nathannicolarobertscouk Reviews

Denial (II) (2016)

Denial may not be the most exciting of films, but it may be the most important film you see this year.

[8/10 · 1 February 2017]

Understated and quietly powerful, Denial offers a satisfying and tasteful dramatisation of one of the most pivotal court cases in history which couldn't be more timely if it tried. Low-key in its approach and never overly complicated in its telling, Denial's decision to put the facts and accuracies of the story front and centre is greatly felt and really respected, with a refusal to descend into cheap tricks to shock or scandalise, courtesy of a compelling and streamlined screenplay from David Hare putting clarity as the focus. Its slender 110 minute runtime is a little scattered with a stronger need for balance but it remains relatively brisk and sharp throughout. Vitalised by a real quality about it - whether that's due to the steady way it is shot, the addition of the 'BBC Films' tag, the complex subject matter it handles or very probably a combination of all of the above - Denial feels like a prestigious product of impassioned and dedicated work. Veteran director Mike Jackson utilises his skill to deliver some impressive camera work; the long, lingering shots of the Auschwitz portray an uncomfortable tranquility and stillness, contrasted with the horrors the camp enclosed, with Jackson demonstrating this in a respectful and sensitive way; the whole sequence is without its loud, gratuitous and ostentatious moments and uses this slice of historical iconography in a moving and refined way. The same can be said for the way he considers the themes of the piece too, examining the importance of preserving and protecting our history and truth in an impactful way that never loses focus of this message.

Hacksaw Ridge (2016)

Hacksaw Ridge is a powerful, emotionally-charged and inspiring picture that examines the full horror of war

[9/10 · 29 January 2017]

Hacksaw Ridge paints a powerful portrait of the importance of faith and basic respect for one and other, with an emotional and moving tale of a man who refused to lift a gun, making the decision to save lives rather than take them. It is a rough balancing act, but the film remains deeply effective and gripping, as well as violent but dignified at the same time, all of which coalesces into a worthwhile whole. For all its blood, gore, explosions and injury detail, it never forgets the human story it is telling and guarantees that the themes are always front and centre of the picture. Andrew Garfield delivers a career-best performance and Mel Gibson crafts this harrowing and violent tale with enough thought-provoking and moral questioning to ensure you are totally absorbed in this pacifist story. Each and every one of us can find inspiration in this one man's adherence to his true morals and beliefs and in turn will find this true meaning of strength and bravery in the darkest of circumstances.

FULL REVIEW - https://goo.gl/wEiQfV

Jackie (V) (2016)

Jackie's strength lies in the details, from the production team to the star performance

[9/10 · 26 January 2017]

"As you have heard, and/or expected, Natalie Portman is sensational as Jackie Kennedy, nailing the former First Lady's mannerism, characteristics and accent to the point where you have to double- take whether moments are archive footage of the real Jackie or filmed as part of Portman's performance. It's commanding and engaging at all times, translating into a moving and sometimes harrowing performance that demonstrates the struggles of being both a mother, wife and figure of inspiration to many; essentially, she plays a lady who has, for a good part of her life, put on a performance, meaning this gives Portman an opportunity to showcase a more personal side to Jackie, including her relationships with a variety of people, be that her family, friends or government officials. It's carefully crafted and finely tuned with a strong possibility that this will go down as one of her career-defining performances, Oscar trophy or not. Surrounding supporting players, despite being incomparable to the name-above-the-title, help round the picture off with solid performances that support the emotional journey the film takes us on; Greta Gerwig is an terrific choice as Nancy Tuckerman, Social Secretary and friend to Jackie, as if Peter Sarsgaard's Robert Kennedy, including one pivotal scene in which he mediates on whether JFK's legacy will simply be that of an assassin's bullet. It's powerful that this spark of rage is really rather true, making it a rather devastating retrospective."

