Movie reviews of Richard Alaba

In place of a forward-moving narrative it offers a portrait of a dysfunctional family torn apart over guilt and the inability to emotionally connect. Review

If history is only written by winners it will always only be half-true. The Aftermath is an essay about the other half, blending sufficient historical insight into a romantic drama to hold our interest without emotional sledgehammers. There are minor lapses of pace, maybe a narrative digression or two that dilutes momentum; but overall, this is a satisfying film that takes an uncommon view on unexplored cinematic territory. Review

Both absurdism and intelligent humour seeps into every part of this film and the ever-present band and singers are constant counterpoints to the stark reality and danger in what Halla is doing. Review

Swift pacing, sharp editing, and hold-your-breath tension makes this a standout film that also offers instructive glimpses into the work of emergency personnel. Review

This is not an entertainment experience, but a serious film that rewards investment. And like all poetic works, its message lies well beyond what we see. Review

An important and worthwhile film, but maybe a good story that could have been told better. Review

Regardless of what message you take, this is a riveting story, brilliantly filmed amongst some of the most stunning mountain scenery you will ever see. Review

The entire weight of this film rests on an intelligently humorous script and sensitive delivery by Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali. Review

Political dramas like The Front Runner teach as well as entertain. Review

Whether this is an important or worthwhile story is a matter of opinion. Melissa McCarthy’s acting, however, is award-worthy. Review

A thoroughly entertaining film, brilliantly acted, and dominated by complex and ambitious women. Review

Aside from the entertaining insights into the Bush era and Christian Bale’s commanding performance, what is the takeaway from this film? Review

A heart-warming, uplifting film, full of humour and humanity. It is impossible to see it and not be moved. Review

Ticks all the boxes for a thought-provoking film that keeps you engaged to its final scenes. Review

Despite these reservations, it is a well-made, important, and engaging film that shines some light in a very dark place. Review

While the film could have achieved more if it knew what it wanted to achieve, it does raise intriguing questions about what shapes our personality. Review

It’s the performances and music that leave their mark. The film has things to say about the misery of addiction and it teases out high-art music against pop pulp. Review

The combination of brilliant acting, stunning set design, excellent cinematography, and most important, a measured approach to examining human frailty, makes this a standout production. Review

If it were possible to plot the tension curve of this film, it would start just off the floor then work its way through the roof. Review

It reads equally as tragedy, romance, and comedy of manners, but falls away as Russian period drama. Review

This is powerful cinema, the kind that can sweep you up with its characters, emotions, and story. Review

Entertaining, heart-warming, and a visual feast of nostalgia. Review

It orchestrates elements of drama, romance, and crime thriller with continually rising tension notes played like a grand piano... Review

The comedy is pitched at chuckle level rather than belly laughs... Review