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Short film reviews from some of the best movies in the UK. Read reviews from some of the best short film critics. Short Film Reviews Welcome to the UK Film Review page for short film reviews . Here you will find some of the best and brightest sparks in a sea of cinema. Filmmakers from across the globe submit their short films to us to be reviewed, and our Contributors lovingly dissect them. If you would like one of our team to write a film review of your short film, please use the form on our Submit Your Film page Our short film reviews are written by passionate film critics across the UK and aim to highlight and promote terrific filmmaking when we find it. We are always honest with our reviews, so if you are looking to submit your short film for review, please do so knowing that we will not alter what we have said because you don't like it. There is a wealth of amazing talent in the short film industry, and we hope by writing film reviews about this underexposed creativity we can get your movies to a new audience...but we need your help. Please join in the chatter on our social media channels so that we can grow our community and share the joy. Use the buttons in the footer to Like us on Facebook, Follow us on Twitter, and Subscribe to us on YouTube #supportindiefilm. The selection of short film reviews you see below are mostly for films submitted to us. In this instance, the filmmaker has requested us to watch and provide a short film review. Alternatively, visit our Latest Short Film Reviews page . Get Your Short Film Reviewed More Film Reviews Without Kelly William Curzon Monkey Drum Holly Baker $13 Patrick Foley The Itch William Hemingway The Last Act William Curzon Save Me From Heaven Jason Knight The Freedom of Uselessness William Curzon Garden of an Angry God Jason Knight The Supply Teacher James Learoyd The Way Things Used 2 B Jason Knight Jamarcus Rose & Da 5 Bullet Holes Jason Knight The Belles William Hemingway The Whisper 2: Natural Connection James Learoyd Gradient Descent Lawrence Bennie The Group William Curzon Love Has Nothing To Do With It William Hemingway Spoken Movement Family Honour Jason Knight With Arms Raised Patrick Foley The Abyss Below Jason Knight Africa is Home William Curzon STUDS Matt Trapp Fervor Lawrence Bennie Cursed Memory William Hemingway Behind the Pose William Curzon Raindog Matt Trapp Load More Reviews What is a short film review? A short film review is often written by a movie critic and it's their opinion on a film that is less than sixty minutes long. Short film reviews still explore every aspect of a movie. How do I write a short film review? Writing a short film review needs to cover multiple aspects of the movie. Including the script, the characters, performances, cinematography, score & sound design, editing and so on. Sometimes we consider the piece only as a short film; whether it works in that format, other times we may think of it as a "proof of concept" for something longer, or perhaps a piece of a web series/TV show. These can be important to consider when writing a short film review. How long should a film review be? A film review should be as long as the house style. Some publications provide lengthier reviews than others. A general minimum word count would be 500. This may be also for SEO reasons, as short film reviews that are longer may be more likely to rank higher on Google. The important thing to remember is that the review should be well-structured, not full of bloated points to fill up the word count. How much money do film critics make? Film critic salaries depend massively on their publication. Many film critics are freelancers, meaning they get paid per review and sometimes this is based on word count. Making money through film reviews can be challenging. Video Short Film Reviews Below you will find a selection of short film reviews in video form! This is where one of the UK Film Review Critics records their review and we upload it to our YouTube channel (as well as TikTok and Meta Reels in some cases). A Place to Fall Down Short Film Review by Chris Olson A short film about coping with loss and grief, film critic Chris Olson gave A Place to Fall Down 4 stars. Watch his video short film review here to here from the man himself about his thoughts and feelings. OK/NOTOK Short Film Review by Patrick Foley In this short film review from Patrick Foley, he gives us his opinion of the brilliant movie OK/NOTOK. Set in a futuristic world where AI robots are available as companions (as long as you can afford the subscription), it's a riveting piece. Betrayed Short Film Review by Chris Buick Film critic Chris Buick offers up a fantastic video short film review for Betrayed. A movie about a girl with special powers who, with the help of her protective father, must elude those who would use her for nefarious means.

