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The Toymaker's Key film review by UK film critic Jason Knight. Starring Harry Shotta, Drew Casson, Peter Kingston, Kele Le Roc, Rhys Earlson Ray, Kimberly Wyatt directed by Andy Turner, Drew Casson. HOME | FILMS | REVIEWS The Toymaker's Key Film Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Critic: Jason Knight | Posted on: Feb 20, 2026 Directed by: Andy Turner, Drew Casson Written by: Jamie Christofersen Starring: Harry Shotta, Drew Casson, Peter Kingston, Kele Le Roc, Rhys Earlson Ray, Kimberly Wyatt A feature-length animated fantasy adventure directed by Andy Turner and Drew Casson, with a screenplay by Jamie Christofersen and featuring the voices of Harry Shotta, Casson, Peter Kingston, Kele Le Roc, Kimberly Wyatt, and Rhys Earlson Ray. Terrific animation, fantastic music and an intriguing story all come together to deliver an enchanting experience. The year is 1945 and a young man named Tommy (Shotta) has returned injured to his wealthy home in Sussex after having fought in the Second World War. He has been informed that his father (Kingston) has gone missing and retrieves a special key that belonged to his parent. This key was discovered in a forest by Tommy's great-grandmother and it has magical powers that lead to another world, a magical place. Tommy uses the key to open a chest and is magically transported to that world. There, he finds out that his father has been captured by evil fiends and with the help of a number of unique allies, he sets out to rescue him. The plot is a Good vs Evil. A group of good individuals going against an army of evildoers in an otherworldly place. Tommy and his new friends traverse this strange world, encountering obstacle after obstacle, gaining new allies and fighting the bad guys. It is a concept that is not unusual, however it works well, with significant character development and tense fighting scenes. Regarding the visuals, they look amazing. The 2D hand-drawn animation contains rich colours and lighting and the editing makes the viewing look like a graphic novel, with characters being motionless for the majority of the film but with letters replaced by voices. ThE ToYMaKeR’s KeY Film has been made from a beautiful graphic novel, which is releasing this year. Some of the things that viewers will see, are magical locations that include forests, snow-covered areas and a vast castle. Then, there are the characters and it is the ones who inhabit the magic world that stand out. These beings include the Butterfly People, a tribe of people who have giant butterfly wings on their back and a led by iO (Le Roc), the leader of their kind. Others are Darwin (Cosmo Wellings) a man with the appearance of a clown, who performs acrobatics and speaks in rhymes, Rhu (Ray) a young boy from the Butterfly People who is having his own misfortunes and the Grandmaster (Casson), a man in a hooded robe who has defferent coloured eyes. These are some of the good guys. The bad guys consist of an army of medieval soldiers armed with sharp weaponry, who are led by the General (also Casson), a brutal knight in a dark armour who plans to replace Tommy's father as the creator of this other world. Another character who should be mentioned is Nekos (Turner) a warrior who is also a werewolf. All characters look great, however, it is the bad guys who stand out the most. The music is another huge plus. It is mesmerising and dynamic, effectively creating an atmosphere that is adventurous, dreadful and emotional. The plot involves fighting evil and saving people. It is also about tyranny, cruelty, support, bravery and redemption. The screenplay also manages to be a World War II story and a family drama. This animated film succeeds in every aspect, making it a pleasure to view the visuals, to listen to the music and the voice acting and to enjoy the story. Huge commendations go to everyone who contributed to the development of this project. About the Film Critic Jason Knight Indie Feature Film, Animation < All Reviews Next Film Review >

Read music video reviews by film critics at UK Film Review. Submit your music video for review by clicking Get Reviewed at the top of the website. Music Video Reviews One of the most exciting sub-genres our critics review is music videos. They are often incredible pieces of storytelling, either in their own right or aligned with the song playing over them. On this page you will find a great selection of music video reviews from the team of critics at UK Film Review. If you are a filmmaker or artist who would like us to review your music video, submit your film here . When it comes to reviewing a music video, the process differs slightly from perhaps a narrative short film or documentary. The music has to be explored far more intimately than if it were a soundtrack because that's where the story originates from rather than being added further down the line. Music videos do conform to genres but these are often musical genres rather than film categories, for example pop, folk, rock, rap etc. So this will also influence the music video review our critics write because the target audience is going to be considered. Music videos may take a variety of forms or even combine different aspects to create a different effect on the viewer. For example, it is common for a music video to contain a small narrative, as well as live performance footage. Top filmmakers making music videos will be able to immerse you into the song and story without leaving you feeling like you have just watched a promo piece. Choreography is also a common