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/FepGyQ

Split (IX) (2016)

Botched themes and poor writing is only occasionally lifted by terrific performances and decent work from Shyamalan

[5/10 · 26 January 2017]

As with any general split, it starts off small and controlled and eventually frays at the edges, with its problems and flaws growing increasingly difficult to ignore. A victim of a terrific central premise, it demonstrates signs of delivering the potential and promise teased in the first act alone - but it eventually becomes too unfocused and complex for the sake of doing so. If we stuck with the idea of Casey attempting to talk to each of the identities, uncovering their flaws and exploiting their weaknesses, it would perhaps be a far superior horror-thriller, one fuelled by a smartness and sophistication; instead, it's rather run of the mill, ludicrous and frustrating popcorn flick that botches its climax with an uncomfortable development and shoehorned twist. It becomes a little laughable and that is the one place you never want to strand your horror film. Shyamalan The Director does decent things here but Shyamalan The Screenwriter lets him down - it's almost as if he is suffering from his own split.

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/SemOkh

Manchester by the Sea (2016)

Manchester By The Sea tells its simple story and difficult themes in a beautifully devastating way

[9/10 · 21 January 2017]

Quiet and thoughtful, Manchester By The Sea engages from the very first scene with an icy sophistication and disconcerting quality that feels totally alluring to audiences. It's careful and considered, telling a simple story in an astounding way. It's themes of death, regret and loss are mixed with an unusual dark humour that ensures the film never slips into completely depressing territory, preventing viewers from feeling as if they are imposing on these characters during their time of grief; the humour is so important here and is nailed pretty much constantly scoring everything from chuckles to belly laughs across the board. It's thanks to Lonergan's script that that it strikes such an effective balance between these two opposing tones, and even more in thanks for his work behind the camera; from sweeping shots of the ocean to intimate moments homing in on a sole characters' smallest of expressions, it is textured piece of directing and filmmaking captured wonderfully by Lonergan. His use of flashbacks enables the film to unfold as a slow burner, drip feeding information and revelations that, although arguably foreseeable, is executed in a way that still shocks and breaks us despite our suspicion, demonstrating Lonergan's firm grip on this film. That one scene in particular is unbelievably powerful and profound, with the subtle and elusive hints in the lead up to the reveal never hampering its impact.

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/VRmPq2

Lion (2016)

Lion's warm and inspirational true story doesn't translate perfectly to film

[6/10 · 20 January 2017]

Lion's warm and inspirational true story cannot be faulted or labelled as anything less than powerful or moving, yet the film doesn't always manage to capture this essence in its purest form and somehow loses twenty years of the story along the way, leaving the rest of the narrative a little thin on the ground and thus disengaging. It absolutely has its moments of real greatness, with a really solid start that renders a young Saroo's journey as a profound one - but the second half begins to undo that with too many coincidences and conventionalities that prevents the story's translations on to the big screen from being a wholly successful and effective one. It's a real shame that it cannot maintain the goodwill of its first half, as the general cast do a really tremendous job of making us feel sympathetic towards the characters they bring to life and the hard work put in by the writers and director is unquestionable. A few errors in this piece really has prevented it from ascending to greatness or award season worthiness, but I am absolutely sure there will be many more out there who are more impacted by this piece of filmmaking than I was.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.com/2017/01/lion-2017-review.html

Silence (I) (2016)

Silence so often succeeds but its runtime is a huge weakness too difficult to ignore

[8/10 · 11 January 2017]

Silence is an admirable piece of film-making that will, for many, demonstrate exactly what Martin Scorsese is at the very top of his field and why Andrew Garfield is one of the strongest actors of his generation. It's consideration of such dark, poignant themes and ideas (namely, the silence of God when people need him the most and the importance and dangers of an unwavering faith and reliance on one figure) is profound and very often moving, which contrasted with the brutality of the torture scenes, works on an effective but very uncomfortable level well. The opening scene, with the calmness of Liam Neeson narration in comparison to the brutality and discomfort of the torture being displayed, sets the film off on a strong footing, with some of the film's best work contained in this sequence. The final image is equally as powerful in its message (holding on to your faith) but a lot of the material in between weakens some of the impact. I completely understand the need for the film's runtime, eking out the journey and telling the story in as much detail as it deserves and I while admire the work and talent of Scorsese, it doesn't mean I have to love it and quite frankly, I didn't. Maybe, like some have suggested, I will look back at this more fondly than just a couple of hours after enduring it, but for the time being the film's biggest weakness is a little too deafening and difficult to overlook.

