This weekend, moviegoers have a choice between two wildly different cinematic journeys: one that reimagines a beloved classic for the whole family and another that descends into a chilling, folk-horror nightmare. Critics are weighing in on both, highlighting a week defined by its cinematic extremes.

Leading the family-friendly charge is "Toto," a new animated film that tells the story of "The Wizard of Oz" from the perspective of Dorothy's famous little dog. Directed by Tim Story and featuring a star-studded voice cast including Lil Rel Howery as Toto and Ruth Righi as Dorothy, the film expands the world of Oz.

The narrative follows Toto and a new group of animal friends as they embark on a mission to rescue Dorothy after she is captured by the Wicked Witch of the West. The film is a "perfectly pleasant diversion," praising its vibrant animation and wholesome message, though it notes the story may feel overly familiar to those deeply acquainted with the 1939 original. It’s positioned as a safe and entertaining bet for a holiday weekend family outing.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is "The Damned," a stark and unsettling psychological horror film from director David Blue Garcia. Set in the late 1800s on the U.S.-Mexico border, the story follows a woman whose stagecoach is ambushed, forcing her and a wounded U.S. Marshal to seek refuge at a remote, crumbling inn. They soon discover the inhabitants are harbouring a dark, supernatural secret.

The film is being praised not for jump scares, but for its oppressive, slow-burn atmosphere and its potent allegorical weight regarding the violent history of the borderlands. Critics highlight its "grim, grisly power" and note that while it may be too intense for some, it offers a "serious-minded and genuinely creepy" experience for horror aficionados looking for substance with their scares.

Whether you're seeking colourful, comforting fantasy or a plunge into grim, historical terror, this week’s releases provide a compelling study in contrasts, ensuring there’s a distinct cinematic flavour for nearly every taste.