Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny: Disney+ 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.

The Old Oak: Movie Review

Cast: Dave Turner, Ebla Mari, Claire Rodgerson, Trevor Fox
Director: Ken Loach

Ken Loach's apparent cinematic swansong is a tender film that ever so slightly stumbles in its denouement, but one which proffers an entirely human approach to the neglect of societal schisms.

Set in a rundown mining community in Britain's north, it's the story of pub landlord TJ Ballantyne (Turner, extremely approachable in his everyday man performance) trying to negotiate life when a group of Syrian refugees are rehomed in his community.

Previously the peacemaker between factions, Ballantyne finds life in the community reaching a crossroads when he joins forces with the outspoken Yara (Mari in a star-making turn) to help them integrate.

Less a propulsive plot and more a simmering mix of circumstance, The Old Oak's chief commitment is to a compassionate story about two fractured communities trying to to find their way forward. On the one hand, the former mining community is damaged, scarred by old disasters and troubled by NIMBY complaints over dropping house prices and the homing of refugees.

On the other, parts of the community recognise this is their chance to fight back against the injustices thrust upon them in the 80s and come together to prove something good. Unsurprisingly, Loach is fairly forthright in his messaging, as xenophobia bubbles up on all fronts - from frank conversations in the pub which start "I'm not racist, but" to glances, all the signs of tension live and burst forth at TJ's dilapidated pub.

But what Loach does with the entirely predictable story is fashion something that just about manages to offer a degree of compassion to everyone affected in any way. From pictures of drawn out etched faces of the miners to the present day remnants of how life was, Loach has an agenda to pursue and he does so unapologetically.

It may meander a little towards an obvious ending but Loach's desire to proffer hope when everything around his characters is bleak is something that shouldn't be scoffed at or taken lightly. Current climates indicate there needs to be a higher bar for tolerance, and if this truly is his last film, then Loach has done what any social filmmaker should do - taken a mirror and shone it on the inequities in our society in the hope of improvement.

The Talos Principle 2: PS5 Review

Developed by Croteam

Published by Devolver Digital

Platform: PS5

Puzzle games come in all shapes and sizes.

And nearly a decade after the first game was released, the sequel shows up to leave many scratching their heads as the year ends.

But whilst it's also a sign that gaming can offer more cerebral edges in among sleek graphics and mind-bending gameplay, it's also a reminder that titles like this and Humanity from earlier this year are actually about the core basics of puzzle solving, which either leave you punching the air with joy or slapping your face with growing desperation.

Essentially a game that sees you take on the role of an android 1K and try to solve puzzles that unlock levels and proffer more puzzles, The Talos Principle 2 really does rely on player patience. Graphically the game offers a beautifully rendered world whose simplicity belies the execution of what plays out.

With what initially appear to be simple puzzles offering mind-bending possibilities the closer you get to a solution, The Talos Principle 2 does actively have a steep learning curve that will remind players of game mechanics of reflecting lasers, diverting beams - it's all very familiar stuff spun in a compellingly different way.

It's also - bizarrely - quite relaxing when you're exploring the world, getting some mental downtime before the game kicks back into mind-melting mode.

It's a great way to push lateral thinking and a clever way to make gaming a bit more challenging than what has simply proliferated the gaming world where guided walkthroughs and persistently nagging companions proffer solutions without any prompt.

You would need to have a level of patience to dive into The Talos Principle 2, but given the right frame of mind and the desire to be challenged on every level, this game is a rare delight - an intellectual curio that looks superb and that will leave you thinking about it at all hours.

Jules: DVD Review

Cast: Ben Kingsley, Jane Curtin, Harriet Samson Harris, Zoe Winters, Jade Quon
Director: Marc Turteltaub

Echoes of quirk side with waves of melancholy in Marc Turteltaub's Jules, a film about alienation and actual aliens.

Kingsley stars as Milton an aging inhabitant of a small Pennsylvania town in the US. He spends his week railing at the town hall over the perceived misunderstanding of the town's slogan and campaigning for a crossing.

Along with two other older residents, he's dismissed regularly, something which aligns with his home life as his daughter worries over his failing mind and his son's inability to call talk to him from California.

But it all changes one night when an alien craft drops from the sky and crushes his beloved flowers...

There's an occasionally maudlin meditation to Jules, a film that posits elderly shouldn't be dismissed and shows, much like Plan 75 did, the ease with which society glosses over that age group. From Milton's continual weekly requests at the Town Hall to his insistence on ignoring potential medical problems, the societal ostracism is rife.

Kingsley puts in a reserved and almost ambiguous turn as Milton, imbuing him with as much pathos as is possible. It's subtlety that's the key here, and Kingsley leaves the audience in no doubt that he's a master of it when it counts.

But as his Milton finds his voice, largely thanks to Quon's alien, Curtin and Samson-Harris also come to the fore, adding layers as his elderly compatriots who are both searching for something in their twilight years. It's not so much a formidable trio at work here, more a group suddenly rising up when needs be.

Quon also deserves commendation for her role as Jules the alien, a relatively stark performance with expressiveness bringing out the best of others.

Whilst there's dry whimsical humour at play here amongst the lightest of sci-fi trappings, Turteltaub doesn't overplay his hand, preferring to let a gentle sense of calm pervade proceedings. The end result makes Jules something that resonates with a little more feeling and emotion than perhaps initially would have been thought, and has a great deal of empathy for both its subjects and its subject matter.

Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection: PS5 Review

Developed by Limited Run Games

Published by Limited Run Games
Platform: PS5

As the Jurassic Park franchise celebrates 30 years, it can be no surprise there have been several games that have sprung from the screen and the pages to the consoles over the years.

But based on the Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection what becomes obvious is how sadly forgettable many of them have been.

This compilation of 8-bit and 16-bit games that were based specifically on the first Jurassic Park movie certainly offers plenty of choice, mashing together the NES, SNES and Game Boy versions of the film, as well as bolting in a couple of others.

The end result is something that's less than desirable in parts, but is an accurate representation of what was on offer at the time.

From a top-down shooter that requires egg and ID collection in the NES version of Jurassic Park to a run-and-gun game, there are some vicarious pleasures to be had in parts of this clutch of games, even if in other sections, it very rarely looks anything like the franchise it's been ripped from.

But by modernising it with save points and rewind sections, the frustrations that would have been felt in the old consoles have been dialled down, and Limited Games makes a compelling argument for bringing them to the PS5.

Equally, the gameplay in the top down games still plays out well and feels much like a Commando arcade game clone, which is no bad thing.

Easily cruising by on its nostalgia, and with plenty of games as well as options to play as the iconic Sam Neill character or as a dinosaur being fulfilling enough, the Jurassic Park Classic Games Collection may service a nostalgia itch more than an urgency itch.