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 4 out of 5 The Testament of Ann Lee Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 In Cold Light Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 $13 Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 The Itch Read Review average rating is 3 out of 5 Night Patrol Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Dead Man's Wire Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Resurrection Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Burt Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 All That's Left Of You Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 Gifted Pain Read Review average rating is 4 out of 5 The Chronology of Water Read Review 5 Films In UK Cinemas In the Last Week of January 2026 Chris Olson 53 minutes ago 4 min read New Film Releases Next Week in the UK for January 2026 Chris Olson Jan 14 5 min read New Films in UK Cinemas Next Week January 2026 Chris Olson Jan 9 4 min read New Films In UK Cinemas This Week - From 5th January 2026 Chris Olson Jan 7 3 min read Miley Cyrus To Receive Outstanding Artistic Achievement Award at 2026 Palm Springs Film Festival Chris Olson Jan 3 3 min read The UK Cinemas Showing The Lord of the Rings in January 2026 Chris Olson Jan 2 4 min read What We Know About Avengers: Doomsday So Far Chris Olson Dec 20, 2025 3 min read Avatar: Fire and Ash in UK Cinemas This Weekend Chris Olson Dec 18, 2025 3 min read The 5 Films Releasing in UK Cinemas Boxing Day 2025 Chris Olson Dec 17, 2025 4 min read Should Cinemas Put Popular Film Franchises Back On The Big Screen? Chris Olson Dec 12, 2025 3 min read 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.

Film reviews and movie trailers for new movies, indie cinema and short films.Read a film review or watch a trailer on our website. FILM REVIEWS UK UK Film Review is a film reviews website based in London, UK. We promote films and movie trailers from around the world and support indie films that would usually find it hard to find the spotlight against the bigger films of cinema. From the latest blockbusters, to small indie cinema, we tackle as many films as we can. Reviewing them from all aspects, not just how many digital landscapes they blow up using CGI. We also review short films in the UK and internationally, helping filmmakers to promote their movies and raise their profile. If you would like to have a short or indie film reviewed by us, please submit all info using the button below. Take a look around, enjoy the spoils of filmmaking, film festivals and artistic expression. Our merry band of film critics are constantly hard at work, writing film reviews, or watching movie trailers for some of the most exciting movies coming out in UK cinemas. So to keep their morale up, please be nice...or at least funny if you choose to troll. Because, in the immortal words of Rick Moranis in the movie Spaceballs, "Keep firing A**holes!". By the way, on this film reviews website, you may see several references to Spaceballs. If you have not seen that classic Mel Brooks film, you MUST seek it out and tell us what you think. SUBMIT YOUR FILM Are You a Film Podcast Fan? Film critics Chris Olson and Brian Penn host a monthly podcast for all types of film fans! Whether you like the latest blockbuster releases, or streaming is your thing - we have you covered. We even review short and independent films on the podcast. Our final review is usually for a "Nostalgia" pick - something from the past worth revisiting. Previous picks for this have included Jaws, The Fly, and Good Will Hunting. Search UK Film Review Podcast wherever you like to listen and join our global community of film lovers. Get Reviewed On Our Podcast Film Reviews from UK film critics LATEST REVIEWS The Testament of Ann Lee average rating is 4 out of 5 A Gangster's Life average rating is 4 out of 5 In Cold Light average rating is 3 out of 5 Without Kelly average rating is 4 out of 5 Monkey Drum average rating is 5 out of 5 To Die Alone average rating is 4 out of 5 $13 average rating is 4 out of 5 To The Victory! average rating is 3 out of 5 The Itch average rating is 3 out of 5 The Last Act average rating is 4 out of 5 Night Patrol average rating is 3 out of 5 Dead Man's Wire average rating is 4 out of 5 Featured Film News FILM NEWS The Latest Film Trailers MOVIE TRAILERS Undertone The Moment The Land of Sometimes Avengers: Doomsday Greenland 2: Migration Looney Tunes: The Day the Earth Blew Up Filmmaker Interviews INTERVIEWS

Film Feature by Chris Olson There is a particular atmosphere that permeates the British cinema landscape during the final week of January. The festive decorations have long since been relegated to the loft, the initial burst of New Year optimism has often been replaced by the biting reality of a UK winter, and we find ourselves in that fascinating crossroads of the cinematic calendar. It is a period where the prestige of the awards season begins to collide with the bold, experimental, and sometimes wonderfully strange offerings of the new year. As we look toward the week commencing 26 January 2026, the schedule is looking remarkably robust, offering a slate that promises to challenge, entertain, and perhaps even provoke a few heated debates in the foyer. Shelter (2026) starring Jason Statham At UK Film Review , we are always looking for those titles that demand to be seen on the largest screen possible, and this upcoming week is no exception. From Shakespearean reimaginings to political biopics and high-concept thrillers, the diversity on display is a testament to the health of the industry. I have been poring over the release schedules, and while I haven’t yet had the pleasure of sitting in the dark with these specific titles (no invites for this guy), the anticipation is palpable. Here are the five films I am most looking forward to as we close out the month. 