Drama
Most recent titles are detailed first
Further information on all films, including links to trailers, can be found at www.imdb.com
WICKED LITTLE LETTERS (15)
A 1920s English seaside town bears witness to a farcical and occasionally sinister scandal in this riotous mystery comedy. Based on a stranger than fiction true story, centreing on two neighbours: conservative local Edith (Olivia Colman) and rowdy Irish migrant Rose (Jessie Buckley). When Edith & fellow residents begin to receive wicked letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, foul-mouthed Rose is charged with the crime. The anonymous letters prompt a national uproar & a trial ensues. However, as the town’s women begin to investigate the crime themselves, they suspect that something is amiss. (100 mins)
PRISCILLA (15)
When teenage Priscilla Beaulieu meets Elvis Presley at a party, the man who is already a meteoric rock-and-roll superstar becomes someone entirely unexpected in private moments: a thrilling crush, an ally in loneliness, a gentle best friend. Through Priscilla’s own memoir, director Sofia Coppola tells the unseen side of a great American myth in Elvis and Priscilla’s long courtship and turbulent marriage, from a German army base to his dream-world estate at Graceland, in this deeply felt and ravishingly detailed portrait of love, fantasy, and fame.Starring Cailee Spaeny & Jacob Elordi. (113 mins)
THE HOLDOVERS (15)
From acclaimed director Alexander Payne, the film is set in 1970 and follows a curmudgeonly instructor (Paul Giamatti) at a New England prep school who is forced to remain on campus during the holiday break to babysit the handful of students with nowhere to go. Eventually, he forms an unlikely bond with one of them - a damaged, brainy troublemaker - and with the school's head cook, who has just lost a son in Vietnam. This genial, gentle, redemptive comedy drama boasts an impeccably crafted and perceptive screenplay with rich characterisation, a melancholy sense of time and place and outstanding performances. (133 mins)
ONE LIFE (12)
The stirring true story of Sir Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Winton, a young London broker who, in the months leading up to World War II, rescued 669 predominantly Jewish children from the Nazis in Prague in a race against time before the borders closed. Fifty years later, it’s 1988 and Nicky lives haunted by the fate of the children he wasn’t able to bring to safety in England; always blaming himself for not doing more. It’s not until a live BBC television show, ‘That’s Life’, surprises him by introducing him to some surviving children – now adults – that he finally begins to come to terms with the guilt and grief he had carried for five decades. Starring Anthony Hopkins & Helena Bonham Carter. (109 mins)
THE MIRACLE CLUB (12)
Ballygar, Dublin, Ireland, 1968: close friends Lily (Maggie Smith), Eileen (Kathy Bates), and Dolly (Agnes O’Casey) win the trip of a lifetime - a pilgrimage to Lourdes. With each woman desperately in need of a personal miracle, the trip seems like an answer to all their prayers. But when they are joined by Chrissie (Laura Linney), returning to Dublin after decades in America, deep wounds from the past are re-opened. As they confront one another and embrace their shared past, the group reckon with revelations that will change them forever.Beautifully acted, this is a heartfelt andgently humerous story of friendship, family and forgiveness. (95 mins)
THE GREAT ESCAPER (12)
In the summer of 2014, Bernard Jordan (Michael Caine) made global headlines. He had staged a “great escape” from his care home to join fellow war veterans on a beach in Normandy, commemorating their fallen comrades at the D-Day Landings 70th anniversary. The story captured the imagination of the world as Bernie embodied the defiant, “can-do” spirit of a generation that was fast disappearing. Bernie’s adventure, spanning a mere 48 hours, also marked the culmination of his 60-year marriage to Rene (Glenda Jackson), as this inspiring true story celebrates their enduring love but always with an eye to the lessons we might learn from the Greatest Generation. (92 mins)
OPPENHEIMER (15)
Written for the screen and directed by Christopher Nolan (Inception/Dunkirk), this epic and thoroughly engrossing true life drama thrusts audiences into the mind of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, whose landmark work on the Manhattan Project created the first atomic bomb. An unprecedented cinematic event, the film features a stunning performance from Cillian Murphy as the titular scientist, ably supported by an all-star cast that includes Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr, Florence Pugh, Casey Affleck, Rami Malek and Kenneth Branagh. (180 mins)
THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY (12)
A seemingly unremarkable man in his 60s, Harold (Jim Broadbent) lives a life without purpose. One day he learns his old friend Queenie is dying. He embarks on a walk to mail a letter, only to keep going for 450 miles until he reaches Queenie's hospice, convinced that his journey can keep her alive, much to the despair of his wife Maureen (Penelope Wilton). Based on the best selling book, this is a celebration of everyday joy and human connection and the power of hope and faith, with powerful performances from Broadbent and Wilton. (103 mins)
ARE YOU THERE GOD? IT’S ME, MARGARET (PG)
Judy Blume’s classic and groundbreaking novel has impacted generations with its timeless coming of age story, insightful humor, and candid exploration of life’s biggest questions. 11-year-old Margaret is uprooted from her life in New York City for the suburbs of New Jersey, going through the messy and tumultuous throes of puberty with new friends in a new school. She relies on her mother, Barbara (Rachel McAdams), who is also struggling to adjust to life outside the big city and her adoring grandmother, Sylvia (Kathy Bates), who isn’t happy they moved away and likes to remind them every chance she gets. (100 mins)
THE FABELMANS (12)
Young Sammy Fabelman falls in love with movies after his parents take him to see "The Greatest Show on Earth." Armed with a camera, Sammy starts to make his own films at home, much to the delight of his supportive mother. Inspired by director Steven Spielberg’s own childhood, rediscover the magic of movies in this coming-of-age story about a young man uncovering a shattering family secret and the power of film and imagination to help us see the truth about ourselves and each other. With Michelle Williams, Paul Dano, Seth Rogen & Judd Hirsch, this is a timeless tale of heartbreak, healing, and hope for the dreamer inside all of us. (144 mins)
CREED (12)
After dominating the boxing world, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan) has been thriving in both his career and family life. When a childhood friend and former boxing prodigy, Damian (Jonathan Majors), resurfaces after serving a long sentence in prison, he is eager to prove that he deserves his shot in the ring. The face-off between former friends is more than just a fight. To settle the score, Adonis must put his future on the line to battle Damian – a fighter who has nothing to lose. This is the third instalment in the successful franchise and is Michael B. Jordan’s directorial debut. (133 mins)
ALLELUJAH (12)
When the geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital is threatened with closure, it fights back by galvanizing the local community. The hospital invites a news crew to film the preparations for a concert honouring its most distinguished nurse Sister Gilpin (Jennifer Saunders). This comedy drama celebrates the spirit of the elderly patients whilst paying tribute to the deep humanity of the medical staff battling with limited resources and ever-growing demand. This is a warm, humerous & moving story about surviving old age, perfectly performed by an all- star cast. With David Bradley, Julia McKenzie, Derek Jacobi & Judi Dench. (99 mins)
SAVE THE CINEMA (15)
A Welsh hairdresser (Samantha Morton) starts a campaign in the 90’s to save her small town's listed art decco cinema from being demolished. With the help of a local politician, a phone call later and one of Hollywood’s elite agree to offer a very special treat for Carmarthen, but does this help save the cinema? Inspired by the true story of Liz Evans, a hairdresser and linchpin to the local Carmarthen community, and in the mould of the old Ealing comedies, this is a fun, uplifting underdog tale that stands as a testament to how passionate people can achieve inspirational success. With Jonathan Pryce. (120 mins)
A MAN CALLED OTTO (15)
Based on the comical and moving New York Times bestseller, this is the story of Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a grumpy, fastidious widower who is set in his ways with contempt for everyone. His only joy comes from criticizing and judging his exasperated neighbours. When a lively young family moves in next door, he meets his match in quick-witted and very pregnant Marisol, leading to an unlikely friendship that will turn his world upside-down. With a first- class performance from Hanks, this funny, heartwarming story about how some families come from the most unexpected places packs an emotional punch with it’s winning mixture of drama and humour. (126 mins)
LIVING (12)
1953. A London shattered by WWII is still recovering. Williams (Bill Nighy), a veteran civil servant, is an important cog within the city’s bureaucracy as it struggles to rebuild. Overwhelmed at work, lonely at home, his life has long felt empty and meaningless. Then a shattering medical diagnosis forces him to take stock – and to try and grasp fulfilment before it goes beyond reach. He finds himself drawn to the natural vitality of Margaret, a young woman who once worked under his supervision and is now determined to spread her wings. One evening he is struck by a simple & profound revelation and with a new energy, he sets about creating a legacy for the next generation. An engaging & thoughtful drama with an exemplary central performance. (100 mins)
MRS HARRIS GOES TO PARIS (PG)
Adapted from the Paul Gallico novel, this is a humorously heartwarming tale about a 1950’s London cleaner Ada Harris (Lesley Manville), who thinks her lonely life might turn around if she can become the owner of a Christian Dior gown. Saying goodbye to her friends won't be easy and neither will be winning over elite people in Paris from Madame Colbert to idealistic accountant André. However, Ada's irrepressible charm could end up saving the whole House of Dior in this uplifting story of how an ordinary woman becomes an extraordinary inspiration by daring to follow her dreams. (115 mins)
THE LOST KING (12)
In 2012, having been lost for over 500 years, the remains of King Richard III were discovered beneath a carpark in Leicester. The search had been orchestrated by an amateur historian, Philippa Langley, whose unrelenting research had been met with incomprehension by her friends and family and with scepticism by experts and academics. This is the life-affirming true story of a woman who refused to be ignored and who took on the country's most eminent historians, forcing them to think again about one of the most controversial kings in England's history. Starring Sally Hawkins & Steve Coogan. (108 mins)
FALL (15)
Experience a heart-pounding tale of survival, where sacrifice may just be the only way out. For best friends Becky and Hunter, life is all about conquering fears and pushing limits. Highly trained and resourceful, these climbers marking the tragic passing of a friend were still not ready for every eventuality. After they climb 2,000 feet to the top of a remote, abandoned radio tower, they find themselves stranded with no way down. Now, their expert climbing skills are put to the ultimate test as they desperately fight to survive the elements, a lack of supplies, and vertigo-inducing heights. (107 mins)
A VERY BRITISH SCANDAL (15)
A recreation of the divorce of the Duke (Paul Bettany) and Duchess of Argyll (Claire Foy), one of the most notorious, extraordinary and brutal legal cases of the 20th century. Famed for her charisma, beauty and style, Margaret, Duchess of Argyll, dominated the front pages, as a divorce featuring accusations of forgery, theft, violence, drug-taking, secret recording, bribery and an explicit polaroid picture - all played out in the white-hot glare of the 1960’s media. A fascinating & engrossing analysis of the scandal, that explores the social and political climate of post-war Britain and attitudes towards women at this time. (135 mins)
FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS: ONE AND ALL (12)
The sequel to the 2019 hit comedy charts the next instalment of the Fisherman's Friends amazing and uplifting true story. Following the unexpected success of their debut album, Cornwall’s oldest ‘buoy band’ are struggling to navigate the pressures, pitfalls and temptations of their newfound fame. James Purefoy, Dave Johns and Sam Swainsbury return as the celebrated shanty singers, negotiating the highs and lows, as lifelong friendships are put to the test and they battle the dreaded ‘curse of the second album’. The beautiful Cornwall scenery provides the backdrop to this feel good, musical tale. (111 mins)
ORDINARY LOVE (12)
Joan (Lesley Manville) and Tom (Liam Neeson) have been married for many years, sharing a depth of love which expresses itself through tenderness and humour in equal part. When Joan is unexpectedly diagnosed with breast cancer, the course of her treatment shines a light on their enduring devotion as they find the humor and grace to survive a year of adversity. With stunning performances from the central leads, this touching, beautfully observed story is deeply moving, frequently funny and piercingly poignant. (91 mins)
WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING (15)
From the best-selling novel comes a captivating mystery. Sharp and resilient Kya is an abandoned girl who raised herself to adulthood in the dangerous marshlands of North Carolina, isolated from her community. Drawn to two young men from town, Kya opens herself to a new and startling world but when one of them is found dead, she is immediately cast as the main suspect. As the case unfolds, what actually happened becomes increasingly unclear, threatening to reveal the many secrets that lay within the marsh. (125 mins)
ELVIS (12)
This critically acclaimed biopic explores the life and music of Elvis Presley (Austin Butler), seen through the prism of his complicated relationship with his enigmatic manager, Colonel Tom Parker (Tom Hanks). The story delves into the complex dynamic between Presley and Parker spanning over 20 years, from Presley's rise to fame to his unprecedented stardom, against the backdrop of the evolving cultural landscape and loss of innocence in America. Central to that journey is one of the most significant and influential people in Elvis's life, Priscilla Presley. (159 mins)
THE ROAD DANCE (15)
Kirsty Mcleod (Hermione Corfield), is a young woman, coming of age in a small isolated village on an island in the Outer Scottish Hebrides. She dreams of the wider world and a life away from the suffocating harsh land and strict religion of her island home. Suppressing these aspirations, she sees her lover Murdo (Will Fletcher) conscripted for service in the First World War, alongside the other young men from the village. A road dance is held in their honor the evening before they depart, and it's on this fateful evening that Kirsty's life takes a dramatic and tragic turn. Inspired by true events, thIs is a beautifully shot, quietly powerful and very moving drama with excellent performances. (116mins)
DOWNTON ABBEY: A NEW ERA (PG)
The cinematic return of the Crawley family and their staff as they welcome a movie crew and their glamorous stars to Downton for the filming of a new silent movie, while other members of the family go on a grand adventure to a villa in the south of France to uncover a mystery about the Dowager Countess (Maggie Smith) and her past. The screenplay by Julian Fellowes includes exuberant moments, excitement and humour, tears of joy and sadness and new beginnings for all the characters. With Hugh Bonneville, Jim Carter, Michelle Dockery & Imelda Staunton. (125 mins)
THE PHANTOM OF THE OPEN (12)
The remarkable true story of Maurice Flitcroft (Mark Rylance), a crane operator and optimistic dreamer from Barrow-in-Furness who, with the support of his family and friends, managed to gain entry to the 1976 British Open qualifying, despite never playing a round of golf before. With pluckiness and unwavering self-belief, he pulls off a series of stunning, hilarious and heartwarming attempts to compete at the highest level, drawing the ire of the golfing elite but becoming a British folk hero in the process. This upbeat comedy-drama also stars Sally Hawkins & Rhys Ifans. (106 mins)
OPERATION MINCEMEAT (12)
It’s 1943. The Allies are determined to break Hitler’s grip on occupied Europe, and plan to launch an all-out assault on Sicily; but they face an impossible challenge - how to protect the invasion force from potential annihilation. Two intelligence officers, Ewen Montagu (Colin Firth) and Charles Cholmondeley (Matthew Macfadyen) formulate the most inspired and improbable disinformation strategy of the war - centred on the most unlikely of secret agents: a dead man. This extraordinary, gripping and true story also stars Penelope Wilton, Kelly Macdonald & Jason Isaacs. (128 mins)
THE DUKE (12)
In 1961, taxi driver Kempton Bunton stole Goya’s portrait of the Duke of Wellington from the 'National Gallery' in London - the only theft in the Gallery’s history. Kempton sent ransom notes saying it would be returned on condition that the government invested more in care for the elderly. What happened next became the stuff of legend. 50 years later the full story emerged - Kempton had spun a web of lies. The only truth was that he was a good man, determined to change the world and save his marriage. A wonderfully uplifting, improbable but true story, with impeccable performances from Jim Broadbent & Helen Mirren. (95 mins)
CYRANO (12)
Award-winning director Joe Wright ('Atonement') immerses movie lovers in a symphony of emotions with music, romance, and beauty in this re-imagining the timeless tale of a heartbreaking love triangle. Cyrano de Bergerac (Peter Dinklage) dazzles with both ferocious wordplay and brilliant swordplay but is convinced that his appearance makes him unworthy of the love of his devoted friend, Roxanne (Haley Bennett), who has fallen in love at first sight with Christian. (125 mins)
BELFAST (12)
Director Kenneth Branagh’s autobiographical & poignant story of love, laughter and loss in one boy’s childhood amid the music and social tumult of the late 1960s. Buddy’s family lives in a largely Protestant district but one day his community and everything he thought he understood about life is suddenly turned upside down. Through it all, his passionate parents and quick-witted grandparents keep the joy alive through music and the magic of movies in this feel-good, beautifully acted story. With Jamie Dornan, Judi Dench, Catrioa Balfe & Ciaran Hinds. (97 mins)
NEVER TOO LATE (12)
Four Veteran soldiers, known as 'The Chain Breakers,' reluctantly find themselves in a retirement home for returned veterans. Each of the boys has an unrealised dream they want to achieve, so they band together to devise a plan to escape. But the rules of engagement have changed & they can't even remember what they were half the time. This is an amusing and charming validation of it never being too late to chase your dreams. Starring James Cromwell, Dennis Waterman, Jackie Weaver & Jack Thompson. (95 mins)
WEST SIDE STORY (12)
Love at first sight strikes when young Tony (Ansel Elgort) spots Maria (Rachel Zegler) at a high school dance in 1957 New York City. Their burgeoning romance helps to fuel the fire between the warring Jets and Sharks -- two rival gangs vying for control of the streets. From producer and director Steven Spielberg, this latest adaptation of the classic musical dazzles the senses. The acting, singing and spectacular dance routines are flawless, with Spielberg ably updating the original, without losing it’s heart. With Ariana DeBose, David Alvarez & Rita Moreno. (155 mins)
KING RICHARD (12)
Richard Williams is determined to write his daughters, Venus and Serena, into tennis history. Training on Compton, California's abandoned tennis courts - rain or shine - the girls are shaped by their father's unyielding commitment and their mother's balanced perspective and keen intuition, defying the seemingly insurmountable odds and prevailing expectations laid before them. This entertaining & inspirational story boasts a towering performance from Will Smith in the title role. (145 mins)
HOUSE OF GUCCI (15)
When Patrizia Reggiani (Lady Gaga), an outsider from humble beginnings, marries into the Gucci family, her unbridled ambition begins to unravel the family legacy and triggers a reckless spiral of betrayal, decadence, revenge and ultimately murder. Inspired by the sensational true story of the family behind the Italian fashion empire, director Ridley Scott has fashioned a fascinating story of power & corruption, with Gaga outstanding in the central role, ably supported by an outstanding cast that includes Adam Driver, Jared Leto, Al Pacino & Jeremy Irons. (157 mins)
MOTHERING SUNDAY (15)
On a warm spring day in 1924, house maid and foundling Jane Fairchild finds herself alone on Mother's Day. Her employers, Mr and Mrs Niven (Colin Firth and Olivia Colman), are out and she has the rare chance to spend an afternoon of abandon with her secret lover, Paul, the boy from the manor house nearby who is Jane's long-term love despite the fact that he's engaged to be married to another woman, a childhood friend and daughter of his parents' friends. Unforseen events will change the course of Jane's life forever in this absorbing, beautifully shot romantic drama. With Odessa Young, Josh O'Connor & Glenda Jackson. (110 mins)
SPENCER (12)
The marriage of Princess Diana (Kristen Stewart) and Prince Charles has long since grown cold. Though rumours of affairs and a divorce abound, peace is ordained for the Christmas festivities at the Queen's Sandringham Estate. There's eating and drinking, shooting and hunting. Diana knows the game. But this year, things will be profoundly different. This is a bold imagining of what might have happened during those few fateful days, with Stewart giving a note perfect performance in this haunting & unconventional drama. With Sally Hawkins & Timothy Spall. (117 mins)
RESPECT (12)
Following the rise of Aretha Franklin's career - from a child singing in her father's church choir to her international superstardom - this is the remarkable true story of the music icon's journey to find her voice and become the Queen of Soul. Jennifer Hudson gives a terrific performance in the central role, effectively conveying her difficult upbringing and marital problems, while her rendition of classic Franklin songs is first class. A moving, glitzy and compelling biopic with excellent supporting performances, including Forest Whitaker, Marlon Wayans & Mary J. Blige. (145 mins)
THE LAST DUEL (18)
In 14th century France, knight Jean de Carrouges (Matt Damon) is respected for his bravery and skill on the battlefield. Squire Jacques Le Gris (Adam Driver) is one of the most admired nobles in court. When Le Gris viciously assaults Carrouges' wife, she steps forward to accuse her attacker, an act of bravery and defiance that puts her life in jeopardy. The ensuing trial by combat places the fate of all three in God's hands. Beautifully photographed, director Ridley Scott’s epic historical drama is exciting and thought provoking, with fine performances. With Jodie Comer, Ben Affleck & Harriet Walter (152 mins)
THE LAST BUS (12)
John O'Groats, Scotland: An elderly man, Tom (Timothy Spall), whose wife Mary (Phyllis Logan) has just passed away uses only local buses on a nostalgic trip to carry her ashes all the way across the UK to Land's End, where they originally met, using his free bus pass. Unbeknownst to Tom, his journey begins to capture the imagination of the local people that he comes across and helps and he unwittingly becomes a nationwide social media story. Spall gives a beautifully nuanced and sympathetic performance in a heart warming and ultimately life affirming tale that showcases the community spirit and diversity of modern Britain. (86 mins)
DREAM HORSE (PG)
In a Welsh mining village, bartender Jan (Toni Collette) recruits her reluctant husband and local accountant to help her bring together a syndicate of villagers to breed a foal, which they name Dream Alliance. On the racetrack, he proves himself to be more than a match for the multi-million-pound race horses he comes up against – a true working-class champion who begins to alter the lives of everyone in the syndicate. Based on a true story, this is a classic, feelgood story of triumph against adversity. With Damian Lewis, Owen Teale, Katherine Jenkins, Lynda Baron, Sian Phillips & Derek Jacobi. (113 mins)
THE FATHER (12)
In an Oscar winning performance, Anthony Hopkins plays Anthony- a mischievious and highly independent man who, as he ages, refuses all assistance from his daughter Anne (Olivia Colman). Yet such help has become essential following Anne's decision to move to Paris with her partner and Anthony’s gradual succumbing to dementia. Confused and upset, Anthony tries to make sense of his changing circumstances and begins to doubt his loved ones, his own mind and even the fabric of his reality. (94 mins)
SIX MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT (12)
Summer 1939. Influential families in Nazi Germany have sent their daughters to a finishing school in an English seaside town to learn the language and be ambassadors for a future looking National Socialist. A teacher sees what is coming and is trying to raise the alarm but the authorities believe he is the problem. This solid period thriller is inspired by the recent revelation of an actual Nazi finishing school in England. Starring Judi Dench, Eddie Izzard, James D’Arcy and Jim Broadbent.(96 mins)
NOMADLAND (12)
Following the economic collapse of a company town in rural Nevada, Fern (Frances McDormand) packs her van and sets off on the road. Exploring an unconventional life as a modern-day nomad, Fern discovers a resilience and resourcefulness unlike any she’s known before. Along the way, she meets other nomads who become mentors in the vast landscape of the American West. Written for the screen and directed by Chloé Zhao, based on the book by Jessica Bruder, the film won the Oscar for best film, best actress (McDormand) and best direction. (103 mins)
TO OLIVIA (12)
The story of the tribulations behind best-selling children's novelist Roald Dahl's (Hugh Bonneville) marriage to Academy Award winning actress Patricia Neal (Keeley Hawes). The somewhat unlikely pair - an in-demand Hollywood actress and a burgeoning children's author find their relationship put to the test and ultimately strengthened by tragic events. Set between New York, England and Los Angeles in the early 60s, it tells the tale of Dahl's struggles while writing some of his most famous works and Neal's return to acting. With Rebecca Feguson and Geoffrey Palmer. (110 mins)
DREAMLAND (15)
In 1930’s Texas, Eugene Evans (Finn Cole) dreams of escaping his small Texas town when he discovers wounded, fugitive bank robber Allison Wells (Margot Robbie) hiding closer than he could ever imagine. Torn between claiming the bounty for her capture and his growing attraction to the seductive criminal, nothing is as it seems and Eugene must make a decision that will forever affect the lives of everyone he’s ever loved. This compelling and visually stylish action drama, set during the Great Depression, boasts excellent performances and cinematography (101)
23 WALKS (12)
Dave (Dave Johns) and Fern (Alison Steadman), two older strangers, have been bruised by their individual circumstance. They meet walking their dogs in a North London park, and over the course of twenty-three walks together the romance begins to blossom. But Dave and Fern haven't been completely honest with one another and their future together may be threatened by the secrets they have withheld. Beautifully acted, this is a complex, tender and heart-warming comedy drama about finding love later in life. (102 mins)
RESISTANCE (15)
The remarkable story of a lesser known part of the French Resistance in World War Two. Before he becomes a world-famous mime artist, aspiring Jewish actor Marcel Marceau (Jesse Eisenberg) joins the resistance thanks to his friend Emma (Clemence Poésy), in order to save thousands of orphaned children from the Nazis. Their mission is to take the children safely across the Swiss border whilst being pursued by the ruthless SS Klaus Barbie. Based on the inspiring true story, this is a revolutionary tale of a selfless act that would forever change countless lives. (120 mins)
MISBEHAVIOUR (12)
In 1970, the phenomenally popular Miss World competition took place in London, hosted by US comedy legend Bob Hope but the newly formed Women's Liberation Movement achieved overnight fame by invading the stage and disrupting the live broadcast. When the show resumed, the result caused uproar as the winner was not the Swedish favourite but Miss Grenada, the first black woman to be crowned Miss World. This feelgood British film tell this thoroughly crowd-pleasing & iconic story. Starring Keira Knightley, Jessie Buckley, Keeley Hawes, Greg Kinnear, Rhys Ifans & Lesley Manville. (106 mins)
RADIOACTIVE (12)
From the 1870s to the modern era, this is a journey through Marie Curie’s (Rosamund Pike) enduring legacies – her passionate relationships, scientific breakthroughs and the consequences that followed. After meeting & marrying fellow scientist Pierre Curie (Sam Riley), the pair change the face of science forever by their discovery of radioactivity. The genius of the Curie's discoveries and the ensuing Nobel Prize propels the couple into the international limelight. Pike gives a sensitive performance in a film that conveys the transformative effects and ensuing fallout of the Curie’s work and how this shaped the 20th Century. (110 mins)
SEBERG (15)
In the late 1960s, French new wave actress and "Breathless" star Jean Seberg becomes the target of the FBI due to her support of the civil rights movement and her romantic involvement with Hakim Jamal -- a Black Panther activist. She soon finds her life and career in jeopardy as the overreaching surveillance and harassment starts to take a toll on everything she holds dear. Inspired by true events, this noir-ish thriller by Benedict Andrews is highkly effective with a compelling central performance from Kristen Stewart and able support from Jack O’Connell, Anthony Mackie, Colm Meaney & Vince Vaughn. (103 mins)
DARK WATERS (12)
Inspired by a shocking true story, a tenacious attorney (Mark Ruffalo) uncovers a dark secret that connects a growing number of unexplained deaths due to one of the world's largest corporations. In the process, he risks everything -- his future, his family, and his own life to expose the truth. The film powerfully relays this tale of infuriating environmental malfeasance, dealing effortlessly with the knotty tangle of facts & honoring the victims and laying blame squarely at the feet of the perpetrators. The expert cast includes Anne Hathaway, Tim Robbins, Bill Camp & Bill Pulllman. (126 mins)
MILITARY WIVES (12)
