The Florida Project (out Dec 21) is set down the road from Disney World in Orlando, Florida but offers a very different view of life in the United States. With the attention focused on a 6-year-old girl and her unemployed mother, the themes may take time to sink in but this is a commanding character study (similar to a Mike Leigh drama) that will hopefully open eyes. Grade: A-.

Star Wars: The Last Jedi (out Dec 14) is a functional action piece that will appeal to fans of the franchise. Still, it's slightly unfulfilling in that it doesn't advance the broader narrative in a huge way and saves plenty for the finale in 2 years. Weak villains but enjoyed the interaction between the two most interesting characters - Rey and Kylo Ren. Grade: B.

Ferdinand (out Dec 14) is based on the children’s book first published in 1936 and follows Ferdinand - a talking Spanish bull (voiced by John Cena) who is trying to “buck” convention and make a better life for himself. Aside from Ferdinand the Bull and Lupe the Goat, none of the characters offer much in the way of interest. Grade: B-.

Wonder Wheel (out Dec 7) is the latest from director Woody Allen. It stars Kate Winslet as a married, middle-aged woman who has an affair with a lifeguard. It's too predictable in places but when secrets come out into the open during the final act, things do get interesting. Grade: B.

The Disaster Artist (out Dec 7) is a wonderful comedy that takes us inside the making of Tommy Wiseau’s iconic film, The Room. It’s a fascinating story that will leave many in hysterics. It doesn’t matter if you’ve seen The Room or not - you’ll be laughing regardless at this truth is stranger than fiction tale. Grade: A-.

Only The Brave (out Nov 30) is based on actual events and pays tribute to a group of firefighters from Arizona. It looks at their work whilst also delving into the battles of their personal lives. A bit formulaic in places but the finale packs a strong punch. Grade: B.

The Man Who Invented Christmas (out Nov 30) recounts how acclaimed author Charles Dickens came to write one of his most famous works, A Christmas Carol, in 1843. Told using a mix of fantasy scenes and flashbacks, I found the actual novel to be more interesting than this. Grade: C+.

Wonder (out Nov 30) is based on the novel by R.J. Palacio and follows a not-so-normal looking 10-year-old who battles to make friends during his first year at middle school. It’s a little simplistic in places but it’s hard to be critical of such a heart-warming film. Jacob Tremblay (Room) is great in the leading role and the supporting cast all get the chance to shine with wise words of their own. Grade: B+.

Better Watch Out (out Nov 23) is an Aussie-American thriller about a 12-year-old kid and his 17-year-old babysitter who are terrorised by a home invader. It's not ground breaking but there are a few nice twists and a worthy lead performance from rising star Levi Miller. Grade: B.

The Teacher (out Nov 23) is a riveting Slovak-Czech drama about a teacher who has had several complaints levied against her at a suburban school. Set in 1983, it's a great exploration of power and abuse thereof. Grade: A-.