Movie reviews of Kevin Hawkins

Onward is a mature feature that has plenty for older audiences. Review

It’s an intriguing film that takes the fugitive trope in a completely new direction, giving audience plenty to think about in the process. Review

Beautiful Day’s story and moral messages may not be the most groundbreaking, but it’s a film that seldom takes a wrong step. Moreover, its positive energy is a welcome ingredient to popular culture, which could always use a few more personalities like Mr Rogers. Review

Meeting Gorbachev is a simple picture, one largely free of flair and excitement. It’s the kind of documentary that could be watched at one-and-a-half times the speed without much being lost, and one that will only really appeal to a small audience. Review

Compared to a film like Working Woman, which unlike Bombshell was written and directed entirely by women, Bombshell fails to overcome its superficialities. Review

For those whose memories of these events aren’t as clear, it’s a compelling way to learn more about this historical episode. Review

While Eating Animals is a documentary no doubt inspired by activism, it’s a film that doesn’t reduce itself to classical activist techniques. It may not be the most headline-grabbing film on animal agriculture, but it may be one of the more compelling and accessible ones. Review

For a film of its genre – either black comedy or light horror, take your pick – Ready or Not doesn’t do a lot wrong. Perhaps its biggest flaw is the lack of plot development. Review

The Portal demands to be a significant piece of a cinema, but unfortunately is just another example of a production team trying to bite off more than they can chew. Review

It is a tightly focused film with strict parameters in its scope, however that only increases the likelihood of it hitting you right where it’s aiming. Review

The film shines when we get to revel in Hutchence’s talents and celebrate his brilliant voice and contagious personality. Review

Does Toy Story’s fourth episodes give the series more satisfying closure than episode three? Probably not. Did the franchise need a fourth instalment? Probably not. But is Toy Story 4 a welcome addition to the cannon? Definitely. Review

2040 may not be the best documentary of this year, but it’s hard to think of a film with more important content. Review

Long Shot doesn’t always miss the mark, but nor does it generate enough laughs or enough heart to raise itself above your standard romantic comedy. Its promising premise and likeable leads are unfortunately wasted on a clunky script that fails to read the tone of a country. Review

Despite juggling a range of perspectives in presenting this complex civil war, Watson is focused in his direction and makes his contention clear. Review

These choices affirm Hill’s talents as a creative director with a strong vision, one capable of bringing the audience inside his world. And although the talents of Hedges and Stevie’s mum Dabney go somewhat underused, he knows how to get the best out of his no-name leads, who we can’t help but care for even if we don’t approve of their choices. Review

The second half doesn’t justify the first half’s meandering, but at least it rewards the audience for their patience. Review

It’s an unexpected masterclass in simple but effective screenwriting, proving that even the least convincing of premises can be transformed into a delightful film. Review

It’s by no means as strong a piece of storytelling but few can deny that If Beale Street Could Talk is a beautifully made film with patches of excellence. Review

A documentary that does justice to a niche subject area with precise detail, while giving the audience something deeper to reflect upon. Review

The film’s initial focus on three widows seeking to repair their lives is enough to fuel their behaviour and the film is most compelling when McQueen dials this up. Review

For the way it evokes emotion and connects you with its characters, it’s one film that should certainly capture the attention of the Oscar judges. Review

These hits, and the way Malek is able to capture Mercury’s persona and eccentricities, should be enough to gloss over the film’s flaws and ensure a fun ride for anyone interested in being reminded of Queen’s musical prowess. Review

It’s almost impossible not to be moved by Backtrack Boys and feel emotionally connected to the teens you meet on screen. Review