Uncut Gems - 4/5

This movie is an expertly crafted cacophony of chaos. There are constantly two or three conversations happening overtop of each other throughout the movie and the ‘80s synth soundtrack revving everything up to frenetic mania makes for a stressful moviegoing experience. This synergizes with the plot and brings the audience in to the world of the protagonist in an very effective way. Unfortunately, by the end all we’re left with is a story of a guy who did some things, and no further substance or food for thought. Adam Sandler gives the best performance of his career, convincingly as despicable as everyone else in this sordid tale of gray market shennanigans. Those who enjoy the ‘bad people doing bad things’ genre will likely enjoy this film more.

Content warning: sexuality, language, Adam Sandler’s colon

Closest comparison: It’s like Taxi Driver by way of Snatch (2000), but with less slick polish.

Setting: Inner City Crime
Plot: Bad people doing bad things
Tone: Thriller

Frozen II - 2/5

This movie is unable to escape from the shadow of its predecessor. For one thing, it is careful to ensure that all of the characters you might have liked from Frozen are back, regardless of whether they fit into the story this movie is telling. The songs are big, centerpiece moments but none of them are able to recapture the phenomenon that was ‘Let It Go’, despite their best efforts. The visuals are gorgeous again, and if your kids love the first one then it’s a pretty harmless way to pass 103 minutes; adults are likely to be much less impressed.

Closest comparison: It’s the best ‘2’ from Disney Animation Studios, for whatever that’s worth.

Setting: Fantasy
Plot: Adventure
Tone: Family