by breathtaking landscape cinematography and the inspiring work of dedicated wildlife carers, this feature is a call to action to protect these unique and vulnerable animals. Powerful and emotional.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

TINA

Substitute teacher Mareta Percival (Anapela Polataivao) accepts a job at an elite private school predominantly attended by white students. Grieving the loss of her daughter during the 2011 Christchurch earthquake, she puts her energy into forming a choir, much to the disapproval of the school board. Cultures clash when Percival introduces her Samoan heritage to her students, and she battles the school’s focus on individual achievement when she tries to get her choir to work together as a team. Polataivao is perfectly cast as the firm but fair Percival, an endearing character with a tough exterior but a huge heart. The film’s script expertly balances drama and comedy, and the songs are captivating. The entire cast brings an authenticity to their roles, resulting in a beautiful film that celebrates the importance of embracing differences and fostering collaboration. Emotional, heartwarming and one of New Zealand’s finest productions.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD

Based on the young adult fiction novel of the same name by Adam Cesare, this film combines two terrifying elements – maniacal clowns and eerie cornfields. High schooler Quinn (Katie Douglas) and her father Dr Maybrook (Aaron Abrams) move to the seemingly sleepy town of Kettle Springs after the death of her mother. She befriends some local teens who create horror videos that feature the towns mascot, a clown named Fresco, as a serial killer. Soon life begins to imitate art and the kids find themselves targeted by a homicidal Fresco. The first half-hour effectively builds the story and character development, setting the stage well for what’s to come. There are moments of humour interspersed throughout the film which balance out the tenser scenes (mostly featuring the Gen Z characters) and few unexpected plot twists you won’t see coming. Really enjoyed it! The gore level is a 6/10 with an MA15+ rating. Reminded me of 90’s horror slasher movies like ‘I know what you did last summer’ with a bit of 2025’s ‘The Monkey’ thrown in. Creepy, suspenseful, and sinister.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

FLINTOFF

In this documentary, English cricket legend Andrew “Freddie” Flintoff offers an in-depth look into his life following his shocking car accident in December 2022. While filming a segment for ‘Top Gear,’ he was driving a Morgan Super 3 sports car which crashed. Miraculously, he survived but suffered severe facial injuries, leading him to withdraw from public life and become reclusive. Flintoff’s illustrious cricket career saw him rise to the top and captain for his country before he was forced to retire at just 31 due to injury. He transitioned into television, eventually landing his dream job on ‘Top Gear’ which was tragically cut short by his accident. Flintoff’s journey, from his beginnings in cricket as a teenager to his present day struggles with recovery, is revealed through his own words, and interviews with his wife Rachael, his long-time manager, medical professionals, former teammates, and friends. Despite still suffering from nightmares and PTSD, Flintoff has found solace and confidence by reconnecting with the cricket community. Candid, emotional and inspiring.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

BLACK MIRROR

Like its predecessors, the latest season of ‘Black Mirror’ continues to explore the relationship between technology and humanity. While it doesn’t hit the heights of the first few seasons, each of the stand-alone episodes provoke thought about the implications of our tech-driven lives, touching on themes like social media addiction and the ethics of artificial intelligence. Although some stories are stronger than others, there are enough new ideas and clever moments to make it worth watching and it’ll make you wonder if you’re glimpsing the imminent future. Disturbing and thought provoking.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

SINNERS

After years away in Chicago, twin brothers Smoke and Stack (both played by Michael B. Jordan) return to their Mississippi home to establish a juke joint. Their opening night draws a full house, with patrons enjoying the soulful blues and flowing drinks. When three white folk ask to be let in, no one foresees the evil they are about to unleash. In a similar vein to ‘From Dusk Till Dawn’ the first half focuses on character development and story buildup, before hurtling into vampire territory. Music features heavily throughout and is the foundation of the film. The rich throaty score feels as if it was composed first, with everything else crafted around it. The cinematography, costumes and meticulous colour grading authentically capture the deep south in the 1930’s, while themes of redemption, reinvention, and forgiveness infiltrate every twist and turn. The mid way dance number is unforgettable! Its choreography merges traditional southern dance styles with modern influences, creating a mesmerising performance. The dancers move with a sense of liberation, which is soon shattered by what’s to come. Jordan is seamless as the ‘Smoke Stack’ brothers, capturing their distinct personalities and showcasing his versatility as an actor. Ryan Cooglers direction is impeccable and this is so much more than a gratuitous horror flick. It’s an experience. Closure comes a few minutes into the credits, so stick around until the very end. Layered, artistic and atmospheric.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

THE ACCOUNTANT

Nine years after the release of ‘The Accountant’, Ben Affleck returns to the role of Christian Wolff, an autistic savant who works as an accountant for criminal organisations. He has an exceptional ability to process information while also being a skilled weapons expert and assassin. When treasury agent Marybeth Medina (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network approaches him to investigate a murder, he enlists the help of his estranged hitman brother, Braxton (Jon Bernthal). Supported by a group of gifted teens at the Harbor Neuroscience Treatment Centre, who provide remote tech assistance, Christian faces the added pressure of finding a missing boy being held by human traffickers. The solid script gives the actors plenty to work with and the dysfunctional dynamic between the brothers brings the laughs – their communication consists of witty insults, sharp one-liners, and quick comebacks. As polar opposites, Christian is socially awkward, hyper-focused, and takes things literally, while Braxton is brash, combative, and impulsive. Affleck is convincing as an adult on the spectrum – yes he’s partly playing a cliche but he also portrays a nice balance between idiosyncratic behaviours and intelligence. Fans will love this film … and new viewers will be converts. A fun sequel packed with intense action, humour, and an entertaining brotherly bond.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

