Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)

The Gremlins are back, and this time, they've taken control of a New York City media mogul's high-tech skyscraper.

A sequel that is better than the original ups the ante on action and mayhem, but with a tighter script and more inspired humor.

Halliwell**: "A sequel more entertaining than the original, stuffed with in-jokes for movie buffs."

Maltin***: "Not so much a horror film as a goofy sendup of itself, this sequel turns the slimy creatures loose in N.Y.C. Filled with gags, movie in-jokes, satiric barbs, and gratuitous cameo appearances. Glover is especially funny as a Domald Trump/Ted Turner type, and Lee is a delight as a genetic scientist. Be sure to stay with this through the closing credits."

Thief (1981)

Coming closer to his dream of leading a normal life, a professional safecracker agrees to do a job for the Mafia, who has other plans for him.

From memory: Michael Mann's debut already shows his unnerving preference for style over substance, but it's nevertheless an above-average drama, and James Caan makes it worthwhile to watch.

Halliwell (no star): "And at far too great a length, with the additional problem that few people are really interested. A slick but empty melodrama."

Maltin***: "Arresting drama...inventively realized by writer-director Mann (in his feature debut). Caan is excellent as the man with one drive: survival."

Christine (1983)

A nerdish boy buys a strange car with an evil mind of its own and his nature starts to change to reflect it.

Although very well produced, this Stephen King adaptation is ultimately disappointing, doesn't quite deliver the expected thrills and is overlong.

Halliwell (no star): "Thin and gruesomely extended horror flick which never begins to be convincing. For teenagers only."

Maltin**: "...never hits bull's-eye, despite a promising start that captures teenage life quite nicely."