GHOSTBUSTERS: FROZEN EMPIRE (2024)

When the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an evil force, Ghostbusters new and old must join forces to protect their home and save the world from a second ice age.

In Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, director Gil Kenan orchestrates a reunion of two Ghostbusters generations amidst a supernatural cold-snap enveloping New York City. This instalment boasts a star-studded cast including Mckenna Grace, Annie Potts, Carrie Coon, Paul Rudd, Bill Murray, Finn Wolfhard, Patton Oswalt, Ernie Hudson, and Dan Aykroyd.

Kenan endeavors to infuse the franchise with new life while paying homage to its iconic past. The narrative centres on the new Ghostbuster team, supported by the old OG Ghostbusters team, as they embrace cutting-edge technology to combat an eventual Ice Age triggered by an ancient artifact. Legacy and the passing of the torch are recurring themes, driving the narrative forward and breathing fresh energy into the franchise.

The reunion of the beloved Ghostbusters gang evokes nostalgia, and the joy of seeing the iconic characters back in action is exceptional, but it doesn't make up for a thin storyline. Additionally, the budding relationship between Phoebe (Grace) and a ghost longing for familial reunion adds depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Frozen Empire is full of Easter Eggs and callbacks to its predecessors, seamlessly integrating them into the storyline without overwhelming the audience. Yet, the film struggles with pacing issues, with a significant portion of the runtime dedicated to exposition and side quests before the central plotline gains momentum.

Despite its promising premise, Frozen Empire falls short in delivering a compelling villain and establishing credible stakes. The threat of an ancient evil unleashed upon New York City feels underwhelming, lacking the necessary tension and urgency to captivate audiences, when we are only told the stake, and not visually shown the consequences

The ensemble cast, while impressive, is underutilized, with some characters relegated to the sidelines. This overcrowding detracts from the cohesion of the narrative, leading to a disjointed viewing experience. Furthermore, the film's climax feels rushed and anticlimactic, failing to deliver on the buildup established earlier.

Mckenna Grace shines in her role as Phoebe, anchoring the film with her performance, despite the shortcomings of the script. However, the film's focus on Phoebe's adolescent crisis at the expense of other characters' development hampers its overall impact.

While Frozen Empire attempts to strike a balance between honouring the franchise's legacy and forging a new path, it ultimately succumbs to narrative overload and pacing issues. The film's reliance on fan service and callbacks, while nostalgic, fails to compensate for its narrative shortcomings.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is a mixed bag, offering glimpses of nostalgia and charm but ultimately failing to live up to its potential. Kenan's direction, coupled with a stellar cast, provides moments of entertainment, but the film is hindered by its unfocused narrative and underdeveloped characters.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is in NZ cinemas from March 21, 2023

BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE (2024)

Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley overcomes adversity to become the most famous reggae musician in the world.

With biographical dramas, there's often a fine line between honouring a legend and succumbing to clichés. Bob Marley: One Love, directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green and written by Terence Winter, Frank E. Flowers, and Zach Baylin, attempts to navigate this line as it delves into the life of the iconic musician, Bob Marley. Starring Kingsley Ben-Adir in the titular role, the film takes audiences on a journey through Marley's tumultuous life, from his rise to global stardom to his enduring message of unity and love amidst political turmoil.

Ben-Adir's captivating portrayal of Bob Marley is at the heart of the film. The British actor immerses himself in the role, capturing Marley's charisma, stage presence, and inner conflicts with remarkable authenticity. From his humble beginnings in Jamaica to his meteoric rise as a global icon, Ben-Adir's performance offers a nuanced portrayal of Marley as both a musical genius and a complex individual grappling with personal and political challenges.

Lashana Lynch, portraying Rita Marley, provides a strong supporting performance, offering insight into the emotional complexities of Marley's personal life. As Marley's steadfast companion and confidante, Lynch brings depth to the character, showcasing Rita's unwavering support and resilience in the face of adversity. Together, Ben-Adir and Lynch infuse the film with a sense of authenticity and emotional depth, anchoring the narrative amidst its various twists and turns.

