Absolutely love this poignant drama from Brazil. It combines food and a gorgeous dog, which is highly appealing. Pedro is a chef who wins his dream job, and at the same time is derailed by a serious diagnosis. Unbeknown to him, he is chosen by a stray dog as a candidate for food and refuge. Once Pedro realises this, he names him Caramelo. Although Caramelo brings chaos, Pedro finds renewed purpose and joy in his life through his bond with a little stray dog. This is an emotional journey as it brings laughter and tears. You’ll need wine and tissues.

This is one of those charming British films that draws you in through the skill of the actors attached. Ralph Fiennes never disappoints. In this true story from the 1930s, an excavator and his team discover a wooden ship from the Dark Ages while digging up a burial ground on a woman’s estate. It became one of the richest medieval burial sites ever found in Europe, dating back to the sixth or seventh century A.D. It is now housed in the British Museum. It was some time before the contribution of the excavator, Basil Brown, was acknowledged. Gladly, that has been remedied.

There are no superlatives required for this documentary which is the last interview given by the inspirational Jane Goodall, which is kept until after her death. Goodall, the famous primatologist, introduced us to the wonders and intelligence of the chimpanzee, which had never been revealed in such depth previously. She shares intimate memories and unpublished stories about her life and scientific work. She passed away on October 1st at age 91. Every world leader should be required to watch this as they may learn a thing or two about this earth and what is required to keep it for generations to come.

On the subject of world leaders, this political drama shows them in total disarray. What the scenario played out here revealed to me is that no one really knows what is going on with everyone running in all directions without achieving a thing. Being directed by Kathryn Bigelow and written by Noah Oppenheim, I expected more. The story revolves around the situation when a single, unattributed missile is launched at the United States, and a race begins to determine who is responsible and how to respond. What I gleaned during the chaotic action on screen was that the usual suspects were not going to own up, and no one knew how to respond. I’m still not sure what the purpose of this film is, if it has one at all, but give it a go and see what you come up with.

Director Daniel Hendler co-writes and stars as the kind and compassionate judicial expert Leandro Casares who is assigned to investigate eccentric and wealthy 83-year-old patron Martha Hoffman who is admitted to a psychiatric clinic at the request of her daughters, who claim she suffers from dementia. Casares struggles to find fault with Martha as she brings a joy into his life that had been lacking. She has simply chosen to live her last years with absolute freedom. But is this scenario initiated by others an act of protection or an attempt to control her fortune. Yes, old people can’t be allowed to have freedom and not act their age. What next?! I love Martha and have been inspired to not play by the rules set out for we elderly folk.

Oh, that one could run around spouting the truth to all and sundry. What a release that would be. But, no, telling the truth is not encouraged in our society. However, Valentina is an overworked ad executive dealing with a sexist boss, lazy husband, self-centred friend, and difficult sister. After meeting a mystic healer, she suddenly loses her filter and starts speaking her unfiltered mind. This is such fun as long as you’re not on the receiving end of Valentina’s tirade. Hilarious situations arise as the truth flies.

This gem written by Frank Cottrell Boyce, is inspired by the true story of the Homeless World Cup and is surprisingly quite an emotional film. In an under-stated performance, the wonderful Bill Nighy is superb here as coach Mal, who leads this soccer team as they travel from London to Rome for the Homeless World Cup. At the last minute they decide to bring with them talented striker Vinny, but he must confront his own issues and once-promising past in order to help the team and move on with his own life. This is a touching story about overcoming adversity, with the assistance of football.

I have a personal Bob Marley experience. Back in 1977 I saw Bob in concert in London at the Rainbow, I think. However, that morning at 6.00am, I also had my mother fly in from Australia. Consequently, a few songs in with Bob, I nodded off. I did wake up again, but my kids have never let me live that one down. If I mention to anyone that I saw him, one of them pipes up with that story. Kids, they never forget a thing! The documentary looks at the violent political suppression of the roots reggae movement in Jamaica told through an investigation into Jamaican politics and the CIA’s involvement in the mysterious shooting of Bob Marley. After his appearance at the “One Love” concert, Bob left his Jamaican hometown due to the gang wars and went on a concert world tour in Europe and North America promoting peace. There is a lot to learn here about Bob Marley, which I hadn’t previously known.