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

DEPARTMENT Q

This Scottish thriller centres on detective chief inspector Carl Morck (Matthew Goode) and his partner James Hardy (Jamie Sives) who are ambushed and shot at a murder crime scene. Upon returning to work, Morck is assigned to a new cold case unit and begins investigating the disappearance of prosecutor Merritt Lingard (Chloe Pirrie), who disappeared four years earlier. With the help of former Syrian cop Akram Salim (Alexej Manvelov) and Rose Dickson (Leah Byrne), a PTSD-stricken cadet, Morck employs unorthodox and aggressive methods to obtain information, often flouting police processes and the law. This series features an intriguing plot and clever writing (from Scott Frank who co-wrote ‘The Queens Gambit’ and who also serves as director, executive producer and creator), although it becomes somewhat convoluted at times. Thankfully everything is explained and resolved in the finale. It is well-acted with excellent character development, particularly for blunt Morck who has a tough exterior but a good heart. Highlights include his growing respect for Salim and his friendship with Hardy. The pacing is steady and maintains viewer interest across all nine episodes. Witty, tense, and engaging, the series leaves room for a second season.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

SIRENS

Simone DeWitt (Milly Alcock) works as an assistant to Michaela ‘Kiki’ Kell (Julianne Moore) and the two develop a codependent relationship. Michaela, the wife of billionaire Peter Kell, spends her days hosting high-society fundraising events for her passion project, a raptor rescue centre. While she appears to have it all, she’s secretly distrustful of her husband’s fidelity. When Simone’s impulsive sister Devon (Meghann Fahy) unexpectedly visits the Kell’s island estate, she becomes wary of Michaela’s intentions. Soon Simone is compelled to confront her past. The ultra-rich characters are portrayed as entitled, odd, and shallow, and despite being billed as a dark comedy the only genuine laughs are provided by Catherine Cohen’s portrayal of Lily-Rose, a drunk woman who shares a jail cell with Devon. Some aspects of the plot are fanciful and for most of the series you’ll wonder whether the story will take a sinister turn. The final episode doesn’t provide a solid resolution for anyone other than Simone, who turns out to not be what she seems. Strange and twisted.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

REUNION

When deaf father Daniel Brennan (Matthew Gurney) is released from prison, he’s initially set on seeking revenge for abuses he suffered as a young boy at an all deaf boarding school. With no care for the possible consequences, he sets about tracking down the man who ruined his life. Along the way he reconnects with his estranged daughter Carly (Laura Peake), who is now a young adult, and slowly realises he has someone to live for. I decided to watch this show after someone claimed it was “As good as ‘Adolescence’ which turned out to be bum-steer. It’s nowhere near as engaging or well filmed as ‘Adolescence’ was. However in a wonderful showing of representation the cast largely consists of deaf and hard-of-hearing actors who communicate primarily through British Sign Language. Many deaf crew members also contributed behind the scenes.


That said, I found parts of the story to be slow, and I lost interest several times. The acting was decent though I feel the series could’ve been trimmed by at least one episode. Unjust and harrowing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

THE PHOENICIAN SCHEME

After surviving multiple assassination attempts, businessman Zsa-zsa Korda (Benito Del Toro) names his nun daughter (Mia Threapleton) as sole heir to his entire fortune on a trial basis. They set off to negotiate trade terms with several foreign tycoons and find themselves dodging death and misadventure along the way. In true Wes Anderson fashion (he serves as director, producer, and screenwriter) the film features an a-list cast, including Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, Bill Murray, Michael Cera, Benedict Cumberbatch, Willem Dafoe, Bryan Cranston, and Rupert Friend. The slapstick humour provides a few laughs though the plot is only moderately engaging. The stars of the show are the distinctive colour palate and intentionally themed, meticulously detailed sets synonymous with all of Andersons movies. His distinct visual style always oozes brilliance, even though in this instance, the content didn’t quite match his creative genius.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6.5/10