Inspired by real events, Peter Cattaneo ('The Full Monty'), directs the heartfelt story of friendship, love, and support on the home front. When Kate (Kristin Scott Thomas) persuades a disparate group of women, whose partners are serving in Afghanistan, on the base to form the Military Wives Choir, Lisa (Sharon Horgan) is initially sceptical by such an amateur bunch. However, she is quickly transformed by the choir's friendship, humour and courage. Finding their voice together, the choir put aside their own personal differences and, by singing their hearts out, become a global media sensation as they bring joy, hope and strength to the world. (113 mins)
GREED (15)
Set in the glamorous and celebrity-filled world of luxury fashion, this is the story of fictional self-made British billionaire Sir Richard McCreadie (Steve Coogan), whose retail empire is in crisis. For 30 years he has ruled the world of retail fashion, bringing the high street to the catwalk and the catwalk to the high street. To save his reputation, after a damaging public enquiry, he decides to bounce back with a highly publicised and extravagant party celebrating his 60th birthday on the Greek island of Mykonos. A satirical, mockumentary style swipe at the mega rich, with excellent performances from Coogan & a cast that includes Isla Fisher, David Mitchell, Keira Knightley, Stephen Fry & Colin Firth. (104 mins)
EMMA (U)
Jane Austen’s beloved comedy about finding your equal and earning your happy ending, is reimagined in this critically acclaimed adaptation. In Georgian and Regency era England, beautiful, clever and rich Emma Woodhouse (Anya Taylor-Joy) is a restless queen bee in her sleepy little town who occupies herself with matchmaking - in sometimes misguided, often meddlesome fashion - in the lives of her friends and family. In this glittering satire of social class and the pain of growing up, Emma must adventure through misguided matches and romantic missteps to find the love that has been there all along. The first rate cast includes Mia Goth, Miranda Hart, Bill Nighy & Rupert Graves. (132 mins)
THE PERSONAL HISTORY OF DAVID COPPERFIELD (PG)
Adapted from the classic novel by Charles Dickens, the film brings to life one of the author’s most cherished characters. From birth to infancy, from adolescence to adulthood, the good-hearted David Copperfield (Dev Patel) is surrounded by kindness, wickedness, poverty and wealth, as he meets an array of remarkable characters in Victorian England. As David sets out to be a writer, in his quest for family, friendship, romance and status, the story of his life is the most seductive tale of all. Director Armando Lannucci puts a fresh, funny, and utterly charming spin on Dickens' classic, proving some stories truly are timeless. With Daisy May Cooper, Hugh Laurie, Tilda Swinton, Ben Whishaw & Peter Capaldi. (119 mins)
PARASITE (15)
Ki-taek's family of four is close but are all unemployed and the future looks bleak. However, his son Ki-woo is recommended by a fellow university student for a well-paid tutoring job. Carrying the expectations of the family, Ki-woo arrives at the house of Mr. Park, the owner of a global IT firm, where he meets Yeon-kyo, the young lady of the house. The job interview is a success and Ki-woo begins work. But very soon, following this first meeting between the two families, an unstoppable string of mishaps lies in wait. Winning the best film Oscar, this is unconventional and riveting film making from South Korea that alternates from drama to comedy to thriller and back again. A spectacular epic, that truly defies description. (132 mins)
1917 (15)
At the height of the First World War, two young British soldiers, Schofield (George MacKay) and Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) are given a seemingly impossible mission. In a race against time, they must cross over into enemy territory to deliver a message that could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades -- including Blake's own brother. This critically acclaimed drama from director Sam Mendes (Skyfall, American Beauty) is hard-hitting, immersive, and an impressive technical achievement, capturing the trench warfare of the great War with raw, startling immediacy. Full of powerful performances from a cast that includes Colin Firth, Mark Strong, Richard Madden, Andrew Scott & Benedict Cumberbatch. (114 mins)
BOMBSHELL (15)
Based on the real 2016 scandal, this is a revealing look inside the most powerful and controversial American media empire of all time - Fox News. The film details the provocative true story of three whip-smart, ambitious, strong women who anchored the network - becoming headlines themselves when they risked everything to stand up to Roger Ailes (Jon Lithgow), the man who created it and made them famous. This is a scalding, satirical and fascinating film about female empowerment and workplace harassement. Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie excel as the women at the centre of the drama. (118 mins)
JOJO RABBIT (12)
Writer director Taika Waititi ('Hunt For The Wilderpeople'), brings his signature style of humor and pathos to this World War II satire that follows lonely German boy JoJo (Roman Griffin Davis), whose world view is turned upside down when he discovers his single mother (Scarlett Johansson) is hiding a young Jewish girl (Thomasin McKenzie) in their attic. Aided only by his idiotic imaginary friend, Adolf Hitler, Jojo must confront his blind nationalism. The director’s blend of irreverent humor and serious ideas ensure that this anti-hate satire is audacious, tender, daring and compelling to a fault. The excellent cast includes Rebel Wilson & Sam Rockwell. (108 mins)
LITTLE WOMEN (U)
In the years after the Civil War, Jo March is a writer in New York, while her sister Amy studies painting in Paris. Amy has a chance encounter with Theodore, a childhood crush who proposed to Jo but was ultimately rejected. Oldest sibling, Meg, is married to a schoolteacher, while shy sister Beth develops an illness that brings the family back together. Writer-director Greta Gerwig has crafted a critically acclaimed, heartfelt & timely adaptation that draws on the classic novel and unfolds as the author’s alter ego, Jo, reflects back and forth on her fictional life. The dazzling cast includes Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen and Meryl Streep as Aunt March. (135 mins)
LE MANS 66 (12)
American automotive designer Carroll Shelby and fearless British race car driver Ken Miles battle corporate interference, the laws of physics and their own personal demons after being dispatched by Henry Ford 11 to build a revolutionary vehicle for the Ford Motor Co. Together, they plan to compete against the perennially dominant race cars of Enzo Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans World Championship in France in 1966. With meticulous direction from James Mangold, this old fashioned period sports drama perfectly balances thrills, humour and raw emotion to appeal to general audiences. In a first rate cast, Christian Bale and Matt Damon excel in the central roles. (152 mins)
THE BIGGEST LITTLE FARM (PG)
This powerful, uplifting, educational and entertaining documentary chronicles the eight-year quest of John and Molly Chester as they trade city living for 200 acres of barren farmland and a dream to harvest in harmony with nature. Through dogged perseverance and embracing the opportunity provided by nature's conflicts, the Chester s unlock and uncover a biodiverse design for living that exists far beyond their farm, its seasons, and our wildest imagination. Featuring breathtaking cinematography, captivating animals, and an urgent message to heed Mother Nature's call, this is fascinating and timely and provides us all a vital blueprint for better living and a healthier planet. (92 mins)
THE GOOD LIAR (15)
Career con artist Roy Courtnay (Ian McKellen) can hardly believe his luck when he meets recently widowed Betty McLeish (Helen Mirren) online who is worth millions. He means to take it all but, as Betty opens her life and home to him, Roy is surprised to find himself caring about her, turning what should be a cut-and-dry swindle into the most treacherous tightrope walk of his life. Mirren and McKellen are on top form as they star together on screen for the first time in this fascinating, suspenseful and very enjoyable drama about the secrets people keep and the lies they live. A first rate supporting cast includes Russell Tovey, Lily Dodsworth-Evans and Jim Carter. (109 mins)
JUDY AND PUNCH (15)
In the anarchic town of Seaside, a strange place where the town and its inhabitants are in thrall to a frenzy of witch hunts and superstition, puppeteers Judy (Mia Wasikowska) and Punch (Damon Herriman) provide welcome distraction with their magical puppet show. However, with temptation found in every dark corner of Seaside, Punch's womanising, drinking and adulation lead to an inevitable tragedy that Judy must avenge. In a visceral and dynamic live-action reinterpretation of the famous 16th century puppet show, writer director Mirrah Foulkes turns the traditional story of Punch and Judy on its head and brings to life a fierce, darkly comic and epic female-driven revenge story. (105 mins)
MIDWAY (12)
The epic, real-life saga about an undermanned American fleet and the brave Navy leaders and pilots who triumphed, against the odds, over a powerful adversary. With democracy and freedom at stake, these U.S. brothers-in-arms conquered the Imperial Japanese Navy at the Battle of Midway, a most stunning clash by air and sea, which marked a heroic feat of naval warfare and pivoted the Allies toward victory in the Pacific Theater during WWII. This human drama revisits the events after Pearl Harbour, utilizing modern effects and presenting a more balanced point of view. Starring Woody Harrelson, Luke Evans, Patrick Wilson, Aaron Eckhart, Mandy Moore & Dennis Quaid. (138 mins)
OFFICIAL SECRETS (15)
This is the gripping true story of Katharine Gun (Keira Knightley), a British intelligence specialist who handles classified information. In the lead up to the Iraq war, Gun receives a memo from the NSA: the United States is enlisting Britain’s help in collecting compromising information on United Nations Security Council members in order to blackmail them into voting in favor of an invasion of Iraq. Faced with the prospect of an illegal war, Gun leaks the memo to the press. The ensuing chain of events will ignite an international firestorm, expose a vast political conspiracy & endanger Gun and her family. Knightley is compelling in an outstanding cast that includes Matt Smith, Matthew Goode, Ralph Fiennes, Tamsin Greig & Kenneth Cranham. (112 mins)
JUDY (12)
Winter 1968 and showbiz legend Judy Garland arrives in Swinging London to perform in a sell-out run at The Talk of the Town. As she prepares for the show, battles with management, charms musicians and reminisces with friends and adoring fans, her wit and warmth shine through. She also embarks on a courtship with Mickey Deans, her soon-to-be fifth husband. However, she is exhausted & fragile; haunted by memories of a childhood lost to Hollywood & wanting to be back home with her kids. Will she have the strength to go on? With a phenomenal performance from Renee Zellweger as Garland & featuring a host of her best-known songs, the film celebrates the voice, the capacity for love and the sheer pizzazz of this legendary entertainer. (118 mins)
GLORIA BELL (15)
Gloria (Julianne Moore) is a free-spirited divorcée who spends her days at a straight-laced office job and her nights on the dance floor, joyfully letting loose at clubs around Los Angeles. After meeting Arnold (John Turturro) on a night out, she finds herself thrust into an unexpected new romance, filled with both the joys of budding love and the complications of dating, identity and family. Directed by Sebastian Lelio, who won Best Foreign Language Oscar with his film A Fantastic Woman, this is a poignant and thoroughly likeable comedy drama, with a superlative central performance from Moore. The chemistry between herself and Turturro is electric and the film benefits from an energy and potency that is irresistable. (102 mins)
HOTEL MUMBAI (15)
Terror strikes in the heart of Mumbai, India, as terrorists storm the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in a series of coordinated attacks throughout the city. Amid the gunfire and mayhem, a brave chef and kitchen worker decide to risk their own lives to try and protect the guests. Amidst the mayhem, a desperate couple must do whatever they can to protect their newborn baby. This gripping true story of humanity and heroism vividly recreats the terrifying 2008 siege, giving equally intense subjectivity to both the young terrorists with their callous fanaticism as well as their victims. Guaranteed to leave audiences shocked and moved. With Dev Patel, Jason Isaacs & Armie Hammer. (123 mins)
AD ASTRA (12)
Thirty years ago, Clifford McBride led a voyage into deep space, but the ship and crew were never heard from again. Now his son Roy (Brad Pitt) - a fearless astronaut - must embark on a daring mission to Neptune to uncover the truth about his missing father and a mysterious power surge that threatens the stability of the universe. His journey will uncover secrets that challenge the nature of human existence and our place in the cosmos. The film, anchored by Pitt’s dazzling performance, takes a visually thrilling journey through the vast reaches of space while charting an ambitious course for the heart of the bond between parent and child. With Tommy Lee Jones, Liv Tyler & Donal Sutherland. (124 mins)
DOWNTON ABBEY (PG)
The worldwide phenomenon returns, as a spectacular motion picture with the Crawley family and their intrepid staff preparing for the most important moment of their lives. A royal visit from the King and Queen of England will unleash scandal, romance and intrigue that will leave the future of Downton hanging in the balance. Written by series creator Julian Fellowes and starring the original cast, this grand cinematic experience will have you cheering for your favourite characters all over again. Combined with exquisite costume design, impeccable period detail and stunning cinematography, this is a thoroughly entertaining big screen development of the pooular series. Starring Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Elizabeth McGovern, Jim Carter, Joanne Froggatt, Alan Leech, Imelda Staunton and Penelope Wilton. (123 mins)
THE GUARDIANS (LES GARDIENNES) (15)
An affecting human drama of love, loss, and resilience unfolds against the backdrop of World War I. The women of the Paridier farm, under the deft hand of Hortense, the family's matriarch must grapple with the workload while the men are off at the front. Newfound independence is acquired, yet emotions are stirred, especially when the men return from the front on short leaves. Acclaimed French filmmaker Xavier Beauvois revels in the mysteries and beauties of the French countryside, here unravaged by war, with painterly images bathed in natural light, yet keeps his focus on the intricate drama that plays out against the upheaval of the Great War. (134 mins)
THE GOLDFINCH (15)
Theodore Decker (Ansel Elgort) was 13 years old when his mother was killed in a bombing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The tragedy changes the course of his life, sending him on a stirring odyssey of grief and guilt, reinvention and redemption, and even love. Through it all, he holds on to one tangible piece of hope from that terrible day - a painting of a tiny bird chained to its perch… The Goldfinch. This adaptation of Donna Tartt's globally acclaimed bestseller of the same name, which won the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and spent more than 30 weeks on The New York Times Best Sellers list, is beautifully filmed and acted. (149 mins)
BAIT (15)
Martin Ward (Martin Cove) is a Modern-day Cornish fisherman without a boat. His brother Steven has re-purposed their father's vessel as a tourist tripper, driving a wedge between the brothers. With their harbour village now a get-away for London money and stag parties, Martin is displaced to the estate above the picturesque harbor. The summer season brings simmering tensions between locals and newcomers to boiling point, with Martin struggling to restore the family to their traditional place and thereby creating increasing friction until a tragedy at the heart of the family changes his world. This unique, beautifully shot, funny, yet poignant film gets to the heart of a community facing up to unwelcome change. (89 mins)
MRS LOWRY AND SON (PG)
This is the beautiful, delicate and amusing story of the brittle relationship between L. S. Lowry - one of the greatest artists of the 20th century - and his bedridden, unhappy and controlling mother. Engrossing and entertaining, the film is a veritable masterclass in acting, with Vanessa Redgrave and Timothy Spall spellbinding as a mother and son separated by art and ambition. Adrian Noble's wonderfully observed film gently reveals how Lowry's snobbish mother prevents him from fulfilling his artistic ambition, as he desperately tries to create something that might make her happy. This lovely film is punctuated with humour, as it depicts the impact a bitterly obsessive mother had on one of this country's greatest artists. (91 mins)
ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD (18)
Quentin Tarantino's ninth film takes place in Los Angeles in 1969, at the height of hippy Hollywood. Rick (Leonardo DiCaprio), former TV star and his longtime stunt double Cliff (Brad Pitt) are struggling to make it in a Hollywood they don't recognize anymore. Rick lives next door to Roman Polanski and Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie) -- the filmmaker and budding actress whose futures will forever be altered by members of the Manson Family. Bold, unique, funny, violent and compelling, the stunning vistas of the city and the meticulous set design offer a truly evocative experience of Hollywood in the late 1960s. With, Al Pacino, Damian lewis, Kurt Russell, Bruce Dern, Dakota Fanning & Luke Perry. (155 mins)
CATHERINE THE GREAT (15)
Oscar winner Dame Helen Mirren stars as one of the greatest rulers in history, the legendary mother of the Russian Empire, highlighting the end of her reign during her affair with Grigory Potemkin; amid scandal, intrigue and immense conflict, they develop a unique and devoted relationship, overcoming their adversaries. This is a lavishly realised series that can now be fully appreciated on the big screen - an epic and romantic drama about the power, politics and passions of the legendary monarch with incredible creative credentials. With Emmy Award- winners Nigel Williams ('Elizabeth I') writing and Philip Martin ('The Crown') directing, the cast includes Jason Clarke, Gina McKee, Kevin McNally and Rory Kinnear. (180 mins)
THE CURRENT WAR (12)
The late 19th century sees three brilliant visionaries at the centre of the cutthroat competition that literally lit up the modern world. Celebrity inventor Thomas Edison’s (Benedict Cumberbatch) plans to bring electricity to America with radical DC technology, are upended by businessman George Westinghouse (Michael Shannon), who believes he and his partner, the upstart genius Nikolai Tesla (Nicholas Hoult), have the superior idea of using AC current to electrify America. It sparks one of the greatest corporate feuds in American history, establishing for future Titans of Industry the need to break all the rules. Produced by Martin Scorsese and with a supporting cast that includes Katherine Waterston, Tuppence Middleton & Matthew Macfadyen, this is a fascinating drama. (101 mins)
THE ETRUSCAN SMILE (12)
Based on the bestselling novel by José Luis Sampedro, Brian Cox stars as Rory MacNeil, a rugged old Scotsman who reluctantly leaves his beloved isolated Hebridean island and travels to San Francisco to seek medical treatment. Moving in with his estranged son, Rory's life will be transformed, just when he expects it least, through a newly found bond with his baby grandson. This sentimental but perfectly judged tale, beautifully photographed, explores generational divides that highlight the characers complexity with a quite perfectly judged performance from Cox, with an able supporting cast, including J.J.Field, Peter Coyote & Rosanna Arquette as the subject of Rory’s flirtatious advances. (107 mins)
SOMETIMES ALWAYS NEVER (12)
Alan (Bill Nighy) is a stylish tailor with moves as sharp as his suits. He has spent years searching tirelessly for his missing son Michael who stormed out over a game of Scrabble. With a body to identify and his family torn apart, Alan must repair the relationship with his youngest son Peter and solve the mystery of an online player who he thinks could be Michael, so he can finally move on and reunite his family. This elegant, offbeat and utterly charming comedy drama benefits from a sparkling script & terrific direction and is performed with expertise from the always reliable Nighy, who is supported by a first rate supporting cast that includes Sam Riley, Alice Lowe, Tim McInnerney & Jenny Agutter. (91 mins)
ROCKETMAN (15)
This is the epic musical story about Elton John’s breakthrough years. The film follows the fantastical journey of transformation from shy piano prodigy Reginald Dwight into international superstar Elton John. This inspirational story – set to Elton John’s most beloved songs and performed by star Taron Egerton – tells the universally relatable story of how a small-town boy became a musical and cultural icon. Egerton excels in the central role ably supported by Jamie Bell as Elton's longtime lyricist and writing partner Bernie Taupin, Richard Madden ('Bodyguard') as manager John Reid, Jemma Jones and Bryce Dallas Howard as Elton's mother Sheila Farebrother. (116 mins)
THE KEEPER (15)
The incredible true story of Bert Trautmann (David Kross), a German soldier and prisoner of war who, against a backdrop of British post-war protest and prejudice, secures the position of Goalkeeper at Manchester City, and in doing so becomes a footballing icon. Struggling for acceptance by those who dismiss him as the enemy, Bert’s love for Margaret (Freya Mavor) carries him through and he wins over even his harshest opponents by winning the 1956 FA Cup Final, playing on with a broken neck to secure victory. But fate will soon twist the knife for Bert and Margaret, when their love and loyalty to each other is put to the ultimate test. This is a charming, heartfelt and thoroughly enthralling account of a remarkable man. (120 mins)
TOLKIEN (12)
As a young student, J.R.R. Tolkien finds love, friendship and artistic inspiration among a group of fellow writers and artists at school. Their brotherhood soon strengthens as they grow up and weather love and loss together, including Tolkien’s tumultuous courtship of his beloved Edith Bratt, until the outbreak of the First World War threatens to tear their fellowship apart. These early life experiences later inspire the budding author to write the classic fantasy novels "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings." This beautifully photographed biopic stars Nicholas Hoult as Tolkien, with excellent support from Lily Collins, Colm Meaney, Derek Jacobi & Pam Ferris. (111 mins)
TUCKED (15)
When veteran Brighton drag queen Jackie Collins receives a diagnosis with six weeks to live, all he wants to do is perform his long-running act and behave as if all is normal. But between a surprising new friendship with a rising young queen (Jordan Stephens) and unfinished business with his estranged daughter, he may just have the most eventful month and a half of his life. A feel-good film with charm and humor as well as surprising insight into our evolving understanding of gender identity across generations. Performances are uniformally excellent with veteran Derren Nesbit outstanding in the central role, displaying a tragic comic pathos with an almost Shakespearian edge, in a poignant study of acceptance and reconciliation. (120 mins)
EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE (15)
Ted is handsome, smart, charismatic & affectionate. Liz is a single mother, cautious, but smitten. A picture of domestic bliss, the two seem to have it all figured out, that is until Ted is arrested and charged with a series of increasingly grisly murders. As concern turns to paranoia, Liz is forced to consider how well she knows the man she shares a life with and, as the evidence piles up, decide if Ted is truly a victim or actually guilty as charged. This account of Ted Bundy, America’s most notorious serial killer is told from the viewpoint of his wife and the ensuing court case. Without actually showing him committing murder, the film concentrates on his personality contradictions & Zac Effron dazzles as Bundy, a man able to successfully camouflage his true nature. (106 mins)
RED JOAN (12)
The year is 2000 and Joan Stanley (Judi Dench) is living in contented retirement. Her tranquil existence is shattered as she's arrested by MI5, for Joan has been hiding an incredible past as one of the most influential spies in living history. The young Joan (Sophie Cookson), a demure Cambridge physics student, falls intensely in love with a seductively attractive Russian saboteur & begins to see that the world is on the brink of destruction. While working at a secret nuclear research facility, Joan is confronted with the ultimate dilemma. Based on the best-selling novel & Inspired by an extraordinary true story, this is the taut and emotional discovery of one woman's sacrifice in the face of incredible circumstances. (110 mins)
THE AFTERMATH (15)
A gripping drama set in post-war Germany in 1946. Rachael Morgan (Keira Knightley) arrives in the ruins of Hamburg in the bitter winter, to be reunited with her husband Lewis (Jason Clarke), a British colonel charged with rebuilding the shattered city. But as they set off for their new home, Rachael is stunned to discover that Lewis has made an unexpected decision: They will be sharing the grand house with its previous owners, a German widower (Alexander Skarsgård) and his troubled daughter. In this charged atmosphere, enmity and grief give way to passion and betrayal. (109 mins)
THE WHITE CROW (12)
Rudolf Nureyev’s escape to the West stunned the world at the height of the Cold War. His flirtation with Western artists and ideas in 1961 in Paris leads him into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse with the KGB, where he is forced to make a heart-breaking decision that may change the course of his life forever and put his family and friends in terrible danger. From Nureyev’s poverty-stricken childhood to student dancer in Leningrad, to his arrival at the epicentre of western culture in Paris in the early 1960s and a nail-biting stand-off at the Le Bourget airport, this is an incredible journey by a unique artist who transformed the world of ballet forever. Directed by Ralph Fiennes with Oleg Ivenko as Nureyev. (127 mins)
FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS (12)
A cynical London music executive (Daniel Mays) heads to a remote Cornish village on a stag weekend where he’s pranked by his boss (Noel Clarke) into trying to sign a group of shanty singing fishermen. He struggles to gain the respect or enthusiasm of the unlikely boy band and their families who value friendship and community over fame and fortune. Drawn deeper into the traditional way of life, he’s forced to re-evaluate his own integrity. Based on a true story & shot on location in Cornwall, this is a crowd- pleasing comedy drama with heart and great music. With James Purefoy, Tuppence Middleton & David Hayman. (112 mins)
GREEN BOOK (12)
Set in America in 1962, this is the heart-warming true story of Tony Lip (Viggo Mortensen), a racist, working-class Italian-American bouncer who reluctantly takes on a job as a chauffeur for Dr. Don Shirley (Mahershala Ali), a world-class Black pianist. The mismatched pair embark on a two-month tour of concert venues in the racially charged deep south & discover they’re on the road to a meaningful and unique friendship. This supremely likeable & humerous drama boasts two stunning lead performances & is a poignant study of friendship, dignity & compassion that deservedly won the Oscar for best film. (130 mins)
INSTANT FAMILY (12)
When Pete (Mark Wahlberg) and Ellie (Rose Byrne) decide to start a family, they stumble into the world of foster care adoption. They hope to take in one small child but when they meet three siblings, including a rebellious 15 year old girl, they find themselves speeding from zero to three kids overnight. Now, Pete and Ellie must hilariously try to learn the ropes of instant parenthood in the hopes of becoming a family. This delightful comedy drama is inspired by the real events from the life of writer/director Sean Anders and also stars Octavia Spencer, Tig Notaro and Margo Martindale. (118 mins)
A PRIVATE WAR (15)
Celebrated war correspondent Marie Colvin (Rosamund Pike) is an utterly fearless and rebellious spirit, driving to the frontlines of global conflicts to give voice to the voiceless, while constantly testing the limits of bravery. After being hit by a grenade, she wears a distinctive eye patch & her personal life starts to unravel as the trauma she’s witnessed takes its toll. Her mission to show the true cost of war leads her to a dangerous assignment in the besieged Syrian city of Homs. This is acclaimed documentary filmmaker Matthew Heineman’s pulse-pounding debut feature study of a remarkable woman. (110 mins)
THE UPSIDE (12)
Phillip (Bryan Cranston) is a wealthy quadriplegic who needs a carer to help him with his day-to-day routine in his New York penthouse. He decides to hire Dell (Kevin Hart), a struggling parolee who’s trying to reconnect with his ex and his young son. Despite coming from two different worlds, an unlikely friendship starts to blossom as Dell and Phillip rediscover the joy of living life to the fullest. Based on a true story, this heart felt comedy is directed by Neil Burger and also stars Nicole Kidman and Julianna Margulies. (121 mins)
THREE IDENTICAL STRANGERS (12)
This is the astonishing true story of three men who make the chance discovery, at the age of 19, that they are identical triplets, separated at birth from the same New York adoption agency and adopted to different parents. The trios joyous reunion in 1980 catapults them to global fame but it also sets in motion a chain of events that unearths an extraordinary and unimaginable secret that goes far beyond their own lives - a secret that might one day answer key questions at the heart of all human behaviour. Tim Wardle’s compelling, spry & endlessly watchable documentary drama truly highlights the adage that ‘truth is stranger than fiction’. (97 mins)
ALL IS TRUE (12)
The year is 1613 & Shakespeare is acknowledged as the greatest writer of the age but when his renowned Globe Theatre burns to the ground he is devastated & returns to Stratford, where he must face a troubled past and a neglected family. Haunted by the death of his only son Hamnet, he struggles to mend the broken relationships with his wife and daughters. In so doing, he is ruthlessly forced to examine his own failings as husband and father. Director and star Kenneth Branagh, with a screenplay by Ben Elton, delivers a beautifully filmed & acted account of the playwright’s final days with excellent support from Ian McKellen & Judi Dench as Anne Hathaway. (101 mins)
STAN AND OLLIE (PG)
Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly star as Laurel & Hardy in the untold story of the world’s greatest comedy act. The critically acclaimed film wonderfully portrays the unique and precious partnership of the legendary duo as they set out on a tour of Britain in the twilight of their career. Whilst they face an uncertain future the charm and beauty of their performances shine through, making each other and their audiences laugh, re-connecting them with legions of adoring fans, old and new. With stunning performances from Coogan and Reilly, this warm-hearted and genuinely moving and humerous drama is a pure delight. (98 mins)
CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME? (15)
Melissa McCarthy is masterful in the captivating true account of Lee Israel, a once best-selling celebrity biographer in the 1970s and ’80s. Israel is now a frustrated, hard-drinking author who can barely afford to pay her rent or bills in 1990s New York. When she comes to the realisation that she’s no longer en vogue & desperate for money, Israel soon hatches a perilous scheme to forge letters by famous writers and sell them to bookstores and collectors. When the dealers start to catch on, Lee recruits a dubious friend to help her continue her self-destructive cycle of trickery and deceit. With Richard E. Grant. (107 mins)
VICE (15)
From Adam McKay, the Oscar-winning co-writer and director of 'The Big Short' and featuring a transformative performance from Christian Bale with outstanding support from Amy Adams, Sam Rockwell and Steve Carell, this is a fascinating, hilarious and most relevant biopic of a complex modern political figure. The untold and epic true story of how Dick Cheney (Bale), a bureaucratic Washington insider, quietly became the most powerful man in the world as Vice-President to George W. Bush, and reshaped the country and the globe in ways that still reverberate today. (133 mins)
THE MULE (15)
Clint Eastwood stars as ageing Earl Stone who is broke, alone, and facing foreclosure of his business when he is offered a job that simply requires him to drive. Unbeknownst to Earl, he's just signed on as a drug courier for a Mexican cartel. He does so well that is assigned a handler but the mysterious new drug mule has also hit the radar of hard-charging DEA agent Colin Bates (Bradley Cooper). As his money problems vanish, Earl's past mistakes start to weigh heavily on him & it's uncertain if he'll have time to right those wrongs before law enforcement, or the cartel's enforcers, catch up to him. (116 mins)
MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS (15)
This critically acclaimed & stunningly acted drama explores the turbulent life of the charismatic Mary Stuart (Saoirse Ronan). Queen of France at 16, widowed at 18, Mary defies pressure to remarry and instead returns to her native Scotland to reclaim her rightful throne. By birth, she also has a rival claim to the English throne of Elizabeth I (Margot Robbie) which she is determined to assert. Rivals in power and in love, the two Queens make very different choices about marriage and children. Betrayal, rebellion and conspiracies imperil both Queens–driving them apart, as each woman experiences the bitter cost of power. (119 mins)
THE FAVOURITE (15)
Early 18th century & England is at war with the French. Nevertheless, duck racing and pineapple eating are thriving. A frail Queen Anne (Olivia Colman) occupies the throne and her close friend Lady Sarah (Rachel Weisz) governs the country while tending to Anne’s ill health and mercurial temper. When a new servant Abigail (Emma Stone) arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah. Sarah takes Abigail under her wing and Abigail sees a chance at a return to her aristocratic roots. This Oscar winning outrageous restoration comedy is a bawdy, cynical, malicious & uproarious send up of royal life, exquisitely filmed and boasting a sterling ensemble cast who are firing on all cylinders. (119 mins)
COLETTE (15)
When country girl Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette (Keira Knightly) marries charismatic egomaniac Willy (Dominic West), he unlocks the door to the tantalizing artistic world of the Paris literacy scene. With her creative appetite sparked, Willy has Colette write novels under his name. The phenomenal success of her Claudine series makes Willy famous and elevates them both to the high life. However, the lack of recognition begins to gnaw at Colette & their marriage starts to suffer. Willy resorts to increasingly desperate measures to pay his debts and sabotage his wife but Colette is developing resources of her own. Based on the true story of a feminist icon, this is a fascinating & beautifully filmed drama with excellent performances. (112 mins)
THE OLD MAN AND THE GUN (12)
This is based on the true story of Forrest Tucker (Robert Redford), from his audacious escape from San Quentin at the age of 70 to an unprecedented string of bank robberies that confounded authorities and enchanted the public. Wrapped up in the pursuit are detective John Hunt (Casey Affleck), who becomes captivated with Forrest's commitment to his craft and a woman (Sissy Spacek), who loves him in spite of his chosen profession. Announced as Redford’s final film, this well-told & critically acclaimed story is brought to life by a beautifully matched cast and is delightful, funny, easygoing entertainment as well as a fitting farewell to a veteran film star. Also starring Danny Glover and Tom Waits. (93 mins)
CREED 2 (12)
Life has become a balancing act for Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan). Between personal obligations, he is up against the challenge of his life – to fight the son of the boxer who, in 1985, killed his father in a tragic match that stunned the world. Facing an opponent with ties to his family’s past only intensifies his impending battle in the ring. Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) is there by his side through it all and, together, Rocky and Adonis will confront their shared legacy, question what’s worth fighting for, and discover that nothing’s more important than family. This sequel to the original 2015 film is an expert combination of emotional character driven drama and thrilling, hard- hitting power. (130 mins)
PETERLOO (12)
Acclaimed director Mike Leigh presents an epic portrayal of the events surrounding the infamous 1819 Peterloo Massacre, where a peaceful pro-democracy rally at St Peter's Field in Manchester turned into one of the bloodiest and most notorious episodes in British history. British government forces charged into a crowd of over 60,000 that had gathered to demand political reform and protest against rising levels of poverty. Many protesters were killed and hundreds more injured, sparking a nationwide outcry but also further government suppression. This defining moment in British democracy also played a significant role in the founding of The Guardian newspaper. (154 mins)
BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY (12)
This is a foot-stomping celebration of Queen, their music and their extraordinary lead singer Freddie Mercury (Rami Malek). The film traces the meteoric rise of the band through their iconic songs and revolutionary sound. They reach unparalleled success, but in an unexpected turn Freddie, surrounded by darker influences, shuns Queen in pursuit of his solo career. Freddie manages to reunite with his band-mates just in time for Live Aid and leads the band in one of the greatest performances in the history of rock music. Queen cements a legacy that continues to inspire outsiders, dreamers and music lovers to this day. Malek is electrifying and the film is an unparalleled crowd pleaser. (134mins)
FIRST MAN (12)
Oscar winning director Damien Chazelle (La La Land) and star Ryan Gosling reteam for the riveting story behind the first manned mission to the moon, focusing on Neil Armstrong and the decade leading to the historic Apollo 11 flight. The film uses a personal focus to fuel a look back at a pivotal moment in human history and takes audiences on a soaring dramatic journey along the way. A visceral, intimate account told from Armstrong’s perspective and based on the book by James R. Hansen, the film explores the triumphs and the cost on Armstrong, his family, his colleagues, and the nation itself for one of the most dangerous missions in history. Compelling performances from Gosling and Claire Foy as his devoted wife are ably supported by Jason Clarke, Corey Stoll & Ciaran Hinds. (135 mins)
A STAR IS BORN (15)
Seasoned musician Jackson Maine (Bradley Cooper) discovers—and falls in love with struggling artist Ally (Lady Gaga). She has just about given up on her dream to make it big as a singer until Jack coaxes her into the spotlight. However, even as Ally’s career takes off, the personal side of their relationship is breaking down, as Jack fights an ongoing battle with his own internal demons. In this new take on the iconic love story, Oscar nominee Cooper makes his directorial debut, starring alongside multiple award-winning, Oscar-nominated music superstar Gaga in her first leading film role. The result is a crowd pleasing, critically acclaimed rendition of a generational tale & affecting love story that is beautifully photographed, poignant and anchored by powerhouse performances and excellent music. (134 mins)
PAPILLON (15)
Originally billed as the greatest escape in history and based on the international best-selling autobiographic books "Papillon" and "Banco", this gritty, intense remake of the classic 1973 film follows the epic true story of Henri "Papillon" Charrière (Charlie Hunnam), a safecracker from the Parisian underworld who is framed for murder in 1930’s France and condemned to life in the notorious penal colony on Devil's Island. Determined to regain his freedom, Papillon forms an unlikely alliance with quirky convicted counterfeiter Louis Dega (Rami Malek), who in exchange for protection, agrees to finance Papillon's escape. The excellent performances, solid production values and dazzling cinematography all combine to complement a sobering, effective tale of endurance and the power of the human spirit. (132 mins)
THE WIFE (15)
Joan (Glenn Close) has spent forty years sacrificing her own talent, dreams and ambitions to support her charismatic husband Joe (Jonathan Pryce) and his stellar literary career. Ignoring infidelities and excuses, she has put up with his behaviour with undiminished grace and humour. However, the foundations of their marriage are built upon a set of uneven compromises and Joan has reached a turning point. On the eve of Joe's Nobel Prize for Literature, Joan confronts the biggest sacrifice of her life and some long-buried secrets. Based on the bestselling book, this is a poignant, funny and emotional journey, celebrating womanhood, self-discovery and liberation, with a mesmerizing performance from Close supported by a stunning cast that also includes Max Irons, Elizabeth McGovern and Christian Slater. (100 mins)
KING OF THIEVES (15)
This is the incredible true story of the spectacular 2015 Hatton Garden diamond heist, the biggest and most daring in British history pulled off by a crew of elderly retired crooks. What begins as a nostalgic last hurrah for the group quickly turns sour when greed overtakes them. There is plenty of humour but the director never resorts to easy laughs and the richness of the film lies in it’s exceptional performances and the very frank and perceptive way in which the protagonist’s machinations & backstabbing are laid bare as well as their age related infirmities and proudly British attitude. The stellar cast includes Michael Caine, Jim Broadbent, Ray Winstone, Michael Gambon, Tom Courtenay, Francesca Annis & Paul Whitehouse & solid direction from Academy Award winner James Marsh (THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING). (108 mins)
THE SEAGULL (12)
Every summer aristocratic actress Irina (Annette Bening), her brother Sorin (Brian Dennehy) and her son Konstantin (Billy Howle) entertain family and friends for a weekend at their idyllic lakeside Russian estate. While everyone is caught up in passionately loving someone who loves somebody else, a tragicomedy unfolds about art, fame, human folly and the eternal desire to live a purposeful life. Exploring with comedy & melancholy the obsessive nature of love, the tangled relationships between parents and children & the transcendent value and psychic toll of art, this latest adaptation of the Anton Chekhov play is beautifully shot and provides a pleasing showcase for it’s sterling cast. With Saoirse Ronan, Elisabeth Moss & Corey Stoll. (98 mins)
THE CHILDREN ACT (12)
This adaptation of the acclaimed novel by Ian McEwan (Atonement) is a stunningly acted, compelling and powerful drama, telling the story of Fiona Maye (Emma Thompson), an eminent high court judge presiding over ethically complex cases. As the demands of her job cause her marriage to Jack (Stanley Tucci) to reach tipping point, Fiona is asked to rule on the case of Adam, a brilliant young boy who is refusing a life-saving blood transfusion on religious grounds. With her private life in turmoil, Fiona finds herself drawn into the case, taking the unorthodox step of halting proceedings in order to visit Adam in hospital. As the two form a profound connection and powerful emotions come to light, Fiona’s judgement is put to the test with momentous consequences as she must ultimately decide Adam’s fate. (105 mins)
EDIE (12)
Edie (Sheila Hancock) has spent 40 years trapped in a colourless life in England, tending to her controlling husband after his stroke. When he passes away and her daughter tries to send her to a care home, she packs an old camping bag, leaves her life behind and embarks on an adventure she never got to have - climbing the imposing Mount Suilven in Scotland. Joined by reluctant guide Johnny, Edie travels to the beautiful village of Lochinver in the Scottish Highlands & the two gradually form an unlikely friendship. The journey to the summit will be long and difficult but Edie is determined to prove to herself and everyone else that it’s never too late to fulfill the adventure of a lifetime. This is an unforgettable, immersive visual journey of self-discovery through the unspoiled wilderness of the Scottish highlands, beautifully scored, written & photographed, with Hancock performing all her own stunts. (102 mins)
THE BOOKSHOP (PG)
In 1959, free-spirited widow Florence Green (Emily Mortimer) risks everything to open up a specialist bookshop in a conservative East Anglian coastal town. Fighting damp, cold and considerable local apathy she struggles to establish herself but her fortunes improve as she brings about a surprising cultural awakening. However, this mini social revolution soon brings her fierce opposition from the town's less prosperous shopkeepers and the ruthless machinations of the local grand dame (Patricia Clarkson) but the support and affection of a reclusive book loving widower (Bill Nighy). As Florence's obstacles amass and bear suspicious signs of a local power struggle, she is forced to ask: is there a place for a bookshop in a town that may not want one? Based on Penelope Fitzgerald’s novel of the same name, this is a beautifully acted, elegant, incisive & compelling examination of personal resolve, tested in the battle for the soul of a community. (112 mins)
THE HAPPY PRINCE (15)
In a cheap Parisian hotel room Oscar Wilde (Rupert Everett) lies on his death bed and the past floods back, transporting him to other times and places. Was he once the most famous man in London? The artist crucified by a society that once worshipped him? He reviews the failed attempt to reconcile with his long suffering wife Constance, the ensuing reprisal of his fatal love affair with Lord Alfred Douglas & the warmth and devotion of Robbie Ross who tried to save him from himself. From Dieppe to Naples to Paris freedom is elusive and Oscar is a penniless vagabond, always moving on, shunned by his old acquaintance, his incomparable wit still sharp. The film is a fascinating & poignant portrait of the dark side of a genius, who lived and died for love. As Wilde, Everett, who also directed, masterfully brings out the various contradictions of the man and the excellent supporting cast includes Colin Firth, Colin Morgan, Emily Watson, John Standing & Tom Wilkinson. (105 mins)
MARY SHELLEY (12)
16 year old Mary Wollstonecraft Godwin’s (Elle Fanning) family disapproves when she and poet Percy Shelley (Douglas Booth) announce their love for each other. In the Summer of 1816, the family is horrified when it finds that the couple has eloped, accompanied by Mary's half-sister, Claire Clairmont. Young and passionately in love, Mary at first she relishes life amongst the radical Romantics but Percy’s betrayals and indiscretions begin to test their relationship. While staying with Lord Byron at his remote mansion on Lake Geneva, the guests are challenged by the poet to write a ghost story. Drawing on her experiences of heartbreak and the dark side of humanity, she creates ‘Frankenstein’, a work that will shape the literary world for centuries. With a superb central performance and a strong ensemble cast including Bel Powley, Tom Sturridge, Joanne Froggatt and Stephen Dillane, this rousing and exquisite biopic balances sumptuous period detail with a timely feminist message. It’s a vivid tribute to Shelley’s passion, courage and craft and a reminder of her enduring relevance today. (121 mins)
THE LEISURE SEEKER (15)
The Leisure Seeker is the nickname of the old RV used by Ella (Helen Mirren) and John Spencer (Donald Sutherland) to go on vacation with their children in the 1970s. On a summer morning, to escape a destiny of medical care that would keep them apart forever, the couple leave their adult and intrusive children astonished as they hop on board that dated vehicle and head towards Key West for a new adventure. John is muddle-headed and forgetful but strong, Ella is feeble and fragile but still very lucid. Their trip through an America they no longer recognize – between hilarious moments and others of pure terror - is their chance to retrace their married life nourished by passion and devotion, but also by secret obsessions that abruptly resurface and bring surprising revelations right up to the very end. This moving and poignant road movie benefits from sterling performances from its two stars, who share a genuine chemistry. (112 mins)
THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY (12)
London, 1946. Juliet (Lily James), a charismatic and free-spirited writer receives a letter from a member of a mysterious literary club started in Nazi-occupied Guernsey. Her curiosity piqued, Juliet decides to visit the island. There she meets the delightfully eccentric members of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, including Dawsey (Michiel Huisman), the rugged and intriguing farmer who wrote her the letter. As the secrets from their wartime past unfold, Juliet's growing attachment to the island, the book club and her affection for Dawsey will change the course of her life forever. Based on the bestselling novel and from the producers of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, this is a compelling romantic drama with an intriguing mystery at it’s heart. Beautifully photographed and acted, this is an engaging, elegant and warm, nostalgic post-war drama. With Penelope Wilton, Jessica Brown Findlay, Matthew Goode & Tom Courtenay. (124 mins)
WONDERSTRUCK (15)
Set fifty years apart, in the 1920’s and 1970’s, Ben and Rose are children from two different eras who secretly wish that their lives were different. Ben longs for the father he's never known, while Rose dreams of a mysterious actress whose life she chronicles in a scrapbook. When Ben discovers a puzzling clue and Rose reads an enticing headline, they both set out on epic quests to find what they're missing. Directed by Tod Haynes (Carol) and based on the critically acclaimed book by Brian Selznick, the film stars Julianne Moore, Michelle Williams and newcomers Oakes Fegley and Millicient Simmonds and is a tender and nostaligic study of two children trying to find their place in the world, weaved with mesmerising symmetry of the two eras and an enchanting soundtrack. With a keen sense of time and place and subtle performances from the stars, the film is a delightful and beautifully judged ode to imagination that both adults and children can enjoy. (117 mins)
WONDER WHEEL (12)
Director Woody Allen tells the story of four characters whose lives intertwine amid the hustle and bustle of the Coney Island amusement park in the 1950s: Ginny (Kate Winslet), an emotionally volatile former actress now working as a waitress in a clam house; Humpty (Jim Belushi), Ginny’s rough-hewn carousel operator husband; Mickey (Justin Timberlake), a handsome young lifeguard who dreams of becoming a playwright; and Carolina (Juno Temple), Humpty’s long-estranged daughter, who is now hiding out from gangsters at her father’s apartment. Beautifully photographed with impressive production design that perfectly captures the period and a first rate cast, Allen’s nod to Tennessee Williams is a powerful and dramatic tale of passion, violence and betrayal that boasts a stunning performance from Winslet. (101 mins)
LADY BIRD (15)
Greta Gerwig reveals herself to be a bold new cinematic voice with her directorial debut, excavating both the humor and pathos in the turbulent bond between a mother and her teenage daughter. Christine “Lady Bird” McPherson (Saoirse Ronan) fights against, but is exactly like her wildly loving, deeply opinionated and strong-willed mom (Laurie Metcalf), a nurse working tirelessly to keep her family afloat after Lady Bird's father (Tracy Letts) loses his job. Set in Sacramento, California in 2002, amidst a rapidly shifting American economic landscape, the film is an affecting look at the relationships that shape us, the beliefs that define us, and the unmatched beauty of a place called home. A Critical triumph, the deft balancing of wit & authentic angst has produced a loveable, colourful & convention defying portrait of an endearing eccentric with outstanding performances. (94 mins)
PHANTOM THREAD (15)
Set in the glamour of 1950’s post-war London, renowned dressmaker Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis) and his sister Cyril (Lesley Manville) are at the centre of British fashion, dressing royalty, movie stars, heiresses, socialites, debutantes and dames with the distinct style of The House of Woodcock. Women come and go through Woodcock’s life, providing the confirmed bachelor with inspiration and companionship, until he comes across a young, strong-willed woman, Alma (Vicky Krieps), who soon becomes a fixture in his life as his muse and lover. Once controlled and planned, he finds his carefully tailored life disrupted by love. This beautifully crafted & challenging gothic romance from director Paul Thomas Anderson paints an illuminating portrait both of an artist on a creative journey, and the women who keep his world running and Day-Lewis’ powerhouse performance is matched by his co-stars. (130 mins)
JOURNEY’S END (12)
March, 1918. C-company arrives to take its turn in the front-line trenches of norther France, led by the war-weary Captain Stanhope (Sam Claflin). With a German offensive imminently approaching, the officers use food and the memories of their lives before the war to distract themselves, while Stanhope soaks his fear in whisky, unable to deal with the dread of the inevitable. A young officer, Raleigh, arrives fresh out of training and abuzz with the excitement of his first real posting - not least because he is to serve under Stanhope, his former school house monitor and the object of his sister's affections. Each man is trapped, the days ticking by, the tension rising and the attack drawing ever closer. R.C. Sherriff's classic play is vividly brought to the screen with sobering power, thanks to director Saul Dibb's hard-hitting urgency and brilliant work from a talented cast. With Asa Butterfield, Paul Bettany, Toby Jones & Tom Sturridge. (107 mins)
DARK RIVER (15)
Following the death of her father, Alice (Ruth Wilson) returns home to Yorkshire for the first time in 15 years, to claim the tenancy of the family farm she believes is rightfully hers. Once there she encounters her older brother Joe (Mark Stanley) a man she barely recognizes, worn down by years of struggling to keep the farm going whilst caring for their sick father. Joe is thrown by Alice's sudden arrival, angered by her claim and finds her presence increasingly impossible to deal with. Battling to regain control in a fraught and fragile situation, Alice must confront traumatic memories and family betrayals to find a way to restore the farm and salvage the bond with her brother before both are irrevocably lost. This harsh yet engaging drama boasts superb performances and a brooding atmosphere to create a powerful and affecting examination of family conflict & reconciliation. With Esme Creed-Miles & Sean Bean. (90 mins)
HOSTILES (15)
1892, New Mexico - legendary Army captain Joseph J. Blocker (Christian Bale) undertakes one final mission before retirement: escort Yellow Hawk (Wes Studi) - a dying Cheyenne war chief - and his family back to sacred tribal lands. After 20 years of violent struggle, this gesture of peace is as unthinkable as it is harrowing. Embarking on a harrowing and perilous journey to the grasslands of Montana, they battle against a punishing landscape and the brutality of men alike, coming to the rescue of a young widow (Rosamund Pike) amidst the carnage of her murdered family. Two great warriors, once rivals across the battlefield, must learn to trust each other and find peace in an unforgiving land. This is a heroic odyssey of survival against a punishing landscape & hostile natives and also a journey towards respect, reconciliation and forgiveness. (134 mins)
MY GENERATION (12)
British film icon Michael Caine narrates and stars in this vivid and inspiring story of his personal journey through 1960s London. Based on personal accounts and stunning, rarely seen archive footage, this feature-length documentary film sees Caine travel back in time to talk to The Beatles, Twiggy, David Bailey, Mary Quant, The Rolling Stones, Marianne Faithfull, David Hockney, Joan Collins, Sandie Shaw and other star names. The film has been painstakingly assembled over the last six years to tell the story of the birth of pop culture in London, through the eyes of the young Michael Caine: For the first time in history the young working class stood up for ourselves and said: Were here, this is our society and were not going away! Scripted by Dick Clement & Ian La Frenais (Porridge, The Likely Lads), this is a vivid, colourful, nostalgic, fascinating & hugely enjoyable time capsule of a culturally important era with a soundtrack that is like a film in itself. (85 mins)
THE 15:17 TO PARIS (15)
In the early evening of August 21, 2015, the world watched in stunned silence as the media reported a thwarted terrorist attack on French train #9364 bound for Paris, an attempt prevented by three courageous young Americans traveling through Europe. The film follows the course of the friends' lives, from the struggles of childhood through finding their footing in life, to the series of unlikely events leading up to the attack. Throughout the harrowing ordeal, their friendship never wavers, making it their greatest weapon and allowing them to save the lives of the more than 500 passengers on board. Director Clint Eastwood adds an air of Verisimilitude by casting the actual protagonists Spencer Stone, Anthony Sadler and Alek Skarlatos as themselves, in the recreation of this tense terrorist situation. (120 mins)
THE SHAPE OF WATER (15)
Elisa (Sally Hawkins) is a mute, lonely woman who works as a cleaning lady in a hidden, high-security government laboratory in 1962 Baltimore. Her life changes forever when she discovers the lab's classified secret -- a mysterious, scaled creature from South America that lives in a water tank. As Elisa develops a unique bond with her new friend, she soon learns that its fate and very survival lies in the hands of a hostile government agent and marine biologist Zelda (Octavia Spencer). Winning the Oscar for Best film, director Guillermo Del Toro’s (Pan’s Labyrinth) unique other-worldly fairy tale is a stunning achievement. Visually ravishing with flawless production design, the emotionally absorbing story is brought vividly to life by a stellar performance from Hawkins and a peerless supporting cast. Drama, Sci-Fi, whimsical fantasy, romance, a captivating ode to past monster movies, 'Beauty and the Beast' fable - the film is all of these and more. With Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins & Michael Stuhlbarg. (119 mins)
I, TONYA (15)
In 1991, talented figure skater Tonya Harding becomes the first American woman to complete a triple axel during a competition. In 1994, her world comes crashing down when her ex-husband conspires to injure Nancy Kerrigan, a fellow Olympic hopeful, in a poorly conceived attack that forces the young woman to withdraw from the national championship. Harding's life and legacy instantly become tarnished as she's forever associated with one of the most infamous scandals in sports history. Based on the unbelievable, but true events, the film features an iconic performance from Margot Robbie as the fiery Harding, Sebastian Stan as her impetuous ex-husband & a tour-de-force, Oscar winning performance from Allison Janney as her acid-tongued mother. An irreverent, and piercing portrayal of Harding's life and career in all of its unchecked--and checkered—glory, it finds humour in the remarkable story without losing sight of it’s more tragic & emotionally resonant elements. (119 mins)
ROMAN J.ISRAEL, ESQ. (12)
This dramatic and poignant thriller is set in the underbelly of the overburdened Los Angeles criminal court system. Denzel Washington stars as a driven, hard nosed idealistic defense attorney whose life is upended when his mentor, a civil rights icon, dies. When he is recruited to join a firm led by one of the legendary man’s former students – the ambitious lawyer George Pierce (Colin Farrell) – and begins a friendship with a young champion of equal rights (Carmen Ejogo), a turbulent series of events ensue that will put the activism that has defined Roman’s career to the test. The script is intelligent, round and well thought out and Washington delivers one of the strongest and most multifaceted performances of his career to create a character who is both interesting and touching. (122 mins)
DARKEST HOUR (PG)
At the precipice of World War II, newly appointed Prime Minister Winston Churchill (Gary Oldman) must face one of his most turbulent and defining trials: exploring a negotiated peace treaty with Nazi Germany, or standing firm to fight for the ideals, liberty and freedom of a nation. As the unstoppable Nazi forces roll across Western Europe and the threat of invasion is imminent, and with an unprepared public, a skeptical King, and his own party plotting against him, Churchill must withstand his darkest hour, rally a nation, and attempt to change the course of world history. Expertly directed by Joe Wright, Oldman’s phenomenal multi layered performance won him the best actor Oscar, while Kristin Scott Thomas excels as his grounded wife Clementine. Indeed performances throughout are excellent, including Lily James, Ben Mendelsohn, Stephen Dillane & Ronald Pickup and the film’s visual flair and a grand sense of style complement this thrilling and inspiring true story. (125 mins)
THE MERCY (12)
James Marsh (The Theory of Everything) directs the incredible true story of eccentric Donald Crowhurst (Colin Firth), an amateur sailor who competed in the 1968 Sunday Times Golden Globe Race in the hope of becoming the first person in history to single-handedly circumnavigate the globe without stopping. With an unfinished boat and his business and house on the line, Donald leaves his wife, Clare (Rachel Weisz) and their children behind, hesitantly embarking on an adventure on his boat the Teignmouth Electron. Co-starring David Thewlis and Ken Stott, the story of Crowhurst's dangerous solo voyage and the struggles he confronted on the epic journey while his wife Clare and their family awaited his return is one of the most enduring mysteries of recent times. Firth is outstanding as the complex, intense Crowhurst thanks to a meticulous script and the direction is precise with effective sound design and visual panache. (102 mins)
