What's on Neon in July

Here's everything streaming on Neon in July.

Full Circle (July 14)

In Full Circle, an investigation into a botched kidnapping uncovers long-held secrets connecting multiple characters and cultures in present-day New York City. From Director Steven Soderbergh. 

Starring Claire Danes, Timothy Olyphant, Dennis Quaid and Zazie Beetz. 

Everyone Else Burns (July 5)

This biting coming-of-age comedy follows a British family and their puritanical Christian sect. Will patriarchal David Lewis ever ascend the church ranks and become an Elder? Will dutiful wife Fiona deviate from her own dogmatic moral compass? Will their naïve 17-year-old daughter Rachel be allowed to go to university, and will 12-year-old son Aaron ever fend off his secular bullies? Everyone Else Burns is a subversive, authentic and bitingly funny exploration into what it feels like to balance faith, family and identity in a world that could end tomorrow (but probably won't). 

Starring: Simon Bird, Kate O'Flynn, Amy James- Kelly, Harry Connor and Morgana Robinson. 

Angel City (July 1)

Angel City is a gripping docuseries that goes behind the scenes and onto the pitch of the ground- breaking Los Angeles-based professional women's soccer team, Angel City Football Club. Pulling back the curtain on the origin story through the 2022 inaugural season of the female-founded and led team, the series reveals the passion and grit needed to build a franchise from scratch and blaze a bold trail in the world of professional sports. This three- part HBO Original documentary series is directed by Arlene Nelson and executive produced by Academy Award-winners Natalie Portman, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, and Jimmy Chin, with Sophie Mas, Anna Barnes, and Christine O'Malley.

What We Do In The Shadows (July 16)

Following four vampire flatmates as navigate the modern world, in Season 5 Nandor feels his familiar and sometimes friend Guillermo slipping away. Laszlo's skills as a gentleman scientist are put to the test as he tries to solve the mystery of the strange changes Guillermo is going through. Nadja suffers the effects of a previously undiagnosed hex. Like so many energy vampires before him, Colin runs for political office. Starring Matt Berry, Natasia Demetriou, Kayvan Novak and Mark Proksch. 

Warrior Season 3 (July 3)

The martial arts drama inspired by writing from the legendary Bruce Lee follows the brutal battles for dominance between Chinatown's powerful crime families in 19th Century San Francisco. In season three, in the wake of the race riots that upended Chinatown, Mai Ling uses her government connections to consolidate power, while Ah Sahm and the Hop Wei must find new ways to survive. Starring Andrew Koji, Olivia Cheng and Jason Tobin. 

Grand Crew Season 2 (July 26)

Raise a glass to the return of Grand Crew! Season 2 of the hangout comedy catches up with wine- loving friends as they continue to lean on each other in pursuit of love, success and happiness in LA. Gathering at their favourite wine bar to savour every moment together, this crew knows that friendship and laughter make the perfect pairing. From Phil Augusta Jackson (Writer/Producer/Director, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) and Dan Goor (Creator, Brooklyn Nine-Nine) and starring Echo Kellum, Nicole Byer, Carl Tart, Aaron Jennings, Justin Cunningham and Grasie Mercedes. 

Five Bedrooms (July 2)

Somehow, through highs and lows. our housemates have managed to remain a fiercely loving family. But in this new fourth season, two vastly different, simultaneous bombshells will disrupt the delicate ecosystem that is the five- bedroom house. Along the way there will be a surprise financial windfall, two graduations, two milestone birthdays, a catastrophic loss, an orphans' Christmas, and an abrupt funeral. Our housemates will emerge as very different people... but will the ties between them hold? Starring Kat Stewart, Stephen Peacocke, Doris Younane, Roy Joseph, Katie Robertson and Johnnie Carr. 

Movies 

Black Adam (July 18)

In ancient Kahndaq, Teth Adam was bestowed the almighty powers of the gods. After using these powers for vengeance, he was imprisoned, becoming Black Adam. Nearly 5,000 years have passed, and Black Adam has gone from man to myth to legend. Now free, his unique form of justice, born out of rage, is challenged by modern- day heroes who form the Justice Society: Hawkman, Dr. Fate, Atom Smasher and Cyclone. Starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Noah Centineo and Aldis Hodge. 

Don't Worry Darling (July 4)

Alice and Jack live in the idealized community of Victory, an experimental town that houses the men who work on a top-secret project. While the husbands toil away, the wives get to enjoy the beauty, luxury and debauchery of their paradise. However, cracks in their idyllic lives begin to appear, exposing flashes of something sinister lurking below the surface. Starring Florence Pugh, Harry Styles and Olivia Wilde. 

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (July 29)

Puss has burned through eight of his nine lives, though he lost count along the way. Getting those lives back will send Puss in Boots on his grandest quest yet as he embarks on an epic journey into the Black Forest to find the mythical Wishing Star and restore his lost lives. But with only one life left, Puss will have to humble himself and ask for help from his former partner and nemesis: the captivating Kitty Soft Paws. 

The Woman King (July 25)

In the 1800s, a group of all-female warriors protected the African kingdom of Dahomey with skills. and fierceness unlike anything the world has ever seen. Faced with a new threat, Gen. Nanisca trains the next generation of recruits to fight against a foreign enemy that's determined to destroy their way of life. Starring Viola Davis, John Boyega and Lashana Lynch. 

Seriously Red (July 2)

Fired from her real estate job, Red pursues her dream of becoming the world's greatest Dolly Parton 

impersonator. When her act attracts the attention of an amorous Elvis impersonator and a powerful booking agent, she soon gets catapulted into the top tier of copycat performers, becoming the onstage and romantic partner of the top Kenny Rogers Starring Krew Boylan, Daniel Webber and Rose Byrne. 

Love to Love You, Donna Summer (July 10)

Shaped by Summer's own reflections and filled with the sounds of Summer's songs, this film is a deeply personal window into the legendary artist and her life as she rose to become the Queen of Disco. Co-directed by her daughter Brooklyn Sudano.

Spin Me Round (July 11)

When the manager of an American chain restaurant is selected to attend a special training program in Italy, her head swims with dreams of European glamour and romance. But the trip turns out to be much different and possibly more dangerous than the exotic getaways she imagines. Starring Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza and Molly Shannon. 

The Invitation: Neon NZ Movie Review

Cast: Nathalie Emmanuel, Thomas Doherty, Hugh Skinner. Sean Pertwee

Director: Jessica M Thompson

Re-skinning the idea of Dracula but with nothing more than anaemia, The Invitation fails to really deliver any bite outside of a solidly impressive Nathalie Emmanuel from Game of Thrones.

Emmanuel is orphan Evelyn, a down on her luck New York struggling artist who on a whim does a DNA ancestry test only to discover she has a wealthy set of relatives in the UK. Meeting with Skinner's Oliver, Evie is convinced to go and attend a wedding in the UK - despite Evie's best friend warning against it.

However, Evie's charmed by the Lord of the Manor, Walt (Doherty, channeling early Julian McMahon) and soon finds herself caught up in a curse thousands of years old.

The Invitation is a darkly frustrating affair, that feels like Twilight took on Dracula, and nobody won.

Mixing young adult dialogue with utterly insane character choices that ramp up levels of camp and stupidity with equal aplomb, the film swiftly settles for seeing what goes on in the shadows and casting aside its much better African-American enters white household social satire cum horror.

Things aren't much improved by Thompson's somewhat limp direction with darkness being the choice for suspense and horror scenes and with every twist coming as expected.

