Aloha (2022)

• Rating: 2 ⭐️
• Length: 2 hr 10m
• Genre: Action, Drama

For a film with such big names, it was a bit of a letdown. It felt like they had simply gathered all of these stars on a foreign island during their vacations, and decided to make a film while they were there. There was no real plot and I debated switching it off halfway through.

The Family Stone (2005)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 43m
• Genre: Romance/Comedy

A decent film which was quite enjoyable, having watched it directly after the previous one. The story was good, it was funny at times, and rather emotional by the end. A decent romantic comedy which I’d consider watching it again.

I Wanna Dance with Somebody (2022)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 26m
• Genre: Romance/Comedy

Not a bad biopic at all. The lead actress has quite a good likeness to Whitney Houston, and it is clear that she had studied for many hours to try and portray her as accurately as possible. I don’t know how much of the story was dramatised, but there were certainly a lot of things I didn’t know, and I liked that it focused on her background as well as her career and path to stardom.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 (2010)

• Rating: 5⭐️
• Length: 2hr 10m
• Genre: Fantasy

Well, I needn’t write much about this film because I feel like most people on the planet have seen it. No matter how many times I watch it, it hits me like it did the first time, and is the most epic and wonderful conclusion to the film series, that holds a special place in my heart.

Last Seen Alive (2022)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 35m
• Genre: Thriller, Mystery

Who doesn’t love Gerard Butler in an action film? He’s brilliant at playing the rogue hero, (or sometimes rogue villain), and it’s certainly clear as to why he continues to get cast in these types of roles. The story was okay, but nothing extremely inventive. Your run of the mill action film, that is great for entertainment.

Bullet Train (2022)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 6m
• Genre: Action, Comedy

Better than I thought it was going to be. It was funny, action-packed, and star-studded! Though it was unexpectedly graphic in some places, the pace and comedy made up for it. Well worth a watch for entertainment value.

Stephen King’s A Good Marriage (2014)

• Rating: 3⭐️?
• Length: 1hr 42m | Watch time: 45m
• Genre: Horror, Psychological thriller

So… I can’t really comment on this film much because I have to admit I fell asleep. Not because it was boring, but because it was the fifth film of the day, and I was shattered. I’ll have to rewatch at a later date and give my proper thoughts on it, because I do love a good psychological thriller and Stephen King is epic!

Shotgun Wedding (2022)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 40m
• Genre: Romance, Comedy, Action

Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Lopez are not a duo I’d ever put together in a film, but it actually worked really well. I was pleasantly surprised by their dynamic, and to be fair, the story was also quite good. There was comedy, romance, and a whole lot of action packed into the minutes – definitely a good watch!

Night Hunter (2018)

• Rating: …. ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 38m | Watch time: 30m
• Genre: Thriller, Crime

I have to admit that I also fell asleep during this one, so I can’t comment or rate this one either. But, from what I gather from those who didn’t manage to nod off, was that it was a great film, and wonderful to see Henry Cavill playing a different sort of character to the usual (super)heroes he gets cast in.

The Italian Job (2003)

• Rating: 45 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 51m
• Genre: Action, Thriller, Comedy

I think I’ve lost count as to how many times I have seen this film. While this is a remake of the original 1960s film, and having seen both, I have to admit that I do prefer this one. It’s modern, thrilling, exciting, and has some wonderful comedic moments.

Dangerous Game: The Legacy Murders (2022)

• Rating: 2 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 36m
• Genre: Drama, Mystery, Horror?

Mediocre cast. Good idea. Poor execution. Way too predictable, and honestly a little bit boring. It’s also far more graphic, gory, and traumatic than I expected it to be. Think Final Destination with a mystery element.

Mrs Harris Goes to Paris (2022)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 56m
• Genre: Comedy, Drama

I could rave about this film all day. What a brilliant, uplifting, wonderful piece of cinema this is. Leslie Manville is fantastic in this. It both made my heart ache and warmed it at the same time, and is honestly one of the best feel-good films I’ve ever seen.