THE POST (12)
Set in 1971, Steven Spielberg directs Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks in this thrilling political drama about the unlikely partnership between The Washington Post's Katharine Graham (Streep), the first female publisher of a major American newspaper and editor Ben Bradlee (Hanks), as they race to catch up with The New York Times to publish leaked inflammatory documents surrounding the American government's communications during the Vietnam War. Within the papers are the communications of the Secretary of Defence in which he revealed his belief of the war being unwinnable but still sent soldiers to Southeast Asia and certain death. Graham & Bradlee must overcome their differences as they risk their careers - and their very freedom - to help expose a massive cover-up of government secrets that spanned three decades and four U.S. Presidents. The period setting belies the films’ bitingly timely themes, brought compellingly to life by the director and an outstanding ensemble cast. (116 mins)
THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI (15)
Winning the Best Actress Oscar, Frances McDormand (Fargo) delivers a stunningly powerful central performance in this unforgettable darkly comic drama that has been hailed as one of the best films of 2017. After months have passed without a culprit in her daughter's murder case, Mildred Hayes (McDormand) makes a bold move, painting three signs leading into her town with a controversial message directed at William Willoughby (Woody Harrelson), the town's revered chief of police. When his volatile second-in-command, Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) becomes involved, an already furious battle is only exacerbated. The lead performances are universally excellent and the caustic script and narrative structure dazzling in a stunningly photographed film that deftly balances black comedy against searing and brutal drama. (115 mins)
MOLLY’S GAME (15)
The riveting true story of Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain), a beautiful, young, Olympic-class skier who ran the world's most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade before being arrested in the middle of the night by 17 FBI agents wielding automatic weapons. Her players included Hollywood royalty, sports stars, business titans and finally, unbeknown to her, the Russian mob. Her only ally was her criminal defence lawyer Charlie Jaffey (Idris Elba), who learned there was much more to Molly than the tabloids led people to believe. Aaron Sorkin makes an effective directing debut anchored to a crackling and exciting script that is slickly edited and photographed for maximum effect. A fascinating and entertaining film that boasts extraordinary performances from Chastain and Elba in a story that is so vastly strange and compelling that it truly has to be witnessed. (140 mins)
ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD (15)
A riveting account of the real life kidnapping of 16-year-old John Paul Getty III (Charlie Plummer) and the desperate attempt by his devoted mother Gail (Michelle Williams) to convince his billionaire grandfather to pay the ransom. When Getty Sr. (Christopher Plummer) refuses, Gail attempts to sway him as her son’s captors become increasingly volatile and brutal. With her son’s life in the balance, Gail and Getty’s advisor become unlikely allies in the race against time that ultimately reveals the true and lasting value of love over money. Celebrated director Ridley Scott (Blade Runner, Gladiator) has fashioned a morality tale crossed with family melodrama that highlights the corrosive effects of wealth and power. The engrossing and nail-biting story is complemented by a host of excellent performances – veteran Plummer (replacing Kevin Spacey) excels as ruthless Getty Sr, Mark Wahlberg is effective as Getty’s head of security and negotiator while Williams is superb and a worthy foil to her former father-in-law. (133 mins)
THE GREATEST SHOWMAN (PG)
This spectacular and original musical celebrates the birth of show business, telling the story of visionary impresario, P.T. Barnum who rose from nothing to create a mesmerising spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. Step right up and into the spellbinding imagination of a man who set out to reveal that life itself can be the most thrilling show of all. Inspired by the legend and ambitions of America’s original pop-culture stage manager extraordinaire, comes an inspirational rags-to-riches tale of a brash dreamer who rose from nothing to prove that anything you can envision is possible and that everyone, no matter how invisible, has a stupendous story worthy of a world-class spectacle. Spearheading a multi talented cast, Hugh Jackman, who devoted years to bring the film to the screen, is dazzling in the central role while Michael Gracey’s expert direction showcases original songs by Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (La La Land). Fasten your seatbelts for the ultimate crowd pleaser. With Michelle Williams, Zac Efron & Rebecca Ferguson. (105 mins)
THE DISASTER ARTIST (15)
James Franco transforms the tragicomic true-story of aspiring filmmaker and infamous Hollywood outsider Tommy Wiseau - an artist whose passion was as sincere as his methods were questionable - into a celebration of friendship, artistic expression, and dreams pursued against insurmountable odds. Based on Greg Sestero’s best-selling tell-all about the making of Tommy's cult-classic disaster piece 'The Room' (“The Greatest Bad Movie Ever Made”), thIs is a hilarious and welcome reminder that there is more than one way to become a legend - and no limit to what you can achieve when you have absolutely no idea what you're doing. This is an endearing tale of friendship and chasing your dreams that packs a surprisingly poignant punch. (104 mins)
THE DINNER (15)
When Stan (Richard Gere), a congressman running for governor, invites his troubled younger brother Paul (Steve Coogan) and his wife Claire (Laura Linney) to join him and his wife Katelyn (Rebecca Hall) for dinner at one of the town's most fashionable restaurants, the stage is set for a tense night. While Stan and Paul have been estranged since childhood, their 16-year- old sons are friends and the two of them have committed a crime that has shocked the country. While their sons' identities have not yet been discovered, their parents must now decide what action to take. As the night proceeds, beliefs about the true natures of the four people at the table are upended, relationships shatter and each person reveals just how far they are willing to go to protect those they love. This riveting melodrama, with its superlative cast and acidic script, is a powerful treatise on the nature of privilege, family and moral dilemma. (120 mins)
BATTLE OF THE SEXES (PG)
In the wake of the sexual revolution and the rise of the women's movement, the 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) and Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) became the most watched televised sports event of all time reaching 90 million viewers around the world. Trapped in the media glare, King and Riggs were on opposites sides of a binary argument, but off-court each was fighting more personal and complex battles. With her husband urging her to fight for equal pay, the private King was also struggling to come to terms with her own sexuality, as her friendship with Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough) developed. Riggs, one of the first self-made media-age celebrities, wrestled with his gambling demons & gambled his legacy and reputation in a bid to relive the glories of his past, at the expense of his family and wife Priscilla (Elisabeth Shue). Together, they served up a cultural spectacle that resonated far beyond the tennis court, sparking discussions in bedrooms and boardrooms that continue to reverberate today. With impeccable performances from it’s stars, this is a light, funny & gloriously entertaining drama. (121 mins)
WONDER (PG)
Based on the New York Times hugely popular bestseller, the film tells the incredibly inspiring and heart-warming story of August Pullman. Born with facial differences that, up until now, have prevented him from going to a mainstream school, Auggie becomes the most unlikely of heroes when he enters the local fifth grade. As his family, his new classmates, and the larger community all struggle to discover their compassion and acceptance, Auggie's extraordinary journey will unite them all and prove you can't blend in when you were born to stand out. The script doesn't shy away from its bestselling source material's sentiment, but this well-acted and disarmingly warm, witty and well –balanced drama earns its tugs at the heartstrings and the direction by Stephen Chbosky is never less than assured. The central performance by Jacob Temblay is remarkable and he is ably supported by Owen Wilson and Julia Roberts as his parents. (113 mins)
SUBURBICON (15)
'Suburbicon' is a peaceful, idyllic suburban community with affordable homes and manicured lawns - the perfect place to raise a family. In 1959, this quiet neighbourhood is home to Gardner Lodge (Matt Damon) and his family but the tranquil surface masks a disturbing reality. When his home is broken into and his wife Rose (Julianne Moore) murdered, Gardner and his son Nicky (Noah Jupe) welcome Rose's twin sister Margaret (also Moore) into their lives to help take care of them. When insurance agent Bud Cooper (Oscar Isaac) turns up asking questions about the suspicious circumstances of the break-in however, both Gardner and Margaret are suspected of having a part to play in her death and Gardner must navigate the town's dark underbelly of betrayal, deceit, and violence. Co-writer and director George Clooney has fashioned a macabre comedy noir that is fascinating, lively, almost surreal & intricately designed with parallel storylines that include post-war prejudice alongside violent domestic upheaval. (102 mins)
FILM STARS DON’T DIE IN LIVERPOOL (15)
The story is based on the memoir by British actor Peter Turner and follows the playful but passionate relationship between Turner (Jamie Bell) and the eccentric Academy Award-winning actress Gloria Grahame (Annette Bening). First meeting in theatrical digs in London, the legendary femme fatale and star of such films as The Big Heat, In a Lonely Place & The Bad & the Beautiful and her young lover share a passionate relationship for a time but then drift apart. Years later she collapses while on tour in the North of England, and turns to her one-time lover for help and support who takes her home to Liverpool to his parents (Julie Walters & Kenneth Cranham) to be looked after. Bening superbly embodies Grahame’s manner, allure and fears of ageing & Bell brings depth & maturity that makes their relationship completely believable. Their chemistry together is superb in an incredibly moving, well-judged drama that has humour, compassion, tenderness and sadness. (105 mins)
THE BIG SICK (15)
Based on the real-life courtship between Kumail Nanjiani and Emily V. Gordon, this is the story of Pakistan-born aspiring comedian Kumail (Kumail Nanjiani), who connects with grad student Emily (Zoe Kazan) after one of his stand up sets. However, what they thought would be just a one-night stand blossoms into the real thing, which complicates the life that is expected of Kumail by his traditional Muslim parents. When Emily is beset with a mystery illness, it forces Kumail to navigate the medical crisis with her parents, Beth and Terry (Holly Hunter and Ray Romano) who he’s never met, while dealing with the emotional tug-of-war between his family and his heart. This warm emotional heartfelt comedy has an original and hilarious screenplay, filled with bittersweet truths and a subversive viewpoint. The result is a delicious, highly entertaining, laugh out loud film that explores emotions and behaviour in what is an essentially old-fashioned love story. (120 mins)
THE EXCEPTION (15)
German soldier Stefan Brandt (Jai Courtney) goes on a mission to investigate exiled German Monarch Kaiser Wilhelm II (Christopher Plummer). The Kaiser lives in a secluded mansion in The Netherlands, and as Germany is taking over Holland, the country’s authorities are concerned that Dutch spies may be watching the Kaiser. As Brandt begins to infiltrate the Kaiser’s life, he is drawn into an unexpected romance with Mieke (Lily James), one of the Kaiser’s maids. When Heinrich Himmler (Eddie Marsan), head of the SS, makes an unexpected visit, the stage is set for a breath-taking showdown, as secrets are revealed, allegiances are tested, and Brandt is forced to make the ultimate choice between honouring his country and following his heart. This riveting thriller filled with both espionage and romance, is superbly scripted and acted with the seamless quality & dramatic elements of vintage cinema combined with contemporary filmic sophistication. (103 mins)
ONLY THE BRAVE (12)
Based on the true story of the Granite Mountain Hotshots, this is the heroic story of one unit of local fire-fighters that through hope, determination, sacrifice, and the drive to protect families and communities become one of the most elite fire-fighting teams in the country risking everything to protect an Australian town from a historic wildfire. The fires themselves are frighteningly well staged, and by the film's conclusion the courage and dedication of these firemen has been amply demonstrated. The impressive veteran cast and affecting fact-based story add up to a no-frills drama that's just as solidly powerful as the real-life heroes it honours. Starring Josh Brolin, Miles Teller, Taylor Kitsch, Jennifer Connelly, Andie MacDowell & Jeff Bridges. (134 mins)
THE WILDE WEDDING (15)
Iconic retired movie star Eve Wilde (Glenn Close) is preparing for her wedding to husband number four, renowned English writer Harold Alcott (Patrick Stewart) after a whirlwind courtship which raises concerns with her three grown sons and her ex-husband, Laurence (John Malkovich). At her upstate New York home, John and the entire collective family pours in to witness the nuptials and the long summer weekend brings chaos as it offers the opportunity for everyone to get to know each other a little more intimately. However, as sexual sparks begin to fly, there are unforeseen consequences. With tongue in cheek humour coupled with musings on the nature of love and marital relationships, this is enjoyable and ultimately heart-warming fun. The exceptional cast includes Minnie Driver, Grace Van Patten & Jack Davenport. (95 mins)
GOODBYE CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (PG)
A rare glimpse into the relationship between beloved children’s author A. A. Milne (Domhnall Gleeson) and his son Christopher Robin (Will Tilston, Alex Lawther), whose toys inspired the magical world of Winnie the Pooh. Along with his mother Daphne (Margot Robbie), and his nanny Olive (Kelly Macdonald), Christopher Robin and his family are swept up in the international success of the books; the enchanting tales bringing hope and comfort to England after the First World War. But with the eyes of the world on Christopher Robin, what will the cost be to the family? The film effectively reveals the badly damaged family behind Winnie-the-Pooh and, thanks to the superlative performances, remains a startling and affecting rendering of the incalculable cost of a lost childhood. (107 mins)
BREATHE (12)
When Robin (Andrew Garfield) is struck down by polio at the age of 28, he is confined to a hospital bed and given only a few months to live. With the help of his wife’s twin brothers (both played by Tom Hollander) and the groundbreaking ideas of inventor Teddy Hall (Hugh Bonneville), Robin and his wife Diana (Claire Foy) dare to escape the hospital ward to seek out a full and passionate life together – raising their young son, travelling and devoting their lives to helping other polio patients. Based on a true story, Andy Serkis’s directorial feature debut is so full of laughter that one might easily forget its sombre subject matter. Part exuberant love story, part great escape adventure, this is an old-fashioned tale of triumph over adversity that focuses more on the positive aspect of this remarkable story, which whilst sometimes deeply emotional and hard-hitting, is handled with the utmost care from all involved. (115 mins)
THE DEATH OF STALIN (15)
It is 1953 and Joseph Stalin is in total control of the country. Terrified of making a mistake or saying something that will displease their leader, his ministers constantly walk on eggshells while attempting to appear relaxed and friendly. Stalin’s sudden death, however, shakes up the dynamics within the committee. Tense submissiveness gives way to a general thirst for power, and Lavrentiy Beria (Simon Russell Beale), Nikita Khrushchev (Steve Buscemi) and Georgy Malenkov (Jeffrey Tambor) are all ready to take control. Their desire for personal gain makes them blind to everything else, and their contradicting orders lead to total chaos and violence. Written and directed by Armando Iannucci, the man behind hit TV series The Thick of It, this is history presented as broad comedy, and in an array of English and US street accents. Yet it still manages to convey a real sense of Soviet life during Stalin’s paranoid “Great Terror” and the Kremlin power struggle and purge that followed his death. (106 mins)
THE PARTY (15)
Janet (Kristin Scott Thomas) has just been appointed to a key ministerial position in the shadow cabinet – the crowning achievement of her political career. She and her husband Bill (Timothy Spall) plan to celebrate this with a few close friends. As the guests arrive at their home in London the party takes an unexpected turn when Bill suddenly makes some explosive revelations that take everyone present by surprise. Love, friendships and political convictions are soon called into question in this hilarious comedy of tragic proportions. From acclaimed British filmmaker Sally Potter and featuring a star studded cast that includes Patricia Clarkson, Bruno Ganz, Emily Mortimer and Cillian Murphy, the dialogue is bitterly funny, even while dealing with the darkest of subject matters, touching on politics, family, fidelity and sexuality while maintaining a breezy comic tone. And amid the middle-class intellectual squabbling there’s a palpable sense of tension and danger. (71 mins)
THE MOUNTAIN BETWEEN US (12)
Oscar Winner Kate Winslet and Golden Globe winner Idris Elba star in this survivalist suspense drama. Stranded after a tragic plane crash, two strangers, journalist Alex Martin and neurosurgeon Ben Bass must forge a connection to survive the extreme elements of a remote snow covered mountain. When they realize help is not coming, they embark on a perilous journey across hundreds of miles of wilderness, pushing one another to endure and discovering strength they never knew possible. Director Hany Abu-Assad, in adapting the novel by Charles Martin, succeeds in combining the perilous and intense nature of the protagonist’s situation with a dramatic love story with a life and death element. The cinematography and music are exemplary and, coupled with the superb central performances, the film succeeds as a likeable, witty, romantic adventure film. (112 mins)
BORG VS MCENROE (15)
It's the summer of 1980 and Björn Borg (Sverrir Gudnason) is the top tennis player in the world. A powerful and rigorously disciplined player, there is only one obstacle in his pursuit of a record-breaking fifth Wimbledon championship: the highly talented but ferociously abrasive young American, John McEnroe (a perfectly cast Shia LaBeouf). With each man the antithesis of the other, both players delve into their formative memories as the climactic tournament draws near and anticipation reaches fever pitch. Visceral and breathlessly tense, the match itself--regarded as one of the greatest of all time--would mark the pinnacle of the 'Fire and Ice' rivalry between Borg and McEnroe; an exhilarating battle of personalities that set the world of tennis alight. The film succeeds in making tennis improbably cinematic and the two central performances are superb in this fascinating and absorbing docu-drama. (100 mins)
VICTORIA AND ABDUL (PG)
This is the extraordinary true story of an unexpected friendship in the later years of Queen Victoria's (Judi Dench) remarkable rule. Abdul Karim (Ali Fazal) arrives from India to participate in Queen Victoria's golden jubilee. The young clerk is surprised to find favor with the queen herself. As Victoria questions the constrictions of her long-held position, the two forge an unlikely and devoted alliance with a loyalty to one another that her household and inner circle all attempt to destroy. As their friendship deepens, the queen begins to see a changing world through new eyes, joyfully reclaiming her humanity. Director Stephen Frears skilfully crafts a refreshing, heartfelt and compelling exploration of a remarkable story with Dench’s Oscar worthy turn perfectly matched by Fazal’s nuanced performance to create an irresistible chemistry. With a stella supporting cast of Olivia Williams, Tim Pigott-Smith, Eddie Izzard, Simon Callow & Michael Gambon, this is first rate entertainment. (112 mins)
AMERICAN MADE (15)
Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity) directs this highly engaging crime thriller based on true events. Tom Cruise stars as Barry Seal, a pilot for Trans World Airlines who became a drug smuggler for the Colombian Medellin cartel in the 1980s. After being recruited by the notorious drug lords to move shipments of cocaine from Columbia to an airbase in Mena, Arkansas, Seal also becomes involved with the CIA and DEA who are looking for him to provide information on the Columbian's activities while also secretly transporting weapons into South America for them. However, with the cartel continuing to increase their shipments to the US, it's not long before events begin to spiral out of control. Cruise is terrific as the charming and likeable Seal and the film is smart, funny, insightful and controversial all at once.
The excellent supporting cast includes Domhnall Gleeson, Sarah Wright and Jayma Mays. (115 mins)
DUNKIRK (12)
In May 1940, Germany advanced into France, trapping Allied troops on the beaches of Dunkirk. Under air and ground cover from British and French forces, troops were slowly and methodically evacuated from the beach using every serviceable naval and civilian vessel that could be found. At the end of this heroic mission, 330,000 French, British, Belgian and Dutch soldiers were safely evacuated. Visionary director Christopher Nolan (Inception / The Dark Knight) has created a bold, visceral, intense audience experience that tells three separate stories (land, sea and air) in three different time narratives. The result is a truly powerful spectacle that is also emotionally satisfying with terrific cinematography, sharp editing and a first class ensemble cast that honours the fact-based story. Starring Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy, Mark Rylance and Kenneth Branagh. (107 mins)
QUEEN OF KATWE (PG)
Living in the slums of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle for 14-year-old Phiona (Madina Nalwanga) and her family. Her world changes one day when she meets Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), a missionary who teaches children how to play chess. Phiona becomes fascinated with the game and soon becomes a top player under Katende's guidance. Her success in local competitions and tournaments opens the door to a bright future and a golden chance to escape from a life of poverty. This colourful true story, based on the book by Tim Crothers, is a feel-good movie of uncommon intelligence and passion with outstanding performances. The street scenes are powerfully authentic and the director delivers a thoroughly heart-warming and refreshingly original story, without resorting to cliché, that’s guaranteed to entertain any audience. (124 mins)
THE BEGUILED (15)
Cpl. John McBurney, an injured Union soldier deserter during the Civil War, seeks refuge at an all-female Southern boarding school where the teachers and students seem more than willing to help the handsome but cunning opportunist. As they provide refuge and tend to his wounds, the house is taken over with sexual tension and dangerous rivalries leading to an unexpected turn of events. Directed and adapted by Sofia Coppola from the Thomas Cullinan novel, this atmospheric and intense melodrama expertly captures the chess-like power struggle behind the genteel atmosphere and innocent flirtations. Coppola tells the story with great gusto and insouciant wit and the performances are universally excellent. Starring Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, Elle Fanning & Kirsten Dunst. (93 mins)
TOMMY’S HONOUR (PG)
Based on the powerfully moving true story of the challenging relationship between “old” tom and “young” tommy Morris, this entertaining biographical drama recounts the life of the dynamic father-son team who ushered in the modern game of golf. Through skill, business acumen & working class street smarts, they were the pioneers of professional golf but their lives were touched by drama and personal tragedy. Tommy’s talent & fame grew to outshine his father’s accomplishments as founder of the open championship but his personal turmoil ultimately led him to rebel against both the aristocracy who gave him opportunity, and the parents who shunned his passionate relationship with his wife. Directed by Jason Connery and starring Peter Mullan, Jack Lowden & Sam Neill, this poignant drama serves as both a deeply affecting tribute to a true sporting pioneer, and a testament to the unique bond between father and son. (112 mins)
HAMPSTEAD (12)
Emily (Diane Keaton), an American widow, lives in a converted mansion beside Hampstead Heath in London. Living in a hut on the Heath itself is Donald (Brendan Gleeson), a scruffy hermit who just wants to be left alone. The local council want him gone so that the land can be developed and send threatening letters which he tears up. However, Emily is drawn to his predicament and together they take on the land developers & when the two fall for each other, their on-off romance has to face the prejudices of everyone around them. Loosely based on a true story, this is a charming & funny life-affirming tale about how love surfaces in the most unexpected places & proves age is no barrier to second chances. The sterling cast also includes James Norton, Jason Watkins, Lesley Manville & Simon Callow. (102 mins)
MY COUSIN RACHEL (PG)
Philip is a young Englishman who finds his cousin Ambrose dead after traveling to Italy. He vows revenge against Ambrose's missing wife Rachel, blaming her for his untimely demise. When Philip meets Rachel for the first time, his mood suddenly changes as he finds himself falling for her seductive charm and beauty. As his obsession for her grows, Rachel now hatches a scheme to win back her late husband's estate from the unsuspecting Philip. This latest adaptation of author Daphne Du Maurier’s dark gothic romantic melodrama is beautifully photographed, highlighting the imposing Cornish setting with sumptuous costuming and an atmospheric music score. Rachel Weisz gives a magnetic central performance, with Sam Claflin excellent in support and the novel’s central confusion of exactly who the audience should root for makes this an engrossing and memorable experience. (106 mins)
ALONE IN BERLIN (15)
This true-life tale of courage unfolds against the tumultuous backdrop of Berlin in 1940. Otto (Brendan Gleeson) and Anna Quangel (Emma Thompson) are a working class husband and wife doing their best to ride out the war. When their son is killed fighting on the frontlines, however, everything changes. They begin pouring their rage and grief into postcards emblazoned with anti-Nazi slogans, risking everything to disseminate their messages of protest across the city. But this seemingly small act of subversion rattles the regime, including a police inspector (Daniel Bruhl) who will not rest until the culprits have been caught.
Based on the best selling book and with strong performances, this is a quietly compelling and moving drama that stands as a worthy monument to a pair of decidedly unlikely war heroes. (103 mins)
INTERLUDE IN PRAGUE (15)
1788, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is desperate to escape the frustrating, privileged elite of Vienna. Taking place over the course of several visits to Prague, Mozart (Aneurin Barnard) is invited to the city by Baron Salok (James Purefoy), who bears a reputation for vanity and self-obsession. That said, Mozart feels immediately at home with his new patron, However, his unconventional presence soon unleashes a series of dramatic and tragic events set off by a forbidden affair with a young soprano. Overwhelmed by the tangled web of lust, violence and intrigue that surrounds him, Mozart finds inspiration to create the astonishing and dramatic piece of music that will become the operatic masterpiece Don Giovanni. This is a powerful period drama set to the music of Mozart. Based entirely in Prague, the film captures the splendour of 18th century Baroque theatre through both the sumptuous cinematography and sound and outstanding performances from a cast that also includes Samantha Barks & Dervla Kirwan. (103 mins)
GIFTED (12)
Frank Adler (Chris Evans) is a single man dedicated to raising his spirited young niece Mary (Mckenna Grace), a child prodigy - in a coastal town in Florida. Frank's plans for a normal school life for Mary are foiled when the 7-year-old's mathematical abilities come to the attention of Frank's formidable mother, Evelyn (Lindsay Duncan), whose plans for her granddaughter threaten to separate Frank and Mary. Octavia Spencer joins a superb cast with Evans and Grace giving warm and heartfelt performances in this good - natured story. The astute direction of Marc Webb counterpoints the drama with humour and the result is entertaining, engaging, sweetly funny and moving. (101 mins)
CHURCHILL (PG)
This enthralling drama follows Prime Minister Winston Churchill in the days before the D-Day landings in June 1944. As allied forces stand on the south coast of Britain, poised to invade Nazi-occupied Europe, they await Churchill’s final decision. Fearful of repeating his mistakes from World War I on the beaches of Gallipoli, exhausted by years of war, plagued by depression and obsessed with fulfilling historical greatness, Churchill is also faced with constant criticism from his political opponents. Only the unflinching support of his unflappable wife Clementine can halt his physical and mental collapse and help lead him to greatness. With an original screenplay by British historian Alex von Tunzelmann, performances are first rate with Brian Cox outstanding as Churchill ably supported by Miranda Richardson, John Slattery, Julian Wadham, Richard Durdon & James Purefoy. (98 mins)
THE JOURNEY (12)
With the growing threat of a new generation inspired by the 9/11 attacks to escalate the Northern Ireland conflict to new levels of destruction, both the Catholic Republican and the Protestant Unionist sides are finally persuaded to seriously explore a peace agreement. Unfortunately, the principle negotiators, Democratic Unionist Party leader Ian Paisley (Timothy Spall) and Sinn Fein politician Martin McGuinness (Colm Meaney), are implacable enemies. However with talks about to start, Paisley enjoys his wedding anniversary at home and McGuinness accompanies his enemy to prevent him from being persuaded to abandon this chance for peace. With Prime Minister Tony Blair and MI-5 staff nervously watching from secret cameras, the two foes must bridge the seemingly unbridgeable and change the course of history.
