Nitram (out Sep 30) is an Australian drama that delves into the life and mindset of Martin Bryant before he committed the worst mass shooting in modern Australian history in 1996. Others will disagree... but the delicate subject is well-handled by director Justin Kurzel (Snowtown) and I'm fine with the questions it asks of audiences. Judy Davis is the best of the cast (as Bryant's mother). Grade: B+.

Diana's Wedding (out Sep 23) is an odd Norwegian comedy that follows roughly 30 years in the life of a married couple. Plenty of ups, plenty of downs (as you might expect) but there's not a lot of insight on offer here. Grade: C+.

Persian Lessons (out Sep 23) is a World War II tale about a Jewish man who convinces a leading German officer than he's Persian to avoid a certain death. I wasn't convinced by everything that happens in this movie but warmed to the leading character (particularly in the second half). Grade: B.

The Alpinist (out Sep 23) taps into the success of Free Solo and is another interesting documentary about a gifted/crazy mountain climber, Marc-André Leclerc. It chronicles his insanely difficult climbs while also delving into his mindset. Grade: B.

Joe Bell (out Sep 23) is based on a 2013 true story and follows a father (Mark Wahlberg) going on a trek across the contiguous United States to raise awareness about bullying. It's a moving drama but curiously, Joe Bell is the least interesting character. Reid Miller is excellent as his 15-year-old gay son and Connie Britton is just as good as the mother trying to hold the family together. Grade: B+.

The Killing of Two Lovers (out Sep 16) is an intense, simply-told drama about a husband and wife undertaking a trial separation and the impact it has on them and their four children. With long takes, striking cinematography (e.g. camera kept at a distance), and a powerful climax, this film leaves an impression. Grade: A-.

Palazzo Di Cozzo (out Sep 16) is an Australian documentary about successful Victorian furniture salesman Franco Cozzo. Not sure there’s enough material to justify a full-length feature but I like what is has to say about changing times and dying businesses. Grade: B-.

Die in a Gunfight (out Sep 16) is a lame, exaggerated, narration-heavy, modern day knock off of Romeo and Juliet. Forget this and revisit Baz Lurhmann’s masterpiece with Leonardo DiCaprio and Clare Danes from 25 years ago. Grade: C.

Ainbo: Spirit of the Amazon (out Sep 16) is a trippy animated film about a teenage girl from the Amazon who goes on a journey to save her community from an environmental disaster. Worthy themes mixed with simplistic dialogue and an odd villain. Grade: B-.

Pig (out Sep 16) is a pleasant surprise. It's the story of a man who, after spending more than a decade living as a hermit in an Oregon forest, returns to civilization on a vengeance mission after goons steal his prized pet pig. There’s a fair bit to unpick here and first-time director Michael Samoski provides a nice balance of intrigue and dramatic action. Nicolas Cage terrific in the lead role. Grade: B+.