The Paragon: Movie Review

Director and writer Michael Duignan's lo-fi thriller comedy The Paragon may be infused with a touch of sci-fi trappings throughout, but it's also one of the oddest oddball road movies Aotearoa has ever produced.

Benedict Wall plays Dutch, a recently killed victim of a hit and run who comes back to life, only to find it's all falling apart for him. Things get weirder - and worse - when he seeks the help of mysterious hooded psychic Lyra (Florence Noble) to teach him how to use telepathy to find the person who hit him.

But Lyra discovers Dutch has special powers and could be the key to helping her find the mysterious Paragon crystal.

Made for a $25K budget may be the headline of many people's comments on The Paragon - and in truth, it does show at times - but that's to dismiss a lot of the deadpan wit and offkilter moments that come from this Kiwi flick.

Similar to previous NZIFF outing Mega Time Squad, The Paragon channels the quintessential dry humour that permeates so much of the cinematic DNA as well as the can-do attitude that powers much of the film-making community.

Wall and Noble's duo are one for the ages as weird psychedelic edges clash with dialogue spouting such seemingly highfalutin ideas as "hyperdimensional consciousness" (knowingly dismissed by Wall's Dutch who claims "I don't believe in that woowoo bullshit" throughout) for unusual comic effect.

A lo-fi cosmic buddy film it may be, and its ambition may occasionally fall short of its execution, but for a premise that's rooted in character and interactions, The Paragon soars when it should - and emerges as one of the trippier entrants into the festival that's well worth a look.

Napoleon: Movie Review

Cast: Joaquin Phoenix, Vanessa Kirby, Tahar Rahim
Director: Ridley Scott

Napoleon had some real promise.

And make no mistake, the electric battle scenes are swift in their brutality (heads are severed, entrails exposed from shot horses), but as a film itself Napoleon is lost looking for a narrative thread to connect it all together.

It doesn't help the whole thing races through his life, beginning with the end of the reign of terror in 1793 and ending with his death in 1821, Scott's film is more interested in depicting the major battles of his campaign and peppering his story with brief life moments than providing a movie that's a compelling portrait of the man.

Phoenix is fine as Bonaparte, and Kirby maintains an air of something as Joséphine de Beauharnais, but the emotional thread to tie this together is severely lacking. But Scott's desire to race either through key moments or worse still, key battles mean this biopic has no pull, no depth and no heft to hang that famous hat on.

Proceedings are hardly helped by the fact there's a four hour version of this film in existence, ready to be unveiled next year; to be frank, it would have been infinitely better if that version had made its way to the cinema for viewing, because, based on this 157 minute version, nobody will be tempted to return.

While Phoenix gets some acid moments to revel in, Kirby's Joséphine de Beauharnais feels underwritten and pushed to one side, a woman who apparently had Napoleon transfixed - yet none of that is evident in Scott's telling of the affairs of the heart.

Admittedly some lines reek of corniness ("Destiny brought me this lamb chop" being chief among the offenders) but much of Napoleon feels underwritten; political intrigue is cast aside for the segue to the next battle scene and the whole movie begins to feel drawn out, a story in search of a raison d'etre for its two polished performers.

Perhaps running parallel storylines as Napoleon heads to battle and Joséphine stays at home was meant to prove the pull between them, but those storylines never really interconnect and cohere into something of suitable weight.

Ultimately, Napoleon feels like a missed moment - its dour depictions and cutdown edits make it more of a bore. And the prospect of having to sit through a four hour version would leave anyone craving the guillotine.

What's on Neon in December

Here's everything that's streaming on Neon in December.

Unwanted (December 1)

Inspired by the book Bilal by journalist Fabrizio Gatti, Unwanted follows an undercover human rights advocate aiding African migrants in their perilous journey to Europe while confronting human traffickers and government authorities. The narrative centres on a bustling cruise ship, packed with tourists, which unexpectedly rescues a group of refugees at sea. As the refugees' tales become entwined with the ship's passengers, tensions escalate when a faction of refugees takes the ship hostage to avoid returning to Libya, their recent place of escape. 

Starring Marco Bocci, Jessica Schwarz, Dada Fungula, Sylvester Growth and Scot Williams. 

Bookie (December 22)

A veteran bookie struggles to survive the impending legalisation of sports gambling, increasingly unstable clients, family, co workers, and a lifestyle that bounces him around every corner of Los Angeles. 

Starring Vanessa Ferlito, Jorge Garcia, Andrea Anders, Bob Clendenin and C. S. Lee. 

Blindspot S1-5 (December 12)

A beautiful woman with no memory is found in Times Square covered in a series of cryptic tattoos – including the name of FBI Agent Kurt Weller inscribed across her back. As Weller and his team investigate, they discover each intricate tattoo on Jane Doe's body is a crime to solve, leading to a high stakes underworld of secrets and revelations. 

Starring Sullivan Stapleton, Jaimie Alexander, Audrey Esparza, Ashley Johnson and Rob Brown. 

There She Goes S1-3 (December 6)

A comedy drama following Rosie, a learning disabled 9-year old, and her dad Simon, mum Emily and brother Ben. The series explores how having a child with special needs affects the family unit, and for Simon, Emily, Ben and Rosie how it threatened to disintegrate but ultimately brought them even closer together. 

Starring David Tennant, Jessica Hynes, Miley Locke, and Edan Hayhurst. 

Movies

Shazam! Fury of the Gods (December 14)

Blessed with divine abilities, Billy Batson and his foster siblings grapple with balancing teenage existence and their heroic alter egos. Their lives take a perilous turn when vengeful ancient gods descend to Earth, demanding the return of long lost magic. Shazam and his allies are thrust into a fight for their powers, their survival, and the world's destiny. 

Starring Zachary Levi and Helen Mirren. 

A Good Person (December 5)

Allison, a young woman with a thriving life, faces a shattering tragedy that leaves her with opioid addiction and unresolved grief. In the subsequent years, an unexpected bond with her would-be father-in-law offers a lifeline, enabling her to rebuild and move forward. Starring Florence Pugh and Morgan Freeman. 

Book Club: The Next Chapter (December 9)

Four inseparable best friends embark on an Italian getaway, transforming their traditional book club into the wild girls' trip they never had. As chaos ensues and long held secrets surface, their leisurely vacation morphs into an unforgettable cross-country escapade. Starring Diane Keaton and Jane Fonda. 

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry (December 15)

In his sixties, an unassuming man named Harold receives news of his dying friend, Queenie. He sets off on a walk, intending to reach Queenie's hospice 724 kilometres away, much to the distress of his wife, Maureen. Starring Jim Broadbent and Penelope Wilton. 