Director Reinaldo Marcus Green brings a sense of authenticity to the film, capturing the vibrancy of Jamaica and the cultural landscape of the 1970s with vivid detail. Using Jamaican Patois adds a layer of realism to the dialogue, immersing viewers in Marley's world and the complexities of his identity as a Jamaican Rastafarian. However, while the film's direction and cinematography effectively evoke the spirit of Marley's music and the era in which he lived, its reliance on flashbacks and exposition detracts from its overall cohesiveness.

Thematically, Bob Marley: One Love explores the power of music as a force for social change and cultural unity. From his early days as a struggling musician in Kingston to his international acclaim as a symbol of peace and solidarity, Marley's journey embodies the transformative potential of art in the face of oppression and injustice. Yet, while the film touches on themes of family, faith, and social justice, it often falls short in delving into the complexities of Marley's persona and the broader socio-political context of his time.

One of the film's standout elements is its use of Bob Marley's iconic songs, which serve as a powerful soundtrack to his life story. From anthems of resistance like Get Up, Stand Up to soulful ballads like Three Little Birds, Marley's music remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime. The film pays homage to Marley's musical legacy, showcasing timeless classics that resonate with audiences across generations. However, while the soundtrack adds depth and emotional resonance to the storytelling, the film could have benefited from a more comprehensive exploration of Marley's musical evolution and influences.

Despite its strengths, Bob Marley: One Love is not without its flaws. The film's narrative often feels disjointed, with abrupt shifts in tone and pacing that detract from the overall viewing experience. While Ben-Adir delivers a compelling performance, the script's superficial treatment of Marley's story and its formulaic approach prevents it from reaching its full potential. Moments that could have offered insight into Marley's inner life and motivations are glossed over in favour of more conventional biopic tropes, leaving audiences wanting more depth and nuance.

Bob Marley: One Love offers a glimpse into the life of a cultural icon but ultimately falls short of capturing the full complexity of its subject. While the film succeeds in celebrating Marley's musical legacy and message of unity and love, it struggles to transcend the limitations of the biographical genre. Nevertheless, Ben-Adir's captivating performance and the film's evocative soundtrack ensure that Marley's spirit lives on, inspiring future generations to embrace his message of peace, compassion, and unity.

Bob Marley: One Love is available in NZ cinemas from February 14, 2024

MEAN GIRLS (2024)

New student Cady Heron gets welcomed into the top of the social food chain by an elite group of popular girls called the Plastics, ruled by the conniving queen bee Regina George. However, when Cady makes the major misstep of falling for Regina's ex-boyfriend, she soon finds herself caught in their crosshairs.

Mean Girls (2024) brings a familiar tale to the screen, blending the essence of the original film with a musical twist. Directed by Samantha Jayne and Arturo Perez Jr., with Tina Fey returning as the writer, the movie introduces some noteworthy changes to the classic storyline. Despite some shortcomings, the film manages to offer an entertaining experience, thanks in no small part to the standout performance of Reneé Rapp.

The plot remains faithful to its predecessor, following Cady, played by Angourie Rice, as she navigates the treacherous waters of North Shore High School. The screenplay, almost identical to the original, still captivates audiences with its timeless narrative. The inclusion of mediocre musical numbers, however, becomes a focal point of discussion, casting a shadow on an otherwise engaging storyline.

One notable evolution in Mean Girls is the diverse cast, reflecting a shift away from outdated expectations for actresses. The characters, particularly Janis and Regina, exhibit new facets, presenting a more modern perspective on femininity and sexuality. Janis, now more stereotypically feminine, and Regina, portrayed by Reneé Rapp, who brings a seductive and louche quality to the role, contribute to the film's unique charm.

The film's visual appeal is heightened by the excellent choreography of dance numbers by Kyle Hanagami. Cinematographer Bill Kirstein and editor Andrew Marcus collaborate seamlessly to blend musical sequences with montage storytelling, creating an engaging viewing experience. While the songs by Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin are witty and energetic, their impact is somewhat diluted by excessive visual and audio augmentation, making it challenging to connect with the characters and story.

One of the movie's standout features is the performance of Reneé Rapp as Regina. Her portrayal, while different from Rachel McAdams' iconic interpretation, brings a new dimension to the character. Rapp's powerful R&B-influenced vocals infuse songs like "World Burn" and "Someone Gets Hurt" with undeniable charisma. Her presence on screen exudes confidence, making her a standout element in the film.

