United States
Films focusing on a very niche subject walk an incredibly fine line. Most of the time if a film is geared on something specifically niche, it’s a fair bet that the writer or director has experience in the subject. This can either work brilliantly in favour of the film, or it can alienate audiences and feel quite awkward to experience.
A Monster Calls is an entertaining and beautifully presented fantasy, which also imbues deeper universal themes of grief and loss.
Monster Trucks is a live action/computer animated film that is made by a regular animation director; unfortunately, it does not go over well.
Collateral Beauty is a messy film that is almost saved by its heartwarming theme and performance by Will Smith – though still not quite.
The Love Witch is an aesthetically sophisticated and deeply-layered dramatization of the gender obstacles that we continue to embed in our society.
La La Land is a tribute to classic musicals, yet also attempts something different by subverting the romanticized outlook that they have.
Passengers is a dull sci-fi that is neither saved by its star power nor by the potential of the story which it initially seems to convey.
With little of the humor and spark that made the original a Christmas classic, Bad Santa 2 is a misconstrued disaster for all involved.
Brutal is an unentertaining slog to get through from start to finish, and it should have been abandoned on the very first day of shooting.
Cameraperson interweaves many distinct stories brought to the screen by Kirsten Johnson; it is an unwavering work and truly worth your time.
Manchester by the Sea is a subtle, nuanced story of loss and grief, brought to life through restrained direction and powerful performances.
On New Year’s Eve, six friends get together and reflect on their lives, and the bigger issues in the world. Auld Lang Syne is a nice addition to the small collection of films written, directed, and shot by women.
Closet Monster is a movie that fluently balances drama and humor, but the very essence within its message is one of defiant and radical hope.
Other People, a semi-autobiographical film based on writer Chris Kelly’s experiences, works in a beautiful way due to the subtext behind it.
Office Christmas Party is a glaringly unfunny R-rated comedy, which isn’t even saved by the talented crew in front of and behind the camera.