trait in music videos, with dance sequences and flash mobs recurring - often in pop music videos. Editors of music videos will have their work cut out to ensure the choreography looks tight and engaging without it feeling staged or lifeless. Hopefully the array of music video reviews you see below will include some gems for you to peruse. Don't forget to scroll to the bottom of the article, as we often include the actual music video so you can watch it for yourself. RAUNCHADELIC Matt Trapp CATACLYSM William Curzon Psiblingz - Till We're Found William Curzon Mammoth: Adventures In Gnomeman's Land William Hemingway Flesh Wanting Blood William Hemingway Lovin' You James Learoyd To Be Frank Chris Olson The Wanderer Matt Trapp The Sanctity of Faith Patrick Foley Bitter Cherry – Hunger Short Film Review alexjames96 Jun 3, 2025 2 min read Ain’t my Vibe Short Music Video Review alexjames96 Jun 6, 2024 2 min read Cinerama (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Mar 17, 2024 2 min read Homecoming (Music Video) Short Film Review alexjames96 Dec 19, 2023 2 min read Sheep F-cked In the Head Short Film Review alexjames96 Nov 16, 2023 2 min read Service for The King short film review Theo Aug 1, 2022 2 min read More Film Reviews

Film reviews from some of the biggest movies in UK cinemas. We also review short films, indie films, and documentaries. Find a movie review now. Film Reviews Here at UK Film Review we like to tackle all kinds film reviews. Our writers come from all walks of life, and feel passionate about critiquing the movies they watch. From the latest Theatrical Releases to Short Films, Indie Films, Documentaries and even Animation, the contributors of UK Film Review are as eager to please as Dev Patel in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011). If you are a filmmaker, or are working in film PR and want to promote one of your clients, please get in touch using the Submit Your Film button under the drop-down menu for Home. Take a look at our list of film reviews below from some of the hottest releases in UK cinemas. Simply click the image of the review you would like, or the title of the movie. Or use the search button to find the movie you are looking for. We have given any feature length film a star rating (out of 5) in order to help viewers sort the Citizen Kanes from the Waterworlds, the Inceptions from the Transformers. Michael Bay will be given a fair film review from our writers, but that probably will not go in his favour. Speaking of Filmmakers, head over to our Filmmaker Features page for awesome articles about some of the best filmmaking geniuses who ever lived. Movie Trailers are also available, either underneath the film reviews, or on the Movie Trailers page. And lastly, if you like your film reviews verbalised. Simply because reading is boring and listening is marvellous, then make sure you Subscribe to the UK Film Review Podcast. Our critics offer up some banterous opinions on the best and worst movies across all genres. Head over to the Podcast page, or click this link to go straight to iTunes. If you would like to read or view any of the following, simply use the navigation. Alternatively, you can click on one of the images to read the film reviews here, or simply have a ganders at the lovely movie artwork on display. Remember to listen to film reviews on our regular film podcast. GET REVIEWED average rating is 3 out of 5 Sorry We're Closed Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Phase Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Heel Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Bride! Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Billy Idol Should Be Dead Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Hoppers Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Drowned Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Scream 7 Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Dreams Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Crazy Old Lady Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The President's Cake Read Review average rating is 5 out of 5 Fight Like A Girl Read Review Spoilers in our film reviews As with all digital forms of expression sometimes people may find something that upsets them online. Spoilers can often be one of these things! Whilst we do our best to ensure that major plot points, twists, character deaths and celebrity cameos are not found in our reviews, it can sometimes be difficult to judge what each and every film lover on the planet would to be a spoiler. If you feel that one of our film reviews contains one too many details then please do let us (politely) know using our social media platforms. We may then take serious action, such as expelling the critic responsible from this and every other movie publication past and present, declaring war against the studio for leading our writer into temptation, or we may do nothing at all. To be honest, it is most likely going to be the latter unless some serious rules have been broken. You may also see some movie trailers in our reviews that could also contain potential spoilers. In which case anyone who is hoping to avoid these should probably not click the play button on them. Or click the play button, turn the sound down on your device, then leave the room for a least 28 minutes whilst the trailer finishes and leaves your life naturally. You may be wondering what you could do with all 28 of those minutes! Why not read some more film reviews on another device? Or make a short film of your cat playing with a piece of string? Spend it wisely guys and gals.