Despite the film's attempt to refresh the source material for a new generation, Mean Girls struggles to resonate with the evolving landscape of teenage culture. The mean-spiritedness lacks the sharpness and authenticity that characterized the original, leaving audiences questioning the film's identity. The age-old narrative arc of the "Burn Book" feels out of place in the era of social media, highlighting a disconnect with the current realities of adolescent behaviour.

The film does have its merits, with a nod to Regina's sidekicks, Karen and Gretchen, portrayed by Avantika and Bebe Wood. Their characters, showing a bit more soulfulness, add depth to the narrative. Auliʻi Cravalho, known for voicing Moana, delivers an impressive vocal performance as Janis, contributing to the overall musical richness of the film.

Mean Girls may not fully capture the biting wit and cultural relevance of its predecessor, but it offers a lively and nostalgia-ridden remake. The movie succeeds in paying homage to the original while introducing some modern twists. If approached with moderate expectations and an appreciation for Reneé Rapp's captivating performance, audiences are likely to find enjoyment in this updated take on the high school classic. 

As times have changed, Mean Girls might not have kept up entirely, but it still manages to deliver a fun and entertaining cinematic experience, fit for a teenage audience.

Mean Girls is in NZ cinemas from January 18, 2023

AQUAMAN AND THE LOST KINGDOM (2023)

Black Manta seeks revenge on Aquaman for his father's death. Wielding the Black Trident's power, he becomes a formidable foe. To defend Atlantis, Aquaman forges an alliance with his imprisoned brother. They must protect the kingdom.

Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom, directed by James Wan, stands at a pivotal juncture in the DC Universe, serving as the concluding chapter for Justice League characters before a planned reboot. The film, although visually captivating, grapples with a plot that echoes similarities to Marvel's Thor Ragnarok, and at times feels like a placeholder than its
own valid story.

The narrative revolves around Arthur Curry (Jason Momoa), King of Atlantis, facing an attack on his kingdom that forces him to collaborate with his deposed brother, former King Orm (Patrick Wilson). This sibling rivalry forms one of the more enjoyable threads in the movie, offering a refreshing standalone adventure. Unfortunately, the film struggles with an overlong and visually cluttered experience that prioritizes special effects over storytelling.

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, playing the villain Black Manta, is poorly served with limited speeches and character development. The film introduces three major plotlines, including the brotherly conflict, a revenge subplot, and the weaponization of Climate Change. The attempt to merge real-world concerns with a comic book storyline feels like a contortion, reminiscent of Man of Steel's unsuccessful endeavour.

James Wan's direction relies heavily on CGI effects, providing aesthetically pleasing visuals for the audience. Jason Momoa exudes an easy charisma, although his comedic prowess is not his strongest suit. The dynamic between Momoa's Arthur Curry and Wilson's Orm drives the narrative forward, with Wilson serving as a perfect straight man to Momoa's himbo vibe.

The movie, however, falls short in creating high stakes, leaving the audience with a sense that the plot is merely biding time. While Momoa's playful nature adds a layer of fun, the one-dimensional villains and underutilized characters, including Mera and Aquaman's mum (Nicole Kidman), contribute to the film's shortcomings.

The plot's simplicity and straightforwardness, coupled with an overreliance on CGI, further highlight the lack of depth in the storyline. Despite the entertaining moments, Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom fails to establish memorable elements that would linger in the audience's minds beyond a month.

One perplexing aspect of the film is the inconsistent portrayal of Aquaman's family life. The initial montage depicting Arthur Curry as a new dad and ruler of Atlantis largely excludes Mera, his wife, and mother of his child. This inconsistency in editing creates confusion and disrupts the coherence of the narrative.

While the dynamic between Wilson and Momoa provides occasional moments of laugh-out-loud comedy, it proves insufficient to compensate for the film's overall lack of focus. The movie's entertaining aspects are overshadowed by its disjointed storytelling, preventing it from being a memorable or highly recommended experience.