This speculative & fascinating version of the conversation that ended the conflict features winning performances from Spall and Meaney, ably supported by Toby Stephens, Catherine McCormack & John Hurt. (94 mins)
MISS SLOANE (15)
In the high-stakes world of political power - brokers, Elizabeth Sloane (Jessica Chastain) is the most sought-after and formidable lobbyist in Washington. Known equally for her cunning and her track record of success, she has always done whatever is required to win. When asked to help oppose a bill that imposes regulations on firearms, she instead joins a scrappy boutique firm that represents the backers of the law. Her defiant stance and determination to win now makes her the target of powerful new enemies who threaten her career and the people she cares about. This compelling, timely and tense political drama thriller is mesmerising to watch with a razor sharp script and terrific acting, anchored by Chastain’s superbly acerbic and uninhibited central performance. With a supporting cast that includes Mark Strong, John Lithgow & Sam Waterston, this is a political thriller for people who hate politics. (132 mins)
THE ZOOKEEPER’S WIFE (12)
Jessica Chastain and Daniel Brühl star in this moving true life historical drama. Set in the Polish capital Warsaw, the story follows Antonina Zabinski and her husband Jan as they attempt to help as many local Jews as they can following the Nazi invasion in 1939. Horrified by the treatment of their fellow citizens in the city's newly formed ghettos, Antonina and Jan begin covertly working with Polish resistance forces by smuggling hundreds of displaced Jews into their zoo and providing them with shelter and a place to hide. However, with the Nazi's new chief zoologist Lutz Heck making daily visits and becoming increasingly suspicious of their behaviour, the Zabinskis are forced to go to extreme lengths to continue to protect their secret. (121 mins)
LADY MACBETH (15)
Rural England, 1865. Katherine is stifled by her loveless marriage to Alexander, a bitter man twice her age, whose family are cold and unforgiving. When she embarks on a passionate affair with Sebastian - a young worker on her husband’s estate - a force is unleashed inside her, so powerful that she will stop at nothing to get what she wants. This uniquely subversive, stark and ruthless Victorian drama is not an adaptation of the Bard but of Nilolai Leskov’s unsettling novel and yet its is still quintessentially Shakespearian in theme and outlook. William Oldroyd’s direction is chillingly unsettling, complemented by 19 year old Florence Pugh’s remarkable performance in the central role. Backed by expert supporting performances, this is an extraordinarily disquieting drama. (89 mins)
THEIR FINEST (12)
Gemma Arterton plays Catrin, a diffident young Welsh woman with no screenwriting experience, who lands a job making short propaganda films for the Ministry of Information at the height of the Blitz with a makeshift cast and crew. Partnered alongside jaded fellow screenwriter, Buckley (Sam Claflin), the pair set off to make a film that will warm the hearts of the nation as well as capturing the imagination of the American population and inspire the U.S. to enter the war. This charming adaptation of Lissa Evan’s novel is witty, romantic, moving and ultimately uplifting and benefits from beautiful cinematography and impressive set design. The performances are universally excellent with Bill Nighy as a vain and ageing ham and Jeremy Irons as the dictatorial but out-of-touch Secretary of War on top comic form. (117 mins)
A QUIET PASSION (12)
The story of 19th century American poet Emily Dickinson is brought to vivid life, in a remarkably sensitive biopic by director Terence Davies, exploring her early days as a young schoolgirl through to her later years as a recluse. Now recognised as a genius that penned some of the most important verses in American literature, the poet was virtually unknown in her lifetime, leaving behind a legacy of stunning, astute work that still resonates deeply today. Featuring a curated selection of her poems in voiceover, the film details every facet of Dickinson’s character: her wit, her humour and the intimate, close-knit relationship with her family. Cynthia Nixon is superb in the title role, while Davies’ elegant direction allows the audience to connect with the hopes, dreams and disappointments of this influential literary figure. (125 mins)
THE SENSE OF AN ENDING (15)
Divorced Tony (Jim Broadbent) leads a relatively quiet life. One day, he learns that the mother of his university girlfriend, Veronica, left in her will a diary kept by his best friend who dated Veronica after she and Tony parted ways. Tony’s quest to recover the diary, now in the possession of an older Veronica (Charlotte Rampling), forces him to revisit his flawed recollections of his friends and of his younger self. As he digs deeper into his past, can Tony bear to face the truth and take responsibility for the devastating consequences of actions he took so long ago? This beautifully mounted adaptation of the best selling novel maintains intrigue & emotional magnetism as it’s mystery unfolds with excellent performances from a cast that also includes Michelle Dockery, Harriet Walter, Matthew Goode & Emily Mortimer. (108 mins)
VICEROY’S HOUSE (12)
After 300 years, British rule in India was coming to an end & for 6 months in 1947, the last Viceroy Lord Mountbatten was charged with handing India back to its people. Events unfold within that great house as Mountbatten lived upstairs with his wife and daughter & downstairs lived their 500 Hindu, Muslim and Sikh servants. As the political elite converged on the House to wrangle over the birth of independent India, conflict erupted & a decision was taken to divide the country and create Pakistan. Lushly photographed, this is a compelling & fascinating examination of both the political and human aspects of events. The everyday reality of life in the palace is expertly conveyed and the film ably manages the multi–layered story to produce a cohesive & satisfying epic with excellent Performances. Starring Gillian Anderson, Michael Gambon, Hugh Bonneville & Simon Callow. (106 mins)
THE LOST CITY OF Z (15)
Based on the international bestseller, this is the incredible true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett (Charlie Hunnam), who journeys into the Amazon at the dawn of the 20th century and discovers evidence of a previously unknown, advanced civilization. Despite being ridiculed by the scientific establishment, which views indigenous populations as savages, the determined Fawcett — supported by his devoted wife, son and aid de camp — returns to his beloved jungle in an attempt to prove his case. This culminated in his mysterious disappearance in 1925.
An epic tale of courage and passion, told in writer/director James Gray’s classic filmmaking style, the film is a stirring tribute to the exploratory spirit and a conflicted adventurer driven to the verge of obsession. With Sienna Miller, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson & Franco Nero. (141 mins)
HIDDEN FIGURES (PG)
This is the untold true story of three brilliant African-American female mathematicians working at NASA - Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson – who served a vital role in one of the greatest operations in the early years of the space programme: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. This stunning achievement restored the nation's confidence, turned around the Space Race and galvanized the world. This heart warming crowd pleaser expertly conveys the mood of the time as this visionary trio crossed all gender and race lines to inspire generations to dream big. Octavia Spencer, Taraji P. Henson and Janelle Monae are superb as the central trio with expert support from Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons & Kevin Costner. (127mins)
THE HATTON GARDEN JOB (15)
A remarkable true story set over one long Easter weekend in 2015, the film follows four ageing East End criminals led by 76 year-old Brian Reader and one mystery man who pull off the largest heist in English legal history. With everyone from the Hungarian mob to Scotland Yard on their tail, these old-school and just plain old villains set about achieving the seemingly impossible - drilling into a steel-and-concrete secured safety deposit vault in London’s exclusive Hatton Garden jewellery quarter. But will they commit the crime of the century or pay with their lives? Starring Matthew Goode, Larry Lamb, Phil Daniels, Joely Richardson, David Calder & Clive Russell. (89 mins)
MOONLIGHT (15)
The tender, heartbreaking story of a young man's struggle to find himself, told across three defining chapters in his life as he experiences the ecstasy, pain, and beauty of falling in love and struggling to find his place in the world while growing up in a deprived neighbourhood of Miami. Nominated for multiple Oscar and BAFTA awards and winning the best film Oscar, the film is a timeless story of human connection and self-discovery. Beautifully photographed and superbly directed, this elegant and profoundly sensitive meditation on coming of age is a sobering and ultimately rewarding look at lives too rarely seen in cinema with stand out performances from Naomi Harris and Ashton Sanders. (110 mins)
THE FOUNDER (12)
The incredible true story of how Ray Kroc (Michael Keaton), a salesman from Illinois, met Mac and Dick McDonald, who were running a burger operation in 1950s Southern California. So impressed by the brothers' 'speedy system' Kroc risked his marriage, bankruptcy and his reputation to create a billion-dollar empire that revolutionised the world. From director John Lee Hancock (Saving Mr. Banks) and writer Robert D. Siegel comes a stunning and shocking portrayal of the man whose hunger for the American Dream ate away everything he knew. Keaton's magnetic performance is at the center of a smart, entertaining & satisfying biopic that traces the rise of one of America's most influential businessmen. With Nick Offerman, Laura Dern & John Caroll Lynch. (115 mins)
LOVING (12A)
From acclaimed writer/director Jeff Nichols, the film celebrates the real-life courage and commitment of an interracial couple, Richard and Mildred Loving, who married and then spent the next nine years fighting for the right to live as a family in their hometown. Their civil rights case, Loving v. Virginia, went all the way to the Supreme Court, which in 1967 reaffirmed the very foundation of the right to marry - and their love story has become an inspiration to couples ever since. Nichols takes an understated approach to telling a painful -- and still relevant -- real-life tale, with sensitive performances breathing additional life into a superlative historical drama. Starring Joel Edgerton, Ruth Negga, Will Dalton and Michael Shannon. (123 mins)
T2 TRAINSPOTTING (18)
First there was an opportunity......then there was a betrayal. Twenty years have gone by since the events of the original film. Much has changed but just as much remains the same. Mark Renton returns to the only place he can ever call home. They are waiting for him: Spud, Sick Boy and Begbie. Other old friends are waiting too with sorrow, loss, joy, vengeance, hatred, friendship, love, longing, fear, regret, diamorphine, self-destruction and mortal danger all lined up to welcome him and join the dance. Director Danny Boyle expertly adds an intoxicating, emotionally resonant postscript to his classic predecessor helped by fine performances from his original cast of Ewan McGregor, Ewen Brenner, Jonny Lee Miller, Kelly Macdonald & Robert Carlyle. (118mins)
JACKIE (15)
After her husband's assassination, Jackie Kennedy's (Natalie Portman) world is completely shattered. Traumatized and reeling with grief, over the course of the next week she must confront the unimaginable: consoling their two young children, vacating the home she painstakingly restored and planning her husband's funeral. Jackie quickly realizes that the next seven days will determine how history will define her husband's legacy - and how she herself will be remembered. Nominated for three BAFTAs, including Best Leading Actress (Portman), and the Golden Globe Award for Best Performance By an Actress, this is a meticulous and engrossing biographical drama with a mesmerizing central performance. With Peter Sarsgaard, John Hurt & Richard E. Grant. (100 mins)
LION (PG)
Five-year-old Saroo gets lost on a train travelling away from his home and family in India. Frightened and bewildered, he ends up thousands of miles away, in chaotic Kolkata. Somehow he survives living on the dangerous streets until he is adopted by an Australian couple and finds love and security. He suppresses his past but a chance meeting reawakens his buried yearning. With just memories and the help of Google technology, Saroo embarks on one of the greatest needle-in-a-haystack quests of modern times to find his lost mother and brother. This is an emotional, uplifting and deeply moving true story of courage and determination. Starring Dev Patel, Rooney Mara, David Wenham & Nicole Kidman. (120 mins)
HACKSAW RIDGE (15)
The true story of World War 2 army medic Desmond T. Doss (Andrew Garfield), who won the Congressional Medal of Honor despite refusing to bear arms on religious grounds. Doss was drafted and ostracized by fellow soldiers for his pacifist stance but went on to earn respect and adoration for his bravery, selflessness and compassion after he risked his life -- without firing a shot -- to save 75 men in the Battle of Okinawa. This unflinching and brutal drama is ultimately a gripping wartime tribute to faith, valour and the courage of remaining true to one’s convictions. Garfield is outstanding in the central role with expert direction from Mel Gibson. (139 mins)
MANCHESTER BY THE SEA (15)
After the death of his older brother Joe, Lee (Casey Affleck) is shocked that Joe has made him sole guardian of his teenage nephew Patrick. Taking leave of his job as a janitor in Boston, Lee reluctantly returns to Manchester-by-the-Sea, the fishing village where his working-class family has lived for generations. There, he is forced to deal with a past that separated him from his wife and the community where he was born and raised. This critically acclaimed, richly enveloping Oscar winner is a masterfully told and beautifully textured elegy of loss and grief. Affleck’s central performance deservedly garnered him both Oscar and BAFTA awards and he is ably supported by a cast that includes Michelle Williams, Kyle Chandler & Lucas Hedges. (137 mins)
COLLATERAL BEAUTY (12)
When successful New York advertising executive Howard (Will Smith) suffers a great tragedy he retreats from life. While his concerned friends try desperately to reconnect with him, he seeks answers from the universe by writing letters to Love, Time and Death. But it’s not until his notes bring unexpected personal responses that he begins to understand how these constants interlock in a life fully lived, and how even the deepest loss can reveal moments of meaning and beauty. From Oscar-winning director David Frankel (The Devil Wears Prada), this thought-provoking drama features an all-star cast, including Edward Norton, Keira Knightley, Naomie Harris, Kate Winslet and Helen Mirren. (97 mins)
A MONSTER CALLS (12)
Based on the bestselling novel, this fantasy drama adaptation showcases Young Conor (Lewis MacDougall) who struggles to deal with his mother’s terminal illness, the heartless grandmother he must stay with and the bullying he receives at school. Gripped by guilt, anger and fear, Conor is given support from an unlikely source: a drawing of a great, ancient tree monster (voice of Liam Neeson) that comes to life. The monster visits Conor at night to tell him stories and help him come to terms with his difficult situation & face his problems directly with courage and conviction. Balancing dark themes & fairy tale elements, this visually impressive fantasy drama manages to inspire, move and entertain. With Felicity Jones & Sigourney Weaver. (108 mins)
ALLIED (15)
In 1942 North Africa, Canadian intelligence officer Max Vatan (Brad Pitt) encounters French Resistance fighter Marianne Beausejour (Marion Cotillard) on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Reunited in London with plans to marry, their relationship is threatened by the extreme pressures of the war as heavy clouds of distrust and suspicion threaten their relationship, when Max receives a call from the Secret Service claiming that Marianne is actually an impostor. This deft and diverting large -scale epic romantic adventure oozes class and recalls the glossy heyday of Hollywood cinema. The expert direction of veteran Robert Zemeckis is complemented by the handsome photography, sumptuous set design and compelling central performances. (124 mins)
SULLY (12)
On January 15, 2009, the world witnessed the “Miracle on the Hudson” when Captain “Sully” Sullenberger glided his disabled plane onto the frigid waters of the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 aboard. However, even as Sully was being heralded by the public and the media for his unprecedented feat of aviation skill, an investigation was unfolding that threatened to destroy his reputation and his career. Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Tom Hanks as Sully, with Aaron Eckhart and Laura Linney, this is a thoroughly engrossing drama of quiet, unfussy heroism with a characteristically authoritative and likeable performance from Hanks as the eponymous pilot, anchored to an ingenious screenplay depicting the clash of instinctive decision making v red tape bureaucracy. (96 mins)
ARRIVAL (12)
When mysterious spacecraft’s land across the globe, an elite team - lead by expert linguist Louise Banks - is brought together to investigate. As mankind teeters on the verge of global war, Banks and the team race against time for answers - and to find them, she will take a chance that could threaten her life, and quite possibly humanity. This unusually delicate epic is both exciting and emotional in its treatment of an alien threat. The plausible scenario with it’s intriguing plot twists and intelligent script and direction are complemented a moving performance from Amy Adams as Banks. With Jeremy Renner and Forest Whitaker. (116 mins)
A UNITED KINGDOM (12)
From director Amma Asante (Belle), starring David Oyelowo (Selma) and Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl) and set against the breath-taking backdrops of the African savannah and period London, this critically acclaimed romantic drama celebrates the inspiring real-life romance of Seretse Khama, King of Bechuanaland (modern Botswana), and Ruth Williams, the London office worker he married in 1948 in the face of fierce opposition from their families and the British and South African governments. A soaring love story, the film expertly recreates a long-forgotten chapter of Britain’s history – one of political intrigue, “subversive” racism and colonialism – one in which love crosses all boundaries and taboos. (111 mins)
THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS (12)
This compelling adaptation of the best selling novel stars Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz. The beautiful and heart-breaking story highlights the infinite power of love, the overwhelming fear of loss and the complexities of human nature that bind the two. When lighthouse keeper tom sherbourne and his wife isabel discover a baby adrift in a boat off the remote coast off Western Australia, they must make a choice. Having already suffered two miscarriages, they decide to raise the child as their own and the shattering consequences of this choice will change their lives forever. (132 mins)
NOCTURNAL ANIMALS (15)
A wealthy art gallery owner is haunted by her ex-husband's novel, a violent thriller she interprets as a symbolic revenge tale. Based on Austin Wright’s 1993 novel Tony And Susan, director Tom Ford’s ambitious screenplay is effectively two films in one, as bored art gallery owner Susan takes delivery of the debut novel – also called Nocturnal Animals – by her ex, Tony. As Susan reads, Ford takes us into her mind, imagining Tony as the story’s hero: a mild-mannered, bookish husband who is forced into the role of avenging vigilante after his wife and daughter are kidnapped. This bitter, highly stylish and visceral dramatic thriller is gorgeously photographed and propelled by first rate performances from Amy Adams and Jake Gyllenhaal as the central protagonists. A star studded supporting cast includes Laura Linney, Michael Shannon, Aaron Taylor Johnson, Isla Fisher and Michael Sheen. (117 mins)
A STREETCAT NAMED BOB (12)
Based on the true life story and international best-selling book, this is a moving and uplifting film that will touch the heart of everyone. When London busker and recovering drug addict James Bowen finds injured ginger street cat Bob in his sheltered accommodation, he has no idea just how much his life is about to change. The fact-based feelgood tale is the inspiration for an unapologetically heartwarming movie that will move all but the most cynical of viewers. Starring Luke Treadaway, Joanne Froggatt and Anthony Head. (103 mins)
I, DANIEL BLAKE (15)
Ken Loach directs this moving drama that follows a 59-year-old joiner as he tries to navigate the British benefits system. Widower Daniel (Dave Johns) is forced to stop working when he is taken ill with heart disease and so applies for Employment and Support Allowance from the Government. Forced to jump through the many hoops of the bureaucratic system to receive benefits, he meets single mother Katie (Hayley Squires) whose financial problems mean she is being forced out of her home along with her two kids. The film was nominated for five BAFTAs including Best Film, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress (Squires). (100 mins)
CAFÉ SOCIETY (12)
Woody Allen writes and directs this comedy drama starring Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart and Steve Carell. In the 1930s, young New Yorker Bobby travels to Los Angeles to work for his uncle Phil, a prominent Hollywood agent. Phil assigns Vonnie, one of his office assistants, to show Bobby the sights of L.A. Their sightseeing rendezvous eventually turn romantic, but are stymied by the existence of Vonnie’s pre-existing but mysteriously absent boyfriend. When the gossamer-thin secret of this love triangle is revealed, Bobby moves back to New York to manage a nightclub owned by his gangster brother, where he becomes enthralled by New York's high society. This fluffy and charming confection features excellent performances and exquisite cinematography. (96 mins)
DEEPWATER HORIZON (12)
Mark Wahlberg, John Malkovitch, Kurt Russell and Kate Hudson star in this compelling drama based on real events. On April 20th, 2010, one of the world’s largest man-made disasters occurred on the Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico, when an offshore drilling rig exploded through technical failure, creating the worst oil spill in US history. Electrician Mike Williams and the rest of the crew face a desperate fight to survive as burning oil causes fires to spread throughout the deck. With the tragedy unfolding live on TV, this story honours the brave men and women whose heroism would save many on board, and change everyone’s lives forever. (108 mins)
HELL OR HIGH WATER (15)
Texas brothers, Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster), come together after years divided to rob branches of the bank threatening to foreclose on their family land. Vengeance seems to be theirs, until they find themselves on the radar of Texas Ranger, Marcus (Jeff Bridges) looking for one last grand pursuit on the eve of his retirement. As the brothers plot a final bank heist with the Rangers on their heels, a showdown looms at the crossroads where the values of the old and new west collide. This taut, tense & deceptively simple tale is both a heist thriller & vivid modern Western drama. The cracking script, with its acidic humour is a nostalgic tribute to traditional Hollywood film–making & is complemented by the spectacular cinematography and terrific performances. (102 mins)
HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE (12)
Raised in foster care, defiant orphan Ricky gets a fresh start in the New Zealand countryside. He quickly finds himself at home with his new foster family: the loving Aunt Bella, the grumpy Uncle Hec, and dog Tupac. When a tragedy strikes that threatens to ship Ricky to another home, both he and Hec go on the run in the bush. As a national manhunt ensues, the newly branded outlaws must assess their options: go out in a blaze of glory or overcome their differences and survive as a family. A charming, funny adventure drama with endearing characters and expert direction. Starring Sam Neill, Julian Dennison and Rhys Darby. (97 mins)
CAPTAIN FANTASTIC (15)
Deep in the forests of the Pacific Northwest, Ben (Viggo Mortensen) lives with his six children, isolated from the modern world. The devoted father has dedicated his life to raising his kids with a rigorous physical and intellectual education and instilled in them a rare and primal connection to the natural world until a tragedy strikes and the family is forced to leave their self-created paradise. Suddenly the children must face the excitement and perils of an unfamiliar world, while Ben is compelled to re-examine what it means to be a parent. This beautifully acted film is profound, original, laced with humour and heart and resonates with truth while the unexpected twists add up to an absorbing and eminently watchable family drama. (118 mins)
WAR DOGS (15)
Two Miami based friends in their early 20s during the Iraq War exploit a little-known government initiative that allows small businesses to bid on U.S. Military contracts. Starting small, they begin raking in big money and are living the high life. But the pair gets in over their heads when they land a $300 million deal to arm the Afghan Military—a deal that puts them in business with some very shady people and the U.S. Government. This exuberant comedic drama, based on actual events, boasts terrific central performances from Jonah Hill and Miles Teller and tells a compelling story that is funny, cynical, exciting and very entertaining. The fact that the story is implausible but true proves that truth really can be stranger than fiction. With Kevin Pollack & Bradley Cooper. (114 mins)
THE BEATLES: EIGHT DAYS A WEEK - THE TOURING YEARS (12)
The Beatles stormed Europe in 1963 & conquered America in 1964.Their groundbreaking world tours changed global youth culture forever but the relentless pressure of such unprecedented fame led to the decision to stop touring. Master storyteller and Oscar winner, Ron Howard (Apollo 13, The Da Vinci Code) explores this incredible journey: How did The Beatles do this? How did they cope with all the fame and pressure & go on to revolutionise popular music? With original interviews, footage, staggering live performances, and the intimate study of character that Ron Howard is known for, he puts us right inside this extraordinary adventure, answering the question everyone always wants to know: What was it like to be there? (138 mins)
A HOLOGRAM FOR THE KING (12)
This low key but engaging comedy drama stars Tom Hanks as struggling American businessman Alan Clay. Desperate to recoup lost earnings, pay for his daughter's tuition fees & find direction in his life, Clay travels to Saudi Arabia in an attempt to secure a lucrative IT contract with a wealthy Saudi king. After discovering that the king hasn't visited the development in 18 months and, facing the sack, Clay must find the money and willpower to make his project a success and turn his fortunes around. Portraying Clay’s uneven journey of self–discovery as he tries to come to terms with the customs of a foreign land, Hanks expertly draws on his dramatic & comic acting skills anchored to a solid supporting cast that includes Alexander Black, Ben Whishaw, Sarita Choudhury, Tom Skerritt and Sidse Babett Knudsen. (98 mins)
ME BEFORE YOU (12)
Young and quirky Louisa Lou (Emilia Clarke) moves from one job to the next to help her family make ends meet. Her cheerful attitude is put to the test when she becomes a caregiver for Will (Sam Claflin), a wealthy young banker left paralyzed from an accident two years earlier. Will's cynical outlook starts to change when Louisa shows him that life is worth living. As their bond deepens, their lives and hearts change in ways neither one could have imagined. This romantic tear jerker also stars Jenna Coleman, Brendan Coyle & Charles Dance. (110 mins)
MONEY MONSTER (15)
Lee Gates (George Clooney) is a bombastic TV personality whose popular financial network show has made him the money wiz of Wall Street. However after he promotes a high tech stock that mysteriously crashes, an irate investor (Jack O’Connell) takes Gates, his crew and his ace producer Patty Fenn (Julia Roberts) hostage live on air. Unfolding in real time, Gates and Fenn must find a way to keep themselves alive while simultaneously uncovering the truth behind a conspiracy at the heart of today's fast-paced, high-tech global markets. Director Jodie Foster expertly directs this entertaining and topical fast moving thriller that combines wit, style and impressive performances from a charismatic cast. (98 mins)
LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP (U)
Kate Beckinsale stars as Lady Susan, a high-class widow whose waning finances threaten her status and lifestyle. The sharp-tongued, seductive & manipulative beauty sets her sights on charming Reginald de Courcy in the hope of a marriage and financial security. Her plans are disrupted with the arrival of her daughter Frederica, upon whom Lady Susan thrusts the dull, but extremely wealthy, Sir James Martin. With Chloë Sevigny, Stephen Fry, Xavier Samuel & Tom Bennett, this critically acclaimed and genuinely funny adaptation of Jane Austen’s novella is a rapier sharp comedy that is highly entertaining. (93 mins)
RACE (PG)
Young Jesse Owens (Stephan James) becomes a track and field sensation while attending the Ohio State University in the early 1930s. Soon Owens gains national recognition for breaking numerous records. After heated debates, the United States decides not to boycott the Olympics in Nazi Germany. Overcoming racism at home and abroad, Owens seizes the opportunity to show Berlin and the world that he's the fastest man alive. This is an enthralling biography about courage, determination, tolerance and friendship and an inspiring drama about one man’s fight to become an Olympic legend. The excellent cast includes Jason Sudeikis, Carice Van Houten, Jeremy Irons & William Hurt. (134 mins)
LEARNING TO DRIVE (15)
Wendy (Patrician Clarkson), a fiery Manhattan book critic, is shocked to reality by the sudden end of her marriage. Always dependent on her husband for driving, she must now learn to take the wheel on her own. Her instructor Darwan (Ben Kingsley) is a Sikh Indian taxi driver, who watches with alarm as his pupil falls apart at the seams. Contemplating an arranged marriage with a woman he has never met, Darwan shows Wendy how to take control of the wheel and she coaches him on how to impress a woman & their unlikely friendship awakens them to the joy, humor, and love in starting life anew. With strong central performances, this is a charming & poignant cross culture tale. (90 mins)
BLACK MOUNTAIN POETS (15)
Two professional con artist sisters Lisa (Alice Lowe) and Claire (Dolly Wells) go on the run & assume the identities of the owners of their escape vehicle – performance poets called The Wilding Sisters, guest stars of the Poet’s Society retreat in the depths of the Welsh-English border. Thinking this will be an easy task, they don’t count on the presence of handsome poet Richard (Tom Cullen) and his jealous girlfriend Louise (Rosa Robson). Competing for a large cash prize, can they survive the competition and learn to appreciate the powerful beauty of the Black Mountains? This improvised, delightfully breezy low budget tale boasts a sparklingly witty script and a host of terrific performances. (85 mins)
SING STREET (12)
