SPLICE (Canada/France/USA 2009) *
Directed by Vincenzo Natali

Two great actors Adrien Brody and Sarah Polley display good chemistry in this sci-fi tale, playing in-love brilliant scientists, Clive and Elsa caught in the dilemma of doing good for mankind vs. propagating DNA research.  The plot involves them creating Dren (Delphine Chaneac), a creature made out of splicing DNA from animals and human beings.  The special effects are really good; music appropriate, acting above average but the script is a whole load of rubbish!

LAND (Canada 2010) ***1/2
Directed by Julian T. Pinder

Torontonian Julian T. Pinder’s directorial debut is a history lesson on Nicaragua with an emphasis on land development.  What works particularly well is the fact that Pinder sneaks in his two cents worth, which fortunately covers both sides of the story.

AJAMI (Germany/Israel 2009) ***
Directed by Scandar Copti and Yaron Shani

This is a very assured first feature by Scandar Copti and Yaron Shani set in the neighbourhood area AJAMI, of Jaffa, a volatile area where Arabs, Palestinians, Jews and Christians etch a dangerous living.

PRINCE OF PERSIA: THE SANDS OF TIME (USA 2010) **
Directed by Mike Newell

This new action blockbuster is based on a video game – so, if one does not expect much, then PRINCE OF PERSIA delivers.  Forgettable action fun but of no consequence.

MICMACS A TIRE-LARIGOT (France 2009) **
Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet

There are the dark Jeunet films like DELICATESSEN and ALIEN: RESURRECTION and the breezy and bright Jeunet films like AMELIE and A VERY LONG ENGAGEMENT.  His latest falls within the first category, a story of how a man gets his own back at two arms manufacturers.