1. Hamlet UK Release Date: January 26th, 2026 It feels almost reductive to call any version of Hamlet "just another adaptation." Shakespeare’s "The Dane" is the mountain every great actor eventually wants to climb, but the buzz surrounding this 2026 iteration is particularly loud. What has me incredibly excited is the prospect of seeing #RizAhmed tackle the role. Ahmed is an actor of such immense, twitchy energy and profound intellectual depth that he feels tailor-made for the Prince of Denmark. This production, directed by Aneil Karia, reportedly moves away from the stuffy, period-accurate stagings of old and instead leans into a contemporary, urban setting. The idea of Hamlet as a modern psychological thriller, set against the backdrop of a restless, claustrophobic London, is a masterstroke. We have seen many versions of this story, but the combination of Ahmed’s intensity and Karia’s visceral #filmmaking style suggests something that will feel vital and immediate. It isn’t just about the "To be or not to be" monologue; it’s about how that existential dread translates to the 21st century. I suspect this will be the version that a whole new generation of filmgoers points to as their definitive Hamlet. 2. Melania UK Release Date: January 30th, 2026 Biopics of living political figures are always a bit of a tightrope walk. They run the risk of being either too flattering or too dismissive, but Melania looks set to be one of the most talked-about films of the year regardless of where it lands. Shifting the focus away from the chaotic centre of the American political storm and onto the enigmatic figure of Melania Trump is a fascinating narrative choice. The film promises to trace her journey from her origins in Slovenia to the heights of the fashion world and eventually the White House. What intrigues me most is the tone. Will it be a sharp, satirical look at the "American Dream" gone strange, or a more sombre, internal character study of a woman who remains largely a mystery to the public despite being one of the most photographed people on the planet? In an era of extreme political polarisation, a film like Melania is a lightning rod. I am fascinated to see how British audiences react to this story, and whether it can strip away the headlines to find the human being underneath the iconography. 3. Primate UK Release Date: January 28th, 2026 Read our Primate film review If you are looking for something that leans into the darker, more unsettling corners of the genre, Primate may be the one to watch. In her review, Hope Madden said: The film follows Lucy (Johnny Sequoyah) home from college. She’s summering with family—dad (Troy Kotsur, CODA), little sister (Gia Hunter), and Ben, the family’s beloved chimpanzee, in their incredibly impressive compound on the side of a cliff in Hawaii. Like any monster movie worth its chlorine, Primate is a survival tale. Quickly, the partiers assess the danger and jump into the pool because chimps can’t swim. Did you know that? I didn’t know it. Is it even true? 4. Shelter UK Release Date: January 30th, 2026 One cannot discuss the final week of January without mentioning Shelter. This film has been on my radar for months, largely due to its intriguing premise and the pedigree of the talent involved. A recluse on a remote Scottish island rescues a girl from the sea, unleashing a perilous sequence of events that culminate in an attack on his home, compelling him to face his turbulent history. 5. Is This Thing On? UK Release Date: January 26th, 2026 Read our Is This Thing On? film review Finally, we have Is This Thing On?, directed by Bradley Cooper. As their marriage unravels, Alex faces middle age and divorce, seeking new purpose in the New York comedy scene. Meanwhile, his wife Tess confronts sacrifices made for their family, forcing them to navigate co-parenting and identities. As we move toward the end of the month, the sheer range of storytelling on offer in UK cinemas is breathtaking. We have the weight of classical literature in Hamlet, the contemporary intrigue of Melania, the visceral thrills of Primate and Shelter, and the soulful, creative exploration of Is This Thing On?. It is easy to get caught up in the digital world, but there is no substitute for the experience of the cinema—the hushed silence before the film starts, the shared gasps of a crowd, and the long walk to the car or the bus station afterwards, processing what you have just seen. These five films represent why we do what we do at UK Film Review. They represent the diversity of thought and the bravery of filmmakers who are still willing to take risks. I don't know yet which of these will be "film of the month" on the next UK Film Club Podcast, but I do know that the last week of January is going to be a very busy, very rewarding time to be a film lover in the UK.