THE CORRESPONDENT

In 2013, Australian journalist Peter Greste (played by Richard Roxburgh) traveled to Cairo, Egypt, to cover for an Al Jazeera colleague over the Christmas period. During his visit he was detained by Egyptian authorities (along with two colleagues) and charged with serious offences, including aiding a te*rorist organisation. This biographical thriller chronicles the 400+ days he spent living in uncertainty, imprisoned in various Egyptian jails. Greste found himself powerless against a corrupt judicial system that disregarded his evidence and denied him a fair trial. Flashbacks from Greste’s past reveal his lingering guilt over the death of his BBC producer in Somalia six years earlier, and in a karmic twist, he believed his arrest was punishment for past sins. The film would’ve benefited from an edit of at least 30 minutes to really tighten up the story, and it glosses over the overcrowding, torture and abuse that occurs in typical Egyptian jail environments, with political prisoners often facing the harshest treatment. A gross miscarriage of justice against a man merely doing his job.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Kyleigh’s Score 6.5/10

Emilee’s Score 7.5/10

Saraj’s Score 7/10

Simon’s Score 7/10

DeeAnn’s Score 8/10

Kirsty’s Score 7.5/10

Mark’s Score 7/10

Fiona’s Score 8/10

Mich’s Score 9/10

Ally’s Score 7/10

Sue Ellen’s Score 7/10

SMALL THINGS LIKE THESE

Adapted from Claire Keegan’s 2021 novel, this historical drama stars Cillian Murphy as William (Bill) Furlong, an Irish coal supplier who is the illegitimate son of a single mother. Now married with five daughters of his own, Bill finds himself delivering coal to a laundry facility that houses pregnant teens against their will. The young women are made to work without pay under harrowing conditions and are forced to give up their babies, a true reflection of the real-life Magdalene asylums run by Catholic nuns from 1922 until 1989. The Nuns who run the laundry also control the town’s private religious school, wielding significant influence – cross the nuns and your child’s education could be jeopardised. Bill feels compelled to help a pregnant girl who evokes memories of his own mother and her struggles. He also wonders what would happen if this girl was one of his own. His strong moral compass clashes with the iron grip of the nuns, who maintain their power over the townspeople through bullying and manipulation. Spliced with flashbacks from his childhood, the film unfolds at a slow pace, reflecting Bill’s own measured nature. The dreary cinematography is perfectly suited to the melancholic subject matter. Shocking statistics are presented at the conclusion about women sent to the Magdalene asylums, and their babies who were mostly never seen again. Confronting and disturbing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Rhonda’s Score 7.5/10

WARFARE

When I heard that this film was described as the “most realistic war combat movie ever made” I rolled my eyes. I’m not a fan of the war genre and I was expecting it to be an onslaught of pointless violence, gratuitous k*ll shots, and crude banter. Instead, it absolutely exceeded my expectations. Based on the true story of an American Navy SEAL squad in Ramadi, Iraq, in 2006, it portrays the nightmarish consequences of their evacuation attempt from a local residence. Co-writer Ray Mendoza, an Iraq veteran, crafted the film from his memories and the experiences of those who served alongside him. The first hour is filled with uncomfortable tension as the soldiers monotonously wait for something to happen. A palpable energy keeps you on edge, hinting that something frenetic is just around the corner … and then all hell breaks loose. What sets this film apart is its expert use of sound. With no music to distract, it immerses you in each scene through intense environmental audio, punctuating moments of silence with a force that hits you deep in the chest and takes your breath away. Realistic acting and masterful cinematography round out the whole viewing experience. War is ultimately pointless but this film is phenomenal. Shocking and visceral, its impact lingers long after the credits roll. See it in the cinema to do the sound justice and to watch it as intended. Oscar worthy.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

Amanda's Score 10/10

Kyleigh's Score 9.5/10

Emilee's Score 9.5/10

Simon's Score 9/10

Sue Ellen's Score 9/10

Deb's Score 9/10

Kel's Score 9/10

Steve's Score 8.5/10

Saraj's Score 8/10

Fiona's Score 8/10

Duncan's Score 7/10

A COMPLETE UNKNOWN

Timothée Chalamet brings a young Bob Dylan to life in this biopic. The film chronicles Dylan’s meteoric rise to fame, beginning in 1961 when he was just 19 years old, and covers the first four years of his career. Thanks to a chance meeting with singer Pete Seeger (Ed Norton) in New York City, Dylan gets a musical foot in the door and picks up a few gigs. He begins a collaboration with Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro) that evolves into a romantic relationship, and his long-suffering girlfriend Sylvie (Elle Fanning) endures his recurring infidelity. As Dylan’s popularity grows, he’s conflicted between other people’s expectations and his own artistic desires, resulting in his rebellious decision to perform an electric guitar set with a band at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. Much fuss has been made of Chalamet’s commitment to vocal authenticity by singing all the songs live on camera – no mean feat given Dylan’s distinctive gravelly, raw voice. Barbaro also performs her songs live and she captivates with her incredible voice. Chalamet portrays Dylan as brooding, moody and mysterious however with zero back story there’s no deep dive into his musical motivations. Significant aspects of his life are also skipped, like his struggles with substance abuse. Cherry picked, surface-level storytelling with lots of music but not enough Dylan.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

