West Side Story (out Dec 26) is an invigorating remake, with a few small changes, of the successful stage musical (and 1961 film) from director Stephen Spielberg. The amazing cast, the quality production values, and the iconic music make this one of the year’s best. Grade: A.

The Worst Person in the World (out Dec 26) offers an interesting, insightful look into the world of a 30-year-old Norwegian woman who is still unsure about what she wants in terms of career and love. Great conversations are shared by all the characters. Grade: A.

Licorice Pizza (out Dec 26) is a teen romantic comedy from director Paul Thomas Anderson. Just when you think you know where it’s heading… new characters are introduced and it takes a different path. I like its offbeat nature and the two unorthodox leads. Grade: B+.

Swan Song (out Dec 26) is over-romanticised at times but it’s still a sweet, big-hearted film about a frail, retired hairdresser who does one last job for an old friend. Some great individual scenes (such as one involving a clothes store owner). Grade: B+.

Sing 2 (out Dec 26) misses opportunities and bulldozes over its more dramatic elements (eg a grieving lion, a strained relationship between father and daughter) but if kids want something light and cute with a million songs, here’s your entertainment for the holidays. Grade: B-.

Delicious (out Dec 26) is a late 18th century tale about a cranky, aggrieved cook who started France’s first restaurant. A fine idea for a movie but the character evolution is rushed and/or jumbled in places. Can’t fully deliver on its crowd-pleasing premise. Grade: C+.

Spider-Man: No Way Home (out Dec 16) is slow to start (the college stuff - boring) but once it gets going... IT GETS GOING! Love the strong focus on the villains (with a slightly different spin), the depiction of Spider-Man's vulnerability and insecurity, and the creativity of blending alternate universes. Very cool. Grade: A-.

The Lost Daughter (out Dec 16) is the story of a 48-year-old professor (Olivia Colman) holidaying in Greece who is triggered by events from her past. Colman is great - creating an intriguing character who swings like a pendulum between likeable and unlikeable. Grade: A-.

The Scary of Sixty-First (out Dec 16) is a creative low-budget horror-thriller about two women who move into an Upper East Side Manhattan apartment and become curious about its previous occupants. You won’t believe where it goes next. This is twisted, demented and hilarious. Can’t believe they make it work. Great music and cinematography. Grade: A-.

Marjorie Lawrence: The World at Her Feet (out Dec 16) is a documentary about the acclaimed Australian opera singer who rose to fame in the 1930s. Lawrence was an interesting person but with limited archival footage and interviews, the film relies heavily on current day interviews with a select few. Grade: B.