Films We’ve Seen Recently

At Covet, we’re always on the lookout for inspiration - not just in fabrics and silhouettes, but in stories, characters, and moments that stay with you. Over the past few weeks, we’ve managed to carve out a little time to head to the cinema. Here’s what we saw, what we thought, and whether we’d recommend grabbing popcorn… or passing altogether.

The Ballad of Wallis Island

Starring: Tim Key, Carey Mulligan, Tom Basden
Director: James Griffiths
Cinema: Chichester Cinema

Synopsis: A washed-up folk trio reunites for one last stab at musical glory, but their past tensions and present-day realities make for a bumpy ride. A warm-hearted comedy set against the backdrop of the British countryside.

We went in not expecting much - and came out grinning. Carey Mulligan is understated and quietly brilliant, while Tom Basden and Tim Key nail the tragicomic awkwardness of failed fame. Yes, the pacing dips a little in the middle, but the last 20 minutes more than make up for it. We both agreed we’d happily watch it again. A film that lingered long after the credits rolled.

Verdict: 4.5/5 🍿

The Roses

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Olivia Colman
Director: Jay Roach
Cinema: Chichester Cinema

Synopsis: When a seemingly perfect couple announce their divorce, their group of friends find themselves caught in the emotional and increasingly chaotic fallout. A biting comedy about relationships, loyalty, and layered cakes.

A reimagining of The War of the Roses, this one didn’t quite hit the mark for us. Despite the strong cast, the setting, an odd mix of American suburbia with recognisable UK backdrops, felt a little jarring. It wasn’t especially funny or dramatic, though it did get us out of the house for the evening, which counts for something.

Verdict: 2.5/5 🍿
Best for: Getting you out of the house (no more)
Worth it? Only for the nice shot of Salcombe.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale

Director: Simon Curtis
Cinema: Chichester Cinema

Synopsis: In this final chapter of the beloved saga, the Crawley family and their loyal staff face the winds of change as they prepare for the end of an era. With weddings, goodbyes, and a few surprises, the film offers a grand send-off to the estate and its inhabitants.

We saw this one on a whim, not expecting much, but we were pleasantly surprised. The film exceeded expectations, offering a satisfying farewell to the beloved cast. Well-paced and polished, it delivered everything fans would hope for.

Verdict: 3/5 popcorns 🍿
Best for: Fans who’ve followed the series from the start
Popcorn factor: Gently nostalgic, with a classic salty-sweet mix

One Battle After Another

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro
Director: Paul Thomas Anderson
Cinema: Chichester Cinema

Synopsis: A brooding war drama tracing the journey of a disillusioned soldier-turned-whistleblower as he grapples with his past and attempts to expose a dangerous military cover-up.

A sprawling action-thriller that felt disjointed and a little confused. Despite strong performances and a bold concept, it didn’t come together as we’d hoped.

Verdict: 2/5 🍿

“We went to see this film, I’m not sure which studio made it, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. It started off a bit wild, and I was really intrigued to see how the story would unfold. It felt particularly relevant given the current political climate, and I found it to be a very thought-provoking narrative. Both Leonardo DiCaprio and Benicio del Toro were excellent, but I found the second half more engaging than the first. There were moments I really enjoyed, but overall, it just felt a bit overwhelming.”
— Lyn

Relay

Starring: Riz Ahmed, Lily James
Director: David Mackenzie
Cinema: Chichester Gate Cinema

Synopsis: A mysterious intermediary (played by Riz Ahmed) facilitates communication between criminals and clients, ensuring anonymity on both sides — until one case threatens to expose it all.

A suspenseful, clever thriller that kept us gripped from start to finish. The plot unfolded with unexpected twists, not confusing, just surprising, and both leads delivered terrific performances.

Verdict: 4/5 🍿

“We thought it kept you engaged, and the twists were genuinely surprising, not confusing, but clever. Riz was fantastic in this role, showing both strength and vulnerability. And I loved Lily James showing a whole new side of herself - understated but totally in control.”
— Lyn

The Choral

Synopsis: Set in a picturesque English village, The Choral follows the story of a once-renowned choir facing closure after the retirement of their long-time conductor. As the community grapples with change, a new, unconventional leader steps in to revive their passion for music - and, perhaps, for each other.

We went to see The Choral, encouraged by its positive reviews and solid cast. The acting was certainly strong, and the setting charming, but the story itself felt rather formulaic. It lacked the emotional or narrative edge needed to make it stand out. A few well-placed twists could have added some much-needed intrigue. While it was perfectly watchable, it ultimately didn’t leave a lasting impression—just about worth 2.5 out of 5 popcorns.

Verdict: 2.5/5 🍿

Until Next Time…

At Covet, we believe great storytelling isn’t limited to fashion - it’s in films, in books, in everyday conversations. Taking time out for a trip to the cinema reminds us how much we love the power of a well-told story - and how it connects to what we do, too: finding pieces with character, beauty, and meaning.

If you’ve seen anything recently that moved you, thrilled you, or just made you laugh - we’d love to hear about it.