The underwater world, a distinctive feature of Aquaman's universe, struggles to resonate with surface dwellers, and the attempts to create global problems appear disconnected. The montages depicting travel between locations fail to establish a cohesive world, hindering the buildup of stakes and tension.

Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom recycles many elements from its predecessor, including a quest leading to a secret lair in the desert and the discovery of a mysterious island. While the film incorporates clever action moments, it succumbs to the superhero movie tendency of overwhelming scenes with faceless villains, detracting from the main characters.

Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom emerges as an entertaining yet unfocused and unnecessary addition to the superhero genre. The film's visual appeal, charismatic performances, and sporadic moments of humour are marred by a lack of narrative depth, recycled elements, and an inability to create a cohesive and compelling world. While it may offer a fun watch, it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression or warrant enthusiastic recommendations. 

As the DC Universe undergoes a reboot, Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom serves as a transitional chapter, closing the door on one era of Justice League characters, paving the way for the introduction of a new set of heroes.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom was released in NZ cinemas on December 26, 2023

THE HUNGER GAMES: THE BALLAD OF SONGBIRDS & SNAKES (2023)

Years before he became the tyrannical president of Panem, 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow remains the last hope for his fading lineage. With the 10th annual Hunger Games fast approaching, the young Snow becomes alarmed when he's assigned to mentor Lucy Gray Baird from District 12. Uniting their instincts for showmanship and political savvy, they race against time to ultimately reveal who's a songbird and who's a snake.

In The Hunger Games cinematic universe, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes emerges as an ambitious prequel directed by Francis Lawrence and penned by Michael Lesslie, Michael Arndt, and Suzanne Collins. However, the noticeable absence of Jennifer Lawrence, a key figure in the prior films, sets the stage for a narrative unfolding decades before the emergence of Katniss Everdeen.

The storyline unfolds 64 years before the inaugural Hunger Games film, situated in a post-war Panem. It paints a portrait of an almost desolate Capitol and introduces us to an 18-year-old Coriolanus Snow, portrayed by English actor Tom Blyth. Snow, a naive student at the prestigious Capitol Academy, becomes entangled in a significant twist commemorating the tenth Hunger Games anniversary. The film introduces Lucy Gray, a vibrant and rebellious tribute played by Rachel Zegler, infusing her character with Southern charm and a penchant for spontaneous song.

With a runtime of two hours and forty minutes, the film delves beyond the Games, chronicling Snow's transition from an earnest participant to the mastermind orchestrating the brutal Hunger Games. However, this transformation feels hasty and lacks focus, diminishing the impact of Snow's evolution.

Ballad endeavours to explore a Panem on the brink of moral ambiguity, a society not entirely desensitized to the gruesome spectacle of the Games. It aims to reflect on media consumption and societal indoctrination, particularly the affluent's relish in the downfall of the less fortunate.

In its attempt to humanize Coriolanus Snow, the film encounters stumbling blocks. Uncharacteristic hesitancy and a lack of confidence overshadow the ruthless character, causing unnecessary confusion and diluting the impact of his decisions. This misguided effort to elicit sympathy undermines the portrayal of a notoriously ruthless figure.

Rachel Zegler's portrayal of Lucy Gray showcases her remarkable singing range, adding depth to her character. However, the film grapples with pacing issues, notably in the third act, where a sudden shift in tone seems more focused on setting up future sequels than serving the current narrative. The film becomes, in essence, a tale of two halves.

Ballad hesitates to fully commit to exploring Snow as a twisted antihero, instead clinging to a Romeo and Juliet-style romance. This diversion, occasionally affecting, primarily serves as a distraction from the intriguing road-to-ruin story promised by the premise.

Director Francis Lawrence, helming most Hunger Games films, closely adheres to the source material, presenting challenges. The second act lingers excessively within the Games, while the third act takes an unexpected detour away from the Capitol. Both choices contribute to a bloated running time exceeding 2 1/2 hours, diluting the tension.

As the Games conclude, the film delves into Snow's villainous origins, presenting decisions detached from the character's established persona. Dark choices appear rushed, lacking the necessary build-up for plausibility. The film struggles to find its footing, seemingly caught off guard by the necessity to narrate Snow's turn towards malevolence.

