It’s been awhile since there’s been a new DVD worthy of being named a Criticker Pick, but this week there are two. The Coen Brother’s straight-forward reworking of 1969′s True Grit had both critics and the public applauding. But even more loved among the Criticker community was the latest from Mike Leigh, who continues to churn out great films as he enters his 70s. Following two other masterpieces, Vera Drake (2004) and Happy-Go-Lucky (2008), Another Year is another demonstration of Leigh’s famous ear for dialog and features great performances all around.
A tough U.S. Marshal helps a stubborn young woman track down her father’s murderer. True Grit @ Amazon
A happily married, middle-aged couple are visited by a number of unhappy and lonely friends who use them as confidants. When an unmarried friend falls for their young son, they watch as events unfold. (tiff.net) Another Year @ Amazon
Just Go with It – Average Tier 4.06
After commitment-phobic Dr. Patrick Maccabee (Adam Sandler) falsely tells his young girlfriend (Brooklyn Decker) that he has a wife and family, she eventually grows suspicious and demands that he provide proof of his purported wedded state. Backed into a corner, the doctor recruits his divorced office manager (Jennifer Aniston) and her kids to perform as his wife and family — generating a flood of farcical results and unintended consequences. Just Go with It @ Amazon
Sanctum – Average Tier 3.67
Based on a true story and using technology developed by executive producer James Cameron, this breathtaking thriller follows the adventures of expert diver Frank McGuire (Richard Roxburgh), who heads an expedition to map a network of underwater caverns. When a tropical storm cuts off their exit, the team, including Frank’s teenage son, must use all their resources and strength to avoid panic and find a route to the surface. Sanctum @ Amazon
The Company Men – Average Tier 5.28
Bobby Walker is living the American dream: great job, beautiful family, shiny Porsche in the garage. When corporate downsizing leaves him and co-workers Phil Woodward and Gene McClary jobless, the three men are forced to re-define their lives as men, husbands, and fathers. The Company Men @ Amazon
Recent Comments