Destroyer (2018)

A police detective reconnects with people from an undercover assignment in her distant past in order to make peace.

Dark, intense, downward spiral of an undercover cop is skillfully revealed in slow bits and with a twist ending; Nicole Kidman delivers a remarkably terrifying performance as the downtrodden cop.

A Monster Calls (2016)

A boy seeks the help of a tree monster to cope with his single mother's terminal illness.

Finely directed drama interspersed with animated sequences is fascinating and hold's one's attention to its unbearably heartwrenching ending. 

Ben-Hur (2016)

Judah Ben-Hur, a prince falsely accused of treason by his adopted brother, an officer in the Roman army, returns to his homeland after years at sea to seek revenge, but finds redemption.

Unoriginal and superfluous adaptation of the popular novel has some production value and the chariot race is not bad, but the story hardly sparks any interest in the matter.

Kong: Skull Island (2017)

A team of scientists explore an uncharted island in the Pacific, venturing into the domain of the mighty Kong, and must fight to escape a primal Eden.

Nicely assembled monster movie with a big budget; as so often: the creatures steal the show.

War for the Planet of the Apes (2017)

After the apes suffer unimaginable losses, Caesar wrestles with his darker instincts and begins his own mythic quest to avenge his kind.

Great final act to the Planet of the Apes trilogy with the usual excellence in production and effects, this time showing obvious political allusions and an unabashed (and welcome) sympathy for the apes.

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)

In the wake of a disaster that changed the world, the growing and genetically evolving apes find themselves at a critical point with the human race.

Accurate continuation of the sage with great set pieces and effects, but the story drags along without suspense till the predictable finale finally gets started.

On second viewing: still agree with my first impression; though quite entertaining after all. 

Wrath of the Titans (2012)

Perseus braves the treacherous underworld to rescue his father, Zeus, captured by his son, Ares, and brother Hades who unleash the ancient Titans upon the world.

Silly fantasy action film with a drifting plot; the effects and creatures, however, will entertain an adolescent audience.

Maltin**: "Ho-hum, grim-faced action film relies heavily on CGI effects but isn't supported by a decent script, so it's hrad to get involved. The result: a lot of sound and fury, signifying nothing."