Can a musical delve into the darkness of the human psyche and succeed at the box office? Brent Harbour and Ross Churchhouse, tackle this question as we dissect the polarizing reception of the new Joker movie in New Zealand. Despite its daring mix of musical elements and themes of mental illness, the film missed the mark with audiences, especially beyond urban centers, and faced lackluster ticket sales and even walkouts. Brent's sharp prediction skills put him ahead in our box office challenge, foreseeing the $816,000 first-week earnings more accurately than most. They also touch on the cautious anticipation surrounding Disney's adaptation of Wicked, a move that has diehard fans of the original stage musical on edge over potential changes.

But it's not all masks and melodies. We’re serving up an eclectic mix of cinema and documentary recommendations for every taste. Horror lovers can sink their teeth into "Smile 2," while classic film aficionados will relish the 70th anniversary re-release of Akira Kurosawa’s "Seven Samurai." Documentary fans have a treat with "A Horse Named Winx," chronicling the story of an Australian racehorse legend, and "Six Inches of Soil," which explores regenerative farming's global impact. To round off, opera and ballet lovers shouldn't miss the Royal Ballet and Opera Cinema Season’s "The Marriage of Figaro," promising a whimsical escape with its comedic tale of mistaken identities and romantic entanglements. Whether you're seeking thrills, history, or a touch of culture, this episode has something to satisfy your cinematic cravings.

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