FULL REVIEW: goo.gl/IkFgZB

La La Land (2016)

La La Land lifts you higher and higher in this all singing, dancing and acting masterclass

[10/10 · 9 January 2017]

Believe the hype with La La Land, as this colourful, creative and masterful musical deserves to sweep up at the upcoming Oscar season, just as it has at the Golden Globes. Despite such a simple story being told, it features so much heart, invigorated energy and euphoria that you simply cannot stop smiling with this film, even when it all ends a little melancholy. It's refreshing, stunningly told, visually captivating and heartfelt in its exploration of themes and ideas with two sensational performances at its core. It's certainly sweet but with a little bitter bite too, refusing to indulge too much in tripes and clichés and keeping the ball rolling (even through the slower moments, there is always something to enjoy). I implore you to watch this, if only to be able to tell the story to future generations about where you watched 2017's Best Picture winner, which is destined to become a classic in years to come. It's a musical masterpiece, a love letter to a Hollywood time gone by and everything I love about film, just in a slightly different package, and a reminder to let the dreamer inside of us all to dream.

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/Tvo4zE

A Monster Calls (2016)

A Monster Calls is a magical, stunning and heartbreaking tale that cannot be faulted.

[10/10 · 2 January 2017]

"A Monster Calls is the most emotional film I have ever seen. Almost immediately, one can sense the pure heart at this centre of this exquisite piece of film and that sensitivity and empathy never wavers, crafting an experience that feels both intimately personal and widely relatable. It's endpoint is foreseeable but it does not make the journey any less heartbreaking or compelling, offering true sincerity every step of the way. Thematically, the film deals with some incredibly complex and difficult ideas to explore in a story that needs to be accessible by all ages, but superbly handles them so they can be recognised and accepted by all. It's a huge ask for a film to be able to deliver the same message to a multitude of people varying in age, gender and background but it all comes together in such a touching way. It's words, script and screenplay from Patrick Ness are poetic, deeply creative and inventive. The stunning script and crushing themes are only the foundations to this sensational film and knowing the context of the novel's birth and development only add to the authenticity of this film."

Read my full review of the film, which has every possibility of topping my 'end of year' list come the end of the year! - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/a-monster-calls-2017- review.html

Passengers (I) (2016)

Terrifically performances/chemistry and top of the range visuals distract from questionable narrative

[8/10 · 23 December 2016]

Sold on the concept of 'Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt in space', the film excels based on their sensational chemistry and performances and the pair manage to command every moment of the runtime. Despite being largely a two-hander - with Michael Sheen popping in every now and then as Arthur the Android and serving his purpose - Lawrence and Pratt make such a compelling duo that no one else is needed; we care deeply for these characters and sympathise with their plight and, without too many spoilers, understand their actions even when they are morally flawed and/or questionable. Sci-fi can often come across as cold and technology-centered, but Passengers is very character-driven at its core, thus making it far more emotionally resonant than is expected of the genre typically. Lawrence's character is afforded some solid character building through her 'character profile' while Pratt's Jim is a little more complicated (more on that later...) but their chemistry - almost a third character in its own right - is the strongest here. Their performances, particularly Lawrence as she is rewarded more range to work with, is spectacular enough to make this film worth a watch and journey out on these cold nights.

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/o92njh

Moana (I) (2016)

Moana excels because of its excellent imagery/visuals and wonderful performance/characterisation

[8/10 · 23 December 2016]

While the trailers did absolutely nothing for me, the film is nothing but a pleasant and enjoyable surprise.

Moana's characterisation is top-notch here, evident through the titular character herself; Moana is depicted as a skilled, warm-hearted and kind-natured girl on a journey to discover her true identity, creating an inspiring tale that deserves to be taken to audience's hearts as they did to the female leads of Frozen - if not, even more so because, quite frankly, this is a far superior film. Cravalho's passionate voice performance is magnificent and infectious, making her the perfect fit for the role, coming across a very sweet but headstrong character - very often at the same time. She is one of Disney's most well-defined and sketched characters of all time, with her determination not going unnoticed in a moment of film's entire runtime, giving the film a great focus through and through. Maui is far more one-dimensional than Moana but even he is awarded his own character arc that depicts his realisation that Moana is far more skilled than he gives her credit for, with Johnson capturing his journey with great enthusiasm. The story is one that, although not revolutionary and sometimes in need of a little shake up and few more risks being taken, is an inspiring watch and totally engrossing. Moana's first act features some of the best work in the genre of all time, acting as a masterclass in introducing characters, building a world and setting-up a story without ever overwhelming audiences. A few minutes could be trimmed from the second act, including an entire scene where the pair attempt to recapture Maui's magical fishhook, which feels squarely aimed at younger children while only slowing down the thrill and enchanting journey for everyone else (it feels more Illumination than Disney), but the runtime generally races by in a whirlwind of beauty and inspiration. Its feminist influence, while clear, remain subtle and nuanced enough to avoid feeling completely forced upon audiences, whilst still managing to inspire those smart and mature enough to understand them.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/moana-2016-review.html

