She's Funny That Way (out Aug 27) is a slapstick romantic comedy featuring a group of nutty / insane characters and overlapping stories. There's merit in the crazy premise but the dialogue is bland. Not enough on offer here. Grade: C+.

A Walk In The Woods (out Sep 3) is based on the novel by Bill Bryson and follows two ill-prepared hikers who attempt the 3,500km Appalachian Trail. A few parts feel over-exaggerated but the film features two great leading performances from Robert Redford and Nick Nolte who find the right balance of comedy and sincerity. Grade: B.

Ricki & The Flash (out Aug 27) stars Meryl Streep as a quasi rock star trying to reconnect with her middle aged children after a long absence. The film runs out of puff in the last 30 minutes but there are some awkward family exchanges along the way (such as a get-together dinner) that provide more than enough laughs. Grade: B.

We Are Your Friends (out Aug 27) stars Zac Efron as a talented DJ looking for his big break into the industry. Watching Efron and his posse go about their business is like watching an episode of Entourage without the comedy. They're a dull group of people but perhaps this will have more appeal to those familiar with a DJ's work. Grade: C+.

Southpaw (out Aug 27) is a compelling drama about a boxer on top of the world... who hits rock bottom... and then must rebound. Jake Gyllenhaal elevates the film with his strong, passionate performance in the leading role. He's a flawed character but it's hard not to cheer for him. Grade: A-.

The Gift (out Aug 27) is about a middle aged couple who move to a new city and find themselves smothered by an old high school friend who wants to reconnect. With a great location (a house with a lot of glass windows) and a limited use of music, this is an effective thriller that keeps you guessing about its characters. Grade: B+.

Holding The Man (out Aug 27) tells the true story of Timothy Conigrave and John Caleo - two guys who met in high school in the 1970s and become life-long partners. The "getting to know each other" scenes in the early stages feel too scripted but aside, this is an extremely moving Australian drama that beautifully balances its broad time frame. Grade: A-.

Hitman: Agent 47 (out Aug 20) is a weak action thriller based on a video game. Rupert Friend takes the lead role and plays an assassin trying to do something (I lost track because everyone seems to be playing everyone). The action sequences feel too staged and these characters are incredibly dull. Grade: C.

Dope (out Aug 20) is a low budget comedy-drama about a nerdy high school student who somehow ends up with a lot of drugs in his backpack and a lot of people on his tail. A few lulls, a few good moments. Grade: B.

Irrational Man (out Aug 20) is a delightfully wicked Woody Allen comedy. Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone make a great pair with Parker Posey doing her best with a scene-stealing performance. It comes with Allen’s traditional fingerprints – great casting, great dialogue and a great punchline. Grade: B+.