Viceroy's House (out May 18) is an historical drama that looks at the debate that took place behind closed doors in 1947 that led to the separation of India and Pakistan. It's a balanced film that examines numerous points of view. A romantic subplot weakens the film. Grade: B.

Snatched (out May 11) features Goldie Hawn and Amy Schumer as a mother-daughter combo who are kidnapped while on holiday in Ecuador. There's a crudeness to the comedy that works but the overall narrative isn't particularly interesting. Grade: B-.

Alien: Covenant (out May 11) follows a group of humans who have set off on a lengthy mission to colonise a new planet. Ridley Scott's film tries to explore some deep philosophical questions (e.g. where do we come from?) but it's odd balancing that up with the ho-hum action scenes. Grade: B.

Free Fire (out May 11) as interesting idea on paper but it struggles with its execution. It is set almost entirely in a rundown factory and features an hour-long shootout between two groups after an arms deal goes wrong. It's trying to be witty but runs out of ideas. Grade: C+.

A Dog's Purpose (out May 4) is a film for dog lovers. They’ve found the cutest dogs imaginable and continually put them in situations that will melt hearts. That wasn't enough for me though. The film tries to blend comedy and drama but creates cheesy scenarios (such a kidnapping) that are laughably bad. Grade: C.

Pork Pie (out May 4) is a New Zealand comedy about three strangers who find themselves on the run from the police. Everything fits too neatly and the drama feels forced and manufactured. Grade: C+.

The Zookeeper's Wife (out May 4) is based on a true story and is about a Polish couple who helped smuggle hundreds of Jews out of the country during World War II. There are moments of tension but some parts aren't explored in enough detail. Grade: B-.

Rules Don't Apply (out Apr 27) is a Warren Beatty directed drama that looks at the later years of the mysterious Howard Hughes and his connection with those around him. Blending fantasy and reality, this was a surprisingly unadventurous effort - even more so when you compare it to Martin Scorsese's The Aviator. Grade: C+.

Get Out (out May 4) is an unorthodox horror-thriller that could be game changer for the genre. Instead of frightening the audience with blood, violence and creepy noises, writer-director Jordan Peele puts you on edge by having to listen to unsettling conversations. The less you know going in, the better! Grade: A.

The Innocents (out Apr 27) is a drama that recounts a true story that took place in Poland in the months following the end of World War II. A French doctor was called upon to assist a group of Polish nuns after a horrific series of events. A few parts feel superfluous but this is still a powerful eye-opener. Grade: B.