The Guest (2014)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 40m
• Genre: Thriller, Mystery

This was not what I thought it was going to be, but it wasn’t the worst film in the world. Dan Stevens is a great actor, and it was nice to see him in something other than Beauty and the Beast. The pace was a little too slow for my liking, and there wasn’t a big enough twist at the end… but overall, an alright film.

The Lucky One (2012)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 41m
• Genre: Romance, Drama

Well, if it’s an adaptation of a Nicholas Sparks book, you can almost guarantee that it’s going to break your heart. A spectacular film that’s well worth a watch if you need to cry into a blanket.

Memory (2022)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 54m
• Genre: Action, Thriller

Interestingly, for a film titled ‘Memory’, I remember very little about watching this one aside from knowing that the main character, played by Liam Neeson, is losing his memory. A generic action thriller, with a small twist… but he’s done better work.

Titanic (1997)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 43m
• Genre: Romance/Comedy

I’ve seen this film a few times, but this was my first watching it in a cinema (also in 3D.).. and oh my stars! It was like watching an entirely new film. I saw things I’d never noticed, and got to experience this for the cinematic masterpiece that it is.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance (2023)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 52 m
• Genre: Romance, Drama, Comedy

Channing Tatum grinding on Salma Hayek? Well, alright. It was okay, and pretty much what I was expecting… three minutes in and he was already whipping his shirt off and giving a lapdance. Perhaps it didn’t have the desired effect as I hadn’t seen the previous films, but I probably wouldn’t watch this again.

Fall (2022)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 47m
• Genre: Thriller

What a film!! For a film that I had never heard of, with no notable cast members other than Jeffrey Dean Morgan (who is in it for barely five minutes), I thought this was going to be an utter snooze fest… but I was totally wrong. It was thrilling, gripping, and I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Definitely worth a watch if you’re in the mood for a thriller with an unexpected ending!

Enola Holmes 2 (2022)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 10m
• Genre: Mystery/Crime

The first film was utterly enjoyable and I didn’t think that it would be possible to exceed it, but I honestly think I preferred the sequel to the original! The story was great, it moved at a wonderful pace, and it was both action-packed and comedic!

Mindcage (2022)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 37m
• Genre: Thriller, Mystery

A bit of a slow start to the film, but well worth sticking with because it gets more intriguing with every minute that passes… not to mention the utterly shocking twist at the end that I did not see coming at all! An absolutely fantastic thriller!

Love, Weddings, and Other Disasters (2020)

• Rating: 2.5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 36m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

An okay film. It was well-paced, with quite a good plot, and funny at times, but I didn’t love it as much as I wanted to. Not the worst romcom I’ve seen, but there are others that I prefer.

Untraceable (2008)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 41m
• Genre: Horror, Mystery

Well, this had me on the edge of my seat! I didn’t want to be gripped by it, but it was magnetic and I couldn’t tear my eyes away. It was certainly a mixture of horror and mystery, but well worth every minute.

Frozen (2010)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 33m
• Genre: Horror, Crime

Three skiers, snow, and life or death choices? What’s not to be freaked out about? I don’t usually enjoy horrors, but this is perhaps one of the less graphic ones I’ve seen, so it was more thriller-y than anything. Not a bad film at all, and great for a movie you want to pass the time.

The Other Woman (2014)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 49m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

This was the only film I watched in May and it is one of my favourites! I love this trio of women and they work so well together on screen. There are some epically hilarious moments throughout, and one specific moment that tugs on my heartstrings. A fantastic RomCom to watch when you need a pick-me-up!

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 11m
• Genre: Action, Thriller

I’ve honestly lost count of how many times I’ve seen this film since its release in 2022. I think it has made into into my most-watched films of all time because I can’t get enough of it. Thrilling, action-packed, emotional. One of the best films I’ve ever seen and a must-see at any time of the year.

When in Rome (2010)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 31m
• Genre: Romance, Comedy

A very decent romcom! I adore Kristen Bell, but surprisingly I haven’t actually seen much with her in. It was hilarious, entertaining, and another feel-good watch.