Why Him? (2016)

Only in a comedy could the weak link be an Oscar nominated actor...

[6/10 · 21 December 2016]

Possibly more so than any other genre, a solid ensemble cast (as well as the script, of course) is the absolute key to unlocking a decent comedy and unfortunately, the very central piece lets the whole film down: Bryan Cranston is not a leading comic and it very obviously shows. As one of this year's Best Actor nominees, Cranston fails to come across naturally in this lead role, with every joke and riff feeling more like a stiff and laboured effort than an organic energy, as the rest of his cast demonstrate, who are all more typically associated with the genre - and it really rather shows. His lead co-star, Franco, does a far more convincing job and manages to translate what should be an irritating and obnoxious character into a far more likable and funny character than expected. Megan Mullally is also worth a mention; the Parks and Rec star has a rather small role but manages to make quite the impression as Barb, even when the script doesn't quite serve her well enough, including a prolonged scene in which she is determined to have sex with her husband - this same plot was employed with absolutely hilarious results in Parks and Rec (in which she played the outrageous Tammy Two) but it falls completely flat here through no fault of her own. It's another example of a committed performance ploughing against all the odds. Talking of ploughing, the absolute star of this film is the youngest cast member - Griffin Gluck is continually hilarious and awarded the script's biggest laughs, but it is his conviction and joyous performance that secures these laughs, making him the most memorable element of the film, even with the lowest-billing of the main five stars.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.com/2016/12/why-him-2016-review.html

The Edge of Seventeen (2016)

Beautiful performances, poignant script and themes

[9/10 · 15 December 2016]

Some films are always destined for greatness. Some films strive for greatness and fall drastically short under the pressure. Some come out of nowhere, completely surprise and pass the 'greatness' test with flying colours. The Edge of Seventeen falls in the latter category, crafting a touching and poignant coming-of-age comedy-drama that achieves the distinction of standing among the genre's best. Starring Hailee Steinfeld as the film's lead - with a performance that could very easily catapult her into Hollywood stardom - The Edge of Seventeen considers the troubles of growing up in a way that very few writers could get a grip of so well.

(...)

It may indulge in Hollywood tropes a little too willingly towards the end, but that doesn't stop The Edge of Seventeen from being an absolute gem of a film. It's poignant, honest and authentic, with wonderful work from Steinfeld, Harrelson and Craig in particular, who are central pieces in the brilliant work the film does. It succeeds because of how perceptively it approaches its subject matter, how tenderly it considers its themes and how it touches a nerve with everyone that has ever experienced/is experiencing growing up. The Edge of Seventeen is a film you need to see now - you'll kick yourself otherwise.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/the-edge-of-seventeen- 2016-review.html

Sully (2016)

Sturdy film-making from the ever-reliable Hanks and Eastwood

[8/10 · 15 December 2016]

Despite being just 96 minutes long, it was difficult to think that an entire feature-length film could made from a 208-second incident that, while miraculous, was rather short-lived. Sully utilises the star-power and talent of director Clint Eastwood and lead actor Tom Hanks to sustain the rest of the runtime, with a compelling and engrossing play-out that is as interesting as it is intense.

(...)

Sully is a sturdy piece of film-making from the likes of Clint Eastwood and Tom Hanks, proving exactly why they are top of their respective games. With a slim runtime and excellent pacing, it is a compelling piece of film perfectly suited to the big screen, with stunning visuals and cinematography. Sully demonstrates the Miracle on the Hudson with a great deal of detail, ensuring it is an engrossing watch, as well as one that educates. It deserves to be viewed on the biggest screen to truly appreciate the stunning visuals, so be sure to see it while you still can!

