Mini Review - Jurassic World Rebirth
Jurassic World Rebirth (out Jul 3) refers to a “rebirth” but this is best described as an underwhelming “rehash”. Borrowing heavily from the previous 6 movies, it's another action piece where heroes, who make head-scratching decisions, face off against dinosaurs and a villainous pharmaceutical guy. Grade: C+.
Mini Review - The Shrouds
The Shrouds (out Jul 3) is a messed-up David Cronenberg film about a savvy entrepreneur who has created a unique funeral home but things unravel when his computer systems are infiltrated by unknown hackers. I liked the concept more than the full narrative. Grade: B.
Mini Review - M3GAN 2.0
M3GAN 2.0 (out Jun 26) is proof that a new model isn't always as good as the original. It's a subpar sequel to the 2023 horror film. The drama and themes aren't as credible, and the humour isn't as strong. It’s hard to care about a character’s fate when they seemingly have no care themselves. Grade: C+.
Mini Review - F1
F1 (out Jun 26) is the Happy Gilmore of motor racing movies. You can enjoy it as simple entertainment, but it bears no resemblance to the sport itself. The production values are top-notch with heart-pumping race sequences and a pulsating Hans Zimmer music score. Unfortunately, the script is cliched and Hollywood-ised which makes it difficult to swallow. Grade: B-.
Mini Review - The Story of Souleymane
The Story of Souleymane (out Jun 26) is a drama about an immigrant from Guinea fighting for French citizenship while making a meagre living as a food delivery driver. It earned 8 César Award nominations, tells an important tale, and features a great lead turn from star Abou Sangaré. Grade: B+.
Mini Review - Riviera Revenge
Riviera Revenge (out Jun 26) is a French comedy about a long-married couple who go on a wacky adventure to "set things right" when it's discovered that one of them had an affair several decades earlier. There are some funny scenes (the ending is a winner) but it's a bit too goofy in places. Grade: B-.
Mini Review - 28 Years Later
28 Years Later (out Jun 19) serves as a sequel to the 2002 original and sees director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland craft another worthy chapter. Shot almost entirely on iPhones (impressive), it's got zombies and gore but, most importantly, a strong family tale at its core. English actor Alfie Williams is outstanding in depicting the emotional rollercoaster of 12-year-old Spike. Grade: A-.
Mini Review - Elio
Elio (out Jun 19) is the tale of an orphaned 11-year-old boy who, at his own request, is abducted by aliens and sucked up into outer space. Mature children will tap into the film’s heavier, emotional material. Those younger can still have fun with the vibrant aliens and the four-eyed villain, distinctively voiced by Emmy winner Brad Garrett. Grade: B.