The moments that work come from the incredible cast, who are stranded in a screenplay that fails as comedy, mystery, history and commentary.

The screenplay is honest, smart and very funny.

If it had stuck the landing that would have made up for at least some of its shortcomings. Alas, it does not.

This is an ambitious, compelling project, a fitting way to explore someone whose career didn’t follow a familiar pattern.

An original, exciting, entertaining horror entry that takes chances is more than welcome. Barbarian certainly delivers in that regard.

Sadly, far too often, the style prevents the substance from coming through.

Director/cowriter George Miller has crafted his own lovely story, about love, patience, loneliness and storytelling itself.

Beast is a thriller that only intermittently thrills, making it unsuccessful at its main aim.

This is a tremendously clever spin on the slasher genre.

It is difficult not to be drawn in by the wonder and respect the Kraffts have for their subject.