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+.

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-.

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+.

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-.

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-.

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.

Jane Austen Wrecked My Life (out Jun 19) is an offbeat French comedy about an insecure writer, with a love for Jane Austen, who attends a writer's camp and meets an eclectic group. I admire its quirkiness but I grew tired of the lead character. Grade: B-.

How to Train Your Dragon (out Jun 12) is a live action remake of the 2010 animated feature. While I adored the original, I wasn't as passionate here. Live action works against the film given heavy CGI is still required (for the dragons), the action scenes are too choppy/chaotic, and the dialogue delivery from the human characters is stiff. Grade: C+.

Materialists (out Jun 12) is a romantic comedy for those who are a little sceptical of romantic comedies. It's about a not-always-likeable New York matchmaker (Dakota Johnson) who finds herself pursued by two worthy suitors (Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans). A few subplots don't work but the dialogue is well crafted, the cinematography impresses, and the use of continuous takes adds weight to key conversations. Grade: B+.

Dangerous Animals (out Jun 12) is an Aussie horror flick about a psychopath boat operator who kidnaps young tourists to feed to sharks. There are a few too many corny/contrived moments but when the film is good, it's very good. Writer Nick Lepard has crafted a workable script filled with tense moments while Jai Courtney enhances the material with his unsettling performance. Grade: B.