The Black Demon (December 26)

Oilman Paul Sturges' family vacation turns horrific as they face a colossal megalodon determined to defend its territory. Stranded and besieged, Paul and his family must find a way to return to shore safely before the relentless predator strikes once more. Starring Josh Lucas and Fernanda Urrejola.

Hypnotic (December 26)

Detective Danny Rourke, on a relentless quest to find his missing daughter, becomes entangled in a web of mind bending crimes. Collaborating with psychic Diana Cruz, he races to both pursue and elude a menacing adversary, the individual he believes holds the key to unravelling the mystery of his daughter's whereabouts. 

Starring Ben Affleck and Alice Braga. 

Nude Tuesday (December 2)

To rekindle the spark in their troubled marriage, forty-somethings Laura and Bruno head to a three-day couples’ retreat run by relationship and sexual healing guru Bjorg Rasmussen. Upon arrival, the path to their reconnection is met with hilarious and increasingly absurd farce. Starring Jackie Van Beek and Jemaine Clement. 

What's Shudder in December

Here's everything that's streaming on Shudder in December

It’s a Wonderful Knife – Shudder Exclusive Film 

Streaming Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ 

Premieres Friday 1 December 

Winnie Carruther (Jane Widdop, Yellowjackets) saves her town  from a psychotic killer on Christmas Eve. A year later, her life is less than wonderful — but when she wishes she’d never been born, she finds herself in a nightmare parallel universe and discovers that without her, things could be much, much worse.  Now, the killer is back, and she must team up with the town misfit to identify the killer and get back to her own  reality. Also starring Joel McHale (Community) and Justin Long (Barbarian). Directed by Tyler MacIntyre. 

The Sacrifice Game – Shudder Original Film 

Streaming Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ 

Premieres Friday 8 December 

It’s bad enough that boarding school students Samantha and Clara can’t go home for the holidays, but things take a deadly turn when a gang of cult killers arrives on their doorstep – just in time for Christmas. Starring Mena Massoud (Aladdin), Olivia Scott Welch (Lucky Hank, The Fear Street Trilogy), Gus  Kenworthy (American Horror Story) and Chloë Levine (The Ranger). Directed by Jenn Wexler. 

The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula – Shudder Original Series 

Streaming Exclusively on Shudder and AMC+ 

New episodes every Tuesday until the Season Finale on 16 January 2024. **Note: Episodes will be on hiatus on 26 December and 2 January 

Horror’s new icons The Boulet Brothers are on the hunt to find the world’s next drag monster superstar in this brand new, star-studded fifth season of their hit reality competition  show. With new competitors, their challenges, special effects makeup, costumes, and performances, it promises  to be truly terrifying and out-of-this-world.

NEW ADDITIONS TO SHUDDER’S FILM LIBRARY 

11 December 

Wendigo 

When George and Kim arrive at their cabin, they soon find that a dark and intimidating presence seems to  have taken over the cottage. After a shopkeeper tells Miles about the legend of Wendigo, a beast who is half man, half-deer, and can change itself at will, the child begins to wonder if the creature might have something  to do with his family’s sudden misfortune.  

14 December  

Something in the Dirt 

When neighbors John and Levi witness supernatural event in their Los Angeles apartment building, they realise  documenting the paranormal could inject some fame and fortune into their wasted lives. An ever-deeper darker  rabbit hole, their friendship frays as they uncover the dangers of the phenomena, the city and each other.  

The Endless 

As kids, they escaped a UFO death cult. Now, two adult brothers seek answers after an old videotape surfaces  and brings them back to where they began. 

What's on Netflix in December

Here's everything that's streaming on Netflix in December.

Sweet Home: Season 2 1/12/2023 South Korea Who’s knocking? A monster, a human, or a hybrid…? The stakes are higher than ever as the lines begin to blur, and nobody is safe from infection.

Welcome to Samdal-ri 3/12/2023 South Korea No Synopsis Available

Blood Coast 6/12/2023 France As a vicious drug dealer tries to overtake Marseille, a rogue police captain and his daredevil team welcome a new recruit with an agenda of her own.

Analog Squad 7/12/2023 Thailand After learning of his estranged father's sickness, a scheming middle-aged man assembles a fake family to reunite with him for one last time.

I Hate Christmas: Season 2 7/12/2023 Italy It's that time of year again, but now Gianna is in love and ready to embrace the Christmas spirit — even if new issues arise and threaten it.

My Life With the Walter Boys 7/12/2023 United States When a tragedy disrupts her life, a teen moves in with her guardian's big family in a small town and learns new lessons about love, hope and friendship.

High Tides 7/12/2023 Belgium Over a tense summer on the Belgian coast, a wealthy friend group faces adulthood's harsh realities while grappling with love and societal expectations.

Single’s Inferno: Season 3 12/12/2023 South Korea A new set of singles embark on a journey of love on a remote island — navigating drama, passion and everything in between for a chance at Paradise.

1670 13/12/2023 Poland A quirky nobleman navigates family feuds and clashes with peasants in his misguided quest to become Poland's most famous figure In this satirical comedy.

Car Masters: Rust to Riches: Season 5 13/12/2023 United States New faces join the Gotham Garage gang as they prepare to bring their business to the next level — but it'll take a lot of hard work and creativity.

The Influencer 13/12/2023 Colombia After a social media stunt goes wrong, an influencer is forced to rebuild her reputation while navigating a cutthroat online scene.

As the Crow Flies: Season 2 14/12/2023 Turkey Aslı and Lale must break from the norm and face fresh challenges as they continue to fight for their survival in a cutthroat media industry.

The Crown: Season 6 Part 2 14/12/2023 Great Britain With the Commonwealth irrevocably changed, Queen Elizabeth II reflects on her life and legacy, and paves the way for her successors Charles and William.

Yu Yu Hakusho 14/12/2023 Japan After a selfless act costs him his life, teen delinquent Yusuke Urameshi is chosen as a "Spirit Detective" to investigate cases involving rogue yokai.

​Carol & The End of The World 15/12/2023 United States With a mysterious planet hurtling towards Earth, extinction is imminent for the people of the world. While most feel liberated to pursue their wildest dreams, one quiet and always uncomfortable woman stands alone — lost among the hedonistic masses.

Yoh' Christmas 15/12/2023 South Africa Single, 30 and under pressure, Thando lies to her family that she has a boyfriend. Now she has 24 days to bring one home for Christmas. Can she do it?

Love is Blind Brazil: After the Altar 20/12/2023 Brazil Drama, closure and rekindled flames collide as cast members from past seasons of "Love is Blind Brazil" come together in this special reunion episode.