THE STOLEN GIRL

Elisa (Denise Gough) allows her 9-year-old daughter, Lucia, to have her first sleepover at a new friend’s house. When Lucia isn’t dropped off the next day, Elisa and her husband Fred drive to the house, only to discover it’s a holiday rental that’s currently empty. Their worst nightmare comes true when they realise that Lucia has been kidnapped. A police investigation commences and Selma (Ambika Mod), an ambitious young journalist, begins her own inquiry based on a hunch that something is amiss. SPOILER ALERT! As the search for Lucia crosses into France, family secrets and marital indiscretions are exposed. Selma keeps digging and seems to have more of a clue than the police. Her push for answers eventually reveals Elisa’s full backstory and at the end of the series, you’ll wonder if the person who receives punishment, is the one who deserves it. The pacing of this British crime thriller is on point, with the story succinctly tied up in just five episodes. The acting is average – not great but not bad – and while there are some unexpected turns of events, the kidnappers motive is manifested from a deranged and vengeful mind. A quick and easy binge that doesn’t blow the roof off.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s score 7/10

BAD INFLUENCE – THE DARK SIDE OF KIDFLUENCING

This three part series focuses Tiffany Smith’s exploitation of her young daughter Piper Rockelle for money and fame. Piper was just 9 years old when Tiffany manufactured her into a You Tube, TikTok and Instagram sensation. She handpicked a group of preteens and teens to form Piper’s ‘squad,’ carefully crafting a world that impressionable kids aspired to join. Aware that a significant portion of Piper’s followers were men, Tiffany incentivised their predatory behaviour by sending select users private photos of Piper. She became increasingly tyrannical and forced the children to film for days on end, with complete control over their online channels. Other parents began to notice something was wrong and withdrew their children from Tiffany’s influence, leading to immediate disconnection from Piper. Allegations of physical, psychological, and se*ual abuse soon followed in a lawsuit filed against Tiffany by eleven former squad members. Thankfully, the culpability of the parents who recognised the troubling situation yet allowed their children to continue filming with Piper was also called into question. A repulsive and horrifying disregard for parental duty of care on all levels.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

GOLD AND GREED: THE SEARCH FOR FENN’S TREASURE

Wealthy art dealer Forest Fenn buried a treasure chest filled with gold, jewels and other valuables in the Rocky Mountains of Wyoming in 2010. He subsequently published his memoir, which included a 24-line poem containing clues to the treasure’s location. With the contents of the chest valued at between $1 million and $5 million USD, more than 3000 hopefuls set out find it – a pursuit that led to the tragic deaths of five treasure hunters. Public sentiment towards Fenn soon changed, with some viewing him as a trickster with blood on his hands rather than a generous genius. This three-part documentary explores the obsession of individuals who were determined to uncover the treasure and the madness that ensured as they embarked on a reckless quest for fortune.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

THE PENGUIN LESSONS

English teacher Tom Michell (Steve Coogan) takes a position at Argentinian boarding school ‘St. George’ in 1976. It’s a time of political turmoil and a coup is imminent, with thousands of people abducted from the streets never to be seen again. During a break from work, Michell vacations in Uruguay and rescues a penguin that has washed up on a beach, covered in oil. After several failed attempts to release it back into the sea, he brings the penguin, named Juan Salvador, back to the school, where he navigates the challenge of caring for his unconventional new pet. Juan Salvador soon becomes a beloved member of the campus, motivating students and serving as a confidante for the staff. Based on a true story, Michell is the type of character Coogan excels at portraying – bluntly honest, slightly irritable, and apathetic, yet with a good heart. This film is filled with humour and reflects on the simple joys of life, while highlighting the beauty of connection.

FUN FACT: Real penguin partners Richard and Baba filmed most of the penguin scenes, with a puppet and robot penguin used on occasion.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

Steve’s score 9/10

Duncan’s score 9/10

Anne’s score 9/10

Beth’s score 10/10

DROP

Widower Violet (Meghann Fahy) meets photographer Henry (Brandon Sklenar) at a fancy high-rise restaurant for their first date … and it quickly turns into a nightmare. When Violet receives a series of threatening messages drop-sent directly to her phone, she finds herself following the demands of an unknown person, who is present somewhere in the restaurant. With the lives of her son and sister threatened and her every move being watched via hidden cameras, Violet is soon in a race against time to figure who is sending the messages and why. There are moments of suspense as she struggles to uncover the identity of her tormentor but when the big twist is revealed it’s more of a whimper than a bang. You’ll enjoy the action more if you suspend belief for the rest. See it on date night. Released in cinemas 17th April.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

THE AMATUER

Remi Malik stars as Charles Heller, a CIA decoder driven by revenge after his wife is k*lled in a ter*orist attack in London. Taking justice into his own hands, he embarks on a mission to track down the four criminals responsible for her death, and goes rogue from the agency. He soon realises the combat isn’t his strong suit and has to call on other skills to achieve his agenda. The CIA want Charles stopped and send in Colonel Henderson (Laurence Fishburne) to capture him. Charles and the CIA use a lot of fancy computer tech to constantly outsmart each other, most of which isn’t anywhere near believable, particularly his last act in the Baltic Sea. Although Charles is meant to be fueled by grief and vengeance, he comes across as emotionally detached and one-dimensional. The pacing is slow and I got bored halfway way through. Another film that had promise but lacked premise. Amateur two hours.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.5/10