With a slow pace, this is less a Gothic marvel and more a Renaissance bore - Emmanuel makes Evie watchable enough, even if the script plays up her sympathies and seems to offer parallels with a young Meghan Markle entering the royal household.

The final 10 minutes offer some kind of hope for the story, but by then, all the life and blood from the film have drained beyond recognition and The Invitation limps toward well and truly outstaying its welcome.

Killer Frequency: PS5 Review

Developed by Team 17

Published by Team 17

Platform: PS5

Killer Frequency takes the idea of life and death radio to its logical extreme.

Set against an 80s style aesthetic, you take on the role of Forrest Nash, a late night DJ who's been unceremoniously dumped into a small town's local radio station. As you settle in to your shift, the local police call in to let you know they're re-routing all their calls via your talkback settings because there's a serial killer on the loose.

It's the slightest of premises in many ways, but as you try to help callers who dial in in fear of local killer legend the Whistling Man taking their revenge upon them, the game's first player ethos kicks into gear.

Along with your tech support and producer Penny, it's upto you to help each one as they dial in. 

While it's a very simple premise that's executed with ease, Killer Frequency occasionally squanders some of the tension and build up as you try and help out and save the day. It's probably due to some of the fact that from time to time you're required to leave your DJ station and go on some contrived mission to find documents and scraps to help you save callers. It's something that takes you out of the game unfortunately, even though what's going on is fun.

For an indie, Killer Frequency has its moments that truly shine.

For anyone who's ever worked in a radio station or been a frustrated DJ, the chance to throw records on and fire up jingles and commercials doesn't lose its novelty. 

Using a variety of point and click console mechanics you have the chance to be the guy behind the mic, and while it's gimmicky to start off with, it feels natural after just a few minutes or so and pretty soon you'll be turning the tables and chatting to callers before you know it.

While it's understandable that as an indie, it has a smaller scope, Killer Frequency mixes puzzles with the real-time running of a radio station, while negotiating an adventure as well. It's admirable stuff, and while it doesn't always succeed, there's definitely a feeling the game is working well within its confines.

A novel spin on what has become a very tired genre in many ways, Killer Frequency mixes humour and horror with aplomb to create an adventure that freshens up the narrative adventure gaming world.

Poker Face: Neon NZ Movie Review

Cast: Russell Crowe, RZA, Liam Hemsworth, Brooke Satchwell, Elsa Pataky
Director: Russell Crowe

Poker Face has massive potential - even if its premise is all too familiar.

The idea of a group of friends coming together one more time has been mined by the cinema for time immemorial.

Whether it's Peter's Friends or The Big Chill, it's a genre that's proffered up plenty.

Add into this mix a touch of Panic Room from Gladiator's Russell Crowe and it feels like it could be something genuinely tantalising.

But Poker Face is saddled with a lack of decent dialogue, a mournful tone that's stifling and a resolution that's all too quickly dispatched.

Crowe is Jake, the head of a group of five friends who one night calls them all back for a game of poker and a get together for mysterious reasons unknown.

Lavishing his mates with millions of dollars' worth of chips, and then poisoning them, the stakes are indeed high, and the mystery deliciously tempting.

However, things spiral when Jake's getaway is broken in to by a man looking for money and revenge...

Poker Face spends an inordinate amount of time setting things up.

The end result is that nothing really gets going until around the 1hour mark of the film - and it's only 85 minutes long.

While Crowe does reflective and elegaic well, his supporting group of friends are reduced to once-over-lightly characters that get more background in a sun-tinged flashback that feels like it's from Stand By Me.

Lumpen dialogue mixed with some clanging moments don't help proceedings either and pretty soon you feel like Poker Face has squandered its potential.

It may be a reasonable choice for a background streaming service, but in truth, the greatest bluff of Poker Face is that it's masquerading as a high-concept thriller.

Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival 2023 Auckland programme announced

The NZIFF 2023 programming team attends film festivals around the world to bring audiences in Aotearoa the very best of global cinema, with the Auckland programme featuring 129 full-length films and seven short film collections, with films hailing from 39 countries, including Uganda, Senegal, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo, Estonia, Jordan, Iran, Brazil, and of course Aotearoa. 

The films will screen in six venues and cinemas in Auckland from 19 July to 6 August with the festival rolling out to 15 regions across the motu. 

General Manager Sally Woodfield says, “We’re immensely proud of this year’s programme. Coming together for our annual film festival unites, connects and transcends people in cinemas across the country. We forget, in the thick of the everyday grind, how much humans need to share culture, language and experiences, and how bridges can be built and boundaries crossed through the stories we experience in film. We can’t wait to welcome Aotearoa back to the 2023 festival.” 

The 2023 programme comprises features, Cannes Film Festival winners, documentaries, shorts, retrospectives, films for kids, animation, and the ‘incredibly strange’. Nine films are celebrating their world premiere and all films are making their New Zealand premiere at NZIFF 2023.  

Also announced tonight was the festival’s visiting International filmmakers who will travel to Aotearoa for the festival headed by Celine Song (Past Lives), along with Laha Mebow (GAGA), Soda Jerk (Hello Dankness), Elegance Bratton (The Inspection), Christoffer Guldbrandsen (A Storm Foretold), and Rolf de Heer (The Survival of Kindness). 

“It’s been four years since we have been able to bring a contingent of international filmmakers to our shores and we are very excited to announce these six guests who span diverse styles of filmmaking,” Woodfield says. 

The NZIFF team presented the Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland programme at special event tonight. The programme announcements for Te Whanga-nui-a-Tara Wellington, Ōtautahi Christchurch and Ōtepoti Dunedin and the remaining 11 centres will follow in the coming weeks. 

NZIFF 2023 opens in Tāmaki Makaurau on Wednesday 19 July, Te Whanga-nui-a-Tara on Thursday 27 July, and Ōtepōti and Ōtautahi on 3 and 10 August respectively. The remaining centres will follow, with the festival closing on Sunday 10 September. 

 

For more information, visit nziff.co.nz  

 

NZIFF 2023 Cinemas and Dates 

Auckland 

19 July to 6 August 

The Civic, ASB Waterfront Theatre, Rialto Cinemas Newmarket, Bridgeway Cinema, Academy Cinema & The Hollywood Avondale 

Wellington 

27 July to 13 August 

Embassy Theatre (including Deluxe), The Roxy, Light House Cuba, Light House Petone, Penthouse Cinema. 

Dunedin 

3 – 20 August 

The Regent & Rialto Cinemas Dunedin 

Hamilton 

9 – 29 August 

Lido Cinema Hamilton 

Christchurch 

10 – 27 August 

Isaac Theatre Royal, Lumiere Cinemas, Hoyts Christchurch Central (Closing Night only) 

Tauranga 

10 – 27 August 

Rialto Cinemas Tauranga 

Matakana 

10 – 27 August 

Matakana Cinemas 

Napier 

10 – 27 August 

MTG Century Theatre 

Masterton 

16 - 30 August 

Regent 3 Cinemas 

Whangarei 

17 – 27 August 

Event Cinemas Whangarei 

Havelock North 

17 August to 3 September 

Event Cinemas Havelock North 

New Plymouth 

17 August to 3 September 

Len Lye Centre Cinema & Event Cinemas New Plymouth 

Palmerston North 

17 August to 3 September 

Event Cinemas Palmerston North 

Nelson 

23 August to 10 September 

The Pastorius-Waller Theatre at the SuterArt Gallery 

Gisborne 

24 August to 3 September 

Odeon Multiplex 

Timaru 

24 August to 3 September 

Movie Max Digital 

After Us: PS5 Review

Developed by Piccolo Studios
Released by Private Division
Platform: PS5

Feeling very much like a take on Journey's simple gameplaying mechanics and a cautionary tale about evolution and pollution, Piccolo Studios' After Us is an intriguing title.

