Secret In Their Eyes (out Nov 19) is based on the superb Oscar winning Argentinean film, El secreto de sus ojos. It’s nice to see the story told again but this remake can’t match the power of the original. The ending is over dramatized and the film's romantic angles are hard to buy given the stiff dialogue. This is still an engaging thriller though and offers much to think about in terms of grief and ethics. Grade: B.

Knight Of Cups (out Nov 12) is from reclusive director Terrence Malick and is about planes, helicopters, water, plants, architecture, whispering, narration and a silent Christian Bale. Make of it what you will. Would love to slip this into the hard drive of cinemas showing Spectre to see how mainstream audiences would react. Grade: C+.

He Named Me Malala (out Nov 12) is a documentary about a very different 18-year-old. Malala Yousafzai was born in Pakistan, survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban and became the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. I’d have preferred a more attention be given to her causes rather than Malala herself but the film highlights that education is an invaluable tool that all deserve access to. Grade: B.

Spectre (out Nov 12) is a chaotic Bond film that doesn’t quite come together. Christoph Waltz fails to impress as the keynote villain and the writers have taken few chances with a very conventional screenplay. Despite its limitations, the film is still to be admired for Sam Mendes’ skilful direction and the striking visuals of Dutch cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema. The affable cast also give it a boost. Grade: B.

Scouts Guide To The Zombie Apocalypse (out Nov 5) is a teen comedy about three nerdish guys trying to outsmart a growing army of zombies. It's doing its best to offer gross out comedy with a splash of gory violence. The introduction is too long but there's a great connection between the characters that keeps this light and fun. Grade: B.

Man Up (out Nov 5) doesn't always follow convention and is a short, fun, entertaining romantic comedy about a woman (Lake Bell) who takes a crazy chance on a blind date with the wrong guy (Simon Pegg). It features some great individual scenes and a supporting cast that is both level-headed and insightful. Grade: B+.

Freeheld (out Nov 5) is based on a true story and chronicles the efforts of a dying New Jersey police officer who wants to ensure her pension passes to her same-sex partner following her death. The connection between Julianne Moore and Ellen Page comes through strongly but the film makes a few missteps through the casting of Steve Carell and the limited insight into the government's views. Grade: B.

Mistress America (out Oct 29) is a lightweight comedy about two New York women who become best friends. There's a charm to the film but their misadventures get repetitive (one wants to open a restaurant, the other wants to be a published author). Grade: B-.

Sleeping with Other People (out Oct 29) is a romantic comedy/drama about two people trying hard to keep their successful friendship from turning into a messy relationship. There's some real, honest dialogue during the first two-thirds but the film can't quite stick the landing. Grade: B.

The Last Witch Hunter (out Oct 29) is about a man given the gift of immortality (Diesel) who has spent the last 800 years maintaining the truce between humans and witches. The film struggles to explore its fantasy world and it culminates with a weak, poorly directed action climax. Grade: C.