Star rating: 5/5 Writer: Christopher M. Anthony Director: Christopher M. Anthony Starring: Jordan Bolger and Nicholas Pinnock Heavyweight is a sensational, gripping, flawless sports drama. Sports film is an ambitious subgenre to tackle, such is the history of it, with classics such as Chariots of Fire, Rocky, Raging Bull and Bend it like Beckham, and more recent examples of Air and the Beautiful Game in the list. Heavyweight, written and directed by Christopher M. Anthony may definitely join the canon. Our main character, Derek Douglas, a boxer, is arriving at the venue for a fight that could make or break his young career. The stakes could not be higher as him and his team (coach, assistant coach and doctor) settle in the dressing room. Tension is thick in the air as Derek is nervous his brother won’t be there on time for the fight, him and his team acutely aware of his underdog status, the media pressing for interviews and the event runners and sponsors pushing for a perfect occasion. In these conditions, the drama unfolds . Heavyweight is told with the narrative brilliance and adept pace of some of the best films made, recounting the up and down, push and pull pressure of sportsmanship, which in a way is a question of choosing your battles and keeping your focus, with a seamless flow. The film features a stellar cast throughout, with appearances from Jason Isaacs and Siena Guillory, and starring Jordan Bolger and Nicholas Pinnock, who previously worked together in the Steven Knight’s BBC series This Town. Their and the supporting actors' performances are exceptional, the dynamic between them electric. The actors truly relish the emotionally layered yet realistic dialogue and clearly responded to the film’s unerring direction. Technically, Heavyweight is superb. The use of close ups and moving shots to express the energy within and between the characters is a pleasure to see, and the cinematography which paints the intimacy of the dressing room does the story full justice too. Meanwhile the sound design is perfectly harnessed to express the quiet, tense candidness of the dressing room in contrast to the stress and noise outside as the fight approaches. ‘Go out there, say thank you’, Derek is told by his coach right before he gets onto the ring. That is what sport is about. Gratitude, for the opportunity and celebration as much as for the challenges and lessons. It is only January, but I have no doubt one of the best films of the year is already here.   In UK Cinemas 23rd January.

