LEO (2023)

Leo the Lizard has been stuck in the same Florida school for decades. When he learns he only has one year left to live, he plans to escape to freedom, but instead has to rescue his class from their horribly mean substitute teacher.

In the collaborative effort of directors Robert Marianetti, Robert Smigel, and David Wachtenheim, Leo unfolds as a distinctive animated escapade featuring the unmistakable voice of Adam Sandler as the titular character—an elderly, cantankerous lizard. Alongside Sandler, Bill Burr breathes life into Squirtle, Leo's trusty turtle companion, and Cecily Strong joins the ensemble. The narrative unfolds within the confines of a Florida school, where Leo and Squirtle reside as cherished classroom pets in a terrarium.

Leo, having borne witness to the passage of numerous generations of schoolkids, stands at a contemplative juncture. With the realization that he is approaching the end of the typical lizard life expectancy, Leo harbours a yearning to venture beyond the familiar school walls and immerse himself in the wild. However, as the prospect of this adventure materializes, Leo undergoes a reevaluation of his aspirations. The years of astute observation have endowed him with a wealth of wisdom, predominantly focused on the fifth-graders he has silently observed.

The film commences with a somewhat cheesy tone, as the schoolkids melodically express their sentiments about entering the final year of elementary school. Despite recurrent musical interludes, Leo injects just enough bite into the narrative to prevent an overwhelming sentiment. The comedic brilliance manifests in clever sequences, including Leo's portrayal as a mini Godzilla wreaking havoc in a LEGO city. The recurring motif of a 'Child Safety Drone' tailing the highly allergic Eli consistently elicits humour. Moreover, the depiction of kindergarteners as chaotic, round-headed little maniacs introduces a delightful touch of eccentricity.

The emotional nucleus of the story is adeptly established, introducing the audience to the unique bond shared between Leo and the students. However, as the narrative unfolds, a subtle dip in momentum is encountered, navigating a convoluted path for Leo to confront peril before arriving at an inevitably joyful resolution.

Adam Sandler, in his voice portrayal of Leo, adopts a gentler tone infused with a touch of congestion. The film endeavours to be an entertaining vehicle where Sandler's character—a wise old lizard—dispenses flawless life advice to the eccentric fifth-graders. Leo maintains self-awareness with a subtle adult edge right from the outset. The overarching theme of therapy becomes prominent, with the 74-year-old lizard Leo unveiling his ability to converse and demonstrating an insightful understanding of each child's needs during weekend sojourns.

The film sporadically sparks with energy through slapstick sequences and a vibrant colour palette. These visual elements showcase Leo's airborne escapades, ethereal bubble floats, and interactions with a spectrum of talking animals. While ostensibly focused on middle schoolers, Leo introduces a level of maturity that sets it apart from some of Sandler's other ventures on Netflix.

Leo's counselling sessions with the children address a spectrum of issues, ranging from an inability to pose questions to the masking of anxiety. These nuanced two-hander vignettes emerge as the film's triumphs, with Sandler's co-written script taking specific problems seriously and delivering life lessons without resorting to gratuitous humour.

Brightly animated and punctuated with instances of unexpected insight, Leo emanates a warm likability that transcends its animated framework. While the film's lessons may veer into the clichéd, they are presented with enough sincerity to captivate even the most sceptical viewers, transforming them into avid fans. Despite adopting an after-school-special demeanour, Leo offers a refreshing approach, with each week introducing a new child taking the lizard home and engaging in heartfelt conversations.

As Leo channels his apprehensions about mortality into aiding students who feel overlooked by their parents, the film introduces genuinely touching moments that circumvent sentimentality. These touches endow the flawed characters with relatability, steering clear of saccharine indulgence. Despite navigating some formulaic narrative turns, the plot retains its engagement and enjoyment.

Adam Sandler's adeptness in voice acting shines through in Leo, infusing depth and personality into the eponymous character. The film delves into plot elements involving grief, peer pressure, bullying, and more, presenting relatable subplots often overlooked in animated endeavours. While Leo doesn't delve extensively into these subjects, it imparts a swift morale boost and inspirational moments, underscoring Leo's authentic intentions.

