First up is the worrying third instalment in the Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise, rather unhilariously entitled Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked. After two ill-received films, we are presented with this tripe, which finds our squeaky squirrely trio chipwrecked (oh my sides!) on a desert island. Jason Lee hammers another nail into his paltry career with this one. Strictly for the little uns and any parent desperate for an 87 minute nap.
Onwards to Guy Ritchie’s second take on the Sherlock Holmes universe. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows sees our heroic duo Holmes (Downey, Jr) and Watson (Law) lock horns with the conniving Moriarty (Jared Harris). Expect more of the high octane excitement, explosions and classy fist fights that made the first film such an unexpected hit.
For those of you in search of something more thoughtful and considered, you are advised to seek out Dreams of a Life. Carol Morley’s superb documentary relays the galling and utterly heartbreaking story of Joyce Vincent who died alone in her flat before Christmas 2003 and lay undiscovered for over two years. It’s a devastating and timely reminder of how easily people can slip through the cracks and how important community really is. Essential viewing.
Finally, Meet Me In St Louis receives a well deserved re-release. This musical classic, featuring the sublime Judy Garland, contains a rendition of the delightful song Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, which is worth the admission price alone.
And so, on that pertinently festive note I bid you all a quite splendid Christmas season….
