David Parkinson

Notwithstanding the efforts of a game cast, this is a grotesque miscalculation that disrespects the memory of those who perished in one of the darkest episodes in recent history by turning it into a piece of white-knuckle entertainment.

Notwithstanding the efforts of a game cast, this is a grotesque miscalculation that disrespects the memory of those who perished in one of the darkest episodes in recent history by turning it into a piece of white-knuckle entertainment.

This 1967 Ming Dynasty epic may lack plot complexity and period spectacle. But the stand-off in a remote inn is flecked with tension, wit and slick martial artistry.

Despite the striking photography, this fascinating denunciation of 150 years of persecution and oppression lacks Guzmán's customary trenchancy and restraint.

An atmospheric rite of passage that suggests big things lie ahead for its writer-director and young cast.

This is a fascinating insight into the mind of the Nobel laureate and his city muse. Coolly intelligent and noirishly compelling.

Although packed with compelling archive footage, this never quite gets into Joplin's head, heart or soul.

Switching from dour humour to humanist drama without seeming contrived, this is a masterclass in combining character and landscape that is played with deceptive poignancy by the excellent leads.

The archive footage is compelling, but the soundtrack is a muddle of voice-over, music and effects.

Exquisitely designed, this cornucopia of melodramatic fragments and movie pastiches will enchant Guy Maddin fans.

While strong on establishment prejudice, the coverage of clashing egos and agendas isn’t always incisive.

A truly insightful art film that still manages to be easy-going and unpretentious.

Visually striking, intellectually challenging and emotionally harrowing.

This spends more time on the tensions between the dominant trio than their landmark campaigning.

Despite its sketchiness, this offers a vivid insight into the rejuvenation of a decaying city through fury, activism and music.

Outstanding account of a pivotal moment in small-screen history.

The science is haphazard, the techniques gimmicky, but the point is cogently made.

Superb star turn from Maria Alexandra Lungi but this doesn’t grip as it might.

While beautiful, early scenes of shocking violence give way to philosophising and gauche symbolism.

Exceptional, human filmmaking.

A gripping study of treachery, identity and survival.

Challengingly spellbinding.

More compelling when focusing on long-serving staff and their skills and opinions

A sensitive, sincere and humbling profile which is truly inspirational.

A final opportunity to see a master at work in this mischievously melancholic delight.

Quietly compelling, but lacks finesse in its characterisation and dogged denunciation of the Ethiopian justice system

Courageous and indelible account and an invaluable perspective of the protests.