Another Earth (2011)

A young girl bound for MIT causes a felony drunk driving fatality. This story has been told many times, a horrible tragedy with one life consumed by grief and the other by guilt. The first thing you should realize is this is a drama, not a sci-fi movie. The 'other earth' provides a cool backdrop but really doesn't become a factor until the end of the film. What you do get is top shelf presentation by all parties and a very moving portrayal of penance. This is one that will benefit from quiet and thoughtful viewing. If you are looking for something that's moving without costing you a fortune in tissue this would be a great choice. A very slick twist on a time worn theme. Recommended.

The Rite (2011)

The Vatican is seeking exorcists to deal with an upswing in demonic possessions. This is a well written and well played drama that is fairly entertaining. This is less a horror movie than it is a story of interpersonal faith with scary overtones. There is no graphic scenes of violence or gore, the actual scenes of possession, with the exception of the finale', are understated and rely on dialogue and delivery over FX. What makes this movie appeal to me was the discussions of faith and 'truth' and how these could and do intersect. Don't worry there are no drawn out monologues or slobbering blubbery. I think this film would have benefited from another 15 minutes to explore some topics that were hinted at that may have found their way to the cutting room floor. If you want a thoughtful drama with a mild tingle this wouldn't be a bad pick. One thing I did find very refreshing was the portrayal of the priests as human beings.. don't get a lot of that these days.

Bunraku (2010)

A stranger comes to town looking for revenge on the areas most powerful warlord. This is a stylized retelling of 'man without a name' in a post apocalyptic future where guns are 'banned' and ruthless crime lords rule the lands. How much you enjoy this one is almost entirely based on your ability or willingness to suspend belief and let the movie deliver every aspect of its skewed, primary color, story board style vision.. sort of a mash up of Edward Scissorhands (1990), Sin City (2005), and Kill Bill (2003-04). The action is near non stop set over minimalistic cartoonish backdrops. The fighting is highly choreographed, the 'bad guys' are over the top and the good guys aren't really good, they just don't like the bad guys. A lot of mindless fun and testosterone in 118 minutes of mayhem.