The decision to consolidate diverse narratives into a single film raises questions, especially when juxtaposed with the split of Mockingjay into two parts. Despite an abundance of characters, the film's premise doesn't significantly deviate from its predecessors, adhering to the formula of oppressed survivors overcoming tyrannical authorities in gladiatorial trials.

While some violence escalates with a darker tone, the action outside the relationship drama fails to captivate. Ballad retraces familiar beats from earlier films but with subpar editing and a scarcity of sci-fi elements.

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes strives to chart a unique course in the Hunger Games saga. Despite commendable performances, particularly from Rachel Zegler, and the exploration of moral ambiguity, the film succumbs to pacing issues, a conflicted portrayal of its protagonist, and a narrative discord hindering its overall impact. 

The absence of Jennifer Lawrence is evident, and her lack of presence is not sufficiently countered, prompting contemplation on whether this prelude added a harmonious melody to the Hunger Games symphony or if it lost itself in discordant notes.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes was released in NZ cinemas on November 16, 2023

ANYONE BUT YOU (2023)

Despite an amazing first date, Bea and Ben's initial attraction quickly turns sour. However, when they unexpectedly find themselves at a destination wedding in Australia, they pretend to be the perfect couple to keep up appearances.

In the enchanting realm of romantic comedies, Anyone But You, helmed by director Will Gluck and penned by Ilana Wolpert and Will Gluck, takes audiences on a whimsical journey through the intricacies of miscommunication and pretence. Sydney Sweeney assumes the role of Bea, while Glen Powell portrays Ben, creating a magnetic on-screen dynamic that infuses the film with energy and charm.

A distinctive feature of the film lies in the authentic chemistry shared between Sweeney and Powell. Their on-screen connection is so compelling that the orchestrated plot twists, meant to introduce tension, come across as somewhat conspicuous and forced. The duo's magnetic presence elevates the film, drawing viewers into the amusing escapades that unfold.

Anyone But You endeavours to inject a contemporary and inclusive essence into the traditional rom-com narrative, featuring an interracial queer couple and a Black family. However, these characters often serve more as narrative catalysts than fully fleshed-out individuals. While the film earnestly aims for inclusivity, the characters' roles appear somewhat tokenistic.

The narrative intricately weaves a tapestry of relationships, misunderstandings, and familial dynamics. Bea, a law school dropout, and Ben, a charismatic stock trader, find their lives entwined after a transformative one-night stand. The ensuing complexities lead them to feign a romantic connection for the sake of a family wedding in Australia, resulting in a backdrop of delightful chaos.

Yet, the film navigates a delicate balance between an abundance of plot twists and a lack of rational problem-solving. The characters' dilemmas could be easily resolved with a moment's reflection, introducing an element of frustration to an otherwise light-hearted storyline.

Anyone But You wholeheartedly embraces the timeless tropes of romantic comedies, immersing itself in the dance of love, misunderstanding, and reconciliation. The film's success hinges on its ability to enthral the audience with silliness and over-the-top clichés, creating an entertaining and engaging viewing experience.

Unfortunately, the supporting characters remain one-dimensional, serving more as plot devices than evolving into fully realized individuals. This lack of depth in the ensemble cast diminishes the overall impact of the film, leaving much to be desired in terms of a well-rounded and relatable supporting cast.

Despite its imperfections, Anyone But You excels as a delightful escape into the world of fun and whimsy. The film's charm, wit, sincerity, and emotional moments, coupled with the picturesque subtropical setting, contribute to its breezy and enjoyable nature.

The movie positions itself as a modern interpretation of Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, adding an intriguing layer to the narrative. Glen Powell's portrayal of Ben, a character with flaws and a partial awareness of his shortcomings, injects unexpected humour into the story. Sydney Sweeney showcases her talent for physical comedy, enhancing the film's comedic elements.

Anyone But You fulfils its promise of R-rated entertainment, delivering amusing and increasingly ludicrous sequences and nudity. Powell and Sweeney infuse a fiery energy into their characters' journey from disdain to affection, providing a refreshing twist to the traditional rom-com storyline.

The film's reliance on rom-com clichés proves to be both a strength and a weakness. While some clichés seamlessly integrate into the narrative, thanks to a self-aware perspective, others verge on the cringe-worthy. The introduction of a battle of the ages adds complexity, creating a blend of moments that resonate and others that fall flat.

