A small victory can change the mood of a whole week. We open by settling our Bad Guys 2 bet, then swing straight into the real work of programming after the school holidays: choosing films that spark curiosity, fill seats, and feel worth the trip. That means championing a few special titles, passing on others (for now), and crafting a lineup that plays to our audience’s taste without playing it safe.

First up: The Ballad of Wallace Island, a heartfelt British comedy with festival praise and a glowing nod from Richard Curtis. One man, one remote island, one wildly ambitious concert—charming, funny, and just different enough to cut through. We pair that with Holy Cow, a crowd‑pleaser from the French Film Festival about a teen who finds purpose and craft in cheesemaking as he steps up for his sister. When people ask for something by name, we listen.

Then we examine a surprise drop from pop’s shrewdest strategist: Taylor Swift’s 92‑minute album film anchored by behind‑the‑scenes footage, lyric videos, and The Fate of Ophelia. Is it an irresistible big‑screen event or premium pre‑release marketing fans will wait to stream? We debate the ceiling, compare it to the Eras Tour phenomenon, and place our bets on a tight weekend window. To balance the slate with spectacle, we’re also bringing back Avatar: The Way of Water in full 3D for a limited run—Pandora as it’s meant to be seen—just as anticipation builds for December’s next chapter.

We close with the British & Irish Film Festival, a highlight on our calendar and a perfect fit for local tastes. Expect a lovingly restored Twiggy documentary brimming with 60s electricity and Spinal Tap 2: The End Continues—original members, fresh chaos, and volume set to eleven. Along the way, we talk risk vs reward, niche vs broad appeal, and how to make every showtime count.

If this mix of smart picks, big swings, and festival flavor sounds like your jam, follow the show, share it with a film‑loving friend, and leave a review telling us which title you’ll see first. Your picks help shape our slate.

Book your tickets to the movies at Cathay Cinemas Kerikeri here - or at Lido Cinema Hamilton here!