Cindy la Regia: The High School Years 20/12/2023 Mexico Teenage Cindy has high aspirations: to conquer the world. But first, she must survive high school — and high society — in her hometown of San Pedro.

Like Flowers in Sand 21/12/2023 South Korea No Synopsis Available

Gyeongseong Creature Part 1 22/12/2023 South Korea Gyeongseong, 1945. In Seoul's grim era under colonial rule, an entrepreneur and a sleuth fight for survival and face a monster born out of human greed. 

The Manny 24/12/2023 Mexico A high-powered executive hires a rancher in a panic to care for her kids. Little does she know, he'll challenge her views of gender roles — and of love. 

Berlin 29/12/2023 Spain Back to his golden age before the events of "Money Heist," Berlin and a masterful gang gather in Paris to plan one of his most ambitious robberies ever.

Christmas as Usual 6/12/2023 Norway To celebrate their engagement, Thea takes Jashan home — but his Indian roots and her family's Norwegian traditions clash in a chaotic Christmas.

NAGA 7/12/2023 Saudi Arabia Teenage Cindy has high aspirations: to conquer the world. But first, she must survive high school — and high society — in her hometown of San Pedro.

The Archies 7/12/2023 India Set in 1960s India, Archie and the gang navigate romance, friendship and the future of Riverdale as developers threaten to destroy a beloved park.

Blood Vessel 8/12/2023 Nigeria Brought together by chance, six people fleeing a town devastated by oil pollution stow away on a mysterious ship — not realizing the dangers that await.

Leave the World Behind 8/12/2023 United States A family's getaway to a luxurious rental home takes an ominous turn when a cyberattack knocks out their devices — and two strangers appear at their door.

Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget 15/12/2023 Great Britain A fearless band of chickens flock together to save their own kind from an unsettling new threat: a nearby farm that's cooking up something suspicious.

Familia 15/12/2023 Mexico As a family discusses the future of their idyllic olive farm over a meal, the complexity of their relationships emerges through laughs and confessions.

Maestro 20/12/2023 United States This towering and fearless love story chronicles the lifelong relationship between Leonard Bernstein and Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein. A love letter to life and art, "Maestro" is at its core an emotionally epic portrayal of family and love.

Taming of the Shrewd 2 20/12/2023 Poland Kaśka and Patryk's romance gets tested when they suspect each other of cheating. Making matters worse, their neighbors keep meddling in their affairs.

Rebel Moon — Part One: A Child of Fire 22/12/2023 United States When a peaceful settlement on the edge of a distant moon finds itself threatened by the armies of a tyrannical ruling force, a mysterious stranger living among its villagers becomes their best hope for survival.

A Vampire in the Family 24/12/2023 Brazil When a fainthearted ex-soccer player learns his brother-in-law is a vampire with world domination plans, he must gather his courage and save the day.

Thank You, I'm Sorry 26/12/2023 Sweden Suddenly alone during the late stages of her pregnancy, Sara receives an unexpected lifeline when Linda, her estranged older sister, arrives.

Stavros Halkias: Fat Rascal 5/12/2023 United States Acerbic comic Stavros Halkias skewers tech culture, air travel, sex — and himself — in this raunchy, rollicking and irreverent stand-up set.

Trevor Noah: Where Was I 19/12/2023 United States A new stand-up special from Trevor Noah.

Ricky Gervais: Armageddon 25/12/2023 Great Britain Controversial comic Ricky Gervais pokes fun at the easily offended and over-sensitive in his taboo-busting comedy special about the end of humanity.World War II: From the Frontlines 7/12/2023 Great Britain Through vividly enhanced archival footage and voices from all sides of the conflict, this docuseries brings WWII to life like never before.

Kevin Hart & Chris Rock: Headliners Only 12/12/2023 United States From back in the day to the top of their game, Kevin Hart and Chris Rock offer an unparalleled, behind-the-scenes look at their friendship and careers.

Under Pressure: The U.S. Women's World Cup Team 12/12/2023 United States In this docuseries, the U.S. women’s national soccer team pursues their third consecutive title amid trials and triumphs at the 2023 FIFA World Cup.

Se Eu Fosse: Luísa Sonza 13/12/2023 Brazil Brazil's most polarizing pop singer opens up in this docuseries about her love life, career, controversies and the creation of a new album.

Face to Face with ETA: Conversations with a Terrorist 15/12/2023 Spain Josu Urrutikoetxea, also known as Josu Ternera, gives an exhaustive interview to journalist Jordi Évole about his involvement in the terrorist group ETA.

Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare 27/12/2023 Great Britain No Synopsis Available

Dew Drop Diaries: Season 2 4/12/2023 United States Whoosh, here we go! Athena, Phoebe and Eden return to help their kids solve everyday problems with glitter, grit and a great attitude.

Hilda: Season 3 7/12/2023 United States A trip to see her great-aunt sparks Hilda's interest in fairies. But the young explorer may have a stronger connection to the creatures than she thinks.

Supa Team 4: Season 2 21/12/2023 United States While Mr. Magedzee searches for a cleaner, greener power source, Supa Team 4 searches for the evil Chusi. Will they all find what they're looking for?

Pokémon Concierge 28/12/2023 Japan No Synopsis Available

Fisk: Season 2 1/12/2023 Australia Now officially part of Gruber & Associates, lawyer Helen Tudor-Fisk tackles her clients' probate issues — despite still not really being a people person.

Talk to Me 1/12/2023 Australia A group of teens turn an embalmed hand that can possess the holder into a rowdy, risky party game. But once the rules are broken, there's no going back.

The Batman 1/12/2023 United States The Batman's hunt for a killer leads him into Gotham City's grimy underworld, which may be more entwined with its ruling elite than he ever imagined.

X 15/12/2023 United States Terror awaits a small film crew in 1979 Texas when they rent a reclusive older couple's decrepit farmhouse to shoot an adult movie.

Everything Everywhere All at Once 20/12/2023 United States An audit of Evelyn's laundromat triggers a heroic journey through alternate universes where the only constant is her complicated love for her family.

What's on DocPlay in December

Here's everything streaming on DocPlay this December.

Deck the halls with DocPlay and settle in for an exquisite summer of cinema! 

Winner of Berlinale’s Golden Bear (Best Film) Award, On the Adamant invites viewers aboard the Adamant, an art therapy centre afloat on the Seine, while the intimate Because We Have Each Other, from Australian director Sari Brathwaite, follows a neurodiverse family on the working-class fringe. If this year’s blockbuster hit Oppenheimer piqued your nuclear interests, Steve James' (Hoop Dreams) timely doc A Compassionate Spy tells the incredible story of Manhattan Project scientist Ted Hall, who shared classified nuclear secrets with Russia. And, for US-politics-heads, A Storm Foretold is the jaw-dropping portrait of Donald Trump’s former adviser, the nefarious and charismatic Roger Stone.