The Proposal (2009)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 48m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

Another film I’ve seen countless times, and it’s one of my favourites! I adore Sandra Bullock and love virtually everything that she’s in, but she and Ryan Reynolds in this film are an epic duo. It’s the OG enemies to lovers, and I will watch it a million times.

27 Dresses (2008)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 51m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

I love this film. There’s nothing else to it really. There are moments in it when I want to scream at characters, there are moments that make me laugh, and not to spoil the ending, but it’s a happily ever after. What’s not to love?

The Blind Side (2009)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 9m
• Genre: Sport, Drama

Yet again, another film I have watched over and over. This is most definitely in my top 10 films of all time. It makes me cry, it makes me smile, and the storytelling in this is utterly beautiful. An outstanding cast. An outstanding story.

White House Down (2013)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 17m
• Genre: Action, Thriller

Can Channing Tatum please make more action films because he’s utterly brilliant in these roles? I’m a big fan of disaster films, not because I’m dark and twisty, but because, for me, they’re so thrilling and exciting to watch, even if they are a little depressing at times. A brilliant film with a brilliant cast, that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Top Gun (1986)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 50m
• Genre: Action, Romance

I’ll admit that I only saw this for the first time right before Top Gun: Maverick was released, but this original film is utterly epic and what a fantastic story. I’m not sure I’d watch this one over and over like the sequel, but it’s still a fantastic film that I’ll give five stars!

The Snowman (2017)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 59m
• Genre: Psychological thriller

A psychological thriller intertwined with a multitude of puzzles? Yes, please. A brilliant, gripping film that kept me on the edge of my seat. While not my favourite psych thrill, it’s still a very good four-star film and if you’re into this category then I’d highly recommend it.

Barbie (2023)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 54m
• Genre: Comedy, Fantasy

Never did I think that a film about a toy doll would make it into my top five films of 2023, that I would watch it more than once, and that I would be crying at the ending… yet here we are. I adored this film so much (full review coming soon), and it’s a movie that I constantly find myself thinking about. Utter feminist perfection.

Frozen Ground (2013)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 45m
• Genre: Crime, Thriller

When you think of Nicolas Cage and John Cusack, you think of brilliant films like National Treasure, Knowing, 2012, or Identity. But sadly, neither of these brilliant actors could save this film. It was an average thriller, but nothing that blew me away.

The Ledge (2022)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 26m
• Genre: Thriller, Adventure

A mediocre thriller. Nothing spectacular but an entertaining watch. However, slightly more gory than I thought it would be, and I’m not sure I’d watch it again.

The Intern (2017)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 1m
• Genre: Comedy, Drama

This film is utterly brilliant in every way. Anne Hathaway and Robert DeNiro make an excellent duo, the story is fantastic, and there is both enough emotional content and comic relief to balance each other out. It also makes me crave a friendship with an elderly person, because Jules’ and Ben’s friendship in this film is spectacularly beautiful.

Heart of Stone (2023)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 2m | Watch time: 45m
• Genre: Action, Thriller

Unfortunately, though the trailer looked great. I didn’t vibe with this film at all. In fact, I think at one point I may have even fallen asleep, because I’m not sure I could even describe the sequence of events. Gutting, because it looked so good. But sadly it just didn’t capture my attention in the way I’d hoped.

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

This again…

Coco (2017)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 45m
• Genre: Animated, Fantasy, Adventure

I saw this film for the first time in 2018, right after my grandad died, and it had me in utter tears. It is one of my favourite animated films ever, not just because the music is fantastic, but because of what the whole film represents – that the ones we love never leave us, and are quietly with us forever. I cry every single time at this film, and it holds a deep, sentimental value in my heart.

80 for Brady (20223)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 38m
• Genre: Comedy, Sport

What a film this was! It is most definitely in my top 5 of films I watched in 2023. These four ladies make the most brilliant ensemble, and I didn’t stop laughing the whole way through. It was also nice to have a film featuring older ladies where the story didn’t end with somebody dying – a guaranteed happy ending for this one. I would also say that if you’re going to watch anything from this list, please watch this.