Initiating as an adventure story, Leo morphs into a moralistic fable, further evolving into a redemption narrative and concluding as a rescue mission. Each narrative arc leaves room for improvement in completeness. Despite these narrative nuances, Leo seamlessly blends heart, humour, and animated allure, crafting an endearing coming-of-age tale that resonates with audiences across age groups.

Leo was released on Netflix on November 17, 2023

TROLLS BAND TOGETHER (2023)

Poppy discovers that Branch and his four brothers were once part of her favorite boy band. When one of his siblings, Floyd, gets kidnapped by a pair of nefarious villains, Branch and Poppy embark on a harrowing and emotional journey to reunite the other brothers and rescue Floyd from a fate even worse than pop culture obscurity.

Directed by the duo of Walt Dohrn and Tim Heitz, Trolls Band Together brings back the familiar faces of Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, and Kenan Thompson. The storyline follows Branch, voiced by Timberlake, who reunites with his long-lost brother John Dory (Eric Andre). The two were once part of a boy band that dissolved, leaving Branch resentful. John Dory reveals that another band member, Floyd (Troye Sivan), has been kidnapped by Velvet (Amy Schumer) and Veneer (Andrew Rannells), two aspiring pop stars.

True to its predecessors, Trolls Band Together retains the elements that made the first two movies enjoyable: a visually stunning, excessively colourful animation, endearing characters, and imaginative song mashups. The film is a feast of boy band-related humour, filled with puns, references, and amusing gags that generate genuine laughter.

However, the movie's attempt to infuse adult jokes doesn't save it from becoming a predictable and unsurprising experience. The narrative unfolds predictably, with the trolls singing their way through the story. The fast-paced nature of the film, operating at a mile-a-minute, provides little room for the audience to breathe, opting for a constant stream of jokes and excitement.

A significant drawback lies in the film's handling of the plot, where the stakes feel unreal due to the swift progression from one plot point to another. The film misses opportunities to let dramatic moments play out, choosing instead to jump hastily from one scene to the next. Elements introduced, such as Poppy's secret sister and a twist involving Viva, remain underexplored, leaving dramatic potential untapped.

The endeavour to give Viva a character arc falls short, with her emotional journey feeling unearned and inconsistent. Strong emotions expressed in one scene abruptly shift in the next, creating a disconnect between the character and the audience. While the chemistry between Kendrick and Timberlake remains a highlight, the screenplay lacks depth, resolving conflicts and defeating villains with little challenge.

Staying true to the Trolls franchise's formula, Trolls Band Together prioritizes a soundtrack filled with pop hits, aligning with the series' signature musical style. The distinct 90s/2000s boyband-inspired soundtrack adds a nostalgic touch, though the film's primary focus remains on delivering a visually and aurally engaging experience.

The narrative revolves around a rescue mission led by Branch and his estranged brothers, following the familiar pattern of troll characters navigating diverse lands, meeting eclectic characters, and pausing for song breaks. Despite its predictability, the film's fast-paced approach caters to its target audience—consumers who revel in the joy of quick, lively sequences.

While the script may lack depth, and the villains are disposed of too swiftly, the movie strikes a balance between appealing to both adults and children. It addresses typical childhood themes, such as sibling dynamics and the desire for acceptance, making it accessible to a wide audience. The villains, Velvet and Veneer, though lacking depth, provide entertaining performances unlikely to intimidate younger viewers.

The film introduces several retcons, revealing new familial connections and relationships, adding layers to the characters' backgrounds. The structure, reminiscent of classic Muppet movies, promises an adventurous journey for the small group of trolls as they recruit characters and navigate through various locations.

Despite the film's entertaining moments, the rush in musical numbers and abbreviated medleys detract from the usually reliable musical experiences associated with the Trolls series. The visuals, however, maintain their inventive, colourful, and creative appeal. Trolls Band Together continues the tradition of the franchise, turning a negligible toy line into an animated, short-attention-span musical. However, like its predecessors, the movie suffers from thinly conceived emotional backstories and life lessons, leading to a pronounced crash from the initial sugar high.

One notable highlight is the chemistry between the primary voice actors, Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake, whose winning personalities enhance the overall viewing experience. The animation, as always, remains inventive and creatively surprising, contributing to the film's visual appeal.