Railway Murders  |  4 Dec  |  Series

This 6-part true crime series considers the history of blood on the tracks of Britain, compiled from the files of Scotland Yard and the Railways Police.

Because We Have Each Other  |  7 Dec  |  DocPlay Exclusive

An intimate documentary five years in the making, Because We Have Each Other chronicles the life of Janet, Buddha and their five adult children: a neurodiverse family on the working-class fringe. 

Is There Anybody Out There  |  7 Dec  |  DocPlay Exclusive

In this deeply personal and disarmingly honest documentary, filmmaker Ella Glendining searches for individuals with the same rare disability as herself. 

On the Adamant  |  11 Dec  |  DocPlay Exclusive

Winner of the 2023 Berlinale's prestigious Golden Bear Award (Best Film), this empathetic film from seasoned French director Nicolas Philibert (To Be and To Have) invites viewers to spend time with the residents of a floating art-therapy centre in Paris.

To Be and To Have, Philibert’s multi-award-winning 2002 documentary, also streams on DocPlay from December 11.

A Compassionate Spy  |  14 Dec  |  DocPlay Exclusive

From director Steve James (Hoop Dreams), the timely doc A Compassionate Spy tells the incredible story of Manhattan Project scientist Ted Hall, who shared classified nuclear secrets with Russia. 

A Storm Foretold  |  18 Dec  |  DocPlay Exclusive

A jaw-dropping, no-holds-barred portrait of Donald Trump’s former adviser, Roger Stone, filmed over three years in the lead-up to the 6 January storming of the US Capitol. 

Munich 72  |  21 Dec  |  DocPlay Exclusive  |  Series

This new, 3-part series that tells the chilling story of the 1972 Munich Olympics terror attack, as it’s never been told before.

What's on Prime Video in December

Here's everything that's streaming on Prime Video in December.

REACHER 

SEASON TWO AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER 

Reacher Season Two begins when veteran military police investigator Jack Reacher (Alan Ritchson) receives a coded message that the members of his former U.S. Army unit, the 110th MP Special Investigations, are being mysteriously and brutally murdered one by one. Pulled from his drifter lifestyle, Reacher reunites with three of his former teammates turned chosen family to investigate, including Frances Neagley (Maria Sten); Karla Dixon (Serinda Swan), a forensic accountant for whom Reacher has long had a soft spot; and fast-talking, switchblade-wielding family man David O’Donnell (Shaun Sipos). Together, they begin to connect the dots in a mystery where the stakes get higher at every turn, and brings about questions of who has betrayed them—and who will die next. Using his inimitable blend of smarts and size, Reacher will stop at nothing to uncover the truth and protect the members of his unit. If there’s one thing Reacher and his team know for certain, it’s that you do not mess with the Special Investigators. This season, get ready for Reacher and the 110th to hit back hard.

Reacher Season Two  stars Alan Ritchson, Maria Sten, Serinda Swan, Shaun Sipos, Domenick Lombardozzi, Ferdinand Kingsley and Robert Patrick.

CANDY CANE LANE

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON FRIDAY 1 DECEMBER 

Eddie Murphy stars in this holiday comedy adventure about a man on a mission to win his neighbourhood’s annual Christmas home decoration contest. After Chris (Eddie Murphy) inadvertently makes a deal with a mischievous elf named Pepper (Jillian Bell) to better his chances of winning, she casts a magic spell that brings the 12 Days of Christmas to life and wreaks havoc on the whole town. At the risk of ruining the holidays for his family, Chris, his wife Carol (Tracee Ellis Ross), and their three children must race against the clock to break Pepper’s spell, battle deviously magical characters and save Christmas for everyone.

Candy Cane Lane stars Eddie Murphy, Tracee Ellis Ross, Jillian Bell, Thaddeus J. Mixson, Ken Marino, Nick Offerman, Robin Thede, Chris Redd, Genneya Walton, Madison Thomas, D.C. Young Fly, Riki Lindhome, Anjelah Johnson-Reyes, Lombardo Boyar, Danielle Pinnock and Timothy Simons.

YOUR CHRISTMAS OR MINE 2

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year … but will it be for James and Hayley? James’ father has invited the Taylors to spend Christmas in a luxury ski resort in the Austrian Alps, so they can meet his new American girlfriend. However, Hayley’s dad Geoff insisted on handling his family’s side of the booking and something clearly got lost in translation. After a mix-up with transport at the airport, the two tribes end up at each other’s accommodations, on different sides of a valley and opposite ends of the Tripadvisor ratings scale. Can Hayley and James' relationship survive another turbulent family Christmas, or has their future together gone off-piste?

Your Christmas Or Mine 2 stars Asa Butterfield, Cora Kirk, Alex Jennings, Angela Griffin, Daniel Mays, Jane Krakowski, Rhea Norwood and David Bradley. 

MERRY LITTLE BATMAN 

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON FRIDAY 8 DECEMBER 

Merry Little Batman is an animated family action comedy destined to join the rogue's gallery of classic holiday movies. When young Damian Wayne finds himself alone in Wayne Manor on Christmas Eve, he must transform into “Little Batman'' in order to defend his home and Gotham City from the crooks and supervillains intent on destroying the holidays.

Merry Little Batman stars Luke Wilson, Yonas Kibreab, David Hornsby and James Cromwell. 

LOS FARAD

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 

The day Oskar crosses paths with the mysterious and wealthy Farad family, his life changes forever. Oskar enters a winner-take-all game, the world of international arms trafficking. In Marbella where the Farads live, luxury, adrenaline and intense emotions await him... but also a backside of violence and cynicism that tests his will.

Los Farad stars Miguel Herrán and Susana Abaitua. 

PRISONER’S DAUGHTER

AVAILABLE ON TUESDAY 5 DECEMBER 

After 12-years in prison, Max (Brian Cox) is diagnosed with terminal cancer and granted a compassionate release with the condition he reside with his daughter, Maxine (Kate Beckinsale). With no love lost toward Max but financially strapped and working multiple jobs to raise her only son, Ezra (Christopher Convery), she begrudgingly agrees to the conditions. As Max seeks one last chance to redeem himself in her eyes, they must contend with his violent past as it comes back to haunt them all.

Prisoner’s Daughter stars Brian Cox, Kate Beckinsale and Christopher Convery.

