Sue Scott

One of the best anti war films ever made. Even in black and white and a short running time, this film has such power, you never forget it. The performances of all the actors is so authentic, it breaks your heart at the sheer cruelty and pointlessness of war. Based on a true incident and, many more, no doubt, like it, the story makes you understand the nature of man. Any one who sees this film could not but question the waste of lives, and the sheer futility of war. It is a film you must see.

Utterly brilliant, a slow burner but very realistic and convincing. Cast was superb and the whole presentation believable and tragic. The last episode was almost unbearable- reminding me of my links with this event. Let’s hope we all learned something from this dramatisation. One of the best I have ever seen! 5*

Better than I’d expected but not as good as I’d hoped. The songs good but not memorable. One song “Where the lost things go” was very odd in the context of the children’s deceased mother. The two main actors were excellent, the others acceptable in their cameos, but the one who almost stole the film for me, was Angela Lansbury with her balloon song. Wonderful. The film followed the original plot journey with lamplighters exuberant dancing instead of chimney sweeps, mad cousin Topsy upside down on the ceiling instead of stuck on the ceiling through laughing (why change a proven formula?!). Ben Whishaw was sadly, in both senses, weak although he has a pleasant singing voice. The singing was very good from all characters. I enjoyed this but didn’t come out with that sense of magic and delight which the original engendered. It’s not just elderly cynicism. I had seen the original the week before and felt the same as I had originally - the magic is still there! But a jolly good effort.

Aquaman is a fun, undemanding way of passing a couple of hours. It’s loud, fast and funny and it ain’t boring. The characters are entertaining - Jason Momoa is perfect for the title role and the supporting cast (many very well known) are just as they should be. There is a particularly moving scene with young Arthur’s on an aquarium visit where he begins to realise his connection with things aquatic. There is bags of action and amazing cgi. In fact, the special effects are amazing. As a 70 year old amongst kids of 10 upwards, we all enjoyed it. No great dramatic piece, it’s just fun!

Bohemian Rhapsody encapsulates the whole soul of Queen. The main actors bring out the personality of each band member along with more than passing resemblances. Their emotions are demonstrated along with an insight into the group dynamic. For we contemporary viewers, it is a trip down memory lane, beautifully pictured, ending with the iconic occasion of Live Aid, indelibly inscribing our hearts. And of course, there is the music of Queen, lifting us up, defying us not to sing along. A fantastic cinematic experience.