Transformers One (out Sep 19) represents a shift for the long-running franchise. Instead of another live-action flick with charismatic humans trying to save the world, this is a fully animated origin story with no humans at all. It works when trying to be funny but when the drama dial is turned up, I wasn't as convinced. Grade: B-.

The Wild Robot (out Sep 19) is a sweet animated film from writer-director Chris Sanders (How to Train Your Dragon). A cute robot washes up on a deserted island and befriends its animal inhabitants. Younger crowds will find it easier to follow. Adults can chuckle at darker jokes. All can be caught up in the dramatic final act. Grade: B+.

The Substance (out Sep 19) is too long (we get the message loud and clear in the first half) but it's still an unforgettable horror-drama about a waning Hollywood star who takes an experimental injection to look young again. Striking cinematography, great performances, jarring scenes. Grade: B+.

Speak No Evil (out Sep 12) is a thriller about a family who visits the remote home of some new friends. Takes a while to get going but the third act is well and truly worth it. Grade: B+.

Kid Snow (out Sep 12) is an Australian drama set in the 1970s about a washed-up boxer given an unexpected chance of redemption. It's a tale with its fair share of boxing cliches but I liked the film's gritty look and nature. Grade: B.

Runt (out Sep 12) is an Aussie family drama that is ridiculously cheesy and unrealistic... but the cast are so damn likeable that they make it fly. Younger Lily LaTorre is terrific as an 11-year-old girl who enters her lucrative pet dog in an obstacle race to help save the family farm. Grade: B+.

Harold and the Purple Crayon (out Sep 12) is based on the 1955 children's picture book and is about the tale of a 4-year-old boy who, powered by a magic purple crayon, can draw anything he wants and then make it come to life. The writers have gone with a live-action adaptation (like the idea) but I expected more laughs and creativity. The characters’ misadventures aren’t particularly interesting. Grade: C+.

Kneecap (out Aug 29) is an original biopic about a young, three-member rap band from Northern Ireland who began their rise to stardom in 2017. It's a funny, no-holds-barred look at life their interactions with family, fans, police, and drug dealers. Grade: A-.

Last Summer (out Sep 5) is a conversation-starting French drama about a middle-aged woman who has an affair with her rebellious 17-year-old stepson. The striking cinematography (lots of intense facial close-ups) and strong performances make this a confronting movie. Grade: B+.

Thelma (out Sep 5) is an exceptional comedy about a 93-year-old woman (June Squibb) who goes in search of those who scammed $10k from her. It may sound goofy but it's anything but. The performances are top-notch, the jokes are hilarious, and there's a strong emotional undercurrent. It also has something to say about the way we approach ageing. Grade: A.