THE DONOR PARTY

AVAILABLE ON TUESDAY 19 DECEMBER 

From writer-director Thom Harp, The Donor Party follows recently single Jaclyn (Malin Åkerman), who desperately wants to become a mum - by any means necessary. After a messy divorce and countless wasted online dating attempts, she realises she doesn't need a husband to make her dream come true. Enlisting her best friends (Erinn Hayes and Bria Henderson), Jaclyn devises a plan to pull off the ultimate sperm heist on unsuspecting donors Tim (Jerry O’Connell), MJ (Dan Ahdoot), Mateo (Jeff Torres) and Armin (Ryan Hansen), all while celebrating an intimate birthday party for her oblivious friend, Geoff (Rob Corddry).

The Donor Party stars Malin Åkerman, Erinn Hayes, Bria Henderson, Jerry O’Connell, Dan Ahdoot, Ryan Hansen and Rob Corddry

THE BLACK DEMON

AVAILABLE ON TUESDAY 12 DECEMBER 

Oilman Paul Sturges' idyllic family vacation turns into a living nightmare when they encounter a gigantic megalodon shark that will stop at nothing to protect its territory. Stranded and under constant attack, Paul and his family must somehow find a way to get back to shore alive before it strikes again.

The Black Demon stars Josh Lucas, Fernanda Urrejola,  Héctor Jiménez and Venus Ariel. 

BREATH OF LIFE 

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON FRIDAY 15 DECEMBER 

Set in the 1950s, Breath of Life portrays the story of a former clergyman who loses everything he holds dear including his faith and goes on a journey of self-transformation when his life is taken over by his Christian houseboy.

Breath of Life stars Wale Ojo, Chimezie Imo, Ademola Adedoyin, Eku Edewor, Sam Dede, and Genoveva Umeh 

DECEMBER 2023 TOP PICKS:

CANDY CANE LANE (MOVIE) 1/12/23

SPOILER ALERT (MOVIE) 1/12/23

MY MAN IS CUPID S1 (TV) 2/12/23

PRISONER'S DAUGHTER (MOVIE) 5/12/23

MERRY LITTLE BATMAN (TV) 8/12/23

YOUR CHRISTMAS OR MINE 2 (MOVIE) 8/12/23

SANTA MI AMOR (DATING SANTA) (MOVIE) 8/12/23

OUT OF THE FURNACE (MOVIE) 8/12/23

BOOK CLUB: THE NEXT CHAPTER (MOVIE) 9/12/23

LOS FARAD S1 (TV) 12/12/23

THE BLACK DEMON (MOVIE) 12/12/23

REACHER S2 (TV) 15/12/23

BREATH OF LIFE (MOVIE) 15/12/23

DEATH'S GAME S1 (TV) 15/12/23

THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY (MOVIE) 15/12/23

THE DONOR PARTY (MOVIE) 19/12/23

ESCORT BOYS S1 (TV) 22/12/23

THE POPE'S EXORCIST (MOVIE) 28/12/23

CHRISTMAS TV & MOVIES AVAILABLE NOW:

ALMOST CHRISTMAS (MOVIE)

BAD SANTA (MOVIE) 

CHRISTMAS EVE (MOVIE)

CHRISTMAS IN PARADISE (MOVIE)

CHRISTMAS STAYCATION (MOVIE)

ELF ME (MOVIE) 

EXMAS (MOVIE) 

GORDON RAMSAY’S ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS (TV)

HOTEL FOR THE HOLIDAYS (MOVIE)

HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS (MOVIE)

MARRY ME THIS CHRISTMAS (MOVIE)

MOTHER KRAMPUS (MOVIE)

SANTA INC (TV) 

SOMETHING FROM TIFFANY’S (MOVIE) 

THE GRINCH (MOVIE) 

THE NIGHT BEFORE (MOVIE)

YOUR CHRISTMAS OR MINE (MOVIE) 

VIOLENT NIGHT (MOVIE) 

Godzilla Minus One: Movie Review

Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada, Munetaka Aoki, Hidetaka Yoshioka
Director: Takashi Yamazaki

Stripped of its continuity to the Godzilla universe despite being the 33rd entrant in the monster series, Godzilla Minus One rises from the depths to be one of the best films of 2023 - even though it has a giant monster in it.

As the end of the second World War nears, it's the story of failed kamikaze pilot Shikishima (Kamiki) who witnesses a Godzilla attack when he's forced to put his plane down. Barely surviving the slaughter, Shikishima heads back home only to find his village destroyed in the war bombings and his family dead.

When he stumbles across Noriko (Hamabe) who's literally been left holding a baby, he unwillingly takes her in to what's left of his house. Taking a job to feed them, Shikishima gets a job on the sea, destroying landmines left as part of the war effort - but he finds his life threatened again by Godzilla's attacks...

Godzilla Minus One is a rousing spectacle that's raw and emotional as it casts its eye over a nation trying to recover from war, and the human cost of those caught in its grasp.

On its surface level, it's a deeply engaging emotional tale that also has a creature wreaking some unbelievable destruction in a post war world. But scratch beneath that, and you'll find a tale that really uses Godzilla as a metaphor for depression and the monsters within the mind as it continues to play out.

Throw in a side thread about the Government of the time letting down its people and the uprising of the common man amid dissent, and there's a lot more in director Takashi Yamazaki's monster movie.

But lest you become subsumed with the script's undercurrents and themes, Yamazaki also throws in some incredibly taut and tense action that showcases the creature at its absolute baddest. While in truth, the land attacks suffer from some less than stellar monster FX, the portions on the sea excel, recalling the primal fear of Jaws and the horrors of the deep.

Add into the mix a stirring soundtrack that incorporates Godzilla's original music and a marching theme that makes you want to get out of your seat, and Godzilla Minus One is one of the biggest and most welcome surprises of a somewhat less than stellar cinematic year.

Barbie: Blu Ray Review

Cast: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, Will Ferrell, Kate McKinnon, America Ferrara

Director: Greta Gerwig

Amid the hype of the endless marketing and the generational love for the Barbie doll, as well as the pre-release hints and teases, the 2023 movie had a lot to live up to in the hands of director Greta Gerwig and star Margot Robbie.

In truth, it'll be like no other movie you see in 2023 thanks to a hyper-stylised true-to-its-roots look and an affection for the toy it's born of - but its central story is one that's been told before - especially in the likes of Toy Story and The Lego Movie.

And depressingly, the feminist take of the tale is also one that's very familiar to many - but that's not a bad thing as the mass appeal of this film is the right vehicle to take a message still unheeded by many globally.

Margot Robbie's Barbie lives in Barbie Land, where her carefully choreographed, pink-tinged lifestyle is one of happiness, endless parties and never-ending sunny days. However, one day, when in the middle of a dance party with her fellow Barbies, Barbie finds her world interrupted by thoughts of death.