THE SALT PATH

Based on a true story and adapted from the book of the same name, ‘The Salt Path’ tells the story of Moth Winn (Jason Isaacs) and his wife Raynor (Gillian Anderson.) After losing their home to the bank and not having a viable place to live, they embark on a trek along the South West Coast Path in England. Moth, having been recently diagnosed with a terminal illness, frequently struggles with his heavy pack, a possible metaphor for the guilt he feels in making the bad investment that caused their hardship. They set off with no plan, very little money and even less knowledge of the great outdoors. I found most of this movie to be tedious and my frustration grew at their unpreparedness for the harsh elements. Respect to real life Moth and Ray for their 600 mile year-long journey, but the translation of their feat onto the big screen just didn’t do it for me. While the themes of resilience, hope, and the healing power of nature are commendable, it was overall pretty dull.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5/10

THE SURFER

When an unnamed protagonist(Nicholas Cage) returns to his childhood surf beach with his teenage son, he is denied access by a group of aggressive local surfers (led by Julian MacMahon). This initial confrontation sets off a chain of harassing events that escalate into a turf war fueled by toxic masculinity. Unwilling to give up on riding those particular waves, the man fights back, pushing himself to the limits of physical endurance. His resistance gradually spirals into madness as he begins to experience hallucinations about his life and becomes fixated on purchasing his former family home, perched on a nearby cliff. This film immerses viewers in discomfort from start to finish. The camera frequently captures actors in close-up shots, increasing the sense of tension and unease. Filmed in Yallingup, Western Australia, the Australian landscape shines under a blazing inhospitable sun. A raw, captivating and bizarre psychological thriller.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7.5/10

Duncan’s Score 8/10

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE – THE FINAL RECKONING

Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in the eighth installment of the ‘Mission Impossible’ franchise, which also serves as the second part of the final film. Once again Hunt is the only person who can save the planet, this time from an AI program called The Entity who had gone rogue and intends to detonate the nuclear weapons of several superpowers. His mission involves retrieving a hard drive from a sunken submarine, stealing a thumb drive necklace from the villain, and disarming a nuclear bomb. Amid espionage and a planet teetering on the brink of war, his dependable and long-suffering Impossible Mission Force team provides crucial support, always appearing at just the right moment to save his skin. The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, with constant jeopardy and multiple countdowns to potential catastrophes. At 65 years old, Cruise delivers jaw-dropping stunt work and defies his age as he matches much younger actors in intense fight scenes. Could’ve lost 30 minutes along the way but viewers won’t be bored. Just ignore the plot gaps and suspend belief while you sit back and watch the master of action movies once again steal the screen. Fans are sure to love this high-octane thrill ride but after three hours of non stop stress, I felt like I needed a lie down.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 6/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Kelly’s Score 2/10

Steve’s Score 4/10

Mich’s Score 7/10

Ally’s Score 8/10

LILO AND STITCH

After the success of the 2002 animated classic ‘Lilo and Stitch’ Disney brings the 2025 live-action adaptation to the big screen. Retaining the heartwarming themes of strong family bonds and overcoming adversity, the story follows Lilo (Maia Kealoha) whose greatest wish for a best friend comes true when Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders) crash-lands on her Hawaiian island. As they cause chaos and mischief, they also discover the true meaning of “Ohana.” In her feature film debut, Kealoha excels as excitable and well-meaning Lilo. The film maintains enough momentum to engage young audiences and delightful humour to connect adults. Stitch is just adorable as the cheeky, mischievous alien pretending to be a dog. Fun, endearing and enjoyable.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

Cath’s Score 8/10

Vicki’s Score 8/10

THE STUDIO

This ten-part series is fresh, interesting and quirky. Seth Rogen stars as Matt Remick, the head of the fictional Continental Studios in Los Angeles. Catherine O’Hara, Ike Barinholtz, Chase Sui Wonders, and Kathryn Hahn co-star as Matt’s colleagues, while more than 36 real-life actors, directors, and media personalities (like Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard to Charlize Theron, Ice Cube and Zoe Kravitz) make memorable cameos. The storylines are witty and satirical, complemented by masterful filming techniques. One-shot scenes are frequently used to enhance the pacing and energy, highlighting meticulous planning by the entire crew. Each actor delivers a brilliant performance, effortlessly playing off one another. But what shines through most is Rogen’s love for film. As a co-creator, co-director, lead, and an executive producer, his creative talent is evident and the respect he has within the industry is demonstrated by those playing themselves, parodying their public personas. Fabulous entertainment! Loved it and am thrilled it’s been renewed for season two.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 9/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

