Mini Review - The Secret Garden
The Secret Garden (out Sep 17) is a sub-optimal adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's novel. Maybe it's because the source material feels dated or maybe it's because this interpretation from director Marc Munden lacks energy. It's the tale of spoilt young girl who is forced to live at her uncle's rundown English estate. Grade: C+.
Mini Review - An American Pickle
An American Pickle (out Sep 17) is a disappointing, nonsensical comedy about a man from 1919 (played by Seth Rogen) who is transported to the year 2019 and learns how quickly the world has changed. It's an idea with potential but it's a shame how poorly it's been executed. Grade: C.
Mini Review - The Broken Hearts Gallery
The Broken Hearts Gallery (out Sep 17) follows a long-time hoarder named Lucy who starts an art gallery to help people let go of sentimental objects that remind them of ex partners and lovers. It falls back on too many romantic comedy cliches but I really liked the two leads, the broader supporting cast, and the use of humorous one-liners. Grade: B+.
Mini Review - The Secrets We Keep
The Secrets We Keep (out Sep 17) is set in the late 1950s and follows a Romani woman living in the United States who believes a man in her neighbourhood is a Nazi war criminal. A few pieces fit together too neatly but it's still an effective thriller with a strong lead performance from Noomi Rapace. Grade: B+.
Mini Review - Trolls World Tour
Trolls World Tour (out Sep 17) is a sequel to the 2016 release. This time around, a not-so-nice troll wants to rid the world of all music (except rock) and the others must fight back. It's too heavy-handed in the way it pushes its themes but the soundtrack and cute characters will win some fans. Grade: B-.
Mini Review - The Translators
The Translators (out Sep 17) is a French mystery thriller about a publisher who is set to release the final instalment in a best-selling trilogy... only to be blackmailed by someone threatening to leak it online. I like the setting (much takes place in an underground bunker) and I like the cast but I wasn't convinced by the film's second half when all is revealed. It lacks credibility. Grade: B.
Mini Review - After We Collided
After We Collided (out Sep 10) is a sequel to After - the worst movie (in my opinion) of 2019. Sorry to report that this isn't any better. It's a trashy, farcical tale of two young lovers who are forever encountering difficulties. The dialogue is cringe-worthy. Grade: C-.
Mini Review - Becky
Becky (out Sep 10) is a gory thriller that begins promisingly but becomes less credible in the second half. A group of prison escapees (headlined by Kevin James in a rare villainous role) terrorise a family in a remote forest home. Grade: B.