The real life story of attorney Bryan Stevenson (Michael B. Jordan) as he works to free wrongly convicted death row prisoner Walter McMillian, aka Johnny D (Jamie Foxx) in Alabama in the 1990’s. Given both men are African American, the troubles they faced weren’t solely judicial, and the film perfectly illustrates the inadequacies black people face in receiving a fair trial, particularly in the South. A moving, yet anger inducing journey, Just Mercy is a film that needs to be seen.

5 Stars

The latest continuation from the mid-00’s American remakes on the Japanese horror franchise, this version of The Grudge is one to forget. The originals (both American and Japanese) were legitimately terrifying, but the 2020 version is nothing better than a horror-by-numbers, cliched mess. There were more reasons to laugh than be scared, and I don’t mean in a deliberately funny way.

2 Stars

The Suicide Squad spin-off focussing on Harley Quinn following her breakup from the Joker is one wild ride. With Margot Robbie picking up where she left off, there is an amazing kick-ass, all female element at play here (including the creative team). With a lot of similar strengths as the original film, including an amazing soundtrack, this is one for fans of Suicide Squad and women getting shit done.

4 Stars

COLOUR OUT OF SPACE (Released Feb 6)

Based on a short story of H.P. Lovecraft, this is one for fans of vintage sci-fi horror. When a strange meteorite lands in the rural yard of an American family, a strange colour is emitted and eerie things start to happen. Starring Nicolas Cage (being his usual weird-ass self) and Joely Richardson, this a throw back to old school horror like The Blob and The Thing.

3 Stars

RICHARD JEWELL (Released Feb 13)

Directed by Clint Eastwood, Richard Jewell is the story of the Centennial Park bombing at the Atlanta Olympics, and the real life hero who was wrongfully accused of planting the bomb. Richard Jewell was a security guard working at one of the entertainment venues that were running alongside the games. When he noticed a suspicious package he rightfully called in the appropriate law enforcement specialists and successfully helped to move hundreds of people and save countless lives. What followed however was a harrowing witch hunt that nearly destroyed his life. This incredible film takes us through his journey and finally allows the world to appreciate his heroic actions.

4.5 Stars