Saraj’s score 7/10

LOVE ON THE SPECTRUM: SEASON 3

In its most successful and endearing season yet, this wholesome show delivers once again. It follows a diverse group of young autistic adults as they venture into the dating world. Several familiar faces from past seasons join the newcomers. There are first heartbreaks, first kisses, and the excitement of first loves. Forget about ‘MAFS’ – switch over to this instead. It’s a heartwarming watch filled with genuine intentions and pure goodness.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

Amanda’s Score 10/10

K*LL TONY: K*LL OR BE KILLED

Let’s be clear, this stand-up comedy special isn’t for me. Its target audience is men, which explains why I, as a middle aged woman, feel it falls short. The premise involves up-and-coming comedians drawing names from a bucket to perform a one-minute set in front of a live audience, all in an attempt to impress host Tony Hinchcliffe and his guest stars. Hinchcliffe’s loud and brash style, combined with the painfully unfunny routines, left much to be desired. No minority group is spared in the jokes and overall it was a waste of viewing time. Total trash.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 1/10

EVERY LITTLE THING

Oh my heart! Directed by Sally Aitken, this documentary features the inspiring story of Terry Masear, a hummingbird rehabilitator based in Los Angeles who has dedicated 18 years of her life to saving these remarkable birds. During that time she’s received more than 20,000 calls for assistance. Masear is reminiscent of countless women worldwide who devote their lives to the welfare of animals – pragmatic, nurturing, and committed. Though hummingbirds are the smallest birds on the planet, they serve as a powerful metaphor in this documentary for all wildlife, illustrating how we perceive and treat other creatures. Masear doesn’t shy away from sharing home truths about society’s general attitudes towards wildlife and you can feel her frustration when she recounts instances of neglect that harm the birds she strives to save. Nevertheless, she leads with hope, stating “I don’t measure the success of a rescue by the outcome, I measure it by the compassion that went into trying to save that bird.” You may not want to be on the front lines of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation but supporting those who are is vital. Watch this as a gesture of support for Terry; watch this to grow an appreciation for these magnificent tiny birds; and watch this because it’s engagingly brilliant.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

DYING FOR S*X

When Molly Kochan (Michelle Williams) receives news that she has incurable stage IV breast cancer she leaves her husband of 15 years Steve (Jay Duplass), and sets about fully exploring her se*uality. Supported by best friend Nikki Boyer (Jenny Slate) who drops everything to be by her side, Molly delves into the world of kinks and fetishes. Her partly estranged mother Gail (Sissy Spacek) doesn’t approve of her bedroom escapades, but Molly has wasted enough time meeting everyone else’s needs and is a woman on a mission. The inevitability of Molly’s fate is clear from the first episode and there’s no miracle cure or battle win in store for her. Williams delivers a realistic portrayal of Molly’s bittersweet awakening and the emotional roller coaster that accompanies it. Slate is exceptional as the scatty but devoted Nikki whose heart is slowly breaking as she watches the decline of her beloved friend. Inspired by the real-life ‘Dying for s*x’ podcast co-created by Molly and Nikki, this series explores themes of unconditional love and the deep bonds of friendship while navigating the complexities of the human experience. Heartfelt, humorous and harrowing, this is Molly’s journey and we are just along for the ride.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s score 9/10

A MINECRAFT MOVIE

Since its release in 2011 the ‘Minecraft’ game has achieved massive commercial success, selling over 300 million copies globally and maintaining close to 140 million monthly players. Such impressive figures will make this movie adaptation a big hit among fans. The story follows four eccentric characters, Garrett ‘The Garbage Man’ Garrison (Jason Momoa), Natalie (Emma Myers), her younger brother Henry (Sebastian Hansen), and Dawn (Danielle Brooks), who are pulled into a portal that transports them to a strange land called the Overworld, where everything is cube-shaped. There, creativity reigns supreme, allowing inhabitants to design and construct whatever they can imagine. They cross paths with Steve (Jack Black) who begins a quest to help them return home. Along the way, they face off against t he evil Malgosha and her piglins, a group of hostile humanoid-pig creatures from a nightmarish dimension known as the Nether. With his Ultimate Warrior hair flicks and 80’s wardrobe, Garrett has the best lines, and Momoa clearly had a lot of fun with the role.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda's Score 7/10

A WORKING MAN

With his military career over, construction worker Levon Cade (Jason Stratham) tries to lead a quiet life and be a good father to his young daughter. When his bosses daughter is kidnapped by a human trafficking gang, Cade promises to rescue her and unleashes a barrage of fisty cuffs and bullets on the bad guys. Co-written by Sylvester Stallone, the dialogue is basic and Cade is very one dimensional. Other characters, like the Russian mafia and two dim witted brothers, are badly dressed cliches with fake accents that are difficult to understand. While there are a few decent fight scenes, the rest is predictable and tedious.

