Elizabeth Weitzman

A smashing success on its own terms, though as a transcendent love story it lacks the firm foundation in human reality that characterizes Lars Von Trier's superior "Breaking the Waves."

Take us on an indelible tour through the highest and lowest points of the human experience.

As with all of Shelton’s improv-inspired movies, the plot offers plenty of interest but the personalities provide the purpose.

Israeli director Savi Gabizon has created a nuanced coming-of-age portrait that ought to strike a chord with ­audiences ­everywhere.

It's hard to believe Andy Warhol's Factory created enough characters to keep us interested 40 years later, but as it turns out, drag diva Jackie Curtis still has a few more minutes of fame left.

It doesn't get much more romantic than this.

Jasmila Zbanic's poignant drama reminds us that the aftershocks of war linger for generations.

Some stories are more compellingly told than others, but all, like Trank's film, are deserving of attention.

Will thrill those who prefer their violence graphic and their comedy surreal.

Given that so many people have dismissed Ashton Kutcher as a superficial pretty boy, it seems a little ironic that his best work this week is two-dimensional: He makes a passable action hero in "The Guardian," but he's downright adorable in Open Season, a cheerful animated comedy built on his winningly loose voice performance.

Proving there's always a new way to tell an old story, Stephen Chow pulls out all the stops for one of the silliest, sweetest and most fun family films in recent memory.

An ingratiatingly sincere attempt to deal with the complications and contradictions of modern romance.

Jensen tarnishes the lining of every cloud in one wickedly funny scene after another.

Credit Icelandic director Sturla Gunnarsson for having an ambitious vision: He took a look at the eighth-century epic poem "Beowulf" and decided he could cut it down to size. And he has, for better and worse.

Narrated by Nicole Kidman, this poignant documentary tells only half the story of three Sudanese "lost boys" who emigrate to America. Though it doesn't delve as deep as it should, this movie will still break your heart.

As they talk between classes about oppressive husbands, abusive brothers and arranged marriages, it becomes clear that the frivolities Americans take for granted can be their lifeline. In this tentatively hopeful setting, a single lipstick becomes leverage.

Unpolished and clearly made on a low budget, the results seem a little like a home video by someone who spent an especially cool summer vacation.

Providing a tart balance to such enthusiastic admiration, Gehry's own blunt musings on his motivations, revelations and desires prove especially interesting.

Kaurismaki's characteristically minimalist humor and wry empathy make brief appearances, but be warned: His Helsinki is a cold, dark place unfit for all but the hardiest visitors.

The tone is attentive and responsible.

As an alternative to the slick, instantly forgettable fare usually made for kids and preteens, Ella Enchanted brings a little bit of magic to the multiplex.

Arnaud Desplechin's sprawling drama exudes a go-for-broke determination that is frustrating and exhilarating.

The characters may suffer once the bride walks down the aisle, but Bier, Jensen and their first-rate cast work together like a match made in heaven.

Ratner is unable to maintain the emotional intensity that has made this series so deeply epic. But he sure knows how to put on a show.

The Namesake is suffused with radiant grace, and manages to be old-fashioned yet immediate, epic and intimate.

Equally compelling and depressing.

Almada steadfastly reserves judgment, which means we don't learn if there are members of the Mexican community who disapprove of corrido's hard-edged lyrics. But she makes a pretty good case for its passionate fans. Like them, we're left unable to get the music - and the musicians - out of our heads.

Amanda Micheli's candid documentary introduces us to two of these real-life daredevils, and it is a genuine pleasure.