In 1980’s Dublin, an economic recession forces Conor (Ferdia Walsh-Peelo) out of his comfortable private school and into survival mode at the inner-city public school. He finds hope in the mysterious Raphina (Lucy Boynton), and to win her heart he invites her to star in his non-existent band’s music videos. She agrees so Conor immerses himself in the vibrant rock music trends of the ‘80s by forming a band with a few lads, and the group pours their hearts into writing lyrics and shooting videos. Combining director John Carney’s trademark warmth and humour and featuring a memorable soundtrack with hits from The Cure, Duran Duran, The Police and Genesis, this is a delightful coming-of-age film with engaging performances, to get you dancing in your seat. (106 mins)
DESPITE THE FALLING SNOW (15)
After an early career amongst the political elite of Cold War Russia, Alexander Ivanov has lived in America for forty years and has managed to bury the tragic memories surrounding his charismatic late wife, Katya or so he believes. For into his life come two women- one who will start to open up the heart he has protected for so long; another who is determined to uncover the truth about what really happened to Katya all those years ago. As we journey back to the snowbound streets of post-Stalinist Moscow what is revealed is a precarious, dangerous world of secrets and treachery. Adapted from Shamim Sarif’s book, this old school romantic thriller stars Rebecca Ferguson, Charles Dance, Anthony Head & Antje Traue. (93 mins)
THE DAUGHTER (15)
Broadly based on Henrik Ibsen’s play The Wild Duck, this deeply involving drama is transposed to contemporary Australia where Christian returns to his family home for his father Henry’s wedding to the much younger Anna. He soon reconnects with his childhood friend Oliver, who is out of a job since working at Henry’s timber mill, and unearths a long buried secret that could tear Oliver’s family apart. However, in trying to right the wrongs of the past, his actions threaten to shatter the lives of those he left behind years before. This moody, beautifully filmed and multi layered character drama boasts pitch perfect performances from it’s pedigree cast. Starring Geoffrey Rush, Sam Neil, Anna Torv, Odessa Young, Ewen Leslie & Paul Schneider. (96 mins)
FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS (PG)
This is the inspirational true story of the eponymous New York heiress and socialite who obsessively pursued her dream of becoming a great singer. The voice Florence (Meryl Streep) heard in her head was divine, but to the rest of the world it was hilariously awful. At private recitals, her devoted husband and manager, St Clair Bayfield (Hugh Grant), managed to protect Florence from the truth. But when Florence decided to give her first public concert at New York’s Carnegie Hall, St Clair realised he had perhaps bitten off more than he could chew. The comedy drama directed by Stephen Frears (Philomena, The Queen) celebrates the human spirit, the power of music and the passion of amateurs everywhere. (110 mins)
THE MAN WHO KNEW INFINITY (12)
Written and directed by Matthew Brown, this biographical drama is the true story of a friendship that forever changed mathematics. In 1913, Srinivasa Ramanujan (Dev Patel), a self-taught mathematics genius from a poor family in Madras, India, traveled to Trinity College, Cambridge, where over the course of five years, forged a bond with his mentor, the brilliant and eccentric professor, G.H. Hardy (Jeremy Irons), and fought against prejudice and the reactionary conservatism of the British establishment to reveal his mathematic genius to the world. With a stella cast that includes Stephen Fry, Jeremy Northam, Kevin McNally and Toby Jones, this is a fascinating and rewarding biopic. (108 mins)
EYE IN THE SKY (15)
Col. Katherine Powell (Helen Mirren), a military officer in command of a secret drone operation to capture a group of dangerous terrorists in Kenya, sees her mission escalate when a girl enters the target zone. With unforeseen collateral damage now entering the equation, the loaded decision of when to strike is passed to politicians and lawyers as the seconds tick down. Critically acclaimed and directed with nail-biting tension by Gavin Hood, the film addresses the very real moral question of conscience and ethics in modern warfare. Like the protagonists, the viewer is faced with a situation with no easy answers and the performances from Mirren and Alan Rickman in his final role are outstanding in this compelling, character driven and incredibly taught political thriller. (102 mins)
REMEMBER (15)
Zev Guttman (Christopher Plummer) is a 90-year-old struggling with memory loss in a retirement home. After the death of his beloved wife Ruth, he receives a mysterious package from his close friend Max (Martin Landau). Both Zev and Max were prisoners in Auschwitz and the same guard was responsible for the death of both their families and after the war escaped Germany and has been living in the U.S. ever since under an assumed identity. Despite the obvious challenges, Zev sets out on a mission to deliver long-delayed justice with his own trembling hand. A remarkable cross-continent road-trip ensues with surprising consequences in this beautifully acted and memorable thriller. (94 mins)
EDDIE THE EAGLE (PG)
Michael Edwards (Taron Egerton) has an unflinching determination to become Great Britain’s first Olympic ski-jumper. Reluctantly aided by former ski-jumper Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman) as his coach, Eddie is unwavering in his quest to reach the 1988 Calgary Winter Games. Based on actual events, this critically acclaimed crowd pleaser is a genuinely uplifting, inspirational story of a sporting underdog that celebrates human spirit, passion, and one man’s refusal to accept defeat. The classy direction perfectly combines drama and comedy with terrific performances from a cast that includes Christopher Walken, Jo Hartley & Tim McInnerney. (106 mins)
A BIGGER SPLASH (15)
The lives of a high profile couple, a famous rock star (Tilda Swinton) and a filmmaker (Matthias Schoenaerts), vacationing and recovering on an idyllic sun-drenched and remote Italian island, are disrupted by the unexpected visit of an iconoclast record producer & old flame (Ralph Fiennes) and his seductive daughter (Dakota Johnson) – creating a whirlwind of jealousy, passion and intrigue for everyone involved. This unusual and stylish art -house erotic drama from director Luca Guadagnino is an offbeat blend of erotic sensuality and unorthodox crime drama, beautifully photographed in the idyllic Mediterranean with excellent performances from it’s central cast. (120 mins)
TRUMBO (15)
In 1947, Dalton Trumbo (Bryan Cranston) was Hollywood’s top screenwriter (Roman Holiday, Spartacus) until he and other artists fell foul of the notorious House Un-American Activities Committee & were jailed and blacklisted for their political beliefs. Cleverly merging actual newsreel & scenes from films of the period, the film recounts how Trumbo used words and wit to win two Academy Awards and expose the absurdity & injustice of the blacklist, which entangled everyone from vitriolic gossip columnist Hedda Hopper to stars like John Wayne & Kirk Douglas. This fascinating examination of a chaotic period in Hollywood history boats a magnetic Oscar nominated performance from Cranston and solid support from Helen Mirren, Diane Lane, John Goodman & Elle Fanning. (124 mins)
THE FINEST HOURS (12)
In 1952, a massive storm splits the SS Pendleton in two, trapping more than 30 sailors inside the tanker's sinking stern. Engineer Ray Sybert takes charge to organize a strategy for his fellow survivors. As word of the disaster reaches the US Coast Guard, a daring rescue mission is set in motion against incredible odds. Based on actual events, this harrowing and spectacular battle with mother nature at her most ferocious boasts stunning cinematography, a tense narrative and excellent performances from a cast that includes Chris Pine, Eric Bana and Casey Affleck. (117 mins)
THE REVENANT (15)
Inspired by true events, this 2016 multi Oscar winning drama is an epic story of survival and transformation on the American frontier. While on an expedition into the uncharted wilderness, explorer Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) is brutally mauled by a bear, then abandoned by members of his own hunting team. Alone and near death, Glass refuses to succumb. Driven by sheer will and his love for his Native American wife and son, he undertakes a 200-mile odyssey through the vast and untamed West on the trail of the man who betrayed him. What begins as a relentless quest for revenge becomes a heroic saga against all odds towards home and redemption. With Tom Hardy, Domhnall Gleeson & Will Poulter. (156 mins)
CONCUSSION (12)
Will Smith stars in this dramatic thriller based on the incredible true David vs. Goliath story of American immigrant Dr. Bennet Omalu, the brilliant forensic neuro-pathologist who made the first discovery of a football-related brain trauma, CTE, in a pro player and fought for the truth to be known. Omalu’s emotional quest puts him at dangerous odds with one of the most powerful and beloved institutions in the world. With Alec Baldwin, Albert Brooks & David Morse. (123 mins)
SPOTLIGHT (15)
A dedicated team of investigative journalists at The Boston Globe known as ‘Spotlight’ pride themselves on their relentless dedication to exposing the truth of society’s ills and bringing the guilty to account. The team begin to uncover a scandal revolving around allegations of child abuse within the Catholic Church and the willful ignorance of those in power who have ignored it. Facing political opposition and resistance from the far-reaching influences of the Church, the reporters uncover an explosively dark exposé. This 2016 Oscar winning biographical drama is riveting and timely with superb performances from a cast that includes Michael Keaton, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel McAdams & Stanley Tucci. (129 mins)
THE BIG SHORT (15)
Four denizens in the world of high-finance predict the credit and housing bubble collapse of the mid-2000s and decide to take on the big banks for their greed and lack of foresight. Recognizing just how insane the housing bubble and mortgage market had become, these investors worked out how to "short" the market and make a killing during the impending financial collapse. This riveting drama, based on real events, is a thought provoking critique of a system built on greed that also brings out the witty, absurd and near farcical nature of the situation. The terrific cast includes Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling, Brad Pitt, Steve Carell & Marisa Tomei. (130 mins)
CREED (12A)
Sylvester Stallone and Michael B. Jordan star in this critically acclaimed spin-off of the Rocky film series. Adonis Johnson Creed never knew his father Apollo, a world heavy-weight boxing champion who died in the ring. Adonis is also determined to become a champion boxer and, to hone his skills, he heads to Philadelphia to ask his dad's former rival and friend Rocky Balboa to coach him, but the young fighter will have his work cut out for him as he is about to face an incredibly tough opponent. Stallone won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor and was nominated for the Oscar in this heartfelt, intelligent & exhilaratingly well-crafted drama. (133 mins)
ROOM (15)
Both highly suspenseful and deeply emotional, this is a unique and unexpectedly tender exploration of the boundless love between a mother and her child under the most harrowing of circumstances. After 5-year old Jack and his Mother escape from the enclosed surroundings that Jack has known his entire life, the boy makes a thrilling discovery: the outside world. As he experiences all the joy, excitement, and fear that this new adventure brings, he holds tight to the one thing that matters most of all—his special bond with his loving and devoted Mother. Brie Larson won both the Oscar and BAFTA for her remarkable performance. (118 mins)
THE DANISH GIRL (15)
Based on the book by David Ebershoff, this is the remarkable love story inspired by the lives of Danish artist Einar Wegener and his wife Gerda in the 1920’s, as they navigate Einar’s groundbreaking journey as a transgender pioneer to become Lili Elbe. Starring Oscar winning Eddie Redmayne (The Theory of Everything) and Alicia Vikander and directed by Tom Hooper (The King’s Speech, Les Misérables), this sumptuous production is enthralling, tasteful story telling with beautiful cinematography and a lush musical score. (120 mins)
THE HATEFUL EIGHT (18)
Wyoming in the 1870s and a stagecoach heads towards the town of Red Rock with two passengers onboard. One is Ruth (Kurt Russell), a celebrated bounty hunter. The other is Daisy (Jennifer Jason Leigh), his prisoner and wanted for murder. Along the way they pick up bounty hunter, Major Warren (Samuel L Jackson), and a sheriff (Walton Goggins). Forced to hole up in a store out of town due to a blizzard with the occupants of another stagecoach, suspicions commence and Civil War enmities are reawakened. This stylish, violent & visually stunning mystery western is written & directed by Quentin Tarantino & also stars Bruce Dern, Channing Tatum, Michael Madsen & Tim Roth. (168 mins)
IN THE HEART OF THE SEA (12)
In the winter of 1820, a New England whaling shiip was assaulted by a whale of mammoth size and will with an almost human sense of vengeance. This real-life maritime disaster would inspire Herman Melville's 'Moby-Dick'. This film details the harrowing aftermath, as the ship's surviving crew is pushed to their limits and forced to do the unthinkable to stay alive. The men brave storms, starvation, panic and despair, as their captain searches for direction on the open sea and his first mate still seeks to bring the great whale down. This dramatic spectacle, with outstanding visual effects, is directed by Oscar winner Ron Howard from Nathaniel Philbrick’s best selling book. Starring Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson, Ben Whishaw & Michelle Fairley. (122 mins)
JOY (12)
Jennifer Lawrence stars in this biographical drama about Joy Mangano, the inventor of the Miracle Mop. Single mother of three Joy has always dreamed of a better life for her family but is constantly undermined by her dysfunctional family. When a Home Shopping Network executive backs her idea for a self-wringing mop, Joy's life takes a dramatic turn as she finds her identity changing from mother to inventor and entrepreneur. This delightful, offbeat humerous drama won Lawrence the Golden Globe Award & the outstanding cast includes Robert De Niro, Bradley Cooper, Virginia Madsen & Isabella Rossellini. (124 mins)
GRANDMA (15)
In this enjoyable comedy drama, Elle Reid (Lily Tomlin) has just gotten through breaking up with her girlfriend when her granddaughter Sage (Julia Garner) unexpectedly shows up needing 600 dollars to terminate her unwanted pregnancy. Temporarily broke, Grandma Elle and Sage spend the day trying to get their hands on the cash as their unannounced visits to old friends and flames end up rattling skeletons and digging up secrets. Lily Tomlin was nominated for a Golden Globe for her outstanding performance as the unconventional, acerbic, crusty pensioner with a heart of gold. (79 mins)
BRIDGE OF SPIES (12)
Tom Hanks stars in Steven Spielberg’s absorbing historical drama, set during the Cold War. When Rudolf Abel (Mark Rylance) sits down on a park bench in New York, a secret message left for him causes the FBI to arrest him under suspicion of being a Soviet spy. When insurance lawyer James B. Donovan is assigned to Abel's defence, he finds his new challenge increasingly difficult as the defendent refuses to co-operate. The cast also includes Amy Ryan and Alan Alda. This very human drama, with it’s literate script, boasts terrific performances and was nominated for five Academy Awards including Best Picture. (141 mins)
BLACK MASS (15)
Johnny Depp portrays real-life gang leader James 'Whitey' Bulger in this powerful biographical crime drama. It's 1975 and Winter Hill Gang leader Whitey's hold over South Boston is strengthened when he agrees to turn informant against rival gangs at the request of FBI agent John Connolly, a friend of Whitey and his senator brother Billy. However, Whitey uses his connection with the agent as a cover for committing murder and Connolly's control over his informant is scrutinised by his bosses. Depp’s chilling central performance is complemented by a cast that features Joel Edgerton, Benedict Cumberbatch, Kevin Bacon, Peter Sarsgaard & Dakota Johnson. (123 mins)
THE DRESSMAKER (12)
Jocelyn Moorhouse directs this quirky bittersweet revenge comedy melodrama starring Kate Winslet as Tilly Dunnage, a woman who in the 1950’s returns to her hometown in the Australian outback to take care of her ailing mother Molly (Judy Davis). Tilly's return sparks much debate between the residents of the town as she was accused of murdering someone many years ago. Now an expert dressmaker, Myrtle goes about transforming the local fashion while exacting her revenge upon those who have wronged her in the past. Gorgeously filmed and based on the best selling novel by Rosalie Ham, the supporting cast includes Liam Hemsworth and Hugo Weaving. (118 mins)
CAROL (15)
When Carol walks into a New York City department store and meets Therese an unlikely friendship sparks. Carol is an elegant socialite going through a bitter divorce while Therese is just starting out in life; unsure of who she wants to be. Mesmerized by each other, they face a choice: deny their hearts desires or defy society’s conventions but in doing so, risk life as they know it. Based on the best-selling novel, this is a powerful & beautifully filmed romance fuelled by the danger and exhilaration of forbidden love with exquisite performances from Cate Blanchett in the title role and Rooney Mara as Therese. (119 mins)
STEVE JOBS (15)
Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire) directs this award-winning biopic starring Michael Fassbender as the American businessman and co-founder of multinational tech company Apple Inc. The film follows Steve Jobs as he sacrifices his personal life and relationships while transforming Apple from a dwindling loss-making company into a key player in the digital revolution. The supporting cast includes Kate Winslet, Seth Rogen & Jeff Daniels. The film won Golden Globe Awards for Best Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress (Winslet) and was nominated for two Academy Awards for Best Actor (Fassbender) and Best Supporting Actress (Winslet). (122 mins)
THE LADY IN THE VAN (12)
Dame Maggie Smith recreates one of her most celebrated roles – the singular Miss Shepherd – in writer Alan Bennett’s big-screen comedic adaptation of his own iconic memoir and stage play. Based on the true story, Miss Shepherd was a woman of uncertain origins who parked her van in Bennett’s London driveway and lived there for 15 years. What began as a begrudged favour became a relationship that would change both their lives. Filmed on the street and in the house where they both lived for all those years, this is funny, poignant and life-affirming. With Alex Jennings, Jim Broadbent & Frances De La Tour. (104 mins)
SUFFRAGETTE (12)
Maud Lancaster was born in the Glasshouse laundry in London and knows nothing of the world other than performing her duties as a laundress and as a wife to her possessive husband. She breaks free from her mundane life and joins the Women's Social and Political Union. This militant organisation attend regular meetings chaired by their leader Emmeline Pankhurst and aim to ensure politicians acquiesce to their requests, by whatever means necessary. This superb dramatization of a seminal moment in British history stars Carey Mulligan, Meryl Streep, Helena Bonham Carter, Ben Whishaw, Brendan Gleeson & Anne- Marie Duff. (106 mins)
BURNT (15)
Bradley Cooper stars in this comedy drama as chef Adam Jones. The film follows Adam as he attempts to rebuild his life and career after a period of erratic, drug-fuelled, behaviour led to him losing his restaurant. Adam moves to London from New Orleans where his former maitre d' Tony (Daniel Brühl) reluctantly employs him as head chef at his fine-dining establishment. But to Adam this is only a stepping stone to his real dream - to open a restaurant of his own and achieve a three Michelin star rating. With Sienna Miller, Uma Thurman, Alicia Vikander, John Wells and Emma Thompson. (101 mins)
BROOKLYN (12)
Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson, Jim Broadbent & Julie Walters star in this outstanding romantic drama adapted by Nick Hornby from the celebrated novel. Set in the 1950s, young Irish woman Ellis Lacey travels to New York City, hoping to find a better life & begins to adjust to her new surroundings with the help of Italian-American Tony, who she becomes romantically involved with. After news of a family crisis, Ellis returns to Ireland & becomes acquainted with Jim Farrell, finding herself torn between two very different paths. (111 mins)
THE MARTIAN (12)
Matt Damon stars in this thoroughly entertaining human sci-fi drama directed by Ridley Scott. During a mission to Mars, NASA astronauts are caught in a storm that leaves Mark Watney missing and presumed dead. As the the crew return to Earth, Watney awakens to find himself surrounded by the desolate landscape of the red planet. With no way to communicate the news of his survival back to Earth, Watney must find a way to prolong his life expectancy until the next NASA visit. Thoroughly entertaining, humerous & compelling. With Kristen Wiig, Jeff Daniels, Jessica Chastain and Chiwetel Ejiofor. (141 mins)
MACBETH (15)
Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard star in this visually stunning & superbly acted adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy. After three witches foretell that Scottish nobleman Macbeth will be king, he becomes obsessed by the idea. Encouraged by his single minded wife Lady Macbeth, his ambition becomes all-consuming and he kills the reigning monarch, King Duncan. But Macbeth becomes a tyrannical ruler, filled with anxiety over who he can trust. The outstanding cast also includes David Thewlis, Elizabeth Debicki, Sean Harris, Paddy Considine and David Hayman. (113 mins)
99 HOMES (15)
Andrew Garfield and Michael Shannon star in this searing critically acclaimed drama. Single father Dennis Nash is struggling to make ends meet and take care of his mother Lynn (Laura Dern) and son Connor. When they are evicted from their home by crooked real estate broker Rick Carver, their life is thrown into disarray. In an effort to reclaim his house Dennis accepts a job offer from Carver to evict others from their homes. But Dennis ends up going on a downward spiral, living a double life and caught between earning big money and retaining a conscience. Powerful and emotionally affecting with stunning performances. (108 mins)
GEMMA BOVERY (15)
Gemma Arterton and Jason Flemyng star in this ingenious adaptation of Posy Simmonds romantic drama. Village baker Martin Joubert (Fabrice Luchini) has an obsession with the Gustave Flaubert novel Madame Bovary so when a young English couple move into the village, he is delighted to learn their names are Gemma and Charles Bovery. As he gets to know the Boverys he realises that their lives are running in parallel to those of the characters in his favourite novel and when Gemma embarks upon a passionate affair, Martin fears his new friend is heading for a tragic end like that of her namesake. (99 mins)
EVEREST (12A)
Jake Gyllenhaal, Jason Clarke, Emily Watson, Josh Brolin and Sam Worthington star in this breathtaking true life adventure thriller directed. The film tells the story of the 1996 climbing expedition in which two groups, led by Rob Hall and Scott Fischer, attempted to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Although the two groups had plentiful experience and had trained to deal with the adverse conditions and low oxygen levels that are present at such a high altitude, nothing could prepare them for the freak storm which hit during the expedition. (121 mins)
A WALK IN THE WOODS (15)
Robert Redford stars as Bill Bryson in this adaptation of the travel writer's memoirs. After spending ten years in England, Bryson feels adventure calling and decides to return to his American homeland to hike the 2,200 mile-long Appalachian Trail. Despite his wife (Emma Thompson)'s concerned objections, he embarks upon the gruelling journey with the only person that would join him, his old friend, recovering alcoholic and long-time philanderer Katz (Nick Nolte). Although Bill sought out the tranquility of nature, Katz's presence ruins his best intentions and the differing pair find themselves up against the many dangers lurking in their harsh surroundings. (104 mins)
45 YEARS (15)
Kate Mercer is planning a party to celebrate her 45th wedding anniversary. One week before the celebration, however, a letter arrives for her husband, Geoff, containing news that reawakens troubling and long-hidden memories. Though Kate continues to prepare for the anniversary, she becomes increasingly concerned by Geoff’s preoccupation with the letter and the ensuing revelations about his past. With sensational, award winning performances from Charlotte Rampling and Tom Courtenay, this is a moving & beautifully restrained portrait of a marriage shaken by things left unspoken. (95 mins)
MR. HOLMES (PG)
Ian McKellen stars as the famous sleuth Sherlock Holmes in this critically acclaimed and delightful crime drama. Set in 1947, the long-retired detective, now aged 93, spends his days tending to his bees and completing his memoirs. As he examines his numerous achievements, he finds himself continually troubled by his final case involving a beautiful woman which remains unsolved. With his health failing, and his mind not as sharp as it once was, Holmes uses his fragmented memories of the case to try and piece the mystery together. With Philip Davis, Frances de la Tour, Laura Linney and Roger Allam. (104 mins)
OUT OF AFRICA (12)
Winner of seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, director Sidney Pollack's 1985 panoramic treatment of Karen Blixen’s novel is rich in atmosphere and slow-burning emotion. Arriving in Africa in the early 1900s after a marriage of convenience to her Swedish cousin Baron Blixen (Klaus Maria Brandauer) an amoral womaniser, the courageous Blixen (Meryl Streep) endures many hardships and personal tragedies. But, ultimately, she falls in love with her new homeland, its people, and a devil-may-care white hunter (Robert Redford). Stunning scenery combines with memorable performances, a finely honed screenplay, and John Barry's sumptuously expressive music. (155 mins)
DANNY COLLINS (15)
Al Pacino stars as ageing rock star Danny Collins in this engaging comedy drama. The musician, who long ago abandoned his artistic integrity, is given a long lost letter by his manager written to him by his idol John Lennon. Inspired, he seeks to reconnect with his inspiration for songwriting and meet Tom, the adult son he's never known. As he prepares to compose new material for the first time in decades, the reformed hedonist faces opposition to unite his family from Tom and his wife Samantha who resent his timely intrusion. With Christopher Plummer, Annette Bening, Jennifer Garner, Katarina Cas & Bobby Cannavale. (106 mins)
QUEEN AND COUNTRY (15)
Director John Boorman’s follow on to his celebrated 1987 autobiographical Hope and Glory. Ten years on, the now 18-year-old Bill Rohan starts basic training for military service during the Korean War. He befriends fellow serviceman Percy, under the watchful eye of Sgt. Major Bradley. Still living in his family home on the Thames, Bill returns to quiet domestic life when not causing mayhem with his new friend or romancing troubled blonde Ophelia. A superb ensemble cast, including Callum Turner, David Thewlis & Richard E. Grant, paint a wonderfully funny and often moving depiction of a still-recovering postwar England. (114 mins)
AGE OF ADALINE (12A)
Adaline (Blake Lively), who is born at the turn of 20th century, is rendered ageless after an accident. Remaining 29 years old for almost eight decades, she leads a solitary existence, never allowing herself to get close to anyone who might reveal her secret. But a chance encounter with charismatic philanthropist Ellis Jones reignites her passion for life and romance. When a weekend away with his parents threatens to uncover the truth, Adaline makes a decision that will change her life forever. This engaging fantasy with a steel edge is a well- written story with whimsical humour, romance and drama with great performances from a cast that includes Ellen Burstyn, Kathy Baker & Harrison Ford. (112 mins)
THE CHOIR (15)
The inspirational story of a rebellious young boy with a remarkable singing voice who is sent to a prestigious music school and challenged by a demanding teacher. A stellar ensemble cast includes Dustin Hoffman, Kathy Bates, Debra Winger, Josh Lucas plus an exciting group of newcomers as the teachers and young singers battling through fierce national contests in order to take their boy choir to new competitive heights. Featuring a stunning soundtrack of choral music by Handel, Britten, Tallis and Mendelssohn, this is an uplifting story of talent, adolescence and mentorship and realizing your dream. (103 mins)
THE GOOD LIE (12)
The truthful and inspirational story of a group of children, known as 'The Lost Boys', escaping the civil war in Sudan and eventually being resettled as adults in Kansas, Missouri. Reese Witherspoon is the employment agent detailed to oversee their adjustment to city life. The resulting clash of cultures presents a funny and wry insight into some of our more absurd Western ways. A funny, affecting and sweet-natured film, and a thought-provoking story for our times: moving, uplifting, witty and the film above all others not to be missed. (110 mins)
A ROYAL NIGHT OUT (12)
This highly engaging comedy drama, inspired by true events, follows the future Queen of England and her sister as they go out on the town to celebrate the end of the Second World War. On VE Day, 8th May 1945, Princess Elizabeth and her younger sister Princess Margaret beg their parents King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to let them leave Buckingham Palace for the night so they can join in the celebrations. The King and Queen give their consent and Elizabeth and Margaret head out incognito but their night takes some unexpected turns.
Starring Sarah Gadon, Bel Powley, Rupert Everett & Emily Watson. (97 mins)
X+Y (12A)
Teenage maths prodigy Nathan (Asa Butterfield), diagnosed at an early age as being on the autistic spectrum, struggles when it comes to building relationships with other people, not least with his mother, Julie (Sally Hawkins). Finding comfort in numbers, Nathan is taken under the wing of unconventional teacher, Mr. Humphreys & the pair forge an unusual friendship. Eventually, Nathan’s talents win him a place on the UK National team at the International Mathematics Olympiad & the team travel to Taiwan. From suburban England to bustling Taipei and back again, this original and heart-warming film tracks the funny and complex relationships that Nathan builds. (111 mins)
DARK HORSE: THE INCREDIBLE TRUE STORY OF DREAM ALLIANCE (PG)
Set in a former mining village in Wales, against the backdrop of the current recession, this is the inspirational true story of a group of friends from a working men's club who decide to take on the elite 'sport of kings' and breed themselves a racehorse. Raised on a slagheap allotment, their foal grows into an unlikely champion, beating the finest thoroughbreds in the land, before suffering a near fatal accident. Nursed back to health by the love of his owners - for whom he's become a source of inspiration and hope - he makes a remarkable recovery. This is a funny, emotional real life fairy tale documentary. (85 mins)
FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD (U)
Headstrong and passionate Bathsheba (Julie Christie) inherits a large farm in rural Dorset & captivates the hearts and minds of three very different men: an honest sheep farmer (Alan Bates), a wealthy but tortured landowner (Peter Finch), and a reckless swordsman (Terence Stamp). As emotions become entangled, free spirited and innocent folly soon leads to tragedy.