Star rating:  4/5 Directed by:  Mauro Borrelli Written by:  Mauro Borrelli, John Collins Starring:  Jamie Ward, James Oliver Wheatley, James Faulkner, Robert Knepper Film Review by:  Jason Knight A biblical drama feature directed by Mauro Borrelli, written by Borrelli and John Collins and starring Jamie Ward, James Oliver Wheatley, James Faulkner and Robert Knepper. As the title indicates, the story involves Jesus Christ (Ward) and a significant part of it takes place during the Last Supper. The narrative begins with Jesus and his apostles arriving in Jerusalem for the final meal, after having become known for his preachings and miracles. Tensions are high, as Caiaphas (Faulkner), the High Priest of Israel, condemns Jesus's actions and plots his downfall and Judas (Knepper), one of his disciples, is unconvinced of his teacher's beliefs and contemplates turning against him. The Last Supper Film Trailer The screenplay views the events through the perspectives of Jesus, Peter (another close apostle of Jesus), Caiaphas and Judas and contains significant events, including the Last Supper, Jesus feeding a crowd of thousands by multiplying fish and loaves, his Crucifixion, Caiaphas convincing Judas to betray Jesus and Jesus realising that he will be betrayed by one of his own disciples. The film concentrates significantly on Jesus's preachings and the protagonists' struggles regarding Jesus's imminent fate. Visually, the feature looks terrific, with an impressive production value. Costume designer Nezha Dakil does a great job and the buildings and furniture are very convincing, all of which look even better thanks to Vladislav Opelyants's cinematography. The audio is also a big plus, with the music by Leo Z being very appropriate and the song No Greater Love  by Chris Tomlin effectively ending the film.  Ward proves that he was a good choice for the role of Jesus, portraying the preacher and religious leader sympathetically, presenting him as a man of wisdom and righteousness. A great deal of time is devoted to Peter and Wheatley dramatically reveals the struggle that his character is going through due to believing that he failed Jesus. Faulkner is sinister as Caiaphas, a character who works as the antagonist. Knepper plays Judas as a troubled and disorientated individual, repeatedly being tormented by a snake (Satan). Other appearing characters include Mary Magdalene (Nathalie Rapti Gomez), Nicodemus (Henry Garrett) and John the Apostle (Charlie MacGechan). This version of the story of Jesus Christ tells a story about religion, faith, courage, betrayal, goodwill, desperation and cruelty. Moreover, it encourages hope and unity and states that Good triumphs over Evil. So many films have been made about Jesus and it would be fair to say that this one does not explore anything new. Nevertheless, it is a very well-made film and a rather decent addition to the category of biblical features.            Dazzler Media presents The Last Supper in UK and Irish cinemas from 20th March.

