While it may not be all its title promises, TV comedian-turned-writer-director Jon Stewart’s clever political satire Irresistible (Focus) is certainly appealing.

A grotesque treatment of abortion and a misguided view of faith are the most notable elements of Saint Frances (Oscilloscope).

Viewers’ reaction to the hijacking thriller 7500 (Amazon) might depend on how far the memory of 9/11 has receded for them.

In the hands of such great artists as British novelist JRR. Tolkien or Irish poet WB Yeats, the elements of medieval lore have been deployed to great effect.

The problems are manageable and the characters generally sympathetic in the pleasantly enjoyable, though slightly bland, series Sweet Magnolias. Ten hour-long episodes of the drama, created by Sheryl J Anderson, are currently streaming on Netflix.

All films made prior to 1925 have fallen out of copyright due to the passage of time. Nevertheless, numerous more recent movies also have lost their protection for a variety of reasons.

The clash of civilisations precipitated by the European conquest of South America provides the background for the quirky but essentially humane historical romance The Queen and the Conqueror.

Glossy and generally upbeat, The High Note (Focus), is a blend of comedy and drama from director Nisha Ganatra, is a pleasant tune rather than an aria for the ages.

By John Mulderig

Scarface goes bugsy
in Capone (Vertical). This
biographical drama tracks the last year in the life of legendary Chicago
kingpin Al Capone (1899 to 1947) – played with intensity by Tom Hardy – as his
mind disintegrates from the effects of neurosyphilis. It makes for queasy
viewing.

All the Bright Places (Netflix) director Brett Haley is efficacious in highlighting some serious life issues that young people encounter in this day and age.