Claudia Puig

Earnest and understated, Gran Torino is an unflinching examination of themes that have fascinated Eastwood in most of his recent films: family, war, loss, faith and unexpected human connection.

The film is entertaining if contrived. It is not as cleverly structured as Roos' best ensemble comedy, "The Opposite of Sex," which also co-starred Kudrow. But it does have humorous moments.

Cars is a classic American tale firing on all cylinders and fueled by organic emotion and a lively sense of adventure.

Rarely does a first-time director make as auspicious a debut as Scott Frank has done with the haunting, engrossing and intelligent thriller The Lookout.

This film highlights some of the best, and raunchiest, of his humor.

Director Todd Phillips (Old School) has a knack for extreme scenarios and outside-the-box casting. He has made a movie that is consistently funny from start to finish.

Oscar-winning animator Brad Bird seems to have accomplished the impossible with the fourth Mission: Impossible installment by injecting the 15-year-old series with newfound, breathtaking energy.

An artful blend of tenderness and sharp, clear-eyed observations. Its characters talk like real people -- who also happen to be smart, appealing and thoughtful.

A mesmerizing look at the mythic quality and anarchic spirit of the irreverent and rabble-rousing journalist.

Carell accomplishes the task of being sweet-natured without becoming cloying.

Takes a fascinating chapter in Danish history, little-known to general audiences, and presents it engagingly.

But expect a logical plot, and you'll walk out of the theater with a host of questions, mostly concerning procedural points of the alien attack.

Forget "Twilight." Fans of vampire movies are not likely to see anything more graphic, extreme or twisted than Thirst.

Notes on a Scandal may be disturbing, but it is a potent and captivating account of misconduct and betrayal.

Saoirse Ronan's talents are wasted on a foolish dual part in this dull sci-fi fantasy.

This slice of American life, as seen through the eyes of Palestinian immigrants, is nuanced, engaging and authentically observed.

There is a compelling ethical question raised skillfully that will haunt viewers. The poignant conclusion probably will incite debate.

Almost as impressive as Tatum's moves are his comic flair and breezy grace. He proved his comic talents earlier this year in "21 Jump Street" and shows them off winningly here.

What gives In the Land of Women its singular charm is the charismatic Adam Brody, the star of TV's "The OC."

One of the most extraordinary films in decades, this family drama is also one of the most ambitious in scope, having taken more than a decade to shoot. Yet it comes across as effortless and unassuming. Boyhood is an epic masterpiece that seems wholly unconcerned with trying to be one.

Richard Jenkins and Bradley Whitford are particularly funny in their middle-management roles.

J. Edgar shines a probing beam of light on a man who was widely feared, often disliked, but rarely understood.

Quinceañera is a spirited and poignant exploration of the bonds and challenges facing a Latino family and the pains of a community undergoing a transition of its own.

A rich gem expertly told in a surprisingly scant 95 minutes.

With its complex look at storytelling, imagination and the teacher-student dynamic, In the House is an elaborate cinematic fresco.

A moving documentary that informs, entertains and inspires.

One of the film's strengths is that nobody -- male, female, gay, straight or Jewish mother -- is reduced to stereotype.

If you've watched the BBC series "Planet Earth," then Earth will seem like a familiar, if stunning, global rewarming.