The Broken Circle Breakdown (out May 15) is a Belgian feature about a couple trying to cope after discovering their 6-year-old daughter has cancer. There are a several powerful scenes but the film's non-chronological structure made the story difficult to access. The ending is also a head scratcher. Grade: C+.

Child's Pose (out May 15) is the story of a mother trying to reconnect with her middle aged son following a tragic accident. She's a tough character to get your head around… and that’s part of this film’s appeal. Winner of the top prize at the 2013 Berlin Film Festival, this is an involving piece of cinema. Grade: B+.

A Castle In Italy (out May 15) is a disjointed, irritating Italian drama centred on a family with psychological issues. I didn't like any character. I didn't understand any character. A strange film. Grade: C.

Chef (out May 8) is the story of chef who loses his job after being savaged by a critic... and then reinvents himself by operating a hip food van. There are some odd family dynamics but this is still a sensational feel good flick. Great food, great story, great conversation. Grade: A-.

Belle (out May 8) is set in the late 18th century and chronicles the true story of a Negro born into wealth (as opposed to slavery) who is struggling to find her place in the world. I realise it's a watered down version of events but I'm a sucker for period piece films and found myself caught up in the story. Grade: B+.

Healing (out May 8) is the tale a prisoner in a rural correctional facility who forms a bond with an injured falcon. The film's metaphoric themes feel a little too forced but this is still a moving story that looks at the importance of rehabilitation and forgiveness. Grade: B.

Bad Neighbours (out May 8) follows a newly married couple who are trying to stop a a rambunctious college fraternity who have moved in next door. The logistics of several jokes don't work... but they're funny anyway. Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne and Zac Efron all get a chance at some great one-liners. Grade: B+.

Fading Gigolo (out now) is the story of a florist who, inspired by an old friend, takes on a part-job as a gigolo. The film keeps switching between comedy and drama. It's tough to keep up. The story is moderately interesting but many of the comedic elements (such as Liev Schreiber's character) that don't hit the mark. Grade: B-.

Young & Beautiful (out now) is the story of a beautiful young French woman who discovers her sexual potential... and decides to become a prostitute?!? There are flashes of intrigue but the film loses momentum in its final half. Not quite sure what to make of the finale. Grade: B-.

52 Tuesdays (out May 1) is an Aussie film centred on teenage girl (nicely played by newcomer Tilda Cobham-Hervey) trying to interact with her transgender mother. It's an intriguing family dynamic. My major qualm though was the fragmented nature of the story (short, quick scenes). Made it hard to understand the context of some moments. Grade: B.