Directed by: Leon Joosen Written by: Martin Casella, Francesca Longrigg, Tony Nottage Starring: Mel Brooks, Helena Bonham Carter, Ewan McGregor Film Review by: Holly Baker ⭐⭐⭐ Directed by Leon Joosen, The Land of Sometimes is a spritely addition to the children’s Christmas film genre. This animated piece is a well-crafted, vibrant, and touching creation that will light up family TV screens this Christmas. With dazzling performances from the entire cast, most notably Helena Bonham Carter, who delivers her usual sinister yet alluring demeanour, parents of children will feel engrossed and nostalgic as they become immersed in this film’s lively world. The film follows a small family centred around twins Alfie and Elise. They live in an isolated countryside area and eagerly await Christmas every year. Despite the family’s economic struggles, the twins are grateful for the gifts they receive and wholeheartedly enjoy the Christmas traditions their parents uphold. One year, however, their father’s duties as a soldier are extended, leaving Alfie and Elise with just their mother over Christmas. The absence of their father has caused the family dynamic to become disturbed, the twins are ungrateful and estranged from their mother. As a last resort for their mother, as her frustration begins to overflow, she gifts the children with a mysterious pocket watch- the catalyst for their adventure, which will follow. Alfie and Elise are transported into the magical Land of Sometimes, guided by an alluring Guardian who informs them they have a limited number of wishes which they may use whilst in this land. The land itself is full of excitement and creativity, unique creatures rule the bizarre landscape, and the whole thing has an air of surrealism which effortlessly draws you in.  As is customary for children’s films, there is a clear moral lesson that gradually surfaces throughout the twins’ adventure. Adults may easily detect where the moral of the story will go; however, they will find themselves rooting for the twins nonetheless as their characters develop, and their relationship softens as they find the sentiment of family to be what is most important to them after all.  The Land of Sometimes Film Trailer The animation style is quite basic, however, it is made up for with creative artistry through well-thought-out character designs and world-building. Whilst the children come across as slightly irritating at first, the film carefully gives them grace, particularly for Elise, who’s very much transformed by the events of the film. The film falters slightly in centering itself around a nuclear family of four in an era when family and Christmas can mean so many different things, coming in all shapes and sizes. It feels a slight shame to reinforce this traditional model and relate it strongly to what Christmas means, when there have been so many interesting, touching animated films with a loving sentiment suitable for all children. For instance, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Frozen are recent holiday favourites which brilliantly divert societal norms surrounding what family is and what Christmas should look like, making them lovable for people from all backgrounds, an important feature of children’s films of today to convey an acceptance of diversity and a celebration of all kinds of love.  Despite its slightly basic format, with its short run time, unique narration, and an ability to touch on darker themes whilst maintaining a lively Christmas spirit, The Land of Sometimes is certainly one to put on the list this Holiday season, or perhaps even a few months before. The Land of Sometimes will be in UK Cinemas from 20th March

Film Event Feature by Chris Olson It seems fitting that Brick Lane, the iconic creative corner of the capital, has been chosen as the staging ground for the upcoming Spring Edition of the Day Job Film Festival. As someone who spends a significant portion of my life immersed in the world of independent cinema, I find myself increasingly drawn to events that eschew the velvet ropes of the West End in favour of something more tangible, more raw, and more human. Taking place on the 21st and 22nd of April, this two-day celebration of the moving image is set to occupy Galleria Objets. From what I have gathered, this is not your typical, sterile screening room experience. With a modest 70-capacity limit, the festival appears to be leaning heavily into the "intimate" side of indie filmmaking. For a UK film critic, there is something deeply intriguing about a venue where the barrier between the creator and the consumer is practically non-existent. It suggests an environment where the post-film discussion is just as vital as the frames projected on the screen. The ethos behind the event " Made by emerging filmmakers. For emerging filmmakers " is a refreshing mantra. In an industry that often feels gated by nepotism or astronomical entry fees, Day Job Films seems determined to rebuild London’s grassroots scene from the ground up. The organisers have curated a selection of ten short films from over seventy international submissions. This ratio suggests a discerning eye, and if past lineups are any indication—featuring the likes of Alexandra Strunin’s poignant "I Gaze at the Sky" and Alicia Forde’s directorial debut "Squeaky Bum"—the quality of storytelling is likely to be exceptionally high. What particularly piques my interest is the holistic approach to the evening. The schedule, running from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm, isn't just a conveyor belt of content. By incorporating live music, filmmaker Q&As, and even handmade awards, the festival organisers are crafting a social ecosystem. They are fostering a space for "creative exchange," a term often used in press releases but rarely realised in practice. I am curious to see how this "relaxed social atmosphere" translates to the actual nights. There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a director is forced to answer for their work in a room full of peers and enthusiasts, and I suspect the Galleria Objets will be thick with that specific tension and excitement. Furthermore, the practicalities of the festival speak volumes about its mission. Tickets are priced at a very reasonable £10, and they even throw in free popcorn. In a city where a night at the cinema can often cost more than a weekly Tesco shop, this commitment to accessibility is commendable. It underscores the belief that independent film should be a community asset, not a luxury good. The blueprint of the Day Job Film Festival is exactly what the UK film scene needs right now. It is a rebellion against the "content" era, focusing instead on the craft, the conversation, and the community. For those of us who believe that the future of cinema lies in the hands of those currently working "day jobs" while dreaming in 24 frames per second, Brick Lane is undoubtedly the place to be this April.