This is the text version of my Patreon exclusive podcast where I talk about the best films I watch each month. If you’d like to get access and help to support the network you can do so at patreon.com/eloquentgushing.

Troop Zero

This had very little fanfare and suddenly appeared on Amazon. Which is a shame because it should be being lauded for a gripping story, some really good family dynamics, and a very well delivered denouement that had us howling with laughter. Plus Allison Janney.

Queen of Katwe

Another film I will always recommend, we showed this in Godalming Film Society and it was incredibly well received. The story is told so well, with performances from adults and children that have so much depth, as well as an inclusion during the credits that definitely helps elevate the film.

Afternoon Delight

I’m not sure I can recommend this film, but it was so odd. There are aspects and directions I wanted it to embrace, but it didn’t seem to want to go there. However at times it also gave every viewpoint on both suburban living and sex work which feels refreshing.

Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)

I was very excited to see this and definitely not disappointed. A great cinema film, that had us laughing and shocked at what was delivered on screen. It takes the Deadpool template and iterates every element, plus has Ewan McGregor giving a really interesting performance as the villain of the piece – no nuance but a surprising amount of depth.

Late Night

Another one I’m not sure if I can recommend. The core stories were really good, but they were trying to tell us this was a place that didn’t have women working there despite many women as extras in the office. They also could have paralleled the two lead character’s stories better. However it did give a story and view that we haven’t often seen, particularly from Emma Thompson’s character, so for that it must be lauded.

Dumplin’

We’d been meaning to watch this for a while and finally settled in to do so. I think I expected more humour, but wasn’t disappointed by the drama given. They went hard for body image issues, and gave a mother daughter relationship that I don’t think is often shown – that the communication is hard rather than genuine antagonisation.