This acclaimed 1967 adaptation of the Thomas Hardy novel has been restored in high definition so audiences can fully enjoy the stunning cinematography on the Big Screen. (155 mins)
FIFTY SHADES OF GREY (18)
This phenomenally successful erotic drama is based on the best selling book by E. L. James. Dakota Johnson stars as demure literature student Ana Steele, who meets up with the handsome and enigmatic businessman Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan) for an interview. Very quickly, an attraction grows between the pair and Ana realises a need to become close to Grey. However, with Greys need to maintain complete control over everything in his life including his sexual partners, Ana finds there is much more to him than meets the eye. (125 mins)
SELMA (12)
Based on the marches of 1965 that led to the passing of the Voting Rights Act, the film follows the story of James Bevel, Hosea Williams and Martin Luther King as they campaigned for their right to vote. As Luther King led hundreds of like minded people along the 54 mile highway from Selma to the Alabama state capital of Montgomery, they were met with violent conflict and brutal opposition and had to fight their way through to simply claim what was rightfully theirs. Starring David Oyelowo, Cuba Gooding Jr, Tim Roth, Tom Wilkinson and Oprah Winfrey. (128 mins)
WHIPLASH (15)
With a promising career as a drummer ahead of him, Andrew (Miles Teller) enrols at one of the most prestigious music conservatories in America to try to hone in his skills and perfect his ability. When he meets Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons), the notoriously harsh band leader at the school, he begins to doubt his talent as Fletcher ruthlessly belittles and humiliate his newest pupil. Simmons won a Golden Globe, BAFTA & Oscar and this searing drama was also nominated for Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. (106 mins)
AMERICAN SNIPER (15)
Clint Eastwood directs this biographical thriller starring Bradley Cooper and Sienna Miller. Chris Kyle is renowned as the most talented and lethal sniper in American military history with a record 160 kills to his name. After serving on four tours of duty, Kyle prepares to return home to his wife and family but as he tries to adapt to suburban life he finds himself pining for war. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Actor. (132 mins)
WILD (15)
Reese Witherspoon stars in this Oscar nominated drama based on the true story of Cheryl Strayed, the woman who embarked on a 1,100 mile solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail in a journey of self-discovery. After the tragic death of her mother and with an impending divorce on the table, Cheryl decides to try to find out who she really is and why she insists on abusing her life with men, drugs and bad decisions. Along the way she discovers more about herself than she ever could have imagined. With Gaby Hoffmann, Laura Dern and Kevin Rankin. (115 mins)
TESTAMENT OF YOUTH (12)
Stunningly filmed adaptation of Vera Brittains celebrated autobiography. In 1913, Brittain (Alicia Vikander) is set to take up a place reading English at Somerville College, Oxford, but with the outbreak of the Great War and the enlisting of her fiancé and brother Edward, she instead opts to sacrifice her studies and become a volunteer nurse, working at the Western Front. Here she witnesses the harsh realities of war first hand, undergoing a series of horrific experiences which will have a lasting influence on her life. With Hayley Atwell, Emily Watson, Jonathon Bailey, Dominic West & Miranda Richardson. (130 mins)
FOXCATCHER (15)
Oscar nominated psychological drama starring Steve Carell and Channing Tatum. Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz was invited by his rich mentor John du Pont to live on his estate while he trained for the 1988 Seoul Olympics. However, du Ponts mental instability quickly became apparent, and as he sought more and more to tighten his hold over Mark and have an active role in not only his training but his personal life as well, the dynamic between the pair turned sour - an event which would have dire consequences for Mark and his family. With Mark Ruffalo, Sienna Miller and Vanessa Redgrave. (134 mins)
THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING (12A)
The extraordinary and uplifting story of the renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking and his first wife Jane. Falling in love while studying at Cambridge during the 1960s, Jane helps Stephen deal with his diagnosis of advanced motor neurone disease, which leads to him becoming almost completely paralysed. However, the deterioration of his health strains the marriage to breaking point. Eddie Redmayne is outstanding as Hawking, deservedly winning both a BAFTA and Oscar and the film also won BAFTAs for Best Adapted screenplay and Best Film. With Felicity Jones, David Thewlis & Emily Watson. (123 mins)
BIRDMAN (15)
Michael Keaton stars in this fascinating black comedy drama, nominated for 9 Oscars and winning Best Film and Director. Washed up actor Riggan Thomson is still remembered today for his portrayal of superhero Birdman from his early career. Fed up with being typecast, Riggan aims to broaden his fan base and win back some of his credibility through a performance on Broadway, but his biggest problem has always been his ego so he must put aside his feelings of self importance to rekindle his career. With Emma Stone, Naomi Watts & Edward Norton. (119 mins)
BIG EYES (12A)
Tim Burton directs this biographical drama starring Christoph Waltz and Amy Adams. In the 1960s American artist Margaret Keane allowed her husband Walter to claim credit for her artwork, believing that a female artist could not find success through painting. The Keanes acquired great wealth through Margarets unique work. However, when they separated, she announced that she was in fact the true artist, sparking a lengthy legal battle between her and her estranged husband. Adams won a Golden Globe Award for her performance. (106 mins)
INTERSTELLAR (12A)
Christopher Nolan directs this dazzling Sci Fi drama. On a resource depleted Earth in the near future, the discovery of a wormhole which can transport users through time and space unites scientists and explorers in the most important mission in human history. Among the potential travellers is a widowed engineer (Matthew McConaughey) who must decide whether to remain with his children or to test the limits of human space travel, to see if there is a future for humanity. With Jessica Chastain, Michael Caine and Anne Hathaway. The film was nominated for five Academy Awards and won for Best Visual Effects. (168 mins)
ST.VINCENT (12A)
In this winning comedy drama, Bill Murray plays Vincent, a misanthropic and curmudgeonly old man who becomes responsible for his neighbour Maggies son Oliver. Maggie, who is starting her new job at the hospital while going through divorce proceedings from Olivers father, employs Vincent to take care of him after school. Unbeknown to Maggie, Vincent is a heavy drinker and smoker and likes to hang around bars and racetracks in his spare time. But is there more to Vincent than meets the eye? With Naomi Watts and Melissa McCarthy. (102 mins)
THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY (PG)
Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey produced this likeable and beautifully shot comedy drama starring Helen Mirren. In the South of France, top class chef Madame Mallory enjoys a formidable reputation with her restaurant. When Papa Kadam and his family move from India to open an Indian restaurant on the other side of the street, she is determined to get them to leave. As she gets to know the family however she discovers that the eldest son has a very special talent in the kitchen. Can the two very different chefs put aside their differences for the sake of serving fine cuisine? (122 mins)
THE IMITATION GAME (12)
This compelling historical drama stars Benedict Cumberbatch as British computer scientist Alan Turing. With his colleagues at the Government Code and Cypher School in Bletchley Park, the brilliant Turing races against time to decipher the Nazi Enigma machine during World War II. Despite playing a significant role in helping Britain defeat Germany, Turing is later convicted of indecency and suffers greatly in his personal life as a result. The superb central performance from Cumberbatch is supported by a stella cast that includes Keira Knightley, Charles Dance, Mark Strong, Matthew Goode and Rory Kinnear. (114 mins)
PRIDE (15)
Its the summer of 1984 at the height of the miners strike. Inspired by what he sees as a common cause, gay activist Mark rallies a ragtag group of friends to collect money for the Welsh miners. The macho miners are initially suspicious, but gradually appreciate their unexpected new benefactors. This feel good comedy drama is the true story of two seemingly alien communities who form a surprising and ultimately triumphant partnership. The first class cast is headed by Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton and Ben Schnetzer. (120 mins)
MY OLD LADY (12A)
A down and out American inherits an apartment in Paris from his estranged and recently deceased father. With nothing stopping him from selling the apartment and growing rich, he travels to Paris to claim his new property. However, when he arrives he finds Mathilde, an old woman, living in the apartment who is entitled to it through a loophole in French real estate law. Caught between the stubborn Mathilde and her protective daughter Chloe, Mathias finds his inheritance won't come as easily as he expected. This thoughtful, poignant and very satisfying drama with comic overtones is beautifully acted by Maggie Smith, Kevin Kline and Kristin Scott Thomas as the three central characters. (107 mins)
SERENA (15)
Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper star in this period drama, adapted from the novel by Ron rash. In depression era North Carolina, timber magnate George Pemberton and his wife Serena see their marriage and the life they have built together deteriorate when they learn Serena cannot have children and provide an heir to Georges empire. Increasingly jealous of the women involved with her husband as he tries to create the child he so desires, Serena starts to suspect that George may be harbouring more than just a single heir. With Toby Jones & Rhys ifans. (107 mins)
FURY (15)
Brad Pitt and Shia LaBeouf star in this critically acclaimed war drama written and directed by David Ayer. Set during the last months of World War II, the story follows a U.S. Army sergeant known as he leads his crew on a mission behind enemy lines. With just five surviving men in the Third Platoon, they must make the most of the skills and equipment they have left if they are to stand any chance of defeating the 300-strong German Army on the approach. Logan Lerman, Jason Isaacs and Scott Eastwood co star in this intense and highly effective war drama that, in the tradition of Saving Private Ryan, put you in the heart of battle. (134 mins)
MR. TURNER (12A)
Acclaimed director Mike Leigh directs this critically acclaimed examination and untold story of the great painter J.M.W Turner, who in the last 25 years of his life has to make his way through love, loss and the struggles of being both celebrated and reviled by the British public and the royal family. Devastated by the loss of his father he has relations with both his housekeeper and later, his landlady and refuses to acknowledge his two illegitimate daughters, while developing his painting style that is often both praised and criticised. Timothy Spalls award winning performance is a revelation, ably supported by Paul Jesson, Marion Bailey and Lesley Manville. (150 mins)
EFFIE GRAY (12)
Based on the actual scandal that shocked Victorian England. 19 year old Euphemia Effie Gray (Dakota Fanning) marries prominent art historian and critic John Ruskin but he refuses to consummate their marriage. Lonely and frustrated, she is drawn to her husbands protege, John Everett Millais. Finding a friend and champion in Lady Elizabeth Eastlake (Emma Thompson), Effie summons up the courage to break free. Note perfect performances & exquisite photography enhance this fascinating drama. With Greg Wise, Julie Walters, Derek Jacobi, Robbie Coltrane, James Fox & David Suchet. (104 mins)
DAWN OF THE PLANET OF THE APES (12A)
This celebrated sequel to Rise of the Planet of the Apes stars Andy Serkis, Gary Oldman and Jason Clarke. With Ceasar, the hyper-intelligent ape produced by human experimentation, now the leader of a growing band of cognisant simians, a fragile truce prevails between the apes and humans. However war seems imminent, since the human population has been vastly reduced by a devastating virus and their role as the dominant species on Earth is in question. As the tension ratchets up, it may only take a single spark to trigger an explosive war that will pit the humans against the apes in an all out battle for survival. (130 mins)
JERSEY BOYS (15)
Clint Eastwood directs this critically acclaimed cinematic adaptation of the award winning Broadway musical about 1960s pop group The Four Seasons. John Lloyd Young reprises his stage role as Frankie Valli, lead singer of the 4 man group, who gained tremendous success. Narrated by each group member, the story follows their rise to fame and eventual break up, as well as the personal troubles they face along the way. With great songs & a stellar cast that includes Christopher Walken, this is hugely enjoyable. (134 mins)
BOYHOOD (15)
Filmed over 12 years with the same cast, this is a groundbreaking story of growing up as seen through the eyes of a child named Mason, who literally grows up on screen before our eyes. Starring Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette as Masons parents, the film charts the rocky terrain of childhood like no other film has before with snapshots of adolescence from road trips and family dinners to birthdays and graduations and the moments in between. This is both a nostalgic time capsule of the recent past and an ode to growing up and parenting. Its impossible to watch Mason and his family without thinking about our own journey. (165 mins)
BELLE (12A)
Inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, the illegitimate mixed race daughter of a Royal Navy Admiral in late 18th century England. Raised alongside her half cousin by her aristocratic great uncle Lord Mansfield and his wife, Belles lineage affords her certain privileges, yet the colour of her skin prevents her from fully participating in the life of her social circle. Grown into a cultured and principled young woman, she falls in love with John Davinier, an idealistic young legal apprentice. Davinier, Mansfield and Dido want to use the law to put an end to slavery. The splendid cast features Emily Watson, Tom Wilkinson, Miranda Richardson & Penelope Wilton. (104 mins)
JIMMYS HALL (12)
In the 1920s, political activist and free thinker Jimmy Gralton built a dance hall in rural Ireland as a place for young people to dance, play music and learn. As the hall grew in popularity, its socialist and free spirited reputation antagonized the church and politicians who forced Jimmy to flee and the hall to close. At the height of the Depression, Jimmy returns from the US and vows to live the quiet life but as he sees the poverty and growing cultural oppression within the community, the leader and activist within him is stirred. He decides to reopen the hall, and makes an enemy of the establishment. Director Ken Loachs simple yet zestful story is humane, impassioned and joyous. (109 mins)
A PROMISE (PG)
In 1912 Germany, social secretary Friedrich Zeitz is whisked off to ailing factory owner Karl Hoffmeisters estate to act as a tutor for his young son. Soon Friedrich catches the eye of Hoffmeisters younger wife, Lotte but their instant attraction is challenged both by Zeitzs general reticence and Lottes loyalty to her husband. Adapted from Stefan Zweigs novella, this is a beautifully filmed, powerful love story of a married woman and her husbands protege separated first by duties, then by war. Despite pledging their devotion to one another, can they ever be together? Stunningly cinematic with sterling performances from Richard Madden, Rebecca Hall & Alan Rickman. (94 mins)
TRACKS (12)
This is the incredible true story of Robyn Davidson (Mia Wasikowska) a young woman who in 1977 undertook a perilous solo trek across 1700 miles of stunning Australian outback. Abandoning city life, Robyn arrives in Alice Springs and declares her ambition to cross the desert to the Indian Ocean to the amusement of the locals. After months of camping out and working on a camel farm, she meets National Geographic photographer Rick Smoland, who provides her with the necessary financing for her expedition providing he be allowed to photograph parts of her journey for the magazine. With only her dog and four camels, she embarks on an inspiring and life changing journey of self discovery. (113 mins)
LOCKE (15)
Ivan Locke (Tom Hardy) is the head of a successful construction company and is happily married with two sons. However, a single phone call changes everything as he learns that a woman he had a one off encounter with some months ago is pregnant and he decides to leave Birmingham and drive down to London so he can be at the birth of his child. All taking place over the course of one absolutely riveting car ride, this is an intense exploration of how one decision can lead to the complete collapse of a life. Also starring Olivia Colman, Ruth Wilson & Tom Holland. (85 mins)
CALVARY (15)
This critically acclaimed darkly comic thriller stars Brendan Gleeson as Father James, local clergyman of a rural Irish parish. During confession, an unseen local informs Father James of his plan to kill him in seven days to gain retribution for abuse he suffered as a boy from another priest. Left to make his peace, James visits his congregation while trying to track down his potential killer. Through his exchanges with the locals including a cuckolded butcher, a wealthy businessman and an atheistic doctor, he starts to doubt the validity of his vocation. (101 mins)
LABOR DAY (12)
This engrossing genre crossing adaptation of Joyce Maynards unusual novel from director Jason Reitman (Juno, Up in the air) stars Josh Brolin and Kate Winslet. Newly escaped from prison, convicted murderer Frank forces divorced single mother Adele and her son Henry to give him sanctuary in their home. They learn that Frank means them no harm as he gradually becomes a father figure to Henry and lover to the fragile Adele. But with the manhunt intensifying, the truth about Franks past is gradually revealed. With outstanding performances, this is a fascinating story of love, passion, and betrayal as seen through the eyes of a teenage boy and the man he later becomes. (111 mins)
NOAH (12A)
Director Darren Aronofskys epic cinematic telling of the Biblical story of Noah. Considered a madman by many, Noah has visions of an apocalyptic flood that will wash over the earth and wipe out the sinful from existence. Instructed by God to build a vessel that will enable his family and two of every living creature to survive the deluge and begin the planets repopulation, he constructs an ark. Starring Russell Crowe, Anthony Hopkins, Ray Winstone, Jennifer Connolly, Emma Watson, Nick Nolte and Frank Langella. (138 mins)
THE GRAND BUDAPEST HOTEL (15)
This stylish, light hearted & beautifully filmed whimsy recounts the adventures of Gustave H (Ralph Fiennes), a legendary concierge at a famous European hotel between the wars, and the lobby boy who becomes his most trusted friend. The theft and recovery of a priceless Renaissance painting and the battle for an enormous family fortune are set against the back drop of a dramatically changing Continent. The stellar cast includes Bill Murray, Tom Wilkinson, Tilda Swinton, Edward Norton, Jude Law and Jeff Goldblum. (100 mins)
THE BOOK THIEF (12A)
Based on the bestseller, this moving drama tells the story of Liesel, a young girl sent to live with a foster family in World War II Germany. She learns to read with encouragement from her new family and Max, a Jewish refugee who they are hiding under the stairs. For Liesel and Max, the power of words and imagination become the only escape from the tumultuous events happening around them. Incredible acting, a gripping story, beautiful music from John Williams and first class direction, this is a heart warming yet chilling tale which haunts the imagination. Starring Geoffrey Rush & Emily Watson. (131 mins)
THE INVISIBLE WOMAN (12)
Ralph Fiennes directs and stars in this romantic drama adapted from Clare Tomalins book. School teacher Nelly Ternan (Felicity Jones), now a wife and mother, looks back on her life as a young woman when, while working as an actress, she met the 45 year old Charles Dickens. Disenchanted with his wife Catherine, Dickens finds himself enamoured by the equally smitten Nelly and the two become romantically involved. However, they must keep their relationship a secret, meaning Nelly must live an almost invisible existence. With Joanna Scanlan, Kristin Scott Thomas & Tom Hollander. (112 mins)
AMERICAN HUSTLE (15)
Set in the 1970s, this is the story of brilliant con man Irving Rosenfeld, who along with his equally cunning and seductive British partner Sydney Prosser is forced to work for a wild FBI agent DiMaso, where they are pushed into a world of Jersey powerbrokers and mafia that's as dangerous as it is enchanting. This stylish, Oscar nominated drama boasts an impressive cast, including Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Adams, Robert DeNiro and Jeremy Renner. (138 mins)
THE RAILWAY MAN (15)
Based on his best selling memoir, the film tells the extraordinary and epic true story of Eric Lomax, a British Army officer who is tormented as a prisoner of war at a Japanese labour camp during World War II. Decades later, Lomax discovers that the Japanese interpreter he holds responsible for much of his treatment is still alive and sets out to confront him, and his haunting past. Starring Colin Firth, Nicole Kidman & Jeremy Irvine. (116 mins)
NEBRASKA (15)
After receiving a sweepstakes letter in the mail, a cantankerous, aging father thinks he's struck it rich and wrangles his son into taking a road trip to claim the fortune. Shot in black and white across four states, this often cynical but ultimately positive view of family life, warts and all, in the heartland of America is a fascinating examination of small town life and the inevitable ups and downs and generational conflicts that the father and sons road trip throws up. Superb performances from a cast that includes Bruce Dern, Will Forte and June Squibb. (115 mins)
ALL IS LOST (12A)
Robert Redford stars in this gripping, visceral and powerfully moving tribute to ingenuity and resilience. Deep into a solo voyage in the Indian Ocean, a man wakes to find his yacht taking on water after a collision with a shipping container. Navigation equipment and radio disabled, he sails unknowingly into the path of a violent storm. With the sun unrelenting, sharks circling and his meager supplies dwindling, the ever-resourceful sailor soon finds himself staring his mortality in the face. (106 mins)
THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY (PG)
Beautifully filmed 2013 adaptation of James Thurbers classic story of a day dreamer (Ben Stiller) who escapes his anonymous life by disappearing into a world of fantasies filled with heroism, romance and action. When his job along with that of his co worker are threatened, Walter takes action in the real world embarking on a global journey that turns into an adventure more extraordinary than anything he could have ever imagined. This outstanding and uplifting visual treat also stars Kristen Wiig, Sean Penn and Shirley Maclaine. (125 mins)
BLUE JASMINE (12)
Woody Allen writes and directs this award winning comedy drama starring Cate Blanchett. Single, broke and suffering from a nervous breakdown, housewife Jasmin travels from New York to San Francisco to stay with her sister Ginger. While Ginger encourages her to become an interior designer, Jasmines snobbish outlook causes her to question her sisters taste in men until she finds romance and hope with a diplomat. The ensemble cast also features Alec Baldwin, Sally Hawkins and Peter Sarsgaard. (98 mins)
PHILOMENA (12A)
A world weary political journalist picks up the story of a womans search for her son, who was taken away from her decades ago after she became pregnant and was forced to live in a convent. Based on a true story, the film is a compelling narrative of human love and loss that ultimately celebrates life, showing that there is laughter even in the darkest places with outstanding performances from Judi Dench and Steve Coogan. (98 mins)
SAVING MR BANKS (12)
A poignant, sharply funny and moving recounting of Walt Disneys (Tom Hanks) quest to fulfil a promise to his daughters to make a film of their favourite book Mary Poppins, and of its fiercely protective author PL Travers (Emma Thompson), who had no intention of letting her beloved nanny go to Hollywood. Walt must pull out all the stops to change her mind and is ultimately forced to reach back into his own childhood to discover the truth about the ghosts that haunt her. Academy Award winner Paul Giamatti, Colin Farrell and Ruth Wilson round out the terrific cast. (125 mins)
GRAVITY (12)
George Clooney and Sandra Bullock star in this pulse pounding sci fi thriller. Seasoned astronaut Matt Kowalsky and rookie medical engineer Dr. Ryan Stone are engaged in extra vehicular activity when debris collides into the shuttle, damaging it irreparably. They now find themselves drifting in space with low oxygen supplies and cut off from all communication on Earth. The film was nominated for ten Academy Awards, including Best Picture. (91 mins)
DIANA (12)
Princess Diana (double Academy Award nominee Naomi Watts), at one time the most famous woman in the world, inspired a nation with her generosity, compassion and kindness - and in her final years she would meet the man who, in turn, inspired her. In a story that until now has remained untold, Diana introduces a time in the Princesss life that was uniquely important in shaping her final years, fulfilling her search for true happiness and sealing her legacy. (113 mins)
THE COUNSELLOR (18)
Veteran filmmaker Ridley Scott and Pulitzer Prize winning author Cormac McCarthy (No Country for Old Men) join forces for this powerful thriller, starring Michael Fassbender, Penelope Cruz, Cameron Diaz, Javier Bardem, and Brad Pitt. McCarthy and Scott interweave the authors characteristic wit and dark humour with a nightmarish scenario, in which a respected lawyers one time dalliance with an illegal business deal spirals out of control. (117 mins)
THE BUTLER (12A)
Fascinating historical drama starring Forest Whitaker, that tells the story of Cecil Gaines 34 year career working as head butler at the White House. Beginning his tenure under President Eisenhower, Cecil would see another seven presidents come and go and was present at the highest level of the state during some of the most tumultuous periods in the 20th century including the American Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War. The ensemble cast includes John Cusack, James Marsden, Alan Rickman and Oprah Winfrey. (132 mins)
ONE CHANCE (12A)
Starring newcomer James Corden, this is the inspirational true story of Paul Potts, a shy, bullied shop assistant by day, and an amateur opera singer by night. Paul became an instant phenomenon after winning Britain's Got Talent. Wowing audiences worldwide with his phenomenal voice, Paul went onto win the prestigious competition, a recording contract, and the hearts of millions. From his humble beginnings in Wales to glamorous Venice, this is both funny and heart warming. Also starring Julie Walters. (103 mins)
CAPTAIN PHILLIPS (12A)
This critically received drama is a multi layered examination of the 2009 hijacking of a U.S. container ship by a crew of Somali pirates. It is simultaneously a pulse pounding thriller and a complex portrait of the myriad effects of globalization. The film focuses on the relationship between commanding officer, Captain Richard Phillips (Tom Hanks) and the Somali pirate captain, who takes him hostage. The two are set on an unstoppable collision course when the pirate and his crew target Phillips unarmed ship; in the ensuing standoff, 145 miles off the Somali coast, both men will find themselves at the mercy of forces beyond their control. (134 min
THE GRADUATE (15)
Mike Nichols directs this iconic 1967 comedy drama starring Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft and Katharine Ross. After graduating from college, Ben Braddock returns to his wealthy parents Californian home unsure of what he wants to do. Feeling pressurised to get on with his life, he embarks on an aimless affair with Mrs Robinson, an older, married woman and friend of the family. Things become complicated when Ben meets and begins dating Elaine - Mrs Robinsons daughter. Featuring a score by Simon and Garfunkel, the film was nominated for six Oscars. While its daring sexual overtones for the time seem dated now, it is still a thoroughly entertaining and amusing essay on the frustrations of youth. (101 mins)
WHAT MAISIE KNEW (15)
Based on a contemporary interpretation of the classic Henry James novel, and set in present day New York City, the story centres on Maisie, an unwitting six year old girl, enmeshed in the bitter divorce of her mother, a rock and roll icon, and her father, a charming but distracted art dealer and the tender relationship that subsequently develops between Maisie and her loving nanny. This darkly comic and emotionally compelling drama is an evocative portrayal of the chaos and complexity of a modern marriage. Steve Coogan and julianne Moore as the self absorded parents head an excellent cast with Odonata Aprile exquisite as Maisie. (98 mins)
THE WAY, WAY BACK (12A)
Highly entertaining coming of age story starring Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Anna Sophia Robb, Sam Rockwell & Amanda Peet. 14-year old Duncan takes a summer vacation with his mother, Pam, her overbearing boyfriend, Trent, and his daughter, Steph. Having a rough time fitting in, the introverted Duncan finds an unexpected friend in Owen, the gregarious manager of the local Water Park. Through their funny, clandestine friendship, Duncan begins to finally find his place in the world. The script is wonderful and the whole cast does an incredible job in a film that is funny, charming, sad and effective on all fronts. (103 mins)
THE GREAT GATSBY (12A)
Baz Luhrmann (Australia, Moulin Rouge) writes, directs and produces this dazzling adaptation of the Scott Fitzgerald novel starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire and Carey Mulligan. Set in the 1920s, the story follows aspiring writer Nick Carraway as he moves to New York and becomes intrigued by his neighbour Jay Gatsbys lavish lifestyle and mysterious past. As Nick finds himself caught up in the world of the wealthy, he witnesses romantic entanglement and betrayal. Gatsbys true nature is slowly exposed and his involvement with old flame Daisy Buchanan ultimately leads to tragedy. (143 mins)
BEHIND THE CANDELABRA (15)
Michael Douglas is the superstar pianist Liberace. Based on the autobiography by Liberaces much younger lover and live in partner Scott Thorson (Matt Damon), the film recounts the period between 1978 and 1982 when Liberace was at the absolute pinnacle of his fame. Reluctant to discuss details about his sexuality in his lifetime, Academy Award-winner Steven Soderbergh directs this exposé which provides both an unflinching & touching look at the highs and lows of the couples relationship and a very funny insight into the world of celebrity. With Rob Lowe, Debbie Reynolds & Dan Aykroyd. (118 mins)
SUMMER IN FEBRUARY (15)
In Cornwall, just before the Great War, incendiary anti-Modern artist Alfred Munnings is holding court at Lamorna. Land Agent for the estate, Gilbert Evans finds himself competing with Munnings for the affections of Florence Carter-Wood, an aspiring artist. Inevitably Florence is tasked with choosing between the two men. One is honourable and dependable, the other mad, bad, and brilliant.
