What's on the big screen this week
AS FAMILIES enjoy some time off over the Easter break, cinemas are sure to be pumping.
Beauty and the Beast and The LEGO Batman Movie will continue to battle it out at the top of the Australian box office, without much threat from this week's two new releases.
RELATED: Our school holiday movie guide
Iconic '70s TV series CHiPS has been adapted for the big screen, but unfortunately the reviews in so far slam the film as 'incoherent'.
Popular Aussie TV series Dance Academy has also been adapted for cinemas and luckily it has received much better reviews.
Here are this week's highlights of the big screen and why you should see them:
CHiPS (MA 15+)
The adventures of two California Highway Patrol motorcycle officers as they make their rounds on the freeways of Los Angeles.
Why you should see it: If you like your humour rude and crude then you'll probably enjoy this film, but if the early reviews are anything to go by this CHiPS remake is a stinker. Read the reviews.
Dance Academy: The Movie (PG)
This 2017 movie follows the original dance academy TV show and tracks where the characters are in their lives now.
Why you should see it: Fans of the TV series will love this movie. Director Jeffrey Walker doesn't mess around with the proven formula, but the film works as a stand-alone piece as well. Read the review.
Continuing
Ghost in the Shell (M)
Major, a special ops, one-of-a-kind human-cyborg hybrid, leads the elite task force Section 9. Devoted to stopping the most dangerous criminals and extremists, Section 9 is faced with an enemy whose singular goal is to wipe out Hanka Robotic's advancements in cyber technology.
Why you should see it: The visuals in this live-action anime reboot are nothing short of mesmerising but despite a solid performance from Scarlett Johansson this film doesn't pack the emotional punch or thought-provoking gravitas you'd hope for. Read the review.
The LEGO Batman Movie (PG)
Bruce Wayne must not only deal with the criminals of Gotham City, but also the responsibility of raising a boy he adopted.
Why you should see it: This colourful animated romp is jam-packed with action and jokes to entertain the whole family. Read the review.
Smurfs: The Lost Village (G)
A mysterious map sets Smurfette and her best friends Brainy, Clumsy and Hefty on an exciting and thrilling race through the Forbidden Forest filled with magical creatures to find a mysterious lost village before the evil wizard Gargamel does.
Why you should see it: This will be sickly sweet for most, but if you or your children enjoyed the last animated Smurfs romp then this delivers more of the same. Read the review.
Life (MA 15+)
Astronauts aboard the International Space Station are on the cutting edge of one of the most important discoveries in human history: the first evidence of extra-terrestrial life on Mars. But the rapidly evolving life-form proves far more intelligent and terrifying than anyone could have imagined.
Why you should see it: This space thriller is scary and fun, even if it borrows from Alien. It's also a timely reminder not to mess with Mother Nature. Read the review.
Beauty and the Beast (PG)
An adaptation of the classic fairy-tale about a monstrous prince and a young woman who fall in love.
Why you should see it: This visually lavish, live-action remake of the beloved animation is faithful where it counts and takes liberties only when it needs to. And the Be Our Guest scene is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Read the review.
Power Rangers (M)
A group of high-school kids, who are infused with unique superpowers, harness their abilities in order to save the world.
Why you should see it: Despite the likes of Elizabeth Banks and Bryan Cranston signing on to this reboot, the new Power Rangers doesn't make full use of its big budget to have an impact in a saturated superhero landscape. Read the review.
The Boss Baby (G)
A suit-wearing briefcase-carrying baby pairs up with his seven-year old brother to stop the dastardly plot of the CEO of Puppy Co.
Why you should see it: This film has an interesting premise but the humour of a baby with a man's voice does become a bit tiresome. The Boss Baby isn't as endearing as a Pixar film but it packs in a few good laughs. Read the review.