SCORE:

Alex’s score 4/10

GONE GIRLS – THE LONG ISLAND SERIAL KILLER

This three-part documentary series pieces together the connection between architect Rex Heuermann and the murders of seven women on Long Island, including the ‘Gilgo Four’, whose remains were discovered within 400 metres of each other in 2010.
The murders date back to the early 1990’s and many of the victims were escorts who advertised on Craigslist. The investigation was hindered by the incompetence, corruption, and bias of then-Suffolk County Chief of Police Jim Burke and his District Attorney buddy Tom Spota. Both were later imprisoned for their illicit activities and Spota was disbarred. It wasn’t until 2023, thanks to collaboration among various police and district attorney agencies and the testing of DNA evidence, that the case was finally cracked and Heuermann was charged. He is currently awaiting trial. The relentless pursuit of justice by the families of the missing women played a crucial role in keeping the case active for over 16 years. Hopefully they will soon have the closure they deserve.
Intriguing yet chilling.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

OH CANADA

Terminally ill documentary filmmaker Leonard Fife, portrayed by Richard Gere as the elder Leo and Jacob Elordi as the younger version, grants a final interview to two of his former students. He reflects on his early twenties, ensuring that his wife of thirty years, Emma (Uma Thurman), is present to witness his confessions. The film switches between the present day and the 1960s, with Gere occasionally appearing in flashback sequences instead of Elordi, confusing the time line. It’s also uncertain if Leo’s recollections are accurate or are delusions due to his failing memory and medications. A rather dull and confusing drama about a flawed and unlikeable man.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 4.5/10

NOVOCAINE

Jack Quaid is Nathan “Novocaine” Caine, an assistant bank manager who’s determined to save his girlfriend Sherry (Amber Midthunder) after she’s abducted by armed robbers. An edgy game of cat and mouse ensues as Caine chases down the three assailants in a desperate attempt to rescue his love. There are several shocking and grotesque moments, mainly relation to Caine’s medical condition – an inability to feel any pain. This film is highly entertaining, with non stop action, lots of laughs, and a thumping soundtrack. The Popcorn Panel movie club member Michelle describes it as “A violent screwball comedy romance that was quite disgusting and ridiculous.“ See it on the big screen for full squeamish effect.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Michelle’s score 7/10

Saraj’s score 8/10

Simon’s score 6.5/10

COMPANION

Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid star as loved-up couple Iris and Josh. They head to a remote cabin for a weekend with four friends, where it’s revealed that Iris is an android robot rented by Josh for companionship. When Josh tries to add a behaviour modification update to her software, Iris experiences a malfunction and goes haywire, leading to a struggle for survival among the group. There are several unexpected twists and turns, maintaining a high level of tension from beginning to end. Thatcher excels in her role as the bewildered Iris, while Quaid convincingly fluctuates from caring boyfriend to domineering master. A theme of the film is the ethical implications surrounding purpose-built robots, particularly in relation to their autonomy and the treatment they receive. Chilling, unconventional and full of surprises.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

DEATH OF A UNICORN

Single father Elliot (Paul Rudd) embarks on a weekend getaway with his daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega) to the estate of his pharmaceutical boss, Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant), located within a nature reserve. En route they accidentally run over and kill a baby unicorn, and decide to take its body with them to the mansion. They soon discover that the unicorn has healing properties, leading Odell, his wife Belinda (Tea Leoni), and their son Shepard (Will Poulter) to exploit this discovery by selling unicorn-derived products to the highest bidders. Ridley has a special connection with the unicorn and is horrified by the disrespectful mistreatment of its remains. When the parent unicorns turn up and seek revenge against those who stole their dead baby, things get gruesome. The film’s portrayal of these mythical beasts is undermined by subpar and fake looking CGI, causing awkward, stilted movements. Other special effects are reminiscent of early MTV music videos where a singer spins around in the middle of a swirling cosmos. Certain performances are ridiculously overacted (particularly by Richard E. Grant) and Jenna Ortega’s ill-fitting wig looks plonked on her head. Marketed as a horror x comedy the film got a tonne of laughs during our screening but everyone was laughing at it and not with it. There were several gnarly death scenes, much to the audiences glee, and these were its only saving grace. The rest was meh.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.5/10

Duncan’s score 5/10

Ann’s score 6/10

CON MUM

This documentary explores the life-changing experience of 45 year old Chef Graham Hornigold following an email from an elderly woman named Dionne, who claimed to be his long lost mother. After being placed in foster care as a child, Hornigold had always yearned to know more about his heritage. When Dionne reached out, she revealed intimate details about his life that only a biological parent would know and Hornigold was thrilled to reconnect with her. When they finally met in person, they had an instant mother-son bond. As their relationship developed, Hornigold discovered Dionne’s penchant for splashing the cash on luxury hotels, fine champagne, and expensive cars. Soon she began requesting loans from him, causing Hornigold to accrue more than $600,000AUD in debt, which he hid from his partner. Dionne also told him she had terminal cancer with six months to live. Gradually Hornigold started to realise Dionne might not be what she seems. A sad tale of how a man’s desperate need for acceptance from an absent parent nearly cost him everything.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

LOCKED

This thriller is what happens when Pennywise the Clown meets Hannibal Lecter with a dose of Stephen King best sellers ‘Christine’ and ‘Mr Mercedes’ thrown in. Bill Skarsgard plays Eddie, a low level thief who breaks into a car looking for valuables. Unbeknown to him, the car belongs to a vigilante psychopath called William (Anthony Hopkins) who has customised it with reinforced steel, bulletproof glass, and electric shock seating. He remotely traps an unsuspecting Eddie inside with no way of escape. So begins a 6-day game of t*rture with William gleefully controlling all aspects of the vehicle to punish Eddie for his past transgressions. William is only a voice on the cars audio system for the first 80 minutes and most of the screen time is given to Eddie’s harrowing experience. Both actors carry the film equally and it’s a change to see Skarsgard au-naturale without the heavy prosthetics his usual roles require, which often render him unrecognisable. Thirty four years after ‘Silence of the lambs’ was released, Hopkins still excels at personifying evil. Maintained my interest from start to finish and I even laughed a few times, not that this meant to be a comedy.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