The narrative introduces various subplots, including Bergens King Gristle and Bridget's marriage, but struggles to make these plot points memorable. The lack of a strong, cohesive plot is evident, as the synopsis fails to resonate or leave a lasting impression.

Despite the film's shortcomings, Trolls Band Together manages to deliver solid laughs, catering to both children and adults. The humour is well-balanced, ensuring that the jokes resonate with a broad audience.

What stands out most about Trolls Band Together are its valuable lessons about self-acceptance and letting go of perfectionism. The movie delivers a positive message to young audiences, encouraging them to embrace their passions without being bogged down by the fear of doing things "right".

Trolls Band Together offers a visually stunning and musically vibrant experience, staying true to the franchise's formula. While it may lack a robust storyline and emotional depth, the film succeeds in providing an entertaining escape, especially for those who appreciate the energetic, whimsical world of the Trolls.

Trolls Band Together is in NZ cinemas from November 30, 2023

GODZILLA MINUS ONE (2023)

Japan is already devastated by the war when a new crisis emerges in the form of a giant monster. 

In the aftermath of war-torn Japan, Director Takashi Yamazaki brings Godzilla back to the big screen with a poignant reboot that intertwines captivating human drama with awe-inspiring mass destruction. Starring Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, and Yuki Yamada, Godzilla Minus One transcends its modest budget of $15 million, delivering emotional dividends that rival even the grandiosity of its MonsterVerse predecessors.

Takashi Yamazaki's vision for Godzilla Minus One takes the franchise back to its roots, embracing a grand style that refrains from the hyperreal visual effects of MonsterVerse entries like Godzilla: King of the Monsters and Godzilla vs. Kong. This intentional departure, however, proves to be a masterstroke, as the film emerges as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit amid colossal destruction.

Set in post-war Japan, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a nation grappling with the aftermath of World War II. Unlike previous Godzilla films, governmental and military institutions take a back seat, allowing the focus to shift to civilians uniting in the face of impending obliteration.

At the forefront of this tale is Koichi Shikishima, portrayed with unwavering commitment by Ryunosuke Kamiki. From a kamikaze pilot in the war's final days to a survivor plagued by guilt and PTSD, Kamiki's performance resonates powerfully, grounding the film in the human cost of conflict. The screenplay, wisely emphasizing survival in the aftermath, explores Koichi's journey as he navigates post-war trauma.

The camaraderie between Koichi and his fellow ex-servicemen, portrayed by a stellar cast including Kuranosuke Sasaki and Hidetaka Yoshioka, adds an enjoyable layer to the narrative. The film seamlessly weaves moments of crowd-pleasing camaraderie with the looming threat of Godzilla's inevitable return.

Despite its modest budget, Godzilla Minus One impresses with its visual prowess. Takashi Yamazaki leverages period sets and drone shots over vast ocean expanses, creating a visually stunning experience that belies its cost. The design of Godzilla as an imposing force of destruction, though occasionally subject to inconsistent CG-rendering, remains a testament to the film's remarkable effects work within budget constraints.

The film's thematic depth is further amplified through Godzilla's symbolic role, embodying Japan's war trauma and guilt. The creature's atomic breath, depicted like an H-bomb explosion, serves as a powerful metaphor, emphasizing the enduring impact of wartime atrocities.

Godzilla Minus One transcends the monster movie genre by focusing on character development, particularly Shikishima's arc from wartime coward to kaiju-fighting hero and family man. The film deftly explores the psychological toll of war, with Shikishima's PTSD becoming a central theme. The character's struggle to move on from his tortured past inadvertently inspires those around him, reflecting the complexities of post-war Japanese civilian perspectives.

The film's action sequences, often set at sea, evoke the spirit of the original Jaws. Godzilla's relentless destruction is juxtaposed with the resilience of the characters, portraying an underdog spirit that extends beyond mere survival. The narrative cleverly ties emotional moments back to a central message, delivering satisfying surprises and payoffs.

Godzilla Minus One navigates a nuanced exploration of nationalism and militarism in post-war Japan. The condemnation of the imperial government's devaluation of human life coexists with a chance at redemption for its soldiers. The film refrains from glorifying nationalism, portraying the struggles of individuals like Shikishima, crippled by PTSD and seeking a path to redemption beyond wartime exploits.

