How Do You Know?

It's really hard to dislike a "romcom" starring Reese Witherspoon. Which means it's doubly hard to dislike a romcom starring Reese AND Owen Wilson. And then there's Paul Rudd too, who plays this really cute, if somewhat lost, guy who makes silly faces and makes you smile.

Okay, so I'm sounding like a real girly girl here, but this is all just to help the men out there who are trying to decide what to take their ladies to watch. Unless you're totally stone-hearted you will find this frivolous love story enjoyable in some way, shape or form.

The King's Speech

George VI never wanted to be King of England, but when his brother, Edward, forfeited the crown by marrying an American divorcee, George was forced to lead the nation during one it's most troubling times in history - the Second World War. King or not though, George had one major problem: he had a stutter. And a bad one! Given that he needed to inspire an uprising against Hitler, his stutter became a major problem.

It was George's wife, Elizabeth, who introduced him to a crazy Aussie speech therapist, who ultimately saved the day in more ways than one. While this might not sound like the most riveting story, the director of the film has poured so much heart into it that the result is compelling. On top of this, Colin Firth's portrayal of George is flawless and inspiring and will almost certainly win him the Best Actor Oscar this year. If you're looking for stellar acting and a good human drama, book now!

Black Swan

This movie has everything going for it - but you have to be ready to be seriously creeped out! Directed by the brilliant Darren Aronofsky (he directed The Wrestler and Requiem for a Dream), it's a dark, mind-muddling story that leaves you questioning your reality. Natalie Portman plays the lead with such intensity that it's no surprise she's the forerunner in the Best Actress Oscar race.

Forget the fact that it is centred around the Swan Lake ballet. Don't let your boyfriend use this as an excuse not to see it.

Tangled

In this modern-day, Disney-animated version of Rapunzel, the handsome prince is actually a petty thief called Flynn, and Rapunzel is a self-sufficient young woman who uses her wily hair to capture him when he tries to seek refuge in her tower.

There's a dashing white horse, a chameleon, an evil momma and, of course, a daring rescue and lots of other twists and turns, all making this my favourite animated film of the year so far. Pure, unadulterated fun!

Rating: 4/5

Easy A

Now here's a teen flick that's finally got a different angle! It's not about cheerleaders hating on each other, or the ugly girl who gets a makeover - Olive (Emma Stone), is an ordinary girl who decides to help out the nerds and social outcasts of her year... in a different sort of way...!

It started as just helping out her friend who just happens to be gay but doesn't want anyone to know by pretending that she's sleeping with him. Of course, once other nerds and social outcasts hear what Olive has done, they ask her to do the same with them, instantly giving them the stamp of approval from the cool kids!

The downside is that Olive gets a bad name, and the word spreads. A kick-ass addition to the teen movie hall of fame.

Rating: 4 outta 5.

Gulliver's Travels

From the same guys who brought us Night at the Museum comes this offbeat take on Gulliver and his encounter with a civilisation of little people called Lilliputians.

Jack Black plays Gulliver, a writer who ends up on the island after disappearing into the Bermuda triangle, with his characteristic gusto and is instantly likeable. The Lilliputians love him too - not just because he's 20 times their size and can defend their border, but because he gives great worldly advice.

Gulliver's cool adventures are enhanced by a brilliant cast that includes Emily Blunt, Billy Connolley, Jason Segel and Catherine Tate, making this a fabulously fun film for the whole fam. It's the perfect antidote to the back-to-school/work blues!

The Tourist

Just seeing the names Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp on the same movie poster gets your mouth watering - this should be good (you think). Then The Tourist came out...

The "ultimate" pairing generate as much heat as an ice lolly. Neither actor are at their best and it just seems that the two take themselves way too seriously - if only they lightened up and played with their innate sex appeal we all know and admire a little more, perhaps it could have been saved.

Having said that, it's not a complete loss - we just expected more. It's action packed and gets your pulse drumming - the plot is completely outrageous, the scenery gorgeous, and there are a few rare moments when Ange and Johnny strike the flint. A Mr & Mrs Smith, however, this is not. Brad must be relieved.

I'm thinking it's about a 3 outta 5.