THE RULE OF JENNY PEN

Following a debilitating stroke, Judge Stefan Mortensen (portrayed by Geoffrey Rush) moves into to an aged care facility to convalesce. There he encounters Dave Crealy (played by John Lithgow, complete with striking blue contact lenses and a set of fake crooked teeth) who terrorises his fellow residents with a sinister therapy doll-puppet named Jenny Pen. Mortensen’s attempts to alert the staff to what’s happening are ignored, allowing Crealy to continue his reign of torment. This psychological horror, a production from New Zealand, will hold your attention from beginning to end. It offers an unsettling portrayal of life within a high-dependency aged care environment. The overall mood of the film is dark with exceptional use of light to create shadowy sets that add to the tension. Rush delivers a powerful performance as the frustrated judge striving to end the terror, while Lithgow shines as the cruel and sociopathic Crealy. Gripping, disturbing, and well executed.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

LAST TAKE: RUST AND THE STORY OF HALYNA

In 2021, the Western film “Rust” was in production in Santa Fe, New Mexico. During a close-up scene, actor Alec Baldwin was instructed to draw a pistol from his holster. His prop firearm discharged a live round, striking Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and Director Joel Souza. Halyna tragically succumbed to her injuries, while Joel successfully recovered after emergency surgery. The incident was preceded by a failure to adhere to firearm protocols, raising questions about who was ultimately responsible for Halyna’s death. Although the shooting was classified as an accident, it led to criminal charges and numerous civil lawsuits. With Matt’s support (he served as Executive Producer) ‘Rust’ was finally completed in 2023. This documentary was produced by Rachel Mason, a friend of Halyna’s, at the request of Halina’s husband, Matt Hutchins. With extensive access to most of the ‘Rust’ crew, Rachel seeks to understand the events of that day, while highlighting the profound impact of Halyna’s death on her loved ones. An intimate examination of a unfathomable workplace accident that should never have happened.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

HIGH POTENTIAL

Morgan Gillory (Caitlin Olson), a single mother of three, is a cleaner who becomes a consultant for the LAPD due to her exceptional problem-solving abilities and a remarkable IQ of 160. She has a keen talent for reading people and an uncanny ability to notice details that often go overlooked. Each episode begins with a murder that Morgan and her partner Detective Adam Karadec (Daniel Sunjata) must investigate. The two have a love / hate relationship and provide most of the witty one liners and sarcastic barbs. As a series it tries to be too clever and inundates viewers with an excess of twists and turns. The format for each episode involves a murder, an obvious main suspect who serves as a red herring, and a range of peripheral suspects to add in a few extra characters. The perpetrator is usually revealed to be the deceaseds mothers brothers sons uncles neighbours dad. It gets a bit same-same after a few episodes and feels predictable. The believability is often stretched when Morgan links clues that are unconnected to each other. Still, it’s an enjoyable time filler and has been renewed for season two thanks to decent viewership.

SCORE:

Alex’s score 7/10

Amanda’s score 7.5/10

THE ELECTRIC STATE

Set in 1997, toy smuggler Keats (Chris Pratt) and orphaned teenager Michelle Greene (Millie Bobby Brown) join forces with their robot sidekicks to locate Michelle’s brother Christopher (Woody Norman.) Along the way conflict abounds, as they face resistance from global virtual reality company Sentre and its CEO Ethan Skate (Stanley Tucci), who has mainstreamed technology that enables humans to upload their minds into drone robots. With a production cost of $320 million, giving it a place amongst the most expensive films ever made, the CGI is impressive but the script lacks depth. The lead actors do their best with the writing, yet aren’t quite believable. The robots have a sweet sentience and are more cute than practical. They all possess a sense of humour and provide consistent comic relief – Mrs Scissors was a crowd favourite in our house. The soundtrack rocks and there’s a memorable robot vs Sentre drone grand-finale fight scene. Imperfect, light-hearted entertainment.

SCORE:

Alex’s score 7/10

Amanda’s score 9/10

SKINCARE

Renowned celebrity Hollywood esthetician Hope Holdman (Elizabeth Banks) is flying high after releasing her skin care range. She’s at the top of her game with a full calendar of client bookings and lots of regular media attention. Things take a turn when someone starts sabotaging her reputation. Hope tries to discover who is responsible but blindly trusts the wrong people. It doesn’t end well for her. This film loses its way two thirds through and by the end you’ll be confused as to who knew what and who was truly behind everything. Started strong but tried to be too clever and got convoluted.