Netlix Film Feature by Chris Olson Welcome to another monthly breakdown of what’s hitting the small screen. As we shake off the last of the January blues, Netflix is stepping up its game with a February slate that feels remarkably diverse. We’ve got a heavy-hitting #documentary that’s already the talk of the #filmfestival circuit, a high-octane Brazilian spin-off, some trademark Tyler Perry chaos, and a Spanish psychological thriller that might just be the hidden gem of the season. At UK Film Review , we’ve always championed the idea that great cinema doesn’t require a theatrical seat and a ten-pound tub of popcorn, although they are preferable. This month’s home-streaming highlights prove that the "big" in big-screen storytelling is more about the stakes than the size of the monitor. Queen of Chess Release Date: February 6th Queen of Chess on Netflix 6th February 2026 Kicking things off on February 6th is Queen of Chess . Directed by the formidable Rory Kennedy (whose work on Downfall: The Case Against Boeing  remains a masterclass in investigative #filmmaking), this documentary arrives on Netflix fresh from its prestigious slot at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival . The film focuses on the legendary Judit Polgár, widely regarded as the greatest female chess player in history. But don't expect a dry, play-by-play recount of grandmaster matches. Kennedy’s film is a "battle of the sexes" epic, charting Polgár’s fifteen-year crusade to dismantle the deep-seated sexism of the international chess world. From being a twelve-year-old prodigy to her historic showdowns with Garry Kasparov, it’s a story about a family experiment in "cultivating genius" that turned into a global revolution. With a vibrant visual style and a soundtrack that leans into "girl-power" energy, this looks set to be the definitive portrait of a trailblazer who refused to be told where she belonged. State of Fear Release Date: February 11th State of Fear on Netflix February 2026 For those who prefer their drama with a side of adrenaline, February 11th brings us State of Fear . This isn't just another action flick; it’s a significant milestone for Netflix Brazil, serving as the first feature-film spin-off from the hit series Brotherhood (Irmandade) . Directed by Pedro Morelli, State of Fear  plunges us back into the volatile world of the Brotherhood, but with the stakes raised to a breaking point. When the gang’s top leadership is transferred to maximum-security facilities, the city of São Paulo descends into a "State of Fear"—a coordinated wave of violence against the police. At the heart of the chaos is Elisa (Camilla Damião), the daughter of the Brotherhood's founder, who finds herself caught between the legacy of her father and a desperate bid for survival. Morelli is known for his immersive, complex tracking shots, and I’m expecting this to be a visceral, gritty exploration of justice and the cycle of violence. Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip Release Date: February 13th Tyler Perry’s Joe’s College Road Trip Look, I’ve often said that film criticism is about finding the joy in what a filmmaker is trying to achieve, and Tyler Perry knows exactly what his audience wants. Dropping just in time for the Valentine’s weekend on February 13th is Joe’s College Road Trip . After appearing as a supporting player in twelve Madea  films, Joe Simmons—Madea’s cantankerous, weed-loving brother—finally takes center stage. The premise is classic Perry: Joe takes his sheltered, high-achieving grandson B.J. (Jermaine Harris) on a cross-country trip to visit prospective colleges. Tyler Perry's Joe's College Road Trip Official Netflix Trailer Naturally, Joe’s idea of "the real world" involves a series of disastrous encounters and unfiltered advice. While the Madea  cinematic universe (MCU, if you will, but please don't) isn't everyone's cup of tea, there’s an undeniable heart to Perry’s work. Expect broad comedy, a few "hallelujah" moments, and a surprisingly touching look at the generational divide between a grandfather and his grandson. Firebreak Release Date: February 20th Firebreak Date Announcement on Netflix YouTube Channel Finally, on February 20th, we have what might be the most intense watch of the month. Firebreak  (originally titled Cortafuego ) is a Spanish psychological thriller directed by David Victori, the man behind the frenetic Sky Rojo . The film stars the incredible Belén Cuesta ( Money Heist ) as Mara, a widow who takes her family to their remote summer house in the woods to finalize its sale. Things take a terrifying turn when her young daughter vanishes after an argument, just as a massive, uncontrollable wildfire begins to consume the forest. When the authorities order a total evacuation, Mara refuses to leave, leading her family on a desperate, unsanctioned search through the smoke and flames. It sounds like a claustrophobic nightmare, but the real hook is the suspicion that the fire isn't the only threat lurking in the trees. Victori is a master of high-tension pacing, and Firebreak  looks like it will be an absolute nail-biter. Whether you're looking for the intellectual rigor of a chess grandmaster, the gritty streets of São Paulo, the chaotic laughs of a Tyler Perry road trip, or the searing tension of a forest fire, February on Netflix has you covered. It’s a month that celebrates resilience—whether that’s against a patriarchal sporting system or the literal flames of a wildfire.