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/sully-2016-review.html

Snowden (2016)

Great performance from Joseph Gordon-Levitt can't help distract from awkward structure and uneven pace

[5/10 · 9 December 2016]

For all its flaws, at least Snowden has a remarkable central performance, a supporting cast with solid talent, a decent score and the odd sporadic burst of promise. If you want to learn more about this intriguing figure, you can go one or two ways - check out this film which, at two hours and fourteen minutes, is already half an hour too long or read the Wikipedia page for this man. One cannot help but feel frustrated at Snowden's inability to craft a more engaging and compelling story for such an interesting figure and story, hampered by a bizarre structure that interrupts the pace and momentum and an inflated runtime that could easily be slashed by half or three quarters of an hour at least

5.5/10

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.co.uk/2016/12/snowden-2016- review.html

A United Kingdom (2016)

Two wonderful central performances lead a passion piece let down by an uneven script

[7/10 · 2 December 2016]

GOOD: - Sensational performances from Rosamund Pike and David Oyelowo, who conjure a terrific chemistry between them. - A film obviously crafted with care and consideration by the hands of director Amma Asante. - Juggles the politics and the romance well - Highlights the themes wonderfully, with a true resonance that never feels outdated. - Enlightening

BAD: - Uneven and awkward script manufactures a saccharine tone - Lack of subtly on the scriptwriter's behalf - Poor or miscast supporting characters/roles - Jarring editing, as if large chunks have been removed and the gaps have not then been filled back in

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/seldw2

Allied (2016)

Allied strives for a greatness it struggles to achieve

[7/10 · 2 December 2016]

GOOD:

• Marion Cotillard is the film's shining beacon, crafting an enigmatic performance that ensures audience's are engaged and captivated by her presence in a scene. - Brad Pitt is strong enough (if continually overshined) - Interesting director work from Zemeckis - Excellent production values - a beautiful, glamorous piece of filmmaking

BAD:

• The ending is not nearly as powerful as it tries to be - Spoiler-filled trailer ruins the thrill - First act is largely devoid of tension and interest leading to major pacing issues

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/7Iw2tG

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)

Brilliant performances, effects, ideas and themes do enough to soften the impact of its major issues with tone

[8/10 · 27 November 2016]

Fantastic Beasts isn't as bad as you feared, and while its not quite as incredible as you want to believe it could be, it continues J.K. Rowling's Wizarding World with a series containing enough magic of its own to feel worthy of its place alongside Potter. Strong cast performances - particularly from Eddie Redmayne as the charming lead - and some solid work from Rowling as screenwriter and Yates as director work in the films favour, helping to craft the fun, whimsical and joyful adventure it takes you on, as well as hinting at some darker themes it doesn't yet have the conviction and confidence to champion at the film's forefront. It struggles in its overall ability to settle on a tone, plumping for two opposing narrative strands that struggle to co-exist in the same film, but ultimately do manage to end up in a place that combines the two for something a little more digestible. On the whole, it is undeniably fun and enjoyable, hinting at some interesting ideas and thematic work that could be incredibly effective by ironing out some of the niggling issues. A solid return for the Wizarding World.

FULL REVIEW - goo.gl/xiSPzG

The Accountant (2016)

Great cast performances let down by lazy, offensive script and pacing

[5/10 · 15 November 2016]

The Accountant very firmly stands in the middle-lower section of Affleck's filmography, flirting with either ends but essentially plumping for something more middling. It's ambitious (it has the intentions of a franchise written all over it), well-acted (with terrific star turns from Affleck and Anna Kendrick, who deserves more serious roles in the future) with a decent direction, but the biggest problems lie in its lazy, offensive script (that woefully mishandles its central premise and 'quirk') and uneven pacing (the solid middle act being sandwiched between two weaker, exposition-lead acts.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.com/2016/11/the-accountant-2016- review.html

Arrival (II) (2016)

Arrival is a profoundly affecting, deeply philosophical love note to humanity

[10/10 · 15 November 2016]

