Margrete: Queen of the North (out Nov 24) is a 15th Century Scandinavian tale about a respected Queen trying to unite the territories, fend off a German attack, and respond to a face from the past. There are (slightly) annoying gaps in the story but this is still a very interesting story with added moral quandaries. Grade: B+.

The Menu (out Nov 24) is a great movie to debate and dissect with friends. It's a dark comedy centred on a world-famous chef (Ralph Fiennes) who, on this fateful evening, serves up a degustation that his 12 customers will never forget. This is the is the cinematic equivalent of a “hot mess”. It’s engrossing and hilarious while also being chaotic and disjointed. Grade: B+.

Seriously Red (out Nov 24) is a curious Aussie film about a boisterous young woman who "discovers herself" in becoming a Dolly Parton impersonator. It's bolstered by fun performances (the mum is a scene stealer) and inspired direction. Explores an interesting world! Grade: B+.

On the Line (out Nov 17) stars Mel Gibson as a late-night radio announcer who must deal with a ticked-off talkback caller who claims to have kidnapped his wife and daughter. I’m the first to admit this doesn’t always make sense… but French writer-director Romuald Boulanger did enough to keep me engaged and interested in the characters’ fate. A trashy, entertaining action-thriller with a discussion-worthy finale! Grade: B.

Mistletoe Ranch (out Nov 17) is a cheesy, simplistic, predictable romantic drama about childhood sweethearts, who haven't seen each other in years, who come together for a Christmas celebration. The dialogue isn't great. Grade: C.

Greenhouse by Joost (out Nov 17) is a documentary about an environmental campaigner who attempts to build a "no-waste eco-house" in Melbourne's Federation Square. It feels padded (lots of cooking scenes) and might have made a better short subject doco. Still interesting. Grade: B.

She Said (out Nov 17) can't quite match the brilliance of the Oscar winning Spotlight but this real-life tale of two New York Times journalists bringing the Harvey Weinstein allegations to light makes for compelling viewing. Hard not to be moved by scenes where abused women finally open up after years/decades of silence. Also of interest is the power of non-disclosure agreements. Grade: A-.

The Velvet Queen (out Nov 10) is a documentary which follows a nature photographer and a writer as they travel to Tibet to explore the terrain and its wildlife. The "holy grail" will be to catch a glimpse of the reclusive snow leopard which lives high atop the mountain peaks. Relying largely on imagery and music, it's not a life-changing doco but it reminds us of the many beautiful, fascinating animals we share the planet with. Grade: B.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (out Nov 10) is a disappointing sequel. For a movie which is 161 minutes long, I expected a stronger, deeper narrative. There’s a lot of people making threats and talking up a “big game” but their motives are flimsy, simplistic and repetitive. Grade: B-.

The Good Nurse (out Oct 20) is based on a true story about a hard-working nurse who suspects something is amiss about a colleague. A few parts are over-egged (like scenes involving the suspicious police) but for the most part, it's an interesting tale. Grade: B.