Film: Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning

This film was a lot. Like, so much. Ordinarily that might have been enough to make it the hit of the year, but the MI franchise has been so increasingly fantastical that "a lot" can sometimes be to it's detriment.

I think the key to enjoying this, the last instalment in the series, is to just ignore the plot and enjoy the action. As a series of set-pieces it's pretty great, in the way a heavily scripted narrative videogame might be.

And yet, I can't help thinking that this was a wasted opportunity to really have been the swan song the collection of films needed. That it is not is a shame, but then at least it wasn't a full on disaster.

Film: Final Destination: Bloodlines

Depending on your perspective, you'll either love or hate the idea of this, the latest instalment in the Final Destination franchise. If you're looking for novelty, or an expansion in the lore, or something different - then unfortunately you're in for some disappointment. If you're looking for more of the same of a somewhat successful mousetrap concept... well then Bloodlines excels.

A good job is done with the set pieces (and that's all they are - don't look for any plot here). The acting is alright. The film is fun, but forgettable. Basically you'll know if you'll like this or not, and therefore also the best way in which to watch it.

Film: Thunderbolts*

Sometimes all you need to do is go back to the basics. Thunderbolts* does this well, and is a solid, safe, and stable movie as a result. The plot goes from A to B to C, doesn't take many risks and instead leans in on its character and chemistry to power through.

That's not to say it isn't irrelevant - there's plenty of core MCU here. It just didn't feel like homework watching it, and for that it gets a great recommendation from me.