Case: the cast is uniformly excellent . . . but the film itself is merely mildly charming .
Classification: chancefully


Case: the film has the courage of its convictions and excellent performances on its side .
Classification: probationer


Case: despite its old-hat set-up and predictable plot , empire still has enough moments to keep it entertaining .
Classification: probationer


Case: a bigger holiday downer than your end-of-year 401 ( k ) statement .
Classification: chancefully
Classify the following: initially gripping , eventually cloying pow drama .