SCORE:

Alex’s score 5/10

Amanda’s score 5/10

BLACK BAG

Director Steven Soderbergh delivers with this psychological thriller starring acclaimed actors Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett as husband and wife spies, George and Katherine Woodhouse. George receives information that a colleague may be compromising British security by selling a dangerous cyber hacking product to the Russians, and that Catherine may be involved. He endeavours to expose the leak and has to decide how far he will go to protect his wife. This is a gripping film with superb acting and an intelligent well-crafted script. The unexpected twists will keep you engaged and the ending closes everything out nicely. Plus the stylish wardrobe is captivating!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s score 10/10

Saraj’s score 10/10

Duncan’s score 9/10

Ann’s score 9/10

ADOLESCENCE

When 13 year old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper) is accused murdering a classmate, the lives of his parents, Eddie and Amanda (Stephen Graham and Christine Tremarco) and sister Lisa (Amelie Pease) are thrown into chaos. This 4 part limited series focusses on Jamie’s arrest and incarceration, the criminal investigation, and the repercussions for his family and friends, who become collateral victims. Detectives Bascombe (Ashley Walters) and Frank (Faye Marsay) are the leads on the case, tasked with piecing together what happened from unwilling witnesses. Impressively, each episode is filmed in real time as one continuous take, which creates an intimate atmosphere that makes you feel like a silent observer in each scene. The production required meticulous coordination and impeccable timing, and both are executed flawlessly. Episode three is a stand out and will have you on the edge of your seat. It features a palpable 50 minute interview between psychologist Briony Ariston (Erin Doherty) and Jamie, revealing his true character. Episode four will break your heart! The cast do a phenomenal job of keeping the dialogue, intensity and emotions flowing – they’re exceptional, with Graham and Cooper giving award-worthy performances. A highly recommended watch for its compelling story and outstanding execution. Incredible viewing!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

MICKEY 17

Director Bong Joon-Ho’s latest film is a sci-fi dark comedy mix. Mickey Barnes (Robert Pattinson) travels through space for 4+ years as part of a large colonising team. Eventually they arrive on a planet covered in ice and inhabited by creatures nicknamed “Creepers” who are perceived as a threat to the newly arrived humans. Mickey is subjected to experiments and environments that lead to his frequent demise, but as an “expendable” he is cloned back to life via a human body printer. The situation escalates when Mickey 17 doesn’t die and Mickey 18 is inadvertently created, as only one version of Mickey can exist at any given time. Pattinson showcases his acting abilities as Mickey 17 and 18, and the integration of the two characters within the same scenes is seamless. Mark Ruffalo plays the power-hungry, obnoxious expedition leader, Kenneth Marshall, a character who is surrounded by sycophants and feels strikingly familiar. Toni Collette complements his performance as Yifa, his sauce-obsessed, sadistic wife. At 2 hours and 17 minutes long, the exceptional cast, sharp writing and suspense driven plot will keep you engaged. It’s a brilliant good-vs-evil tale with an identity crisis and love story thrown in.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s score 7.5/10

Steve’s score 9/10

Saraj’s score 8.5/10

Simons score 7.5/10

DELICIOUS

A wealthy German family of four (parents John and Esther and their children Alba and Philipp) head to their luxurious French estate for a holiday. After crossing paths with a young a woman named Theodora, they employ her as their housekeeper. She gradually begins to create conflict between John and Esther, who both confide in her and mistakenly believe they’ve established her trust. It doesn’t take much for them to be swayed by her influence. Theodora spends her free time with a group of friends who are employed at a nearby hotel. From the outset, it’s evident that they have ulterior motives, yet John and Esther remain oblivious … until the groups malicious intentions become apparent. The plot has significant gaps and there aren’t any consequences for Theodora’s actions. The ending is far-fetched and defies believability. While I understand the satirical point the film is trying to make, its delivery in such a literal way feels too extreme.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 4/10

Amanda’s Score 6/10

TOXIC TOWN

This British 4-part miniseries is inspired by the true story of a group of mothers from Corby (in the North Northamptonshire district of the UK) who were exposed to toxic waste in their community. They faced the heartbreaking challenge of having children with birth defects and subsequently pursued legal action against the Corby Council, which was aware of the hazardous waste but concealed evidence of its existence. The talented ensemble cast, featuring Jodie Whittaker, Aimee Lou Wood, Robert Carlyle, Rory Kinnear, and Brendan Coyle, deliver exceptional performances, bringing striking authenticity to their characters. The script is well fleshed out and the overall story is harrowing. A gripping, high-quality drama that will keep you engaged and eager for justice to be served.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9.5/10

CAPTAIN AMERICA: BRAVE NEW WORLD

Anthony Mackie takes the baton of Captain America from Chris Evans in this latest Marvel instalment. His character, Sam Evans, partners with American President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) to apprehend a villain who’s using mind control to make soldiers do his bidding. There are a few commendable action sequences, with the iconic shield manoeuvres being a highlight. Some of the casting choices lacked believability, particularly Shira Haas as Special Agent Sabra who was very unconvincing. The sight of 82 year old Ford transforming into a red Hulk and doing Hulk smashes is something I never thought I’d see – the CGI for these scenes was average and looked ridiculous. Liv Tyler’s two minute appearance as Dr. Betty Ross at the end felt contrived. Overall it was boring with some sporadic, moderately entertaining moments.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5/10

THE LAST JOURNEY

This documentary began as a heartfelt project where Filip takes his elderly father, Lars, on a road trip through France, aiming to rejuvenate his joie de vivre. It evolves into something far more profound. Joined by his best friend Fredrik, Filip orchestrates a series of experiences to engage Lars and help him reminiscence, visiting locations that hold sentimental significance for him. Lars is a kind man who dedicated his career to teaching. His biggest transgression is a moment from the 1960s when he lost his temper with a taxi driver, an incident he still grapples with today. Their journey through France is an exploration of love, patience, and compassion. It highlights the importance of remaining active and connected to the world, to respectively combat the creeping effects of a sedentary lifestyle and old age. Touching, wonderful and sweet, it scores a 10 for the heart. Of note: a fellow viewer at the same screening who was 79 years of age felt it hit too close to home and did not enjoy it as a result.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 10/10

