Based on the real-life memoirs of David and Nic Sheff, ‘Beautiful Boy’ tells the tragic story of a father and his drug-addicted teenage son, and the strain this puts on their relationship. Supported by two stellar performances, the film is a weighty and emotional ride with a dark truth at its heart.
Green Book tells the true-life story of African-American pianist Don Shirley, and Tony Vallelonga, his bodyguard and driver during a two-month tour of the deep south. A story of acceptance, understanding and love, the film uses a hilarious comic tone to underplay the powerful statement against racism, and is a triumph in both respects.
Robert Redford has had a hugely celebrated career. From ‘Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid’ to ‘Out of Africa’, ‘Ordinary People’ to ‘All the Presidents Men’, he has been a staple of American cinema for almost six decades. Now however, he hangs up the towel in his final film before his retirement, The Old Man & the Gun. Reminiscent of a classic crime comedy caper, the film is a beautifully warm and charming affair that is a fitting tribute to the legend’s illustrious career.
Queen are arguable one of the biggest and best loved bands in the world. Lead by front man Freddie Mercury, they created countless classics. Now, telling the story of Freddie and his balancing act between the stage and his personal life, Bohemian Rhapsody takes us on the journey of Queen from their inception to their iconic 1985 Live Aid performance. Despite certain historical discrepancies being taken, and a definite glorification of the characters, this toe-tapping musical drama will absolutely Rock You!
Damien Chazelle, Oscar winning director of La La Land is back. Ditching the songs in favour of grand practical effects, First Man tells the inspirational story of how NASA managed to land a man on the Moon, and how that affected Neil Armstrong’s wife and family back home.
Directed by Spike Lee, BlacKkKlansman is a biographical comedy-drama that interprets the true story of an African-American police officer infiltrating the Ku Klux Klan. Using great performances, interesting ideas and timely themes, Lee’s ‘comedy’ is more of a dark social satire turned horror film.
Daniel Robinson: From Reel to Real 