Ride Like a Girl (out Sep 26) is a comedy-drama that chronicles the upbringing of jockey Michelle Payne and the lead up to her history making win in the 2015 Melbourne Cup. There's some really cheesy stuff in this but it's still an interesting story. The interaction between Michelle and her father is the film's highlight. Grade: B-.

Buoyancy (out Sep 26) is a moving story about a 14-year-old kid from Cambodia who, in looking for work, is taken in by a group of people smugglers. It's a simple tale but it's been well told by director Rodd Rathjen. Eye-opening. Grade: B+.

Abominable (out Sep 19) is a cute, fun animated film about a curious Yeti who befriends a young girl and needs help getting back to Mount Everest. The characters are great but it's the film's "magical" elements that make it a little different from your standard American kids film. Grade: A-.

Rambo: Last Blood (out Sep 19) is a limp, disappointing end to this Sylvester Stallone led franchise. It's amazing how little can happen (in terms of character development and action) inside of 90 minutes. Grade: C.

Ad Astra (out Sep 19) is a space mystery starring Brad Pitt. I like the editing, the cinematography and the music. Director James Gray knows how to build intrigue. Unfortunately, it's lacking in terms of story. It's trying to sell a deep, profound message but I struggled to buy into it. Grade: B-.

Halston (out Sep 19) is a documentary about the acclaimed fashion designer but is more about the up-and-down nature of his business activities than his actual designs. Interesting but repetitive. Grade: B-.

Dora and the Lost City of Gold (out Sep 19) will entertain younger audiences. Taking Dora’s simplistic story and turning it into a live-action movie would have been a tricky assignment but the creators have taken a few chances (such as making Dora a 16-year-old) and been rewarded for their efforts. Isabela Moner deserves praise for her lead performance. Grade: B+.

Good Boys (out Sep 19) follows three 12-year-old kids who go on a series of misadventures as they prepare for their first "kissing party". The storyline doesn't flow as smoothly as it should (parts feel like unrelated skits) but these cute, foul-mouthed characters will win audiences over. It’s hard not to be amused as they misinterpret words and try to act older than they are. Grade: B+.

The Angry Birds Movie 2 (out Sep 12) is targeted squarely at young kids. It follows our beloved birds and pigs who team up to defeat a new enemy. It's simple, colourful and easy to follow. That said, it doesn't offer much in terms of emotion or character development. Grade: B-.

Downton Abbey (out Sep 12) is the latest movie spin-off from a successful TV show. Set in 1927, this two hour movie is structured a visit from King George V and Queen Mary who are spending roughly 24 hours at the famed residence. The cast is superb and it’s no surprise to see 84-year-old Maggie Smith as the standout in a role that won her three Emmy Awards. The film captures the era and is jolly good fun. Grade: B+.