Set on Earth after all life has been wiped out, you play as Gaia, who's tasked with restoring the souls of the animals and the life that's been taken. Venturing through worlds of differing difficulties and challenges, it's up to you to follow through with your job - but also to decide if humans who placed us in this mess are worth saving.

With a white-haired, blue-eyed protagonist, After Us is very clear in its message of pollution, with its flying plastic bags attacking our heroine. But it's also vague in its gameplay, allowing for experimentation and the slightest of guidances to help you through.

Whether most platformers will appreciate that or not is debatable, but its gameplay's somewhat reminiscent of Journey and its spiritual edges as you zip around, leaping from suspended vehicles and boulders to reach higher levels and progress.

From climbing trees to wall-running, there's much in Gaia's handbook that takes time to develop, but which significantly adds to the gameplay aesthetics and ethos as time goes on.

What works best about After Us is its almost ethereal take on proceedings and its hands-off approach to having you complete tasks and levels. It's a welcome change that builds the best of the game's atmospherics and also the best of its platforming.

While it may not have the big budget of a major title, it doesn't skimp on ambition and while the execution occasionally falters, this is a thoughtful title that proves compelling in its story and mechanics and serves to show that some games can pack big emotional heft in their understated storytelling.

What's on Netflix in July

As the temperature continues to drop, grab the popcorn, dim the lights, snuggle up, and immerse yourself in these highly anticipated winter hits! 

WHAM! (July 5)

Starting off July with a bang is WHAM!, a fascinating documentary which unveils unseen archival interviews and footage with 80s international pop icons George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley. Get ready for a nostalgic trip through their sensational rise to fame!

The Lincoln Lawyer: Season 2 Part 1 (July 6) 

The time has come for more thrilling courtroom drama as The Lincoln Lawyer: Season 2 Part 1 returns for a brand new season. Join defense attorney Mickey Hallar as he navigates high-stakes cases, pushing him to the limits and taking legal brilliance to new heights that will leave you on the edge of your seat. 

Survival of the Thickest (July 13)

This is the brand new comedy you have been craving, tune in on July 13 to stream Survival of the Thickest. After a bad breakup, stylist Mavis Beaumont (Michelle Buteau) is on a mission to not only survive but thrive with the support of her chosen family, a body positive attitude and a cute v-neck with some lip gloss!

Too Hot to Handle: Season 5 (July 14) 

Mark your calendars for July 14 and get ready to turn up the heat as Too Hot to Handle: Season 5 makes its scorching return! Prepare for the hottest season yet as a new group of incurably flirty singles in a sexless retreat compete for the massive $200,000 prize. 

They Cloned Tyrone (July 21) 

Landing July 21, is the action packed sci-fi film They Cloned Tyrone. Starring John Boyega, Teyonah Parris and Jamie Foxx the trio experience an eerie series of events which leads them down a rabbit hole into a sinister neighborhood conspiracy.

ORIGINAL SERIES

Back to 15: Season 2 (05/07/2023)

In this new season, Joel and Anita's futures are accidentally intertwined — so an elaborate new plan to get everything back to normal is in order.

The Lincoln Lawyer: Season 2 Part 1 (06/07/2023)

With his firm in high demand and the team busier than ever, Mickey gets entangled with a woman who soon becomes a client when she's charged with murder.

Deep Fake Love (06/07/2023)

Five couples put their trust to the test in this steamy reality series, where deepfake technology blurs the line of truth and lies in a cash prize game.

Hack My Home (07/07/2023)

A team of four design wizards dreams up space-maximizing solutions and ingenious engineering ideas to transform families' homes in inventive ways.

Fatal Seduction (07/07/2023)

A married professor is pulled into a passionate affair with a younger man that uncovers a path of tragedy and betrayal from those closest to her.

Nineteen to Twenty (11/07/2023)

A group of young adults share their last week of teens and first week of twenties together — experiencing freedom and all the "firsts" of adulthood.

Quarterback (12/07/2023)

Go inside the huddle and into the homes of three NFL quarterbacks in this candid docuseries tracing their 2022-23 season.

Sugar Rush: The Baking Point (12/07/2023)

In this adrenaline-soaked series, six teams of culinary artists blend innovation and tradition to create edible marvels. Who will bake their way to the top?

Survival of the Thickest (13/07/2023)

After a bad breakup, passionate stylist Mavis Beaumont seizes the opportunity to start over in life and love while finding happiness on her own terms.

Devil's Advocate (13/07/2023)

In Kuwait City, a determined defense lawyer defies popular sentiment and takes on a polarizing client: a footballer accused of murdering his wife

Burn the House Down (13/07/2023)

To uncover the truth about the fire that ruined her family 13 years ago, Anzu goes undercover as a housekeeper for the icy mistress of the Mitarai home.

Too Hot to Handle: Season 5 (14/07/2023)

Another sultry but sexless retreat awaits, under Lana's watchful eye, for a group of incurably flirty singles hoping to win a massive $200,000 prize.

Five Star Chef (14/07/2023)

Seven professional chefs compete to bring their fine-dining concept to the historic Palm Court restaurant at London's luxurious Langham Hotel.

The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem: Season 2 (14/07/2023)

The attack on Rosa in 1929 affects her marriage and her brother's future. In 1939, Luna suffers a broken heart but finds love again with a forbidden man.

Country Queen (15/07/2023)

A Nairobi event planner returns to her village after 10 years, where she confronts her past — and a mining company that threatens to destroy her home.

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Sweet Magnolias: Season 3 (20/07/2023)

In the aftermath of the fight at Sullivan's, the Magnolias face new struggles as heartache and family drama put their relationships to the test.

Sintonia: Season 4 (25/07/2023)

After a life-changing event, Nando, Rita and Doni are forced to go separate ways. Can their friendship — and relationships — survive it all?

The Witcher: Season 3 Volume 2 (27/07/2023)

Destiny brought them together. Dangerous forces are trying to tear them apart. Geralt and Yennefer fight to keep Ciri safe as war brews on the Continent.

Captain Fall (28/07/2023)

A wet-behind-the-ears, yet good-hearted sea captain unwittingly finds himself at the helm of a smuggling ship for a terrible international cartel who’s using him as a fall guy in case the authorities ever catch up to them.

D.P.: Season 2 (28/07/2023)

After a shocking tragedy turns their lives upside down, Jun-ho and Ho-yeol return to capture more military deserters — only to face unexpected danger.

A Perfect Story (28/7/2023)

When Margot flees her own wedding, she is left feeling adrift. Little does she know, it is David and his delightful chaos who can help her find her way.

The Tailor: Season 2 (28/7/2023)

Peyami faces new challenges as his friendship with Dimitri is tested, Esvet spends more time at the house with Mustafa — and a new woman enters his life.

The Uncanny Counter: Season 2 (29/7/2023)

Armed with new powers and fresh recruits, the Counters continue their battle against evil demons who feed on humans.

Kohrra (Coming Soon)

When an NRI bridegroom is found dead days before his wedding, two cops must unravel the troubling case as turbulence unfolds in their own lives.