The cultural context adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the disillusionment of Japanese citizens with a government that failed to value their lives during the war. The rallying cry against Godzilla becomes more than a battle against a monstrous threat; it symbolizes a nation's collective effort to overcome tragedy and forge a brighter future.

While male-dominated, the film ensures that its female characters are not mere bystanders. Actively working to rebuild their lives after the war, the women, led by the remarkable Minami Hamabe, exhibit strength and resilience. The camaraderie among the Minesweeper crew provides a well-rounded character dynamic, balancing heartfelt, comedic, and serious tones without feeling disjointed.

Godzilla Minus One rises above its budgetary constraints to deliver a cinematic experience that marries emotional depth with spectacular destruction. 

Takashi Yamazaki crafts a narrative that transcends the monster movie genre, offering a tale of redemption, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a nation emerging from the shadows of war. As Godzilla roars on screen, it becomes not just a symbol of destruction but a metaphor for the indomitable human will to rise from the ashes.

Godzilla Minus One is premiering in New Zealand cinemas on November 23, 2023

NAPOLEON (2023)

A look at the military commander's origins and his swift, ruthless climb to emperor, viewed through the prism of his addictive and often volatile relationship with his wife and one true love, Josephine. 

In Ridley Scott's newest film, Napoleon, the acclaimed director takes us on a sweeping journey through ambition, power, and love amid historical chaos. Joaquin Phoenix stars as the iconic Emperor, and Vanessa Kirby portrays his mysterious love interest, Josephine. The movie unfolds as an epic tale of Napoleon Bonaparte's rise and fall, blending intense scenes with moments of lighthearted humour.

Remaining true to Ridley Scott's distinctive style, Napoleon embraces a grand scale with careful craftsmanship and lavish set designs. The film's ambitious vision is evident in its captivating battle sequences, showcasing Scott's skill in creating visually stunning depictions of historical conflicts, from the Battle of Austerlitz to the clash at Toulon.

Joaquin Phoenix's performance as Napoleon is nuanced, drawing comparisons to his previous roles in Joker and Gladiator. He skillfully navigates the complexities of Napoleon's character, portraying a man who is both confident and deeply insecure. The film allows Phoenix to paint a multifaceted portrait of Napoleon, exploring his interactions with peers, rivals, and the tumultuous relationship with Josephine.

Napoleon takes a unique narrative approach by telling the entire nation's story through the lens of marriage. The film delves into the mental and sexual dynamics between Napoleon and Josephine, revealing a tumultuous romance marked by manipulation, humiliation, and infidelity. Vanessa Kirby's portrayal of Josephine adds depth, depicting her as a woman engaged in a prolonged battle of wills with Napoleon.

A noteworthy aspect of Napoleon is its ability to balance tones, seamlessly shifting between gruesome war scenes and moments of playful humour. This dynamic adds layers to the narrative, preventing it from becoming a typical historical epic and humanizing the iconic figure of Napoleon Bonaparte.

At the movie's core is the tumultuous relationship between Napoleon and Josephine, exploring a love that defies convention and power dynamics in post-revolution France. Josephine's open engagement in extramarital affairs creates a complex dynamic that alternately nurtures and humiliates Napoleon. The film dedicates its 158-minute runtime to unravelling how Napoleon's unchecked insecurity shapes both his personal life and the course of history.

While Napoleon excels in large-scale battle sequences, it grapples with narrative cohesion during dialogue-driven scenes. The film occasionally teeters between serious drama and campy satire, leaving the audience uncertain of its intended tone. Despite these challenges, the exploration of Napoleon's character, from a toxic dictator to a vulnerable lover, introduces intriguing ideas that contribute to the film's overall complexity.

Joaquin Phoenix's performance captures Napoleon's contradictions – a leader with vaulting ambition and unchecked power, yet plagued by insecurities. The film delves into Napoleon's mind, portraying his vulnerability and the guardedness surrounding it. Phoenix adeptly contrasts Napoleon's public-facing confidence with the private struggles that define his character.

Amid grand battles and political intrigues, the heart of Napoleon lies in the relationship between Napoleon and Josephine. Vanessa Kirby's portrayal of Josephine, a woman who simultaneously respects, fears, and manipulates Napoleon, adds depth to the narrative. The film's occasional choppiness finds solace in scenes focused on the central relationship, providing a respite from the otherwise brisk pace.