With her friends deciding she's malfunctioning, Barbie faces a difficult choice ahead...

Deploying a meta thread throughout, and opening with an homage to 2001: A Space Odyssey and Helen Mirren's laconic sardonic narration, this take on Barbie manages to travel a difficult path between both love and cracking open the obvious feminist take the movie would head down as it deepens itself in social commentary and mores over women / their treatment.

It's something which largely succeeds (even if in the final stretch, the movie loses its way and fails some of its earlier plotlines and characters) thanks to a combination of Robbie's deft adoption of various tones, humour and mood swings, Gosling's laughout loud lines as Ken and Gerwig's clever embracing of visual aesthetics and various genres.

With many knowing lines scattered throughout carrying on the film's agenda and empowerment ("I'm a man with no power - does that make me a woman?" one of the most telling), the film reaches a glass-ceiling skewering crescendo with a finale that combines dance routines with a battle - something that is more than crowd-pleasing in differing ways.

There will be plenty of discussion as to whether life in plastic is fantastic, and if the film's somewhat simplified message is as successful as it should be. 

But in truth, given how much this film is skewed toward younger audiences, its clever mix of colourful outings, joyous humour and a serious undertone about a woman's place in the world, Barbie just about succeeds juggling many-a plate, even if those plates have had to be dragged out of the cupboard one more time.

While much of the attention will be placed on Ryan Gosling's comedic performance as Ken (an irony given the feminist edge), it's important both Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig's work and efforts are praised in the same breath - after all, that's what Barbie's set out to achieve - and what it largely manages to do throughout - if you don't spend much time thinking over a somewhat shallow storyline.

Next Goal Wins: Movie Review

Cast: Michael Fassbender, Oscar Kightley, Rachel House, David Fane, Uli Latukefu, Elisabeth Moss, Will Arnett, Rhys Darby, Kaimana
Director: Taika Waititi

Thor director Taika Waititi's big crowd-pleasing sports movie is as formulaic as they come, but is blessed by a big heart that's hard to deny in amongst the predictability of an underdog tale.

The story of what soccer side American Samoa did after their 31-0 drubbing in the World Cup qualifiers at the Socceroo's hands has all the hallmarks of an underdog sporting tale and it's disappointing to note Waititi does nothing to subvert that in a formulaic retelling of proceedings.

Packed with the usual Waititi wacky characters (every single one of the underdeveloped team appears to have some kind of quirk, or exists solely to say something strange), Next Goal Wins' insistence on a filmic 4-4-2 formation is perhaps the most intriguing element of proceedings.

When Michael Fassbender's alcoholic and washed up Thomas Rongen is brought in to coach the team at the behest of Oscar Kightley's head Tavita (easily the MVP of proceedings), the pursuit of scoring just one goal in a competitive game takes over.

But unsurprisingly Rongen discovers there are a plethora of reasons why the squad can't put a foot right as time ticks down to their next appearance.

It's fair to say Next Goal Wins goes for uplifting and heartfelt, which is admirable in this cynical day and age of cinema. But even though Waititi places the American Samoan culture front and centre and the script provides some genuine belly laughs, it feels almost like proceedings are on island time auto-pilot.

As mentioned, Kightley's Tavita is the best of all, with the Bro'Town fave proving to be a national treasure for imbuing his character with heart, warmth and genuine likeability. Fassbender is called on to play nasty and does so with a character that veers into stereotypes in places and acts questionably until reasons for doing so become clear.

What's disappointing about Next Goal Wins is its willingness to raise elements like claiming Rongen is no white saviour brought in to save the team before doing nothing with that idea. It's almost like someone said it as a passing thought and then swiftly moved on.

Ultimately, Next Goal Wins is not a massive disaster; it's more an earnest draw than a major own goal by Waititi et al - if it does much to put the culture up on the screen and pursue his desire to celebrate indigenous culture, that's admirable.  But when there's the nagging feeling that it could have been so much more than just the sum of its parts, then perhaps it seems Next Goal Wins should have gone into extra time behind the camera to match the talent of those in front of it.

Doctor Who: The Star Beast: Preview

So here it is then - the Doctor and Donna reunited amid the show's 60th anniversary celebrations kicking off all folded in with one of the most iconic Doctor Who comic stories.

On top of that, as if it wasn't enough, the show's starting a new worldwide era with Disney being involved in the production. And add into that, the question of why Jodie Whittaker's 13th Doctor regenerated into a familiar face in the form of David Tennant's 14th Doctor. 

Swirl all of it together and it's a lot for The Star Beast to manage - but goodness, it doesn't half do it all incredibly and with a swagger that's hard to deny.

Landing on Earth, the Doctor (David Tennant) finds himself thrust back into the path of former companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) when a spaceship crashes down in London. 

While the show has changed through the years and there were fears the Disney involvement would mean it goes in a new direction thanks to funding, in a strange way, The Star Beast looks like Doctor Who of old, with just a little more thrown into the budget in the form of sets and explosions. 

That's not to disrespect it in the slightest - The Star Beast rumbles on with such gusto and pace, there's barely a second to catch breath as Tennant and Tate twirl a familiar dance and newcomer Yasmin Finney joins proceedings as Rose, her daughter.

While it may be adapted from a story by legendary comics stars Pat Mills and Dave Gibbons, there are Russell T Davies' fingerprints all over the DNA of this romp of an episode. From some subtle social commentary that will possibly enrage those looking for an unnecessary fight (especially after the Davros furore from the weekend) to the comedic moments delivered to perfection by Tate, there's a lot to love about this first of three Doctor Who specials.

While perhaps the mystery of why Ten returned is sidelined somewhat in this first episode (possibly to avoid alienating newcomers to the franchise given the slight reboot here), The Star Beast shows the best of Doctor Who in its anniversary year - some subtle nods to the past filtered in to a great story mean fans can appreciate it and casual viewers can find themselves enthralled. (Though whether some of the denser explanations on why Donna matters so much may be a little lost to first timers).

Equally, the Tennant and Tate double act is one of the main reasons to watch. From Tennant's occasionally maudlin moments among the manic recollections to Tate's simply owning the screen from the moment she returns, it's clear they're loving being back. But there's plenty of heart here as well - Donna Noble's altruism shines through and the Doctor's love of his former companion is evident, and heartbreaking.

Doctor Who - The Star Beast is a fast-paced romp of an episode that manages to bridge a gap between the old and new, and while some of the mythology in the back third of the episode may confuse those not fully au fait with the intricacies of Who-lore, and some of the resolutions are rushed and convenient, the 60th anniversary is off with a bang.