Arrival is a profoundly affecting, deeply philosophical love note to humanity and all of its strengths, when the word needs to hear it most. It uncovers the difficulties of communication and the importance of language in building an important rhetoric regarding with ideas, concepts and beings we don't understand. It resonates emotionally because of the compassionate script, stunning acting, tight direction and magical score that feels enchanting when they all work to the very best of their ability - particularly in the film's first and final acts - which strikes and conjures the emotional depth found in the film. I cannot speak highly enough of this film and, if like myself, your faith in humanity is beginning to waver, take the time to remind yourself of what we can do when we work together and fight to understand. This is an example of cinema working to the best of its ability.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.com/2016/11/arrival-2016-review.html

Nocturnal Animals (2016)

Defined by its icy sophistication, absorbing narrative and stellar cast

[9/10 · 15 November 2016]

Nocturnal Animals is a very strong dark psychological adult thriller defined by its beauty and direction by Tom Ford, its stirring themes and intricacy and stellar performances by a determined cast. It's disconcerting (usually, but not always, for the right reasons) and carries an intense atmosphere of icy sophistication that is both beautiful and brutal in the same breath. It's a cinematic art form that is absorbing and compelling and a strong contender for the year-end top 10.

FULL REVIEW - http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.com/2016/11/nocturnal-animals-2016- review.html

The Light Between Oceans (2016)

Beautiful acted, gorgeously shot but ultimately saccharine

[8/10 · 6 November 2016]

The best way to describe this film is that it is like chocolate - you want it and you will enjoy it, but there comes a point where enough is enough and you want something else to displace from the syrupy-sugar. It's an enjoyable and sometimes powerful drama with a beautiful location and exceptional performances at its heart, even though its pace, momentum and bloated runtime prevent it from being the prestigious period drama it strives so hard to be. It probably won't be in Oscar-discussions (although its performances should at least be considered) but has given Disney another win outside of its animation and live- action wheelhouse (much like their recent Queen of Katwe) and has created one of Hollywood's most powerful couples, so we can't be too disappointed.

7.5/10

FULL REVIEW: goo.gl/p1XbUA

Doctor Strange (2016)

Spectacular psychedelic effects and cast let down by low-stakes narrative jumble

[6/10 · 3 November 2016]

Doctor Strange does just about enough as the 'smaller' Marvel film of the year to keep momentum up, even if it doesn't completely thrill and excite as one hoped it would. Still, it's brave and it's bold, introducing a new character so early into Phase Three and its a visual thrill, serving up some of the best effect of the year; in fact, I'd go as far as to suggest this is a front-runner for Best Visual Effects at the upcoming Academy Awards. You can't help but become frustrated that, after the incredible Civil War earlier this year, Marvel can't keep up with their own bar of success, but they still remain the clear frontrunners of the genre even with this more middle of the road serving. Visually, it's Marvel's most ambitious film to date - i just wish its story and formula was too.

FULL REVIEW: goo.gl/uBgvKD

Queen of Katwe (2016)

Disney continues its fantastic year with Queen of Katwe!

[8/10 · 28 October 2016]

With just a few minor flaws, Queen of Katwe is an inspiration, touching and memorable Disney film that champions a diverse cast and location with a great sense of gravitas from the three stirring, superb leads. It remains the type of film we all say we want to see - original content without the 'blockbuster' template, that champions its performances and story over its effects and production values. It's exactly what you hope and expect of a Disney film, both heartwarming and influential, and will be sure to inspire many who leave the theatre. It makes you laugh and then it makes you cry just moments later, crafted by people with powerful messages to tell and convey with a deep sincerity from its subject manner, reinforced by the film's credits revealing where these people are in their lives, stood next to the actors and actresses that bought them to screen - a touching moment that perfectly epitomises the care this film has for its characters and story.

FULL REVIEW: http://perksofbeingnath.blogspot.com/2016/10/queen-of-katwe-2016- review.html

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children (2016)

Messy narrative saved by strong performances and arresting visuals

[7/10 · 18 October 2016]

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is an entertaining film only let down by an overcomplicated and overstuffed narrative. It is otherwise bolstered by impressive performances and visuals, with just a hint at some of the themes that could really prove Peculiar Children as the next big fantasy franchise. For all its flaws, enjoyment can still be found within Peculiar Children and while the premise's potential may not have been perfectly executed this time round, I wouldn't turn down a second opportunity to see the world created by both Riggs and Burton, especially if we get more of the same from Eva Green.

FULL REVIEW: goo.gl/81Z0lA