Say what you like about Ray, there’s not a ritualised cultist murder in there…

Recently the Alien invasion movie has seen something of a renaissance, with Cloverfield and District 9 both breathing life into one of the oldest and most tired sci-fi scenarios. But does new Hollywood blockbuster Battle: Los Angeles represent another step forward or two steps back?

This film adaptation of David Lindsay-Abaire’s play Rabbit Hole has got Oscar-pleaser written all over it; Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart delivering an acting tour de force, a fantastic screen play, and even a soundtrack that’s beautifully sensitive. But then why does Rabbit Hole only have one Oscar nomination, and no awards to it’s name?

This week’s cheat sheet features everyone’s favourite Ken doll, Aaron Eckhart. Somewhat passed over in Hollywood, performances in The Dark Knight and Thank You for Smoking, along with a jawline that rivals Sophie Ellis-Bextor, have ensured him a spot in the Best for Film fan club.

Ah, Valentine’s Day. Apart from very new couples who are still overdosing on saccharine, there really isn’t a single adult human – taken or unattached – who enjoys its enforced affection and awkward present-buying. Of course, the torture is worse if you know you’re planning to ditch your other half but still have to lavish them with contrived pseudo-love – and that’s where we come in…

Ready for your first alien invasion fix of 2011? Battle: Los Angeles has you covered.

Are you wondering what to do with your spare time? Do you sit around the house, saddened by the prospect of having no idea what films to see? Are you tired of me asking you questions? Then fear no more because here are the top 20 films to see at the cinema in 2011! Film 2012 round-up also available now!

See the surprisingly effective new trailer for Jonathan Liebesman’s Battle: Los Angeles here.