Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn (2020)

It’s a little messy and all-over-the-place but so are hyenas and heartbreak and Harley herself, so it all kinda works. The film does well to present its protagonist with all her charming quirks and real imperfections, and the only non-gore related cringe comes from the supersonic scream (a weird moment in what is otherwise more a wacky crime flick than a superhero one). Always engaging, with great action and a colourful cast of characters (The Huntress was a definite comedic highlight).

6

10 Cloverfield Lane (2016)

After getting in a car accident, a woman is held in a shelter with two men, who claim the outside world is affected by a widespread chemical attack. (IMDb)

An immediate and enrapturing atmosphere of claustrophobic anxiety and unsettling suspicion (Goodman’s great turn as the odd and volatile Howard is perfectly complimented by Winstead’s tense and assertive Michelle) is heightened nicely by an initially inscrutable third party, and given a well-timed twist (see the lady outside). Given its build-up, climax, and overall feel, the extended ending–while appreciably unexpected–feels like an entirely different movie–but it’s still a good one.

7.5/10 (Really Good)