What’s it about?
The story of Eddie Edwards, the notoriously tenacious British underdog ski jumper who had to overcome a biased system and a lack of talent before charming the world at the 1988 Winter Olympics.

What did we think?
Despite the abundance of cliches this movie is full of heart. Helped along by the charismatic Hugh Jackman and an incredible performance from Taron Egerton, Eddie The Eagle is that rare beast whose warmth and sheer entertainment value overcome the lack of charisma of the lead character. In fact, if it hadn’t been a true story you would dismiss it as unbelievable schmaltz. As it is you’ll find yourself both cringing and cheering for Britain’s most unathletic Olympic representative who reminded us that the Olympics is just as much about participation as it is about winning.

You’ll find your spirits soaring along with Eddie. Probably the feel-good flick of the year.

What’s it about?
The third instalment of the Divergent series sees our hero Tris escape with Four beyond the wall that encircles Chicago, to finally discover the shocking truth of the world around them. Gods, I’m bored just writing that.

What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: The first book/film was flawed but had enough interesting ideas to keep you engaged and wondering. Sadly by the third in this series it’s just incredibly tired and old. There’s nothing new or shocking in this predictable and two-dimensional story. There are quote a number of good action scenes but with a paper-thin plot not really holding it together? I’ll save my allegiance for movies with actual storylines.

What’s it about?
Po discovers not only his long-lost father but an entire village of pandas. In karmic payback he has to train the lazy and clumsy brethren for an upcoming battle.

What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: Full of frenetic energy and colour, the third Kung Fu Panda instalment won’t disappoint the younger audience but adults will struggle with the fact that we’ve seen it all before. With no real character development since the first movie, KF3 is just the same characters doing the same things in a different setting with new action figures… I mean friends. Nothing inherently wrong but just feels a bit tired. Kids will love it though: Kung Fu Panda – now with more pandas!

What’s it about?
An orphaned child is raised in the jungle by animals but not all have a fondness for him and in the face of a threat from a savage tiger, Mowgli is to be returned to the man village.

What did we think?
The second of Disney’s live-action remakes of classic cartoons, The Jungle Book is surprisingly true to the original. It’s got extra grit and is less childish but manages to recreate the charm that will put a smile on your face regardless of your age. There are a few scary moments for the younger audience members but they are thankfully brief and easily forgotten in the face of impressive effects and performances, most notably the show-stealing Baloo voiced by Bill Murray. Neel Sethi is impressive as Mowgli especially considering he didn’t share a scene with a human the entire movie. Genuine fun for the entire family. 

What’s it about?
God is real. And living in Brussels. And he’s a bit of a dick. So his ten-year-old daughter moves out into the real world where she follows in the footsteps of her older brother (JC) and seeks out some apostles.

What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: This quirky and somewhat blasphemous Belgian-French movie is a dark little comedy that playfully dances around a lot of questions without answering many and that only adds to its appeal. It’s a lesson Hollywood could learn. The endearing star is balanced out against a range of characters in the randomly chosen apostles each with their own unusual subplot. You’re never quite sure where the stories are going but it’s such a fun irreverent journey you reallydon’t care: you’re just enjoying the ride. The casual – and accepted – surrealism only adds to the odd theme and sense of mirth. If you like the sound of the plot, you’ll enjoy the pic.

What’s it about?
The modern metropolis of Zootopia is a city where animals of all kinds coexist in peace and harmony. A young rabbit realises her dream of becoming the first bunny on the police force but has to battle judgement and stereotyping all while trying to solve a missing person’s case. She enlists (forcibly) the aid of a con artist fox and the natural enemies are pushed closer and closer together.

What did we think?
Anthony Sherratt says: Zootopia is simply a delight. From the incredible animation which showcases not only an intricate city of wondrous detail but also entire worlds of imagination. All held together by an engaging and clever story. Yes it’s predictable – hey it’s still a kids’ movie – but there’s enough for adults to get lost in as well. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman are outstanding as the rabbit and fox detective duo which touches on politics and race tensions in a very subtle manner. Just great hearty fun.