Doctor Who: The Star Beast airs globally on Disney+ from Sunday November 26.
It is the first of three special anniversary episodes - Wild Blue Yonder airs Sunday December 3, and The Giggle on Sunday December 10 - before Ncuti Gatwa's 15th Doctor takes over at Christmas with The Church on Ruby Road.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse: Blu Ray Review

Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac, Issa Rae, Daniel Kaluuya, Jake Johnson, Jason Schwartzman
Director: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers and Justin K. Thompson

Five years have now passed since the animation world was torn asunder by the release of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, a fantastic pop art film that sizzled with style and added substance to the story of Miles Morales on screen.

In that time, animated movies have undergone a sea change, with many releasing films that contain mixes of 2D and 3D art, to varying diminishing creative returns. So it's no surprise that Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse continues the trend of shaking up animation, but at nearly 2hours and 20 minutes, it comes at the cost of a thin story and a frustrating cliffhanger.

In this latest Miles Morales finds his world opens up when Gwen Stacy (Steinfeld, easily the heart of the film) shows up offering him a peek at a multiverse and other opportunities. But despite Morales' desire to be part of another world as he tries to find his place in his own both as Spider-Man and as dutiful son, he soon discovers he can't outrun destiny.

It's fair to say Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a visual treat, albeit one that sometimes feels overstuffed and thwarted by its own intentions and executions. Most sequences look like they'd sit happily within a gallery and feel in parts like they're reinventing the genre once again.

But that sits with the cost of a paper-thin plot being covered by layers upon layers of sight gags, cameos, representation and bombast that threatens to become overwhelming and which causes the film to sag during its 140 minute run time.

When Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse works best, it's usually due to the scenes between Morales and his family, or between Stacy and her father, or between both Stacy and Morales. The quieter moments are where the Spider-Verse soars and where the emotional grip really bites. Equally these are the moments the art is vibrant too, rather than scenes bursting with moments that force your eyes to dart around looking for every available frame's details.

Ultimately, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a story that's been told a million times before within the genre, one that revels in its cliched tropes a little too heavily at times, and one which doesn't live up to the standards set by its predecessor.

That's not to say its hold isn't compelling throughout, merely to observe that Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse's web isn't quite as tangled as you'd hope - or as much fun trying to unpick the strands. Since it's the first part, it deserves to be judged as a whole, and perhaps the jury's out on that one - for now though, thanks to the more human moments, it soars - just maybe the creators need to draw a little deeper on that than throwing absolutely everything on the canvas.

Insidious: The Red Door: Blu Ray Review

Cast: Patrick Wilson, Ty Simpkins, Rose Byrne

Director: Patrick Wilson

Utterly forgettable and an exercise in murky filmmaking in extremis, Patrick Wilson's take on Insidious plays too drawn out and emotionally cold as it ventures deeper into The Further.

Wilson returns as Josh in a story that picks up nearly a decade after the end of Insidious 2 - having elected to have his and his son Dalton's memories wiped following a Shining-like attempted execution, Josh is struggling. 

Divorced from his wife (the sidelined Byrne) and estranged from his son ahead of his college enrolment, Josh is neglecting his trauma and is unable to clear the "fog" that's afflicted his mind and his life.

Meanwhile, Dalton is edging closer to independence as he heads off to college, but is unable to shake the events which left him in a coma for a year. However, when an art class sees his subconscious and repression bubbling through into his work, Dalton begins a dangerous journey which could kill him - and his father.

Insidious: The Red Door suffers the indignity of being a franchise concluder that somehow doesn't do enough to justify any kind of ending.

Darkly shot and murkily executed, it is a horror film that's bereft of anything other than the laziest of tropes and which rarely descends into the nightmare fuel that seems to generate any of the fear everyone has of The Further (which simply looks like someone's turned off the lights and left the smoke machine going).

There are some moments when it excels and taps into something both atmospheric and worthy.

An MRI sequence encapsulates the claustrophobia while generating the requisite creeping dread such a moment needs - and some of the astral projection moments add a little to proceedings as well.

But all too often, Insidious: The Red Door, while trying to play on themes of trauma and the sins of sons and fathers, forgets to build its emotional investment in its audience and makes the entire film a slog rather than a mesmerising conclusion.

Poor pacing and long stretches of nothing happening don't add up to psychological terror, but only serve to bore viewers - Insidious: The Red Door could have been bone-chilling; instead it's just tedious.

Doctor Who: David Tennant's Doctor meets Davros, the Daleks

Doctor Who: David Tennant's Doctor meets the Daleks

A brand new scene with David Tennant's 14th Doctor meeting Davros and the Daleks has been revealed.

Win a double pass to see Napoleon in cinemas

To celebrate the release of Napoleon in cinemas Thursday November 23, thanks to Sony Pictures New Zealand, you can win a double pass.

About Napoleon

Napoleon is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Oscar®-winner Joaquin Phoenix. 

Against a stunning backdrop of large-scale filmmaking orchestrated by legendary director Ridley Scott, the film captures Bonaparte's relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed.

Napoleon is in cinemas November 23

 

Thanksgiving: Movie Review

Cast: Nell Verlaque, Addison Rae, Rick Hoffman, Patrick Dempsey, Gina Gershon, Milo Manheim

Director: Eli Roth

Expanded out from a 2007 faux trailer within the Grindhouse movies, Eli Roth's Thanksgiving offers enough gore and genre thrills - if you're in on the joke.

Set in Plymouth, Massachussetts, Thanksgiving follows a group of teens caught up in the aftermath of a Walmart-style store riot on Thanksgiving. But when it appears a killer is targeting those who were in the store and wreaked havoc, a desperate race against time begins to unmask the killer before it's too late.

It's hard to recommend Thanksgiving without your tongue being firmly in your cheek.

With its mix of entrails, cheesy kills and awfully obvious dialogue, Thanksgiving zeroes in on the horror of the holidays, the greed of consumerism and the absolute cynicism that underpins the tradition full stop.

Yet while the Pilgrim-masked Carver feels like a boogeyman for the times with his blank unexpressive face, the same can't really be said for some of the script that drops characters without warning after building them up.

Sure, it's a case of misdirection and essentially most of the audience is only here for the kills, but long-term plotting of Roth's massacre feels like it's going more for the cheaper end of the spectrum rather than something for the ages.

It's not so much a turkey, but perhaps a lot of its target audience may not be as au fait with the original trailer as would be expected, something which could harm Thanksgiving's long term box office.

If you're already over the holiday season and are gorged enough on all the trimmings, it offers enough of a diversion to satiate - but don't expect it to offer long term thrills, unless you're aware of the genre and its limitations.