Anyone But You shines with its vibrant and energetic presentation, complemented by the undeniable attractiveness of the main couple. The film's predictability doesn't hinder its watchability, as it is enhanced by a surprising dose of charm and emotional depth, particularly in Glen Powell's performance.

Anyone But You emerges as a delightful rom-com that skillfully weaves humour, romance, and absurdity. While facing stumbling blocks in certain areas, the film's overall allure and the captivating chemistry between its leads make it a worthwhile addition to the romantic comedy genre.

Anyone But You is in NZ cinemas from December 26, 2023

THE JUNGLE BUNCH: WORLD TOUR (2023)

Who do you call to help when a mysterious supervillain covers the jungle with pink foam that explodes upon contact with water? The Jungle Bunch! Less than a month before the rainy season, the race against time is on. From the North Pole to the Far East, crossing mountains, deserts and oceans, our heroes will have to travel the world in search of an antidote, far from their favourite jungle!

The Jungle Bunch: World Tour takes viewers on a whirlwind adventure with the beloved characters from the popular French children's animated show. Directed by Laurent Bru, Yannick Moulin, and Benoît Somville, and features the creative minds of writers David Alaux, Eric Tosti, and Jean-François Tosti.

The plot revolves around a mysterious supervillain who blankets the jungle with a toxic pink foam that reacts explosively to water. In response, the Jungle Bunch springs into action, embarking on a worldwide quest to find an antidote. The film's premise is undeniably intriguing, offering a mix of humour, action, and globe-trotting escapades. It's simple but provides an effective "ticking timer" that pushes the story forward.

One of the film's notable strengths lies in its ability to capture the attention of both children and adults. The Jungle Bunch universe introduces unique characters, such as a tiger-penguin with a tiger-goldfish son, sparking curiosity. The original series boasts a whopping 158 episodes, so diving into the extensive lore may be a daunting task for newcomers, but the previous self-titled 2017 film, The Jungle Bunch, will satisfy any curiosity remaining after the credits.

The movie manages to deliver reasonably funny moments and boasts well-crafted animation. However, it faces the challenge of sustaining interest over its 90-minute runtime; it is certainly more suitable for a shorter format. While simplicity characterizes the storyline, the film compensates with humour and action sequences, creating an entertaining experience.

The Jungle Bunch: World Tour leans towards a straightforward narrative without delving into complex emotional journeys. The plot moves swiftly, but the film's simplicity allows viewers to adapt quickly. This simplicity extends to the characters, who are brightly coloured but often one-dimensional or lack distinct personalities. While this limits room for character arcs or personal development, it caters to a younger audience (4-7 years old) by offering simplicity and easy comprehension.

Unlike some animated projects that incorporate subtle adult humour and mature elements, The Jungle Bunch maintains a straightforward approach, aiming squarely at a younger demographic. The film unfolds like a convoluted Rube Goldberg machine, propelling the Jungle Bunch from one set piece to the next through a combination of luck and plentiful MacGuffins.

Amid the main storyline, the film briefly explores smaller arcs touching on themes like jealousy and abandonment. These themes are handled delicately to prevent any shock for younger audiences, allowing the movie to maintain its family-friendly appeal.

In terms of animation, The Jungle Bunch: World Tour showcases a vibrant visual palette with well-rendered and designed characters. Action sequences are executed smoothly, contributing to the film's overall appeal. However, the animation style may be perceived as lacking emotion, particularly in the characters' eyes. Despite this, the film succeeds in delivering an engaging visual experience.

The Jungle Bunch: World Tour offers a delightful adventure for young audiences, combining humour, action, and colourful characters. While the film may be too simple for some adult viewers, it achieves its goal of providing wholesome entertainment for children. The lack of intricate character development is compensated by the film's vivid animation and straightforward storytelling, making it a suitable addition to family movie nights.

In the vast jungle of animated films, The Jungle Bunch stands out as a lighthearted romp around the globe, inviting audiences to join the lovable characters on their quest for a pink foam-free jungle.

The Jungle Bunch World Tour is in NZ cinemas from January 18, 2024