Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (out Sep 14) is based on the children's book series and is about two comic-loving kids who use hypnosis to turn their angry school principal into a superhero. It's a fun premise that runs out of energy during a chaotic final act. Suited for younger children as opposed to older. Grade: B-.

The Emoji Movie (out Sep 14) is *sad face*. Grade: C.

Victoria & Abdul (out Sep 14) chronicles Queen Victoria's friendship with an Indian servant during the late 19th Century and the way in which is shaped her view on the world. It's trying to be too much of a crowd-pleaser in places but at its heart, it's a likeable story about the power of friendship. Judi Dench and Ali Fazal are both great in the leading roles. Grade: B.

The Dinner (out Sep 7) is a dreary, long-winded drama about four horrible people who have dinner so as to discuss an important issue. There's tension during the final act that gets you thinking but the opening two-thirds (where multiple timelines are overlaid) are a snoozfest. The frustrating finale also will leave you disappointed. Grade: C.

It (out Sep 7) is based on the horror novel from author Stephen King and follows a group of troubled kids who are terrorised by a people-eating clown. The narrative is rushed and the performances aren't convincing. I preferred the 1990 TV miniseries. Grade: C+.

Namatjira Project (out Sep 7) is a very interesting documentary about an Indigenous artist who found fame in the mid-20th Century and the way in which is legacy has benefited both his family and the broader community. Covers a broad range of material in a short space of time. Grade: A-.

Tommy’s Honour (out Sep 7) tells the story of Young Tom Morris, a Scottish lad who won four Open Championships in the 19th century and helped shape the game of golf as we know it today. The dialogue is a bit stiff in places but this is must see viewing for fans of golf, Scotland, or both. Grade: B.

God's Own Country (out Aug 31) is an affecting drama about a young British farmer who falls in love with a Romanian migrant worker. Compared with Brokeback Mountain, this same sex romance has two terrific, authentic leading performances and beautifully captures the hesitation that threatens their future happiness. Grade: A-.

Ali's Wedding (out Aug 31) is based on actual events and is an Aussie comedy about a young Muslim man who lies about his exam grades to impress his father and the tight-knit community. It sets in motion a series of events that are funny, awkward and heartfelt. A few elements are rushed (such as a trip to the US) but this is one of the year's best Australian films. Grade: B+.

Gifted (out Aug 31) is a very good drama about a guy (Chris Evans) who is trying to raise his young niece following the death of her mother. It includes a custody battle involving the grandmother and asks questions about the value of a normal childhood. Grade: A-.