Marta Barber

The intended satire doesn't deliver the kind of punch you may expect, but it nevertheless poses many what-ifs.

Yet even when the bickering diminishes the impact of the story, Wiener himself makes Fighter another interesting story to come out of World War II atrocities.

That the film avoids the conflicts making the daily headlines out of Israel is one good reason why James' Journey, though not very well made, is interesting.

The biggest appeal of Passionada is Sofia Milos, a sexy actress who commands the screen in every scene she's in.

The filmmaker may not appeal to large numbers of filmgoers. But if you get his humor and delicate style, you'll enjoy his latest work.

The Ninth Day is far from perfect, but is still thought-provoking and intriguing, a film that can begin its own kind of debate.

Unfortunately, the film is also at times dull, though the scale definitely tilts toward enjoyment. Quality balance aside, who doesn't want to enjoy a few hearty laughs? Only Human provides a few of those.

Mildly engaging.

This is nothing that a good episode of NYPD Blue hasn't shown myriad times.

Is it about a moment in history and how the life of a sexual predator fits into that moment? Or is it just about a director's sexual fantasy? The answers are somewhat fuzzy.

For Americans, the film may be best taken as fodder for debate, especially for individuals interested in sociology. You wonder why those people stuck to the commitment. You may also wonder how different a parallel American film would've been.

This Israeli film gives us an honest look at situations we never see in the news. It may have too many flaws to be a good film, but for its content, it is a winner.

Fast, frantic and furious, but it is not steadily funny. While not boring, it is too light to be taken seriously.

Had the film been more balanced, it would have added a new star to the recent wave of remarkable Mexican cinema.

Doesn't stretch beyond the typical, period drama the Brits do so well. It is no more than a warm cup of tea on a chilly afternoon. The reward comes in seeing these two great actresses at work.

Holds enough interest throughout to keep you entertained -- unless you're afraid of mice.

Unlike “Amélie,” Love Me If You Dare will not become a sleeper. But neither will it make you go to sleep.

As a war drama, Zelary is as gentle and pastoral as its setting. At times, you think it's a new chapter in "The Sound of Music."

Though beautiful at times, it doesn't reach the level of poetry of either de Sica's "Thief" or Lou's "River."

Far from perfect, but for those willing to laugh at the darker side of life, especially Latin American life, it is fun.

Strong acting from Khoury saves the weak storyline.

Though the film would benefit from further cuts, Machuca still manages to convey the frailty of convictions and the difficulties of growing up -- be it a child or a nation.

The film has a rather charming way of convincing you that there are times to shrug off the caviar and champagne and go for a fulfilling bowl of spaghetti.

Captures the essence of the period -- an intriguing, backward era in Spain -- but without the emotional impact that such a film requires.

The events in this film take place in the 1980s. Let's hope working conditions in Japan have "westernized."

One true gem is Daniela Piepszyk, Mauro's teen neighbor, who is a fireball and the leader of the neighborhood gang of boys. You can't take your eyes off her.

Much like the good westerns, Coastlines keeps you entertained throughout its two hours, which says a lot about Nunez's storytelling.

May not be everyone's favored bloom in the garden, but it is still a fine work on film.