Allegiant Part 1
What’s it about?
The third instalment of the Divergent series sees our hero Tris escape with Four beyond the wall that encircles Chicago, to finally discover the shocking truth of the world around them. Gods, I’m bored just writing that.
What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: The first book/film was flawed but had enough interesting ideas to keep you engaged and wondering. Sadly by the third in this series it’s just incredibly tired and old. There’s nothing new or shocking in this predictable and two-dimensional story. There are quote a number of good action scenes but with a paper-thin plot not really holding it together? I’ll save my allegiance for movies with actual storylines.
Kung Fu Panda 3
What’s it about?
Po discovers not only his long-lost father but an entire village of pandas. In karmic payback he has to train the lazy and clumsy brethren for an upcoming battle.
What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: Full of frenetic energy and colour, the third Kung Fu Panda instalment won’t disappoint the younger audience but adults will struggle with the fact that we’ve seen it all before. With no real character development since the first movie, KF3 is just the same characters doing the same things in a different setting with new action figures… I mean friends. Nothing inherently wrong but just feels a bit tired. Kids will love it though: Kung Fu Panda – now with more pandas!
The Jungle Book
What’s it about?
An orphaned child is raised in the jungle by animals but not all have a fondness for him and in the face of a threat from a savage tiger, Mowgli is to be returned to the man village.
What did we think?
The second of Disney’s live-action remakes of classic cartoons, The Jungle Book is surprisingly true to the original. It’s got extra grit and is less childish but manages to recreate the charm that will put a smile on your face regardless of your age. There are a few scary moments for the younger audience members but they are thankfully brief and easily forgotten in the face of impressive effects and performances, most notably the show-stealing Baloo voiced by Bill Murray. Neel Sethi is impressive as Mowgli especially considering he didn’t share a scene with a human the entire movie. Genuine fun for the entire family.
Brand New Testament
What’s it about?
God is real. And living in Brussels. And he’s a bit of a dick. So his ten-year-old daughter moves out into the real world where she follows in the footsteps of her older brother (JC) and seeks out some apostles.
What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: This quirky and somewhat blasphemous Belgian-French movie is a dark little comedy that playfully dances around a lot of questions without answering many and that only adds to its appeal. It’s a lesson Hollywood could learn. The endearing star is balanced out against a range of characters in the randomly chosen apostles each with their own unusual subplot. You’re never quite sure where the stories are going but it’s such a fun irreverent journey you reallydon’t care: you’re just enjoying the ride. The casual – and accepted – surrealism only adds to the odd theme and sense of mirth. If you like the sound of the plot, you’ll enjoy the pic.
Zootopia
What’s it about?
The modern metropolis of Zootopia is a city where animals of all kinds coexist in peace and harmony. A young rabbit realises her dream of becoming the first bunny on the police force but has to battle judgement and stereotyping all while trying to solve a missing person’s case. She enlists (forcibly) the aid of a con artist fox and the natural enemies are pushed closer and closer together.
What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: Zootopia is simply a delight. From the incredible animation which showcases not only an intricate city of wondrous detail but also entire worlds of imagination. All held together by an engaging and clever story. Yes it’s predictable – hey it’s still a kids’ movie – but there’s enough for adults to get lost in as well. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman are outstanding as the rabbit and fox detective duo which touches on politics and race tensions in a very subtle manner. Just great hearty fun.
Eye in the Sky
What’s it about:
A drone-led terrorist capture mission in Kenya takes an unexpected turn, throwing up an intriguing ethical dilemma for all those involved. In one of his last roles, Alan Rickman plays a typically cynical general, with Captain Phillips’ Barked Abdi in a pivotal on-the-ground role.
What did we think:
Angela Young says: This extraordinarily-gripping thriller keeps you guessing and mulling all the way, as you see through the eyes of the frankly bizarre world of modern remote warfare, tiny beetle drones and all. Superb performances from a global cast and an excellent script combine to make this a winner that’ll leave your cogs turning long after you leave the cinema.
It’s got Helen Mirren and Alan Rickman in it. That should tell you all you need to know.
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iPhone Case Review
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Murder On The Orient Express
What’s it about?
A murder on a train leaves thirteen suspects for a world-class detective to sift through.
What did we think?
Elise Donaldson says: While not a masterpiece, this remake of a classic is still a delightful concoction of drama, passion, intrigue, a splash of neurosis wrapped with a wicked wit.
The all-star cast is top-notch (particularly Johnny Depp as the sleazy crook Ratchett), the CGI effects are breathtaking, the costumes are perfectly styled as is detective Poirot’s amusing moustache. The comedic jabs between characters was an absolute pleasure (and the undoubted highlight). My only criticism would be the uninspiring music score which just didn’t add to the suspense. But the twists and interplay meant it never got boring. So if you’re after a lavish whodunit which will keep you guessing and will deliver a few surprising laughs along the way, then straighten your tie, align your eggs and get yourself a ticket on the Orient Express.
Professor Marston and the Wonder Women
What’s it about?
Many know the character Wonder Woman was created by psychologist William Marston but most people don’t realise he was in a polyamorous relationship with two women. This is a look at the controversy the comic generated and the secrets of another time.
What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: As an avid Wonder Woman fan I was aware of Marston’s colourful past and was half expecting a critical piece focusing on the BDSM and sexist commentary of early Wonder Woman (common criticisms). So it was a pleasant surprise to see this biopic spend more time on the genuine love and respect in the non-traditional relationship where three people genuinely cared about each other, raising a family in an incredibly conservative and judgemental time.
All three main characters are given the depth they deserve and the women in particular are multi-dimensional, intelligent and never relegated into minor roles.
With Wonder Woman enjoying renewed popularity, this biopic is a wonderful chance to question just how far we’ve come in our attitudes even today. Director Angela Robinson deserves a lot of credit for her handling of material that will, once again, no doubt be controversial.
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iPhone Case Review
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Murder On The Orient Express
What’s it about?
A murder on a train leaves thirteen suspects for a world-class detective to sift through.
What did we think?
Elise Donaldson says: While not a masterpiece, this remake of a classic is still a delightful concoction of drama, passion, intrigue, a splash of neurosis wrapped with a wicked wit.
The all-star cast is top-notch (particularly Johnny Depp as the sleazy crook Ratchett), the CGI effects are breathtaking, the costumes are perfectly styled as is detective Poirot’s amusing moustache. The comedic jabs between characters was an absolute pleasure (and the undoubted highlight). My only criticism would be the uninspiring music score which just didn’t add to the suspense. But the twists and interplay meant it never got boring. So if you’re after a lavish whodunit which will keep you guessing and will deliver a few surprising laughs along the way, then straighten your tie, align your eggs and get yourself a ticket on the Orient Express.
Professor Marston and the Wonder Women
What’s it about?
Many know the character Wonder Woman was created by psychologist William Marston but most people don’t realise he was in a polyamorous relationship with two women. This is a look at the controversy the comic generated and the secrets of another time.
What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: As an avid Wonder Woman fan I was aware of Marston’s colourful past and was half expecting a critical piece focusing on the BDSM and sexist commentary of early Wonder Woman (common criticisms). So it was a pleasant surprise to see this biopic spend more time on the genuine love and respect in the non-traditional relationship where three people genuinely cared about each other, raising a family in an incredibly conservative and judgemental time.
All three main characters are given the depth they deserve and the women in particular are multi-dimensional, intelligent and never relegated into minor roles.
With Wonder Woman enjoying renewed popularity, this biopic is a wonderful chance to question just how far we’ve come in our attitudes even today. Director Angela Robinson deserves a lot of credit for her handling of material that will, once again, no doubt be controversial.