The House with a Clock in its Walls (2018)

• Rating: 2 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 45m
• Genre: Fantasy, Horror

So, I thought this was going to be a fantastic film, but sadly I didn’t vibe with this one either. It was a bit wacky and weird, which I would have enjoyed, but the story was way too slow and I found myself looking at my phone than at the television. Disappointing, but two stars for the casting.

Luck (2022)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 45m
• Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Animated

Love, love, love! Sweet, endearing, funny, and adorable. What more could you want in a Skydance film? I loved the premise, the animation, the humour, and it even had me crying at the end which I did not expect! A good length film, with a good story, good voice acting, and just a well-rounded watch!

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

And in the month right after? I must be nuts. Will it appear again? Who the hell knows.

The Lake House (2006)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 39m
• Genre: Romance, Fantasy

Who doesn’t love The Lake House? A beautiful story, with two brilliant actors. It’s heartbreaking, heartwarming, and just a classic romance that will stand the test of time.

Book Club: The Next Chapter (2023)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 48m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

Again, another four fabulous ladies that make a brilliant ensemble. I enjoyed the first one, but I genuinely think this one topped it. I can only hope that my friendships look like this when I am in my seventies/eighties. Another must-watch on this list (perhaps after 80 for Brady!)

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (2023)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 49m
• Genre: Music, Concert film, Documentary

I don’t even need to say much about this film, other than it was utterly spectacular, and it has made me a million times more excited to see this concert in person in a few months!

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 32m
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Because, what other Harry Potter would you watch in October?

Love Again (2017)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 44m
• Genre: Romance, Comedy

Another RomCom on the list, but a brilliant one! Priyanka Chopra is fabulous, but the star of the film has to be Celine Dion. I didn’t realise how hilarious she is, but after watching her in this, I’d love to see her in more comedies because she completely made this film!

National Treasure (2004)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 25m
• Genre: Adventure, Action, Comedy

Treasure hunting, iconic Nicolas Cage lines, riddles, puzzles, and more. What else could you ask for? If you like solving puzzles, with an interest in history, this is for you. Though, I’m not sure how accurate all of the history is, but who the hell cares when the film is so fun!

The Out-Laws (2023)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 35m
• Genre: Comedy, Action

A very decent comedy action film. It’s thrilling, exciting, and funny! There is also one particular joke in the film that tickled me pink, as I love it when films refer to actor’s other work/characters! A great watch to fill and hour and a half!

Shazam: Fury of the Gods (2023)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 10m
• Genre: Action, Comedy

Watching the first film is essential to watch this one and I really don’t know which one I prefer. I’m not a massive superhero fan, but I thought this film was great and quite comical! Not a bad watch at all!

Heart of the Holidays (2020)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 24m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

Your classic cheesy Hallmark Christmas film. Funny, charming, sweet. Feel good vibes, like a warm hug, and perfect for watching by the Christmas tree.

Next Stop, Christmas (2021)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 24m
• Genre: Romance, Comedy

Oh, look… another Hallmark film. A little fantasy twist on this one, but festive, sweet, and funny.

The Holiday (2006)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 18m
• Genre: Romance, Comedy

Perhaps my favourite Christmas film of all time. I could watch this repeatedly during the festive season. Funny, witty, charming, emotional… and Jude Law in his glasses… *melts*

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 16m
• Genre: Musical, Fantasy

A film that can be watched both at Halloween and Christmas, with wonderful catchy music, and characters? Yes. I love this film, and it’s such an easy watch!

Deck the Halls (2006)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 33m
• Genre: Comedy, Family

Not my favourite Christmas film, but still worth a watch! Mischief, shenaningans, comedy, and a very sweet ending – the makings of a good festive film!

Noelle (2019)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 40m
• Genre: Comedy, Family, Fantasy

I think this has made its way onto the list of films that I must watch every Christmas. Adorable, sweet, funny, and heartwarming.