HOLLAND

Home economic teacher Nancy (Nicole Kidman) lives what looks like a charmed life with her optometrist husband Fred (Matthew Macfadyen) and son Harry (Jude Hill) in the Midwest town of Holland, Michigan. She gradually becomes suspicious of Fred’s frequent work trips and enlists the help of her colleague Dave (Gael García Bernal) to spy on him in an attempt to find evidence of an affair. Instead, Nancy and Dave become close and end up biting off more than they can chew when they discover what Fred’s really been up to. Not even a strong twist can save this film from its ridiculous spiral. The development of the leads is lacking in backstory and there are several inconsequential characters who could’ve been cut. The plot feels like it’s been done before, only better. Inconsistent and disappointing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3/10

LIKE MY BROTHER

A feature length documentary following four inspiring teens from the remote Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory, Rina, Freda, Julianna and Jess, who are each chasing the goal of playing for the Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW.) They all have excellent skills on the field and catch the attention of Essendon AFLW talent scouts. As their dreams are slowly realised, they struggle between city life and the call of their homelands, family ties and cultural traditions. Filmed over six years, this bittersweet tug-o-war between two worlds highlights the difficulties some First Nations athletes face when leaving their mob.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

SUSPECT: THE SHO*TING OF JEAN CHARLES MENEZES

The British have a reputation for producing compelling crime dramas, and this four-part series is no exception. It is inspired by the real-life events surrounding the de*th of Brazilian electrician Jean Charles de Menezes, who was mistakenly identified as a suspect in the aftermath of the failed July 2005 London b*mbings. Incorporating actual footage of the b*mbing aftermath and subsequent press conferences, the series vividly portrays the police misidentification of Menezes, the subsequent sho*ting, and the ensuing controversy – including the public outrage and the legal battles waged by the de Menezes family. Shocking and visceral, it often depicts graphic and unsettling scenes and offers a stark and thought-provoking exploration of police actions and their devastating consequences. Compelling and disturbing.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

ANOTHER SIMPLE FAVOUR

This toxic friendship murd*r mystery is a sequel that never should have been made. Some films should end after their initial installment. I’m not even going to go into the plot – I don’t want to relive the trauma. While Anna Kendrick excels at comedy, Blake Lively does not. The location of Capri, Italy is stunning but the beautiful scenery isn’t enough to carry the weight of this cringey and absurd movie. The last half an hour beggars belief and crosses so many boundaries, going for shock value rather than any semblance of a decent story. No wonder it went straight to streaming – it would’ve bomb*d in cinemas. What rot!

SCORE:

Alex's Score 2/10

EMILIA PEREZ

Cartel leader Manitas (played by trans actress Karla Sophia Garscon) has always felt like he was born in the wrong body. In a quest to live as his authentic self he abandons his two young children and wife (Selena Gomez), hires lawyer Rita (Zoe Saldana) to help him fake his own death and re-emerges as a woman named Emilia Perez (also Karla Sophia Garscon.) The opening musical number almost made me to turn it off and I found the subsequent song and dance sequences unnecessary and viewed them in fast forward. The emotional depth of those scenes could’ve been conveyed through acting rather than song and this would’ve made the plot more cohesive. Some of the performances were also off key – if you’re creating a musical, make sure it’s in tune. While this film’s strengths lie in its intriguing story and the noteworthy performances of Gomez, Saldana, and Garscon, it attempts to be too many things at once. It’s as if writer (and director) Jacques Audiard mashed every concept he’d ever had into the movie and he even stated in a press interview that it’s an “opera” – it’s not. Original but mixes too many genres.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 5.9/10

FLIGHT RISK

Mark Wahlberg leads as creepy pilot Daryl in this action thitller. He is transporting an essential witness in an embezzlement trial, Winston (Topher Grace) and his escort air marshall Madolyn (Michell Dockery) in a small plane above the Alaskan wilderness. Daryl’s villainous intentions are soon exposed as he attacks his two passengers and reveals he’s been hired to kill Winston. Madolyn fights back and soon finds herself in control of a plane she has no idea how to fly. Plus she has to contend with a leak in the Department of Homeland Security Air Marshal Division. The acting is average, Daryl is skin crawlingly vile and the far fetched metre is off the charts. Throw in some basic CGI scenery and you have a real dud SPOILER ALERT! The only high point is Daryl’s eventual demise Naff and nonsense.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 3.5/10