NETFLIX FILM

Gold Brick (06/07/23)

Determined to even the scales and profit from his thankless job, a factory worker schemes to traffic luxury perfumes from under his employer's nose.

The Out-Laws (07/07/2023)

When the bank Owen manages gets robbed just days before his wedding, all the evidence points in one incredibly awkward direction: his future in-laws. Adam Devine and Nina Dobrev star with Pierce Brosnan and Ellen Barkin in this action comedy.

Seasons (07/07/2023)

After a string of failed relationships, two best friends make a deal to take risks and look for love again — but they might just find it in each other.

Mr. Car and the Knights Templar (12/07/2023)

When an art historian finds an ancient Templar cross, he must join forces with an unlikely group of adventurers on a quest to unlock the relic's secrets.

Bird Box Barcelona (14/07/2023)

From the producers of the global phenomenon, Bird Box, comes BIRD BOX BARCELONA, an expansion of the film that riveted audiences in 2018. After a mysterious force decimates the world’s population, Sebastian must navigate his own survival journey through the desolate streets of Barcelona. As he forms uneasy alliances with other survivors and they try to escape the city, an unexpected and even more sinister threat grows.

Love Tactics 2 (14/07/2023)

Asli thinks marriage is a scam, and says so. But when her beau Kerem unexpectedly agrees, she goes to great lengths to manipulate him into proposing.

The (Almost) Legends (19/07/2023)

A colorful Mexican town. Two half-brothers. Romeo and Preciado meet again to honor their dad's memory in a car rally full of adrenaline — and banda music.

They Cloned Tyrone (21/07/2023)

An eerie series of events leads an unlikely trio (John Boyega, Teyonah Parris and Jamie Foxx) down a rabbit hole into a sinister neighborhood conspiracy.

Paradise (27/07/2023)

After his wife is forced to give up 40 years of her life as payment for an insurance debt, a man desperately searches for a way to get them back.

Happiness For Beginners (27/07/2023)

Helen has always lived her life as far from the edge as possible. Newly divorced, she joins a quirky group of strangers on a survival course for the "Adventure of a Lifetime" with the hope of learning how to live — and love — again.

Today We'll Talk About That Day (27/07/2023)

The lives of Narendra and Ajeng intersect for the first time as past and present come together in this prequel to "One Day We'll Talk About Today."

The Murderer (Coming Soon)

After a string of deaths in a small provincial town, a determined detective attempts to uncover the killer — and British expat Earl is the prime suspect.

NETFLIX COMEDY SPECIALS

Tom Segura: Sledgehammer (04/07/2023)

A new stand-up comedy special from Tom Segura.

Mark Normand: Soup to Nuts (25/07/2023)

A new stand-up comedy special from Mark Normand.

NETFLIX DOCUMENTARIES 

UNKNOWN (Weekly Starting 03/07/2023)

Unknown: The Lost Pyramid (03/07/2023)

Unknown: Killer Robots (10/07/2023)

Unknown: Cave of Bones (17/07/2023)

Unknown: Cosmic Time Machine (24/07/2023)

UNKNOWN is a four-part docuseries event that tells breathtaking stories of adventure and exploration in awe-inspiring uncharted territories. Premiering weekly, each film pushes the boundaries of knowledge, ventures into unexplored regions, and unlocks the secrets of our world through the stories of remarkable people and places never before captured on camera. From unearthing the world’s oldest graveyard to a heart-pounding look at the use of artificial intelligence in warfare, get ready to embark on a thrilling expedition that will broaden your horizons and awaken the adventurer within.

The King Who Never Was (04/07/2023)

This docuseries sheds light on the killing of a German teenager in '78 through the accounts of his sister and the royal family involved in the case.

WHAM! (05/07/2023)

Through archival interviews and footage, George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley relive the arc of their Wham! career, from 70s best buds to 80s pop icons.

Unknown: Killer Robots (10/07/2023)

UNKNOWN is a four-part docuseries event that tells breathtaking stories of adventure and exploration in awe-inspiring uncharted territories. Premiering weekly, each film pushes the boundaries of knowledge, ventures into unexplored regions, and unlocks the secrets of our world through the stories of remarkable people and places never before captured on camera. From unearthing the world’s oldest graveyard to a heart-pounding look at the use of artificial intelligence in warfare, get ready to embark on a thrilling expedition that will broaden your horizons and awaken the adventurer within.

Unknown: Cave of Bones (17/07/2023)

UNKNOWN is a four-part docuseries event that tells breathtaking stories of adventure and exploration in awe-inspiring uncharted territories. Premiering weekly, each film pushes the boundaries of knowledge, ventures into unexplored regions, and unlocks the secrets of our world through the stories of remarkable people and places never before captured on camera. From unearthing the world’s oldest graveyard to a heart-pounding look at the use of artificial intelligence in warfare, get ready to embark on a thrilling expedition that will broaden your horizons and awaken the adventurer within.

The Deepest Breath (19/07/2023)

The story of a champion freediver and expert safety diver, whose lives seemed fated to converge at the height of their careers. A look at the thrilling rewards — and inescapable risks — of chasing dreams through the depths of the ocean.

Unknown: Cosmic Time Machine (24/07/2023)

UNKNOWN is a four-part docuseries event that tells breathtaking stories of adventure and exploration in awe-inspiring uncharted territories. Premiering weekly, each film pushes the boundaries of knowledge, ventures into unexplored regions, and unlocks the secrets of our world through the stories of remarkable people and places never before captured on camera. From unearthing the world’s oldest graveyard to a heart-pounding look at the use of artificial intelligence in warfare, get ready to embark on a thrilling expedition that will broaden your horizons and awaken the adventurer within.

Missing: The Lucie Blackman Case (26/07/2023)

July 1, 2000. British 21-year-old Lucie Blackman goes missing in Tokyo, sparking an international investigation — and a years-long quest for justice.

The Lady of Silence: The Mataviejitas Murders (27/07/2023)

Between 1998 and 2005, nearly 50 elderly women were killed in Mexico City, triggering the hunt for — and capture — of a most unlikely suspect.

How to Become a Cult Leader (28/07/2023)

Disguised as a guidebook for capturing a devoted cult following, this docuseries takes a tongue-in-cheek look at the rise of six famed flock leaders.

NETFLIX KIDS & FAMILY

Wake Up, Carlo! (06/07/2023)

Carlo is a wacky, fun-loving boy with a passion for cookies and adventure. But after he falls into a magically deep sleep, things will never be the same!

StoryBots: Answer Time: Season 2 (10/07/2023)

The 'Bots are back to answer more curious questions from kids like you, like how do bubbles form? Why does the moon change shape? And how is glass made?

Sonic Prime: Season 2 (13/07/2023)

With the help of his ragtag group of Shatterverse allies, Sonic battles the Chaos Council for control of the powerful Paradox Prism, one Shard at a time.

Supa Team 4 (20/07/2023)

In the neo-futuristic city of Lusaka, Zambia, four teenage girls join a retired secret agent on a quest to save the world as undercover superheroes.

Dew Drop Diaries (24/07/2023)

From finding lost items to cleaning up messes, three fairies-in-training love looking after kids in their care as they work toward earning their wings.

Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir, The Movie (28/07/2023)

An ordinary teen moves to Paris, becomes a powerful superhero and must join forces with her polar opposite to save the city from a scheming villain.

The Dragon Prince: Season 5 (Coming Soon)

The search for Aaravos' prison sends Rayla, Callum and Ezran on an epic journey across land and sea, while conflict roils the Sunfire elves' kingdom.