Burlesque (2010)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 59m
• Genre: Drama, Musical

Another film I’ve watched repeatedly. Both Christina and Cher are incredible in this film, the music is exceptional, and it’s the definition of glitz and glam!

Love Actually (2003)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 25m
• Genre: Comedy, Romance

Another film I watch every single Christmas, because with this many iconic actors, how can you not? I adore this film, not only because it’s wonderful to watch, but because of what it reminds us of – that if we look for it, love, actually, is all around us.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

• Rating: 3 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 45m
• Genre: Comedy, Fantasy

I have to admit, I don’t like this film very much but I decided to watch it because my mum had never seen it before… but it’s not something I’d watch on the regular at Christmas. I have nothing against Jim Carrey, I just don’t like the film.

Wonka (2023)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 56m
• Genre: Musical, Fantasy

Oh, my stars! What an incredible film! One of the best things I’ve seen in a long, long time. The story was fantastic, the performances were amazing, and I was sobbing by the end. I can’t wait to watch this over and over again, all the time. Completely magical.

Christmas with the Kranks (2004)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 38m
• Genre: Comedy, Family

A semi-ridiculous, funny, festive film. It’s always on my Christmas list to break up the cheesy Hallmark films and the ones that I adore. Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis are hilarious in this, and if you need a good festive chuckle, I’d choose this!

The 12 Days of Christmas Eve (2022)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 1hr 30m
• Genre: Comedy, Drama

A Christmas Carol, with a twist. A scrooge forced to make amends for his wrongdoings, otherwise he dies… very festive! It was a great watch, and unexpectedly emotional!

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (2005)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 37m
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Well, if the Harry Potter channel is constantly on over Christmas, it only makes sense to watch whatever film they’re airing…

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 18m
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

My favourite HP film… and since the channel airs them all in order, it would have been rude not to watch it!

Harry Potter and the Half -Blood Prince (2009)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 33m
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

And of course, I had to follow it on with the sixth film…

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 19m
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

My second favourite HP instalment! Yes, I watched them out of order, but there was nothing else on…

Home Alone (1990)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 43m
• Genre: Comedy, Family

Is it even Christmas if you haven’t watched this?

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 26m
• Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Because after watching a comedy, of course, I needed something that would rip my heart out…

David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived (2023)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 30m
• Genre: Documentary

An exceptional documentary, about an exceptional man. When we watch our favourite action movies, we get so wrapped up in the story that it’s easy to forget about the remarkable stunt people who make them possible, and risk their lives every day in the name of art. I vaguely knew David’s story, but to hear him tell it, and to hear the perspective of others… it’s gut-wrenching, heartbreaking, emotional, and inspiring.

Nativity (2009)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 45m
• Genre: Comedy, Family

Who doesn’t love a gone-wrong nativity play at Christmas?

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2 (2010)

Of course, after watching part one, it’s only right that you watch the conclusion….

Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 54m
• Genre: Drama, Family, Fantasy

Another film I love watching during the festive season… though, as I’ve gotten older I’ve come to realise just how wild the ending actually is.

The Family Plan (2023)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length:1hr 58m
• Genre: Action, Comedy

I do love Mark Wahlberg in an action role! A great mix of exciting, edge-of-your-seat fight scenes, mystery and comedy! And an unexpected twist at the end!

Die Hard: With A Vengeance (1995)

• Rating: 4 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 8m
• Genre: Action, Thriller

My favourite Die Hard film of the series – a ix of action, thriller, puzzles, riddles, and comedy! What’s not to love?

Hidden Figures (2016)

• Rating: 5 ⭐️
• Length: 2hr 7m
• Genre: Drama, History

And, finishing the year strong with one of my favourite films of all time. Another one that I’ve lost count as to how many times I’ve viewed it, but it’s worth every minute. A fascinating film about three remarkable women, who really were Hidden Figures during this space program, and it managed to make me emotional every single time.