Promised (out Oct 24) is an Australian romantic drama set in the 1970s about an Italian woman forced into an arranged marriage by her parents. The dialogue is unnecessarily stiff. Everyone speaks so hesitantly and it's as if all these characters have never met before. Disappointing. Grade: C-.

Blinded by the Light (out Oct 24) is a coming-of-age drama about a British teenager of Pakistani heritage who finds his views shaped by a newfound love for Bruce Springsteen. Some parts feel contrived but there's enough fun and emotion to win over audiences. Grade: B.

Zombieland: Double Tap (out Oct 17) is a weak follow-up to the 2009 original (which I enjoyed). It's peddling the same jokes from scene-to-scene. Grade: C.

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (out Oct 17) is a weak follow up to the 2014 original.  Michelle Pfeiffer plays the villain this time around but she’s all bluster and no depth.  Why couldn’t they give her a more intriguing backstory?  Angelina Jolie remains the “pick of the bunch” as Maleficent but that’s largely because she’s the only character required to make tough choices and hence, the most interesting.  Grade: C.

Maiden (out Oct 17) is a documentary that shines light on a fascinating piece of sporting history that few will be familiar with. In 1989, a group of women tried to become the first all-female yachting crew to complete the Whitbread Round the World Race. The less you know going in, the better. Grade: A-.

Locusts (out Oct 17) is an Aussie crime drama that features some dodgy, loudmouth folk talking a big game in search of wealth and power in the outback. It's the kind of movie that keeps you interested without doing anything original or special. Grade: B.

Strange But True (out Oct 17) is a poorly conceived drama about a young woman who becomes pregnant in strange circumstances. This is a bizarre film with everyone running around in circles and avoiding obvious questions to deliberately prolong the narrative. Grade: C.

Judy (out Oct 17) delves in a period in the life of 46-year-old Judy Garland when she travels to London in 1969 to perform a series of stage shows. There are small weaknesses in the script bu these are negated by the stunning performance of Renée Zellweger. The casting is perfect and she does a wonderful job capturing Garland’s blend of egotism and insecurity. A worthy character study. Grade: B+.

The King (out Oct 11) is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's plays (Henry IV and Henry V) and is the story of a reluctant English prince drawn into war with France. The themes are relevant in today's world and Timothée Chalamet is excellent in the lead role. Directed by Australian David Michôd. Grade: A-.

Hustlers (out Oct 10) is an appealing drama with strong performances, genuine laughs and a winning soundtrack. Based on a true story, it follows a group of strippers who, as part of a plan to get rich, engage in criminal behaviour to fleece male customers. It's a film that will get people talking. Grade: B+.