Recent cinematic releases offer a diverse palette of genres, ranging from a highly anticipated comedic reboot to a probing documentary and a visually stunning animated feature with an urgent environmental message. These films, reviewed by Grant Rollings and Linda Marric, present unique narratives and experiences for audiences.

One of the most talked-about films is the 2025 reboot of The Naked Gun, earning a five-star rating and an age certification of 15. This new iteration stars Liam Neeson as Lt Frank Drebin Jr., the son of the character made famous by Leslie Nielsen in the original series. Neeson, often celebrated for his roles as a tough guy in films like the Taken series, proves to be hilariously effective in comedy. Reviewer Grant Rollings highlights Neeson’s ability to keep a straight face while delivering deadpan humor, reminiscent of the late Leslie Nielsen. Co-starring Pamela Anderson as Beth Davenport, the film benefits from palpable offscreen and onscreen chemistry between the two leads, with Anderson described as "smouldering" alongside her "handsome co-star."

Produced by Seth MacFarlane and directed by Akiva Schaffer, this remake successfully avoids being a "pale imitation" of its predecessor. It maintains the winning formula of the original, packed with both corny jokes, such as Lt Drebin telling Beth "take a chair" and her literal interpretation, and edgier humor. The film’s 15 certification is attributed to adult material, including a scene where an innocent encounter with a dog takes on an X-rated appearance through an infrared camera. The rapid-fire delivery of gags ensures constant laughter, leading the reviewer to even hope for a sequel, a truly surprising outcome given the legacy of the original.

In stark contrast to the comedic stylings of "The Naked Gun" is the documentary Dogspiracy, which received a two-star rating and a 12A certification. Despite its title, the film has no connection to canine pirates, instead focusing on a "conspiracy" surrounding puppy farms. British vet Dr Marc Abraham fronts the documentary, driven by his belief that "dark forces" perpetuate the cruel trade of puppy farming, where dogs are often kept in "filthy, cramped conditions."

However, the film drew criticism for its execution. The reviewer expressed disappointment at the lack of direct undercover footage, noting that Dr Abraham is often seen watching such material on his laptop in a cafe, from an angle that reveals nothing to the audience. While it includes "disturbing images of farms in Eastern Europe," the primary focus shifts to the US, where Dr Abraham investigates an Amish puppy mill that, surprisingly, is depicted as spotless with heated floors. The documentary ultimately failed to deliver a "hard-hitting" exposé, leading the reviewer to feel "sold a pup" by its premise.

Completing this trio of releases is the stop-motion animation Savages, directed by Claude Barras, known for "My Life As A Courgette." This film, rated PG and earning three stars, offers a "stop-motion splendour" combined with an urgent plea for rainforest protection. Set in the endangered rainforests of Borneo, the story follows Kéria, a spirited teenager living on the forest's edge with her widowed father, who reluctantly works for a palm-oil plantation.

Kéria's world changes when her young cousin Selaï, whose home has been destroyed, moves in. Together with Oshi, an orphaned orangutan, they embark on an adventure that blends environmental urgency with themes of personal discovery. The film portrays its antagonists, the "swaggering plantation bosses," with broad strokes, yet maintains its compelling nature through honesty. A key symbol of defiance against greed and intimidation is the locals' stand, armed only with blowpipes firing harmless darts. "Savages" is praised for its clever mix of charm, ecological awareness, and cultural respect, making it a winning, albeit slightly conventional, addition to contemporary animation.