RUNNING POINT

When Cam Gordon (Justin Theroux) is forced into rehab for substance abuse, his sister Isla (Kate Hudson) takes over his role as president of the Waves basketball team in Los Angeles. Her other brother Ness (Scott MacArthur) and half brothers Sandy (Drew Tarver) and Jackie (Fabrizio Guido) work alongside her in the company. Battling the board, sponsorship issues, poor team performance, misogyny and at times, her brothers, Isla has to prove herself every step of the way. This feel-good series is as much about family relationships as it is about sport, with a nice balance of sentimentality and humour thrown in. It’s light but has meaningful messages, and feels like an American basketball version of ‘Ted Lasso’. The bite-sized episodes run for 30 minutes each making them easy to consume and great to binge. The finale ends with several cliffhangers and sets up series two, which hasn’t been commissioned yet. Creator Mindy Kaling is confident it will happen and it’s strong viewer numbers should get it over the line.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9.5/10

Amanda’s Score 10/10

FLOW

This Latvian-produced animation begins with a catastrophic flood that displaces a small black cat. As the story unfolds, the cat joins forces with a golden retriever, a stork, a capybara, and a lemur, and together they face numerous challenges while navigating a water-covered world. As you anxiously follow the fate of these characters, their constant fight for survival will leave you on the edge of your seat. It’s a gripping and stressful 90 minutes! The animals communicate through vocalisations and body language, with no spoken dialogue. Authentic animal noises were used, except for the capybara, whose sounds were made by a baby camel. The strong musical score effectively builds tension throughout the story. While the animation quality is not as polished or consistent as that of “The Wild Robot” (which had a budget of $70 million dollars more) the use of shadows and reflections is excellent. As an animal lover, I was satisfied with the ending but felt like I’d been through the emotional wringer to get there. This is not a fun, cute animal “cartoon.” Brace yourself mentally but definitely check it out.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Kelly’s score 9/10

Steve’s score 8/10

THE MONKEY

Based on Stephen King’s 1980 short story, “The Monkey” tells the story of twin brothers who discover a drumming monkey toy. They soon come to the horrifying realisation that each time the drum is struck, a grotesque death follows. Theo James portrays both adult brothers, nice guy Hal and Bill his malevolent sibling. Director Osgood Perkins also scores a cameo as Uncle Chip. Much ado has been made of the grotesque and over the top k*ll sequences – two common hallmarks of a King adaptation. The special effects are visceral and realistic and overall it’s a well paced horror / comedy mix. As a huge Stephen King fan, my only criticisms are the bad wig worn by James to distinguish Bill from Hal, and (one of my pet peeves in cinema) the decision to cast him as both twins. It was a missed opportunity for more dynamic casting choices.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

BRIDGET JONES DIARY – MAD ABOUT THE BOY

Nearly a decade following the last instalment and four years after the passing of her husband, Mark Darcy (portrayed by Colin Firth), Renée Zellweger reprises her role as Bridget Jones. Now ready to reenter the dating scene, she embarks on a new romantic relationship with a younger partner while also resuming her career as a television morning show producer. The film sees the return of beloved cast members, including Hugh Grant, Sally Phillips, and Emma Thompson, alongside new additions such as Chiwetel Ejiofor, Leo Woodall, Josette Simon, Nico Parker, and Leila Farzad. As Bridget navigates her journey of healing and personal growth, she finds love in an unexpected place. Wish Isla Fisher had more screen time and was featured beyond a quick cameo. Enjoyable and uplifting with moments of humour that align with the franchise’s established tone.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Kelly’s score 10/10

Saraj’s score 7/10

CASSANDRA

David and Samira Prill (Michael Klammer and Mina Tander) and their two children relocate to Germany’s oldest smart house in search of a new beginning following the sui*ide of Samira’s sister. The residence, which has been vacant for over five decades, is equipped with an AI maid robot named Cassandra. Once activated Cassandra takes full control of all aspects of the home and monitors the family in every room via large tv screens. Before too long Samira encounters a series of alarming incidents and suspects that Cassandra may be responsible. David is sceptical of her claims and Samira is admitted to a psychiatric treatment facility. With Samira out of the picture, Cassandra’s true intentions for the remaining family members become clear. This science fiction thriller alternates between the present day and the 1960s and 70s, revealing the backstory of Cassandra’s creation. The suspense builds well and the production quality is good. There are some slightly far fetched scenes where you may find yourself questioning why the often clumsy and sluggish Cassandra is not simply disarmed by being pushed over or into the pool. Engaging and worrying!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 8/10

SPIT

When larrikin con-man Johnny Spitteri aka ‘Spit’ (David Wenham) lands in Australia after 13 years on the run, he finds himself detained by immigration officers. Two crooked cops and a career criminal (Gary Sweet) get wind of his return. They attempt to silence him in relation to their involvement in a robbery which is tied to an anti-corruption investigation. This sets off a game of cat and mouse, with Spit staying one step ahead to ensure his survival. Wenham brings the annoying but endearing Spit to life with gusto and is so convincing you’ll be hard pressed to remember he’s playing a character. Many funny moments are peppered with heartfelt interactions, particularly amongst the Spits friends from immigration detention and his sister. A quality Aussie film complete with a tonne of f-bombs.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

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