The Grand Seduction, 2.5 Stars

This is a lovely, slow-moving film, somewhat reminiscent of Doc Hollywood.

Brendan Gleeson (HP series) gives a very strong performance and plays a key part in most of the scenes. Liane Balaban (Definitely, Maybe) has a small role but does it well. One of the highlights is Gordon Pinsent (Away From Her) who plays a curmudgeon of few words and delivers them well.

It takes a little time to get into the slow pace and Canadian humour of the film, but it is very enjoyable.

Edge of Tomorrow, 2 Stars

This is a war variation of Groundhog Day and includes lots of 'shoot 'em up' scenes, if you are a fan of those.

Tom Cruise (Mission Impossible series) plays his usual self but with a good range as he needs to bring a somewhat different approach to each 'new' (repeat) day. Emily Blunt (The Adjustment Bureau) is a favourite of mine and she does not disappoint. Bill Paxton (Apollo 13) adds some comic relief in his repeating role. Brendan Gleeson ('Mad-Eye Moody' in the HP series and see next review for The Grand Selection) has a restrained but effective part.

The movie was okay and the trailer describes it all. But I wouldn't rush out.

Belle, 3 Stars

This is a lovely film and I would see it again. It has much the same 'feel' and look as Amazing Grace, which was about the same subject - the slave trade in the 1700's.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw, whom I'm not familiar with, gives a very good and wide-ranging performance, as does Sam Reid who also appears to be new. But the 'glue' for the film is Tom Wilkinson (The Full Monty) who, once again, gives a measured and deliberate performance - he dominates each scene he is in and the movie is better for it.

The story flags at times and could be shorter, but it is well worth seeing and I recommend it.