NETFLIX ANIME

My Happy Marriage (06/07/2023)

Miyo’s abusive family deems her worthless – but together with her powerful husband-to-be, her true self and hidden powers slowly begin to shine.

Record of Ragnarok: Season 2: Episodes 11-15 (12/07/2023)

With some shocking wins, humanity has defied the expectation of the gods. But will they survive the upcoming rounds against some heavy-hitting deities?

Baki Hanma: Season 2: The Tale of Pickle & The Pickle War Saga (26/07/2023)

They revived a human who shouldn't even exist; a prehistoric man so powerful, he once preyed on Jurassic dinosaurs — and Baki can't wait to fight him.

BASTARD‼ -Heavy Metal, Dark Fantasy-: Season 2 (31/07/2023)

The Dark Rebel Army continues to terrorize the land in their ruthless mission to unlock the final seal. But an evolved Yoko leads the forces of good.

NETFLIX GAMES

Shovel Knight Pocket Dungeon (Now Available)

You've been sucked into a puzzle dimension! Battle foes, collect relics and match blocks to save friends and escape in this genre-bending spinoff.

Bloons TD 6 (Now Available)

Sharpen those darts! Defend Monkey Towers from an ever-flowing stream of colorful invading balloons. As you pop, more new abilities and heroes unlock.

LICENSED HIGHLIGHTS

The Truman Show (30/06/2023)

When an insurance agent realizes his entire life is a reality show created for the entertainment of millions, the unwitting star must decide how to act.

No Country for Old Men (30/06/2023)

A drug deal gone bad and a bag full of cash entwine an unsuspecting hunter, a veteran sheriff and a murderous hit man in the stark West Texas desert.

Barrumbi Kids: Season 1 (03/07/2023)

Two inseparable friends make mischief and experience the complexity of each other's cultures while growing up in a remote Northern Australian community.

The Last Daughter (03/07/2023)

Trying to reconcile her fragmented upbringing, an Aboriginal woman searches for the white parents who raised her before she returned to her birth family.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith (01/07/2023)

Married life in the suburbs turns from lethally dull to just lethal when John and Jane Smith discover they're both undercover assassins.

Warrior (14/07/2023)

An ex-Marine trains under his father for an MMA tournament as his estranged brother fights his way into the event. Their biggest opponent: each other.

The Witcher: Season 3 Volume 2 (July 27)

The wait is finally over as The Witcher: Season 3 Volume 2 will be arriving on service July 27. In a world where destiny intertwines their fate, Geralt (Henry Cavil) and Yennefer (Anya Chalotra) fight to protect Ciri as danger looms. Brace yourself for an epic battle of wills and a gripping tale of survival.

Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny: Movie Review

Cast: Harrison Ford, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Mads Mikkelsen, Toby Jones
Director: James Mangold

Indiana Jones' final cinematic outing offers both the best and the worst of the franchise - but make no mistake, this is Harrison Ford's film every frame of the way.

In parts feeling like a cookie cutter movie assembled by AI when fed archaeology lore (right up to a bonkers polarising finale), this latest sees Indy in pursuit of the Dial of Destiny in 1969. With Nazis (helmed by Mads Mikkelsen's underplayed menacing bad guy) on his heels, Indy finds himself thrust on another globetrotting adventure accompanied by Helena (Fleabag's Waller-Bridge) who may be playing as many angles as she can.

There's much in Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny that feels familiar.

Nazis in pursuit of a relic, banter between an older Jones and a younger companion, John Williams' terrific score and action set pieces that feel like homages to locations and chase sequences from previous films - it all fits together to make a solid but unspectacular finale throughout.

With a long early sequence showing off the adventures of a digitally de-aged Indy and his colleague Basil (the ever-wonderful Jones), the film's detours feel a little strung out and at times, like an attempt for a victory lap that aims to tick all the boxes.

But at times, the detours flounder with length and flatten the enthusiasm of the adventure rather than fuel it.

Far more enjoyable is Ford's take on an ageing Indy at the end of his life. Retired from lecturing where his students are more enthused by the lunar landings than the archaeology on the past and feeling wearied by the weight of adventure versus the personal cost, Ford leans into the melancholy of an ageing man whose personal worth is fading.

Waller-Bridge brings some spark and zing to Jones' goddaughter Wombat, whose world is about tricking others and ultimately hiding from herself. While it's a very familiar trope and role, the chemistry between Waller-Bridge and Jones sparkles as the old Indy sees something of himself in her.

Ultimately, Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny is not a film that feels like it was necessary - it's a once more around the track kind of film that recreates both the highs and lows of the franchise. That's not necessarily a bad thing - and a final scene leaves things open for more - but perhaps with lowered expectations, this may crack the cinematic whip a little more than those desperate to put the memory of the Crystal Skull to one side.

I'm a Virgo: Prime Video Review

Boots Riley's surrealist comedy drama packs a satirical edge as it pokes an eye over society.

It's the story of 13 foot black man Cootie (Jharrel Jerome) who lives in Oakland, locked away from the rest of the world by his parents who worry about what will become of him.

But one day, when he's glimpsed from behind a fence by others, he starts to realise there is a world around him he needs to explore. With his childlike innocence and naivety, Cootie  has learned his smarts from television and reading.

But is the world ready for a 13 foot black man who stands literally above everyone - and to some of whom he feels like a threat.

I'm A Virgo may be an abstract piece of dramedy in parts, but Boots Riley's series is warmed with a sentimentality that comes through as it explores Cootie's relationship with life in general.

Whether it's sex with his girlfriend or an episode which deals with the conflict between the two of them, Riley is interested in exploring societal impressions as well as taking some easy potshots. Yet a death from Cootie's circle fuels more of an incisive edge and simmering rage at life's injustices. 

Jerome plays Cootie as an innocent but he also is widely expressive through his eyes as well as through his simplistic delivery of some lines.

Not everything sticks as well as it should, with some parts involving a cult feeling like a slightly underdone story - and with Cootie's superhero idol The Hero (Walton Goggins) not quite feeling like it has a message to push.

Its surrealism may put some people off, but given this is a 7 episode series whose runtimes barely stretch over 30 minutes with plenty of inventive visuals, there's much creativity packed into the story and its delivery. A tale of activism presented in a unique way, I'm A Virgo commands the attention.

Because when Riley unleashes his communism message and holds up a mirror to societal ills, I'm A Virgo feels timely, urgent and demanding.

I'm A Virgo is streaming now on Prime Video

Final Fantasy XVI: PS5 Review

Developed by Square Enix
Published by Square Enix
Platform: PS5

There's no denying the latest Final Fantasy is anything but epic.

With an incredible pre-opening titles prologue that lasts a couple of hours and showcases what to expect from both the story and the game's mechanics, there's no denying this latest is out to use the very best of the next gen technology to snag players.

But what's most noticeable about the new Final Fantasy game is just how accessible it is to all, thanks to a combination of Game of Thrones' style story-telling and simple easy to pick up mechanics.

It's perhaps the most approachable one of the franchise, which given this is the 16th iteration of the game proves to be the biggest - and most welcome - surprise of what unfolds.

Set in the world of Valisthea, and its surrounding territories, the game puts you in control of the somewhat oddly-monikered Clive Rosfield. After some initial time-jumping and an incredible battle sequence that looks like it could have been part of The Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers, tragedy befalls Clive and his world. Heading out for vengeance, Clive must negotiate both the perils of Valisthea, as well as the politics and machinations of those behind the scenes.