FANATICAL: THE CATFISHING OF TEGAN AND SARA

As the popularity of twin sister singing duo Tegan and Sara grew in the early 2000’s, so did their fan base. In 2011 an impersonator emerged (nicknamed ‘‘Fake Tegan’ and ‘Fegan’) and began communicating with fans as Tegan and sharing personal photos of her and unreleased music demos. The fans genuinely believed they were developing friendships and, in some cases, romantic relationships with Tegan. This documentary investigates the catfishing, which continued for several years, and explores its damaging impact on the deceived fans. It also delves into the violation of Tegan’s personal life, the way her relationships were affected and how her trust in everyone around her was broken. Due to the sheer number of victims involved, keeping track of the convoluted messages being sent back and forth becomes difficult as a viewer, but this also emphasises how chaotic and messy the whole situation was. I found it particularly frustrating that there was no resolution at the end – an examination of the email header information by police would have identified the IP address used by the perpetrator, and they could’ve been traced. Tegan still doesn’t have closure and the reverberations of this heinous behaviour are still felt by her today. An alarming look at fandom and the dark side of celebrity attention.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7/10

Amanda’s Score 7/10

THUNDERBOLTS

The 36th installment of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) franchise kicks off in a big way as Florence Pugh (Yelena) leaps from the second highest skyscraper in the world, Kuala Lumpur’s Merdeka 118. It’s fitting that the opening scene introduces the character who carries the remaining 126 minutes. Alongside a team of mercenary anti heroes, known as the Thunderbolts, Yelena sets out to confront corrupt CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) who has been attempting to manufacture super humans in a lab and is the subject of an impeachment trial. The Thunderbolts save one of the test subjects Bob (Robert Pullman) but when he realises the veracity of his powers he soon becomes a new adversary. With a strong emphasis on mental health, depression, and the healing power of friendship, this film has more emotional depth than some of the previous MCU offerings. There are enough action sequences to maintain viewer interest and the interactions between Yelena and her adoptive father Alexei (David Harbour) bring the laughs. Although this film is engaging and entertaining, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu due to its familiar and predictable plot. Another Marvel money maker set up for a sequel.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 7.5/10

Amanda’s Score 8.5/10

Steve’s Score 7/10

THE FOUR SEASONS

Three married couples, all longtime friends, take trips together every season. When Nick (Steve Carell) leaves his wife Annie (Kerri Kennedy) and falls for a younger woman named Ginny (Erika Henningsen), the group dynamics are impacted. The other couples, Danny and Claude (Colman Domingo and Marco Calvani) and Kate and Jack (Tina Fey and Will Forte), must face their own relationship issues, in addition to reassessing their friendships. Ticking the box as a comedy with plenty of humour throughout, this mini series also features a decent dose of drama and two unexpected plot twists. The eight episodes run for 30 minutes each and they flow well thanks to the decent script, well acted characters and solid pacing which maintains momentum. A quality production that’s watchable and easy to binge.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8.5/10

Amanda’s Score 9/10

MOVIEPASS MOVIECRASH

When discount movie card ‘MoviePass’ was launched in 2011, its goal was to attract consumers back to cinemas. The business model involved members using a pre paid debit card to load up movie ticket purchases. In 2017, Helios and Matheson Analytics (HMNY) became a majority owner and soon began charging members a monthly subscription of $10, allowing them to attend any films of their choice as often as they wanted. The cost to MoviePass for each ticket purchased was $11.50 and some users were viewing hundreds of films a year. As membership grew to over 3 million subscribers, the unscrupulous HMNY management proceeded to bleed tens of millions of over of dollars every month on parties, private jets and celebrity pay offs. When questions were asked, they ousted the two original founders (Stacy Spikes and Hamet Watt) from the board. Within a year of the takeover, the financial losses and overspending led the company to file for bankruptcy, prompting a criminal investigation. Eventually, Spikes reacquired ‘Movie Pass’ and with the implementation of new user restrictions, it’s been a profitable venture since 2023. A promising idea that was undermined by ego and greed.

SCORE:

Alex's Score 8/10

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

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