Critics’ Choices
The Artist A black-and-white silent movie that manages the impossible: It strikes an exact balance between the traditions of the past and the demands of the present while creating the most modern kind of witty and entertaining fun. (K.TU., Nov. 25) (1:40) PG-13.
The Deep Blue Sea Exceptionally well-made and completely fearless in its depiction of the widest range of romantic emotions, this Terence Davies version of the Terence Rattigan play is
as fiercely committed to passion as its heroine, played by Rachel Weisz, and that’s saying a lot. (K.TU., March 23) (1:38) R.
Footnote Brainy, bravura filmmaking of the highest level, a motion picture about dueling Talmudic scholars who happen to be father and son that is as difficult to pigeonhole as it is a pleasure to enjoy. (K.TU., March 16) In Hebrew with English subtitles. (1:45) PG.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi A film as elegant and tasty as the wondrous sushi prepared by the man in the title, and that is saying a lot, given that Jiro Ono was the first sushi chef to be awarded three Michelin stars. (K.TU., March 16) In Japanese with English subtitles. (1:21) PG.
The Kid With a Bike The Belgian filmmaking brothers Jean-pierre and Luc Dardenne never chart an easy path for their characters, and they certainly haven’t for 11-year-old Cyril. The child is impatient and angry, having been left at a state-run boys home by his unemployed father. While searching for his bicycle, a chance encounter with a stranger changes his trajectory. It’s a wonderfully human and humane story. (B.S., March 16) In French with English subtitles. (1:27) NR.
Safe House Star Denzel Washington and director Daniel Espinosa show how much can be done with a business-as-usual CIA thriller script when it’s brought to the screen with effective acting and expert direction. (K.TU., Feb. 10) (1:55) R.
The Secret World of Arrietty An impeccably animated film written (but not directed) by the great Hayao Miyazaki puts its complete trust in the spirit of make-believe. Beautiful, gentle, and pure — but not without elements of genuine menace — this version of the classic novel “The Borrowers” will make believers out of adults and children alike. (K.TU., Feb. 17) (1:34) G.
A Separation A thrilling domestic drama from Iran that offers acute insights into human motivations and behavior as well as a compelling look at what goes on behind a particular curtain that almost never gets raised. (K.TU., Dec. 30) In Farsi with English subtitles. (2:03) PG-13.