If the description above sounds vague, it's perhaps for the best, given Final Fantasy XVI's surprises and shocks play out at a well-paced speed and with a narrative that's about engaging through the many cutscenes which play through the game.

It's beautifully rendered giving the game a kind of premium sheen that's hard to shake, and one that feels like every ounce of the PlayStation 5's hardware is working overtime to achieve. 

It also feels like its universal appeal is perhaps where its strength lies as well. For every Chocobo that appears there are equally as many other moments which non-fans will appreciate - especially in the world of HBO-led drama.

While it's true that combat itself may not be as thrilling as it could be, and initially is somewhat derivative of the Devil May Cry hack and slash approach, the versatility and simplicity of the fighting mechanics make Clive's quest engaging throughout - especially when further abilities are added to proceedings. Though admittedly, there will be some Final Fantasy fans who don't feel it's engaging or deep enough.

But what's impressive about the world of Valisthea is how well apportioned it is. Whether it's hubs for worlds and for meeting others within the realm or the controlled play areas that are littered with story and cut scenes, there's more than enough to do in Final Fantasy XVI.

Skills are learned easily and while there is occasionally a feeling of button mashing earlier on to combat enemies, as the game opens up, so too do the options and skillsets on offer to Clive.

The scale of the game in its big set pieces is unparalleled, and while the graphics match the ambition of what the developers had in mind, the game's score is also to be commended with its soaring orchestrations hitting the moments and the marks. From side quests to story, there's plenty to do and much pleasure to be derived from exploring all of it.

The developers deserve to be commended too, for using the pause menu for the Active Time Lore controls offers a chance to catch up on who's who in the storyline by highlighting characters and getting a quick catch up if you've dropped out for a while. It's these kind of steps which really show Final Fantasy XVI knows how complicated it can become and how pompous some of its characters names and machinations are, and has done all it can to try and allay such fears.

While this is a review in progress due to the depth of the game, it's not disingenuous to suggest Final Fantasy XVI may be one of the most popular Final Fantasy games yet. 

Though it is hard to see how it will be such a widespread success given it's solely timed as a PS5 exclusive for now. And while that may alienate fans of such a large and enduring franchise, it's easy to see why the game sits at home on the next generation consoles.

What's perhaps most satisfying about Final Fantasy XVI is how everything seems to come together - from the tech to the ambition, this feels like one of the most cohesive games, and in some ways, feels like a book brought to the screen, complete with chapters, twists and turns.

Final Fantasy XVI is a world to dive into, and a sign that even after some 16 iterations, there's plenty of life left in the realms and beyond.

No Hard Feelings: Movie Review

Cast: Jennifer Lawrence,  Andrew Barth-Feldman, Natalie Morales, Matthew Broderick

Director: Gene Stupnitsky

Jennifer Lawrence's foray into R-rated comedy territory is a bit of a mixed bag.

No Hard Feelings, with its central story of Lawrence's Maddie trying to seduce nerdy Percy (Barth-Feldman) in the hopes of getting paid in the shape of a new car, had real potential to shake up the genre.

But what emerges all too often from the Good Boys director is a script that's tonally adrift, with only fitful moments of belly laughs (the majority of which feature in the film's trailer) scattered through a sentimentally mawkish movie that's been told a thousand times before.

What does work though in this film is Lawrence's committed performance to the comedic moments, and Barth-Feldman's reactions at key moments (his response to a pool ball being hit one of the standouts) occasionally gel to create something that's almost befitting of what it wants to be.

It doesn't help that Lawrence's central character is almost unlikeable in parts, with Maddie either being completely unreasonable or totally off-her-head with anger at the rich people living in her coastal town. While her reasons become a little clearer in the back third of the film, the movie spends an unfeasible amount of time making her seem both abrasive and unintelligent when she's not vamping it up to try oversex her would-be conquest.

There's a kernel of a good idea here though, and that's what's so frustrating in parts in this relatively laugh-free outing. The idea of a 19 year old heading to college and needing to come out of his shell is played more for the predatory angle from both the parents (Broderick, Bernanti, both under-used) and Lawrence's Maddie. 

While Barth-Feldman's Percy is game, and lapses into sentiment over romantic notions, the story's more insistent on descending into sentimental mush than sustaining a more edgy rationale.

Sure, we've had this kind of humour before in the likes of American Pie, and one naked Jennifer Lawrence beach scene aside that truly surprises, No Hard Feelings disappointingly really has nothing new to offer the genre.

Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves: Blu Ray Review

Cast: Chris Pine, Hugh Grant, Michelle Rodriguez, Daisy Head, Justice Smith, Rege-Jean Page, Sophia Lillis, Daisy Head

Director: Jonathan Goldstein, John Francis Daley

With its tongue firmly in its cheek, but also with an eye on those embroiled in the love of the fantasy genre, Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves manages to provide both fun and heart in a romp that's forgettable afterwards, but enjoyable while it's onscreen.

An engagingly charismatic Pine plays Edgin, a former thief who's conned by former ally Forge (Grant, in foppish English cad mode) and imprisoned for years after a heist gone wrong. Along with Holga (Rodriguez, all brawn and brass tacks), Edgin breaks out and sets out to reclaim his daughter - but as he assembles a ragtag group to carry out another heist, dark forces amass against him.

It can be hard to master the fripperies and flippancy of a fantasy comedy but for the large part, Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves manages it quite well, even if the stakes feel depressingly low key at times and the world doesn't really stand out visually.

But by upending some of the tropes of the genre (a chubby dragon chase scene, playing fast and loose with the undead, mocking the serious characters such as Paladin in the board game), Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves manages to feel fresh and enjoyable.

In large part that's due to Chris Pine's raffish charm throughout, a leader who's probably got more in keeping with Chris Pratt's Starlord than Gandalf. In every scene, his mix of both weary and winking gives the movie an irreverent boost that it needs as it deals with very familiar situations.

While most of the other characters are relatively familiar (a magician who's lacking self-belief, a brutish warrior who has heart, an overly cocksure braggadocio), the film makes great fist of their quest and gives time with them a touch of heart as it ambles from one sequence to the next. Though, in truth, it could have shaved some of its 130 minute run time with some of the more baggier elements of the story.

There are many echoes of the Marvel world here (the character interaction, the CGI-led finale) but there's also an affinity to the genre it's from and the board game so beloved by many thanks to a resurgence from Stranger Things. (It's great to see a blink-and-you'll-missit visual nod to the cartoon series so enjoyed by many youngsters during the 80s as well).

It may be that Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves' continual winking means that any peril in the final act feels a little underwhelming, but with a cast whose chemistry and charm come together so well and a deft touch throughout, this film rises above some of its more generic execution to ensure a perfectly impressive, likeable action comedy and amusing night out if you're willing to roll the dice.

Win a double pass to see No Hard Feelings at the movies

To celebrate the release of Jennifer Lawrence's new comedy movie No Hard Feelings, thanks to Sony Pictures New Zealand, you can win a double pass to see the film at the cinema!

No Hard Feelings releases on Thursday, June 22.

About No Hard Feelings

Jennifer Lawrence produces and stars in No Hard Feelings, a laugh-out-loud, edgy comedy from director Gene Stupnitsky (Good Boys) and the co-writer of Bad Teacher.

On the brink of losing her childhood home, Maddie (Lawrence) discovers an intriguing job listing: wealthy helicopter parents looking for someone to “date” their introverted 19-year-old son, Percy, before he leaves for college. To her surprise, Maddie soon discovers the awkward Percy is no sure thing.

