I seem to be going against the grain here, but I actually find them generally useful. I have a 1-2-1 with my Line Manager every 4 weeks and I find it great to discuss what I have been doing.

My manager asks about what ive been working on, if the pace is good for me and if there is anything holding me back.

I can be frank on how I feel about things (Ive mentioned that I felt I wasnt doing any productive work, because I wasnt comfortable with the experience I had and didnt want to slow down the team) and get honest feedback with them actually trying to help. Its also a great time for me to improve our relationship and ask about the future (Whats happening with this team? How is this project going? When will I be able to do x?).

The main issue here seems to be managers who don't care, not the process itself.