A classic love triangle, this is a raw romance & an intriguing glimpse of a bold & brash artist ahead of his time. (100 mins)
THE EYE OF THE STORM (15)
Geoffrey Rush, Charlotte Rampling and Judy Davis star in this Australian drama adapted from Patrick Whites novel. Fading actor Basil and his divorcee sister Dorothy return to their childhood home, a mansion in Sydney, to visit their ailing mother, Elizabeth. Despite her condition, Elizabeth still retains a powerful hold over her children and shares much more affection with her staff than with her children. The siblings hope to inherit their mothers fortune but their visit also stirs up old memories & forces the family to face their troubled past. Brilliantly acted, this is a savage exploration of family relationships and the sharp undercurrents of love and hate, comedy and tragedy, which define them. (115 mins)
MUD (12A)
Two teenage boys in the Arkansas delta find a boat stuck high in a tree following a flood. They decide to make it their own but realise that someone is living in it. Its resident is a man called Mud (Matthew McConaughy) – a fugitive who grew up in the area. He tells them he wants to reunite with his old girlfriend (Reese Witherspoon) and then skip town, having killed a man who had abused her. The boys decide to lend Mud a helping hand and help him reconcile with his girl but storm clouds are gathering in the form of relatives of the dead man looking for revenge. This exhilarating coming of age story boasts striking performances & memorable images in a fascinating combination of Mark Twain & modern thriller. (130 mins)
ARBITRAGE (15)
Tense financial drama with a twist starring Richard Gere and Susan Sarandon. Peter Miller is desperately trying to sell the hedge fund he manages before anyone notices the inconsistencies in the companys books, but with his ever tenacious daughter Brooke beginning to ask questions he will do well to maintain a brave face. When an unexpected turn of events leads to him being investigated by police detective Bryer (Tim Roth) and his wife Ellen growing suspicious, Peter struggles to keep his cool under pressure. This critically acclaimed cat and mouse tale features outstanding performances from a first class cast. (106 mins)
CASABLANCA (U)
THE Classic war-time romantic drama that improves with age like a good wine. During World War II former lovers Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) and Ilse (Ingrid Bergman) are reunited by chance in Casablanca, where he runs a nightclub and she, with her husband (Paul Henreid), is working for the French Resistance. Recriminations, rekindled desires and patriotic duty battle for primacy as Ilses husband tries to outwit the local Nazis and escape from Morocco, whilst Rick and Ilse re-kindle their love. The heady cocktail of romance, drama, humour & thrills are matched by an endlessly quotable script & pitch perfect performances from a peerless cast. This is one film that must never, ever be remade. Now available to screen in a stunning, newly restored HD print. (99 mins)
ROBOT AND FRANK (12)
Set in the near future, Frank (Frank Langella), a retired cat burglar, has two grown children who are concerned he can no longer live alone. Against the old mans wishes his son buys Frank a walking, talking humanoid robot programmed to improve his physical and mental health. Reluctantly, Frank begins to accept his new digital companion, seeing an opportunity to use Robots unique skills to try their luck as a heist team. However, the uncomfortable realities of a changing world & his worsening dementia threaten to take beyond what any reboot can do for him. This endearing & unusual drama is both touching & humorous with a superb performance from Langella. With Susan Sarandon & James Marsden. (85 mins)
SONG FOR MARION (12)
In this uplifting, music based family comedy, Terrence Stamp plays Arthur, a grumpy old codger whose wife, Marion (Vanessa Redgrave), is terminally ill and is keen to spend her last days singing in an unconventional OAPs choir. Although Arthur disapproves of this behaviour, when Marion is no longer able to make practice he is compelled to take her place. With his fellow singers, he begins a voyage of self discovery which will help him mend his relationship with his son, James (Christopher Eccleston), and prepare for a life without Marion. (93 mins)
HITCHCOCK (15)
Anthony Hopkins & Helen Mirren are spellbinding in this provocative & compelling story about the making of one of cinemas most iconic films. Plagued by both a reckless ego & self doubt, Hollywood legend Alfred Hitchcock becomes obsessed with a grisly murder story that the studios wont back. Determined, he risks his reputation & the love of his wife Alma, to make the film. Ultimately, Hitch & Alma collaborate to create the enduring masterpiece Psycho. A fascinating & hugely enjoyable recreation of a classic cinematic moment in time, that explores the directors darker side & obsession with his leading ladies. Also starring Scarlett Johansson, Toni Collette and Jessica Biel. (98 mins)
ZERO DARK THIRTY (15)
Kathryn Bigelow directs this Oscar nominated action thriller about the mission by American special operations forces to capture or kill Osama bin Laden. Shining a light on the secretive processes behind the worlds greatest manhunt, the film details the work done by the intelligence team responsible for finally tracking down bin Laden, graphically documenting the unfolding ten year intelligence hunt through the eyes of CIA analyst Maya (Jessica Chastain), whose initial minor role assumes ever greater importance as a crack US Navy Seal team readies itself for its most important mission ever. (157 mins)
DJANGO UNCHAINED (18)
Quentin Tarantino directs this violent Oscar winning western starring Jamie Foxx as a freed slave who sets out to rescue his wife from merciless plantation owner Calvin Caddie (Leonardo DiCaprio) with the aid of unorthodox bounty hunter Schultz (Chrisoph Waltz). This typically stylish & audacious Tarrantino revenge actioner is characteristically brutal with a razor sharp script complemented by a host of great performances and standout scenes. Christoph Waltz won the Oscar, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for his supporting performance, while Tarantino won the Academy Award, a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for his original screenplay. With Samuel L Jackson, Don Johnson & James Remar (165 mins)
HYDE PARK ON HUDSON (12)
Engaging comedy drama starring Bill Murray and Laura Linney. In June 1939, American president Franklin Roosevelt hosts the British royal family at his country house in upstate New York on their first visit to the U.S. King George and his Queens Consort Elizabeth are on a diplomatic mission to secure Americas support in the fight against Hitler. Meanwhile, against the backdrop of this historically momentous meeting, the ageing but eternally philandering Roosevelt finds time to seduce another of his house guests, his demure distant cousin Margaret Stuckley. Olivia Williams co-stars as the long suffering Eleanor Roosevelt. (95 mins)
FLIGHT (15)
Denzel Washington stars in this compelling Oscar nominated drama as an airline pilot who finds himself in the line of fire. Faced with a catastrophic event whilst on a routine flight, Captain William Whitaker averts a major disaster by performing a skilled emergency landing that saves the lives of everyone on board. Proclaimed a hero by a grateful public, Whitakers world is unexpectedly thrown into turmoil, when an investigation leads the authorities to conclude that Whitaker had alcohol in his system during the flight. Facing a life sentence & a hungry media smelling blood, Whitaker must go on the offensive to fight for his future. (138 mins)
A LATE QUARTET (15)
Beautifully acted music based drama about a world renowned string quartet from New York suddenly faced with jealousy, infidelity & potential tragedy. Peter (Christopher Walken) is diagnosed with Parkinsons disease & expresses his wish to leave. This, together with the breakdown of the marriage of Robert (Philip Seymour Hoffman) and Juliette (Catherine Keener) threatens the future of the quartet. Tensions increase further when Robert becomes dissatisfied with his position as second violinist, while first violinist Daniel becomes involved with Robert and Juliettes young daughter. These obstacles threaten to tear the group apart & prevent them playing their perennial interpretation of Beethovens string quartet No. 14. (105 mins)
SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (15)
This unusual romantic comedy drama is based on the novel by Matthew Quick. Bradley Cooper stars as Pat, a former high school teacher fresh from a stint in a mental institution who moves back in with his parents in an ill-fated attempt to reconcile with his ex-wife. His life begins to come together at last when he meets Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a recently widowed amateur dancer with problems of her own and also begins to reconnect with his obsessive-compulsive father (Robert De Niro).
This heart warming drama was nominated for Best Film and won the best actress Oscar for Jennifer Lawrence. (122 mins)
THE IMPOSSIBLE (12A)
Based on a true story, this is the unforgettable account of a family caught, with tens of thousands of strangers, in the mayhem of one of the worst natural catastrophes of our time - the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. But the true-life terror is tempered by the unexpected displays of compassion, courage and simple kindness that the family encounter during the darkest hours of their lives. Both epic and intimate, devastating and uplifting, the film is a thoroughly absorbing, powerful & uplifting masterpiece.
Starring Naomi Watts & Ewan McGregor. (114 mins)
LIFE OF PI (PG)
A young man who survives a disaster at sea that results in the death of his parents is hurtled into an epic journey of adventure and discovery. While cast away, he forms an unexpected connection with another survivor: a fearsome Bengal tiger. Based on the critically acclaimed, best selling book, director Ang Lee has created a quite breath taking visual masterpiece that is beautifully filmed and magical in its execution. The creative story telling is a testament to the power of the human spirit & surviving against overwhelming odds. With 11 Oscar nominations including Best Picture Best Director and 9 BAFTA nominations including Best Film and Best Director, this is a must see. (127 mins)
LES MISERABLES (12)
Epic, cinematic, Oscar winning adaptation of the beloved global stage sensation.
Directed by Tom Hooper (The Kings Speech), the film stars Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway and Eddie Redmayne.
Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, this is a stirring story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption--a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Ex-prisoner Jean Valjean is hunted for decades by the ruthless policeman Javert after he breaks parole. When Valjean agrees to care for tragic factory worker Fantines young daughter, Cosette, their lives change forever. (158 mins)
ARGO (15)
Ben Affleck directs & stars in this political thriller based on real events. In 1979, the American embassy in Iran is stormed by militants. In the midst of the chaos, six Americans escape & find refuge in the home of the Canadian ambassador. CIA specialist Tony Mendez implements a daring undercover operation to smuggle them safely out of the country. The outrageous plan is to masquerade as a Hollywood film unit scouting for locations for a fake Science fiction film. Winning Best Film at both the Oscars & The BAFTAs, this superb entertainment is funny, tense & thrilling with superb performances from a cast that includes Alan Arkin & John Goodman. (120 mins)
GREAT EXPECTATIONS (12A)
Beautifully filmed & sumptuously costumed, this latest adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic, stars Jeremy Irvine as the orphaned Pip who discovers he has been granted an inheritance from a mysterious benefactor. This allows him to enjoy a gentlemans lifestyle in fashionable London, while trying to romance his cold hearted childhood love, Estella . A haunting tale of love, social snobbery & redemption, the sterling cast includes Helena Bonham Carter as Miss Havisham with Ralph Fiennes, Robbie Coltrane & Sally Hawkins. (129 mins)
PRIVATE PEACEFUL (12)
Based on the bestselling book by Michael Morpurgo and set amid the lush green of Devon and the mud of WW1 Flanders, brothers Tommo (George MacKay) and Charlie Peaceful (Jack O’Connell) manage to fall for the same girl, while contending with the pressures of their feudal family life, and the coming of war. Inevitably, both brothers are sent to the trenches, but during a charge of the German lines, Charlie disobeys a direct order from his Commanding Officer, choosing instead to stay with the injured Tommo in No-mans-land. As a result Charlie is accused of cowardice. With music by Rachel Portman (The Duchess), this is a beautiful and stirring film. (100 mins)
ANNA KARENINA (12A)
Tom Stoppard pens this adaptation of Tolstoys classic story of doomed love, directed by Joe Wright and boasting a star-studded British cast headed by Kiera Knightley and Jude Law. Trapped in a loveless marriage and the fallout of a family crisis, Anna falls uncontrollably in love with charming and affluent bachelor Count Vronsky. As Anna falters to make a decision about leaving her husband, Vronsky continues to pursue his social life, leading Anna into a growing paranoia about his infidelities that eventually leads to tragic consequences. With Kelly Macdonald, Matthew Macfadyen & Olivia Williams. (130 mins)
THE DEEP BLUE SEA (12A)
Critically acclaimed period drama based on the celebrated Terence Rattigan play. Hester Collyey is married to a judge, William and enjoys all the material comfort and social privilege that goes with such a role in 1950s England. However, when she meets Freddie Page, a dashing young RAF pilot, Hesters world is turned upside down. She falls in love with Freddie and leaves her husband and her comfortable, if unexciting, life behind for him. Will Freddie prove himself worthy of such devotion? Starring Rachel Weisz, Tom Hiddleston & Simon Russell Beale. (98 mins)
THE HELP (12A)
During the civil rights movement of the 1960s, the aspiring author daughter of a wealthy white family decides to write a book detailing the African-American maids point of view on the white families for which they work, and the hardships they go through on a daily basis. The bestseller by Kathryn Stocket comes to vivid life through the powerful performances of a phenomenal Oscar winning ensemble cast. Filled with poignancy, humour & hope, this is a timeless & empowering story about the ability to create change. Starring Emma Stone, Octavia Spencer & Sissy Spacek. (146 mins)
A ROYAL AFFAIR (15)
Enthralling Danish period drama based on a novel by Bodil Steensen-Leth. Mads Mikkelsen stars as Johann Struensee, a bright young doctor who becomes personal physician to the psychologically unstable King Frederik of Denmark. Struensees ambitions know no bounds – he wins the affections of the young Queen Caroline Mathilde & becomes increasingly involved in the Kings state affairs. He uses his position to forward the enlightenment, implementing freedom of the press, abolishing torture and serfdom, reforming the school system and curtailing the privileges of the aristocracy. Subtitled. (138 mins)
SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN (12)
Lasse Hallstrom directs this British comedy drama based on the bestselling novel by Paul Torday. Ewan McGregor stars as Alfred Jones, a mild-mannered government fisheries official who is approached by management consultant Harriet Chetwode-Talbot (Emily Blunt) to help a sheikh realise his long-held dream of introducing fly-fishing to the Middle Eastern desert. The duo soon find themselves swimming against the tide in more ways than one as the extravagant project gathers pace and a few poignant home truths come home to roost. Kristin Scott Thomas co-stars. (106 mins)
ALBERT NOBBS (15)
Glenn Close stars in this Oscar nominated bittersweet period drama based on the 1927 novella by George Moore. In late 19th-century Dublin, women are strongly discouraged from earning an independent living. Albert Nobbs (Close) is a woman who has been posing as a man since the age of 14, to enable her to work as a butler in Dublins most upmarket hotel. But Alberts identity is shaken to the core when she meets charismatic painter Hubert Page. Albert is determined to formulate a plan to leave her life of servitude behind and escape the lie she has been living. (113 mins)
MIDNIGHT IN PARIS (12A)
Woody Allen writes and directs this magical realist romantic comedy paying nostalgic homage to Paris, the city of love. Owen Wilson is Gil Pender, a Hollywood screenwriter who has recently moved to Paris to rewrite his debut novel. One night, as Gil drunkenly wanders the city's streets, he is offered a lift in a magic car that takes him back to the Paris of the roaring 1920s, where he meets a coterie of his favourite writers, artists and intellectuals. His experiences lead him to re-evaluate his life, love and work. The star-studded supporting cast includes Rachel McAdams, Michael Sheen, Kathy Bates and Adrien Brody. This delightful film won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. (94 mins)
AFRICAN CATS (U)
Set against the backdrop of one of the wildest places on earth, this stunning docu drama captures the real-life love, humor and determination of the majestic kings of the savanna. The story features an endearing lion cub, a fearless cheetah and single mother of five mischievous newborns and a proud leader of the pride who must defend his family from a once banished lion. Disneynature uses high definition technology to achieve truly breath taking photography on the big screen. Perfect for all audiences, this awe-inspiring adventure blends family bonds with the power and cunning of the wild. (90 mins)
THE GREY (15)
Joe Carnahan directs this survival drama starring Liam Neeson and Dermot Mulroney. When their plane crashes in the remote forests of Alaska, a group of oil drillers find themselves stranded in the harsh and unforgiving wilderness. With supplies running short, not only must they find a way to eat and keep warm, the men must fend off a pack of angry wolves who see them as intruders on their territory. Strong performances allied to the nail biting tension create a compelling atmosphere. (118 mins)
WAR HORSE (12A)
Steven Spielberg directs this inspiring drama based on Michael Morpurgos novel about a boy who searches for his horse after it is taken away to serve in World War I. Growing up in Devon, Albert (Jeremy Irvine) trains his horse, Joey & forms a strong bond with the animal. However, Joey is sold as a war horse and touches the hearts of those he meets as he serves in the cavalry. Too young to become a soldier himself, the determined Albert sets off on a journey in the hope that he can save his beloved horse from the horrors of war. Benedict Cumberbatch, David Thewlis, Emily Watson and David Kross co-star. (146 mins)
THE ARTIST (PG)
Hugely entertaining modern-day silent film comedy recounting the demise of the silent film industry in the late 1920s. Jean Dujardin is George Valentin, silent movie star with the perfect life: he loves his work, enjoys adoration from fans and falls in love with a beautiful young starlet, Peppy Miller. When his studio boss warns him that the future of film making lies in talkies, George is dismissive of the threat. However, as talking films begin to take off - with Peppy the star of the new medium - George struggles to keep pace with a changing world. Winner of five Oscars, including best picture, best director & best actor. (100 mins)
THE IRON LADY (12)
The extraordinary story of the rise of Margaret Thatcher, the Grantham Grocers daughter who battled through the ranks of party politics to lead the Conservative Party to victory in 1979 and smashed through the barriers of gender and class to be heard in a male-dominated world. From the triumph of the general election, through the Falklands crisis to her eventual downfall, Meryl Streep gives the performance of her life with Jim Broadbent as husband Dennis, Director Phyllida Lloyd concentrates on the price paid for power, painting a surprising and intimate portrait of an extraordinary and complex woman. (104 mins)
ANONYMOUS (12)
It has long been whispered in the halls and shadows of academia that William Shakespeare was nothing but a jobbing actor and that the plays, poems and sonnets were in fact written by Edward, Earl of Oxford, one time favourite of Elizabeth I. It is alleged that when Oxford fell from favour, Elizabeth decreed that he lose the right of ownership of his works. Roland Emmerichs film compellingly explores this theory. Vanessa Redgrave stars as Elizabeth, Rhys Ifans as Oxford and Timothy Spall as William Shakespeare, against a brilliantly crafted backdrop of 16th Century London. Derek Jacobi guides us through as Prologue. (125 mins)
JANE EYRE (PG)
Jane Eyre (Mia Wasikowska) emerges from a troubled childhood to take on the position of governess at Thornfield Hall. Thornfield is owned by the passionate and impulsive Rochester (Michael Fassbender). The pair fall in love and plan marriage but a dark secret from the past threatens to destroy their happiness. This latest re-telling of Charlotte Brontes classic story has a fine cast, including Judi Dench & uses modern cinematic techniques while remaining true to the novels intent. (120 mins)
MY WEEK WITH MARILYN (15)
Celebrated Drama based on the memoirs of Colin Clark. In 1956, Sir Laurence Olivier is making the film The Prince and the showgirl in London with Marilyn Monroe. Young Colin Clark, an eager film student, lands himself a job on the set. When Monroe arrives for the start of shooting, all of London is excited to see the blonde bombshell, while Olivier is struggling to meet her many demands. Clark is thrilled when she invites him into her inner world & reveals her contradictions & insecurities. Impeccably acted & fascinating. Starring Kenneth Branagh, Michelle Williams, Judi Dench, Emma Watson & Dominic Cooper. (99 mins
WATER FOR ELEPHANTS (12A)
Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon star in this beautifully filmed romantic drama based on the historical novel by Sara Gruen & set during Americas Great Depression in the 1930s. After his parents are killed in a car accident, promising student Jacob suffers an emotional breakdown and runs away to find work as a vet with a travelling circus. He meets a host of colourful characters including tyrannical animal trainer August and his beautiful wife Marlena. A love triangle develops leading to drama inside & outside the ring. (115 mins)
THE KING'S SPEECH (12A)
After reluctantly acceding to the throne when his older brother Edward VIII abdicates, King George (Colin Firth) is forced to act when his stutter leads to concerns about his leadership by employing unconventional speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush). As their relationship strengthens, the Kings new found confidence allows him to lead his country through its gravest hour. A stunningly filmed & absorbing critical success with outstanding performances from a cast including Helena Bonham Carter, Michael Gambon, Derek Jacobi & Timothy Spall. (118 mins)
FROM TIME TO TIME (PG)
When 13 year old Tolly is sent to live with his grandmother in 1944, he finds he can mysteriously visit past events & begins an adventure that unlocks family secrets laid buried for generations. This haunting & charming ghost story is an old-fashioned family film that will delight both kids and adults. Director Julian Fellows masterfully weaves the story together complemented by exquisite period detail, cinematography & humour. A starry cast includes Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Timothy Spall, Dominic West & Pauline Collins. (95 mins)
MADE IN DAGENHAM (15)
Acclaimed British drama portraying the 1968 strike at Ford's Dagenham car plant, where female workers walked out in protest against sexual discrimination and unequal pay. Gradually frustrated at the conditions at the Ford assembly plant, the female workers come to question the inequality, and eventually take their plight all the way to the House of Commons with the support of political firebrand Barbara Castle. Starring Sally Hawkins, Miranda Richardson, Rupert Graves & Bob Hoskins.(113 mins)
THE JONESES (15)
Wryly comic drama starring Demi Moore and David Duchovny. When a seemingly perfect family moves into a rich suburban neighborhood, the neighbours are filled with envy and admiration of their success, good looks and apparently endless stream of desirable possessions. However as the neighbours fall over themselves to keep up with the Joneses, none are prepared for the sinister truth behind this all-too perfect family. (96 mins)
ME AND ORSON WELLES (12)
Engaging period drama set in the theatrical world of 1930s New York. Zac Efron stars as Richard Samuels, a young actor thrown into the legendary Mercury Theatre Company just before the opening of Orson Welles historic staging of Julius Caesar. Richard is soon immersed in a unique creative process, romancing beautiful Sonja (Claire Danes) & learning how to handle the brilliant egomaniac, Welles (Christian McKay). (113 mins)
NOWHERE BOY (15)
A chronicle of John Lennon's teenage years. Set in 1950s Liverpool, the film tells the story of the spirited but troubled Lennon (Aaron Johnson) & the conflict between his formidable Aunt Mimi (Kristin Scott Thomas) and his mother Julia (Anne-Marie Duff). When John meets kindred spirit Paul McCartney, his creative genius finds an outlet and the most famous partnership in music is born. But a dark truth from his past leads to a tragedy he will never escape. (97 mins)
UP IN THE AIR (15)
George Clooney stars in this comedy drama as Ryan Bingham, a corporate downsizing expert - in other words, his job is to fire people from theirs. He travels around the country, racking up air miles and living out of a suitcase. When his way of life come under threat by new procedures implemented by his hotshot colleague Natalie (Anna Kendrick), he determines to prove how valuable his role is. Winner of the 2010 BAFTA for Best Adapted Screenplay. (109 mins)
AMELIA (PG)
Biopic detailing the life and extraordinary career of American pilot Amelia Earhart (Hilary Swank), whose early aviation triumphs and meteoric rise to fame were accompanied by her tempestuous partnership and eventual marriage to publisher George Putnam (Richard Gere) & a passionate affair with Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor). Earhart was the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic & unaccompanied across the Pacific. A thrilling & emotional film. (111 mins)
AN EDUCATION (12)
Critically acclaimed drama set in 1960s London, adapted for the screen by novelist Nick Hornby from the memoirs of journalist Lynn Barber. Jenny is a young woman destined for a promising yet somewhat narrow future at Oxford University and beyond. Longing for romance and sophistication, she enjoys a whirlwind romance with the mysterious, older playboy David but will he be her undoing? Stylish, clever & funny with a superb ensemble cast including Alfred Molina, Dominic Cooper, Rosamund Pike and Emma Thompson. (95 mins)
JULIE AND JULIA (12)
A charming celebration of the life of Julia Child - one of American foods most influential and beloved figureheads & based on the book by Julie Powell (Amy Adams). Powell, a frustrated New York bureaucrat, wanted to be a writer so she gave herself a challenge: to cook her way through Julias recipes in one year and to blog about it. The film charts Powells sense of fulfillment with both cooking and writing together with Childs love of food, her husband & 1950s Paris. A delightful concoction with outstanding performances. (120 mins)
THE DAMNED UNITED (15)
Michael Sheen stars in this dramatisation of Brian Cloughs disastrous 44-day stint as the coach of Leeds United, based on the acclaimed novel by David Peace. Clough does little to disguise his contempt for the club, its players, and former manager Don Revie. As the relationship between players and manager deteriorates, so do the performances on the pitch. Timothy Spall and Jim Broadbent co-star. (97 mins)
DOUBT (15)
In 1964 a Catholic school in the Bronx is feeling the winds of political change sweeping the community as it accepts the first black student. But a young nun is convinced that a charismatic fellow priest has an unhealthy interest in the boy. Without a shard of proof besides her moral certainty, the nun engages in a battle of wills with the priest, threatening to tear apart the community with irrevocable consequences. Riveting drama with Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman & Amy Adams. (104 mins)
BEFORE THE RAINS (12)
Set in 1930s southern India against the backdrop of a growing nationalist movement, this beautifully made drama is the English language début of Indian director Santosh Sivan. An idealistic young Indian man (Rahul Bose) finds himself torn between his ambitions for the future and his loyalty to the past when people in his village learn of an affair between his British boss (Linus Roache) and a village woman (Nandita Das). (98 mins)
MARRIED LIFE (PG)
This engaging musing on the trials and tribulations of marriage is set in 1949. Harry has fallen deeply in love with a blonde beauty named Kay. He confesses his secret to his longtime bachelor friend, Richard. Unfortunately for Harry, Richard is instantly smitten, and makes up his mind that he will do whatever it takes to win Kay for himself. Harry, meanwhile, continues to plot ways to escape his marriage, though he fears leaving Pat will destroy her. Starring Pierce Brosnan, Chris Cooper, Patricia Clarkson, Rachel McAdams. (87 mins)
THE DUCHESS (12)
A chronicle of the life of 18th century aristocrat Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, who was reviled for her extravagant political and personal lives. She is a vibrant beauty and celebrity of her time but is trapped in an unhappy triangle with her husband and his live-in mistress. She falls passionately in love with an ambitious young politician, and the affair causes a bitter conflict with her husband that threatens to erupt into a royal scandal. Exquisitely filmed, critically acclaimed drama with Keira Knightley, Ralph Fiennes & Charlotte Rampling (110 mins)
BRIDESHEAD REVISITED (12)
Based on Evelyn Waughs 1945 classic British novel, this opulent adaptation is a poignant story of forbidden love and the loss of innocence set in England prior to the Second World War. The memoirs of Captain Charles Ryder who is stationed at Brideshead Castle during WWII remembers his involvement with the owners of the estate-the aristocratic yet Catholic Flyte family and in particular brother and sister Sebastian and Julia. A first rate cast includes Emma Thompson & Matthew Goode. (133 mins)
TEA WITH MUSSOLINI (PG)
Sumptuous drama based on the childhood memories of director Franco Zeffirelli. In 1934 Florence, a diverse group of women meet each afternoon for tea. There is Lady Hester Ransom (Maggie Smith), widow of the British Ambassador to Italy, singer and artist Arabella (Judi Dench), eccentric American archaeologist Georgie (Lily Tomlin), brash and flamboyant Elsa (Cher) and finally Mary (Joan Plowright), who has virtually adopted a young Italian boy named Luca. As the political climate shifts towards fascism, the ladies must face some inevitable changes, and Luca must face his own responsibilities. The film is warm and inviting and Zeffirelli gently conveys the passage from pleasantry to wartime, eliciting uniformly fine performances from this seasoned cast. (112 mins)
THE LAST OF THE BLONDE BOMBSHELLS (15)
After her husband's death, a widow (Judi Dench) re-kindles her musical roots. She seeks out the female band she played with during World War II. The one non-female in the troop was a cross-dressing drummer (Ian Holm) with whom she still is friends. Slowly the band grows, but their sound is lacking until a singer (Cleo Laine) is added to the mix. Terrific feel good British musical drama with June Whitfield, Joan Sims, Olympia Dukakis, Leslie Caron. (85 mins)