Directed by: Gene Stupnitsky

Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Feldman, Laura Benanti, Natalie Morales and Matthew Broderick

No Hard Feelings is in cinemas Thursday, June 22

Elemental: Movie Review

Cast: Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Catherine O'Hara

Director: Peter Sohn

Pixar animation is at its best when its themes are its most relatable. and its unique take on the familiar heartfelt.

So it's somewhat disappointing to say that Elemental takes a familiar concept of a couple from two different lives connecting and does little knew with it - despite some spritely animation and some flashes of vibrant visual genius.

With its message of burn your light bright no matter what, Elemental is a mix of an immigration story and racial segregation as it centres on Ember (Lewis), the daughter of two fire elements who've moved to Element City for a new life.

Despite her father's prejudices against others that are not his kind, the family has been burning a life for themselves in FireTown, where they run the local store, servicing their community. As Ember is groomed to take over the store, she begins to realise she can't keep her temper in check, threatening her future. Things are further complicated when local city inspector and Water element creature Wade (Mamoudou) threatens to close down the shop for violations.

Determined to ensure the family legacy, Ember embarks on a quest to stop Wade from filing his complaints at city hall. But as the pair slowly bond despite their differences, a threat emerges to Fire Town that could literally snuff them all out.

Overcoming prejudice, following your own light burning within and immigration racism all meld together for a sweet and occasionally slight love story in Elemental.

It's not that the Pixar latest fails, more that it stumbles quietly on its somewhat overlong path to its denouement. There's a nagging feeling that even over the 100 minute run time, there's a sagginess which can't be shaken from writing that forgets the pep in its step and sacrifices the early zing for something a little more hoary and familiar.

There's no denying Elemental's heart, but despite some vibrant animation and some clever sight gags throughout, there's nothing truly memorable about Pixar's latest, and its messages, while all very well-intentioned, are too obvious and too unexplored to be truly deep and meaningful.

While that perhaps is a sign of the times, and maybe overt racism needs to be called out more these days isn't really up for debate - but whereas the likes of Zootopia and Inside Out explored many similar themes, Elemental takes the same tropes and frustratingly does little new with them.

Perfectly pleasant it may be, and perhaps the world-building would indicate Pixar shorts will be delving back in again in the future, but ultimately Elemental is less a whole, more a sum of its parts. It's frustrating because there is real potential for this world, which is wonderfully realised and beautifully executed.

What emerges though is something sweet and sadly slight, but ultimately not as memorable or emotionally involving as a new Pixar film should be.

Worth catching beforehand though is the short Pixar film, Carl's Date which is a sweetly positioned tale of love later in life, of betrayal of those who've passed and of course, features the return of the lovable but dim dog Dug. 

Stan Lee: Disney+ Movie Review

Director: David Gelb

A documentary on Stan Lee should in truth be a home run.

But by leaning heavily into audio recordings of the Marvel maestro himself, and largely avoiding anyone or anything critical about the man and the debate over his contributions, David Gelb's doco feels more like a once over lightly kind of a film that's less interested in negativity and more interested in preaching to the True Believers choir of existent fans.

It's not that it's badly presented, or badly constructed; merely that it's less interested in a deep dive into Lee's life and the squabbles that emerged after the Marvel comics boom that saw many feeling there were issues about how the royalties and credits were divided.

Using still animations, comic strip pages and audio and visuals of Lee himself, the story of how Stanley Leiber came to life and the route he took to ensure creativity and vision is largely a reasonably put together tale. 

What emerges from this celebration of Stan Lee is how much of a self-promoter he was, a man of publicly shown belief that was somewhat internally lacking over the frustrations of his career early on. A few insights into his childhood help, revealing a father who wasn't able to work, and an indelible mark left on the son who thought their worth came from having a daily job and providing for the family.

While the film brings some of the later life of Lee to the screen, including Marvel cameos, this is largely a movie that's more interested in celebrating the man himself, rather than picking any holes in his career trajectory.

That's no bad thing, and perhaps Gelb fell victim to Lee's obvious charms as well, but in truth, a lot of Stan Lee the movie could have dealt with a fuller picture of the man. But in a centenary after the birth of Lee, perhaps this never was the desire - and what emerges is a temperate salute to the man who pioneered much of the stories that power so much of the Marvel Cinematic Universe these days.

Stan Lee is streaming now on Disney+

Secret Invasion: TV Review

Marvel's latest mini-series, the ominously monikered Secret Invasion, leans more heavily into the spy-led shenanigans previously witnessed in the likes of Captain America: The Winter Soldier than the more cartoony elements of the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe.

A six-part limited series that mixes some of 24's terrorism elements with portions of the old TV shows Alien Nation, The Invaders and V as well as movies like Invasion of the Body Snatchers, the Samuel L Jackson-led piece focuses on the return of Nick Fury to Earth amid the dire warning of a Skrulls takeover of the planet.

Wearied by a loss of faith after the Thanos-led blip, Fury is a broken man, allowing Jackson to lean deeper into the more melancholy side of his acting while occasionally letting rip with his furious vengeance-led speeches.

Reuniting with Ben Mendelsohn's Skrull leader Talos and Cobie Smulders' Maria Hill, Fury is put on a collision path with Kingsley Ben-Adir's Gravik, a militant Skrull who's out to radicalise and weaponise the other Skrulls into rebellion...

To reveal too much about Secret Invasion is to spoil some of the surprises that lie within. But what is true is that while a series whose premise involves shape-shifting aliens can lead to some paranoid moments of tension and action, it can equally head towards an audience indifference where death feels meaningless and could perhaps be reversed.

However, it feels this time like Marvel is leaning less into that with some big moments happening in the first episode in the opening and closing scenes at least.

The ensemble cast of Secret Invasion is largely great, with Jackson leading the charge, but others equally following the way. His partnership with Mendelsohn leads to some thrillingly prickly character moments but also paves the way for some fascinating debates over idealism, and reality, philosophical clashes which feel particularly pertinent in these current climes.

Elsewhere, Game of Thrones' Emilia Clarke plays intriguing well with her Giah, a Skrull seemingly caught up in the conflict but suffering a crisis of faith.

However, it's Olivia Colman's MI6 boss Sonya Falsworth who leaves the biggest impression here - a scene-stealing mischievous tour de force who can flip from manipulation to malevolence with ease and who one hopes, will become a larger part of the wider MCU.

Ultimately, with only 2 of the 6 episodes available for preview, it's hard to see if Secret Invasion will stick the landing, and if some of the dramas will stick, but based on the early evidence, this grittier side of the story seems to be off to a strong start.

Marvel's Secret Invasion starts streaming on Disney+ from June 21.

NZIFF reveals Cannes films to play 2023 Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival

Whānau Mārama: New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) today reveals an impressive line-up of acclaimed films direct from Cannes Film Festival 2023 that are set to feature in its 2023 programme lighting up cinemas around Aotearoa this winter from 19 July.

"We're thrilled that for the third year in a row NZIFF has secured the Palme d'Or winner to present to New Zealand audiences. We couldn't be more pleased with this year's selection direct from Cannes 2023, with NZIFF being one of the first international film festivals to feature these titles," says NZIFF Head of Programming Michael McDonnell.

This year’s Palme d’Or winner Anatomy of a Fall opens our Festival in all centres with a profound and galvanising reflection on truth, facts and fiction. Directed by Justine Triet (Sibyl NZIFF 2019) — the third woman in Cannes history to receive the Palme d’Or for Best Film — this French thriller pivots around an extraordinary central performance from Sandra Hüller (Toni Erdmann NZIFF 2016) as an author suspected of her husband’s murder.