Beyond depicting Napoleon's military achievements and political manoeuvres, Napoleon serves as a character study, inviting viewers to reflect on the broader frailties of humankind. The film explores Napoleon's rise from a Corsican outsider to an exalted emperor and, ultimately, a defeated exile. Ingeniously using domestic life to expand the viewer's understanding of him as a man, the movie emphasizes universal themes of love, ambition, and the consequences of unchecked power.

Napoleon stands out as a cinematic triumph, boldly exploring the complexities of its titular character. The film's grand scale, impressive battle sequences, and the compelling performances of Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby elevate it to a noteworthy historical epic. Despite grappling with narrative cohesion and tonal shifts, Napoleon successfully delivers a multifaceted portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte, shedding light on the personal struggles that shaped the destiny of both a man and a nation.

Napoleon will be in cinemas from November 23, 2023

THANKSGIVING (2023)

An axe-wielding maniac terrorizes residents of Plymouth, Mass., after a Black Friday riot ends in tragedy. Picking off victims one by one, the seemingly random revenge killings soon become part of a larger, sinister plan.

Directed by Eli Roth and scripted by Jeff Rendell and Roth himself Thanksgiving breaks away from the Halloween-centric horror trend, presenting a Kiwi audience with a cast featuring Rick Hoffman, Gina Gershon, and Patrick Dempsey. The film injects a dose of horror into the Thanksgiving holiday, embracing shocks and thrills over conventional scares. 

Thanksgiving courageously steps into the spotlight, steering away from the Halloween-dominated horror scene. It takes inspiration from the Scream franchise, prioritizing shocks and thrills.

The story kicks off in Plymouth, Massachusetts, with a prologue that sets the scene for a revenge-seeking killer clad in pilgrim garb and a plastic John Carver mask. A year after a tragic Black Friday incident, this mysterious murderer embarks on a spree, concocting inventive and grotesque demise. 

Thanksgiving doesn't shy away from gratuitous violence, delivering an unrelenting display of gore and blood, reminiscent of the Saw and Hostel franchises. The film's brutality is a spectacle, featuring practical effects that showcase stomach-ripping and face-splitting moments that are both imaginative and cringe-worthy.

While the mystery isn't overly intricate, Roth defies expectations by infusing self-aware humour and unexpected twists into the narrative. The characters, although stereotypical and irritating, serve as victims, keeping the audience on edge as they face the killer's wrath. 

Thanksgiving emerges as a clever and humorous critique of American consumerism, using the holiday season as a backdrop to explore the darker side of greed. Roth's screenplay, co-written with Jeff Rendell, cleverly weaves satire into the fabric of the horror, ensuring the film doesn't take itself too seriously.

The standout feature of Thanksgiving is its gore. The killings, executed with gleeful practical effects, showcase a level of inventiveness that sets the film apart. From eye-averting gore to axe beheadings, the movie caters to those who relish the visceral elements of horror. 

Roth's distinctive style, blending humour and exaggerated gore, provides an unexpected rhythm to Thanksgiving. The film fluctuates between a brutal first act, a relatively tamer second act, and a high-octane, gory main course. The kills, both gut-busting and gut-wrenching, keep the audience engaged.

The characters in Thanksgiving are a mix of obnoxious caricatures, intentionally crafted to be unlikable. Roth and Rendell's script makes a bold choice by not aiming for sympathy, allowing the maniacal serial killer to take centre stage without reservations. 

Unapologetically indulging in R-rated content, Thanksgiving pushes the boundaries of what the genre allows. Roth's direction takes the film to the edge, delivering a level of nastiness that horror enthusiasts crave.

While the script follows a straightforward path, it takes a backseat to the real stars of the show—the kills. Thanksgiving prioritizes its gruesome spectacle over intricate storytelling, offering a feast for fans of eye-popping horror.

Thanksgiving, under Eli Roth's direction, carves its niche in the horror landscape. It's not a flawless film, but it doesn't strive to be. Instead, it revels in its imperfections, delivering a visceral and satirical experience that leaves an indelible mark on the Thanksgiving horror subgenre.

Thanksgiving is in cinemas from November 16, 2023