From beloved American auteur Wes Anderson comes colourful sci-fi Asteroid City, in which a jaw-dropping A-list cast converge on a small desert town for a space convention. Also, from the United States comes Todd Haynes’ metafictional psychodrama May December starring Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore as actor and subject in a movie-within-a-movie about a tabloid sex scandal.

Best Screenplay winner Monster and Best Actor winner Perfect Days also join the line-up. Kore-eda Hirokazu’s (Shoplifters NZIFF 2018) Monster follows a mother who confronts a teacher after noticing disturbing changes in her son's behaviour. Wim Wenders’ (Wings of Desire NZIFF 2018) Perfect Days hits the sweet spot in a poetic character study chronicling the daily life of a Tokyo cleaner.

Also set to play NZIFF 2023 is visually striking Senegalese romance Banel & Adama directed by Ramata-Toulaye Sy, a fable about a clash between love and duty which was the only feature debut to premiere In Competition at Cannes 2023.

Another Cannes feature debut screening at NZIFF 2023 is cinematographer-turned-director Molly Manning Walker’s stunning, neon-drenched How to Have Sex, which follows a trio of British teen girls on a wild booze-fuelled holiday and took home this year’s Un Certain Regard Prize.

Further selections from Cannes’ Un Certain Regard programme include Rodrigo Moreno’s three-hour Argentinian heist comedy-drama The Delinquents and Warwick Thornton’s (Samson and Delilah NZIFF 2008) beguiling spiritual thriller The New Boy set in 1940s Australia featuring Cate Blanchett as a renegade nun.

Winner of the Grand Prize of Critics’ Week at Cannes this year, Amanda Nell Eu’s Malaysian art-horror Tiger Stripes also joins our festival programme and follows a 12-year-old girl as she gets her period and watches her body undergo a terrifying transformation.

We will close this year’s Festival with the delightful Fallen Leaves, awarded the Jury Prize at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. Finnish director Aki Kaurismäki (Le Havre NZIFF 2011) returns with a deadpan romantic crowd-pleaser about two lost souls on a bumpy road to finding love.

NZIFF will announce its full Auckland programme, including additional Cannes titles, on Monday 26 June.

NZIFF 2023 opens in Auckland on 19 July, followed by Wellington on 27 July, Dunedin on 3 August and Christchurch on 10 August. The remaining centres will span August and September. Read more about the films here.

What's on Disney+ in July 

The Wonderful World Of Mickey Mouse – Steamboat Silly (July 28)

The final episode of the beloved Emmy Award-winning “The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse” is going to be coming to Disney+ on July 28th 2023, to celebrate Disney’s 100-year anniversary celebration.

“Steamboat Silly,” follows Mickey Mouse and his friends as they must stop hundreds of old film reel versions of Mickey from wreaking havoc all over town.

The Bear (Season 2)

July 19

FX’s The Bear: Season 2

STAR Original Series

Premiere

FX’s critically acclaimed original series "The Bear" is about food, family, the insanity of the grind, the beauty of Sense of Urgency and the steep slippery downsides. As young chef Carmy and crew work to transform their grimy sandwich shop into a next-level spot, they undertake transformational journeys of their own, each forced to confront the past and reckon with who they want to be in the future.

26 July

Drag Me to Dinner

STAR Original Series

Premiere

“Drag Me To Dinner” is a riotous, format-busting, fourth-wall-breaking, unapologetic sendup of traditional reality competition shows! In each episode, two teams of successful drag queens go head-to-head to throw the most fabulous, awe-inspiring, drag-tastical dinner parties of all time, and be crowned champion by our three judgers: the multitalented Neil Patrick Harris, drag superstar Bianca Del Rio, and the funny and fabulous Haneefah Wood. Hosted by the hardest-working middle-aged man in show business, dapper NYC legend Murray Hill, each episode has its own unique theme, as revealed by resident expert, life of the party and show producer David Burtka. Teams will focus on multiple criteria: Food & Drink, Design & Decor, and Entertainment & Overall Vibe ­– let the comedic culinary costumed chaos commence!

Futurama | New Season | Official Trailer | Disney+

24 July

Futurama: Season 11

STAR Original Series

Premiere

After a brief ten-year hiatus, Futurama has crawled triumphantly from the cryogenic tube, its full original cast and satirical spirit intact. The ten all-new episodes of season eleven have something for everyone. New viewers will be able to pick up the series from here, while long-time fans will recognize payoffs to decades-long mysteries – including developments in the epic love story of Fry and Leela, the mysterious contents of Nibbler's litter box, the secret history of evil Robot Santa, and the whereabouts of Kif and Amy's tadpoles. Meanwhile there's a whole new pandemic in town as the crew explores the future of vaccines, bitcoin, cancel culture, and streaming TV.

Kizazi Moto Generation Fire - Trailer

5 July

Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire

Disney+ Original Series

Premiere

This action-packed animated sci-fi anthology presents ten futuristic visions from Africa inspired by the continent’s diverse histories and cultures. Executive produced by Oscar®-winning director Peter Ramsey, these ten short films made by a new generation of animation creators draw on uniquely African perspectives to imagine brave new worlds of advanced technology, aliens, spirits, and monsters. This is Africa as you’ve never seen it before.

Also in July…

5 July

Series

Hailey's On It!: Season 1

Saturdays: Season 1

Schooled: Season 1-2

7 July

STAR Original

The Ashley Madison Affair: Season 1

International

A Place to Fight For

Movies (Shorts)

Aquamania

Building a Building

Figaro and Frankie

Goofy Gymnastics

The Skeleton Dance

SHARKFEST

Sharkcano: Hawaii

Shark Eat Shark

Saved from a Shark

Return of the White Shark

Killer Shark vs Killer Whale

Cannibal Sharks

Bull Shark vs. Hammerhead

Bull Shark Bandits

8 July

STAR Original

International

Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War: Season 2

10 July

STAR Original

International

Synduality Noir: Season 1

12 July

Series 

Alice's Wonderland Bakery: Season 2

Pupstruction: Season 1

International

The Superfantastic Story of Balão: Season 1

SHARKFEST

When Sharks Attack 360: Season 1

Most Extreme Sharks

14 July

SHARKFEST

Sharks vs. Dolphins: Bahamas Battleground

19 July

STAR Original

Justified: City Primeval: Season 1

SHARKFEST

When Sharks Attack… And Why

26 July

STAR Original

How I Met Your Father: Season 2, New Episodes 

International

Misaeng: Incomplete Life: Season 1

International

Arthdal Chronicles: Season 1

28 July

Disney+ Original 

The Wonderful World Of Mickey Mouse: Steamboat Silly

The Slumber Party

30 July

STAR Original

Imagine Dragons Live in Vegas

New Episodes

The Clearing Finale 5 July

The Kardashians: Season 3 New episodes weekly on Thursdays, finale 27 July

Secret Invasion: Season 1 New episodes weekly on Wednesdays, finale 26 July

Revenant: Season 1 New episodes weekly on Saturdays and Sundays, finale 29 July

Dino Ranch: Season 2 4 x new episodes 5 July

Tomorrow, I'll Be Someone's Girlfriend: Season 2 Finale 9 July

The Zone: Survival Mission: Season 2 New episodes weekly on Wednesdays, finale 19 July

Marvel's Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Season 2 New episodes 5 and 12 July