American Sniper, The Gambler

American Sniper

The Gambler

War movies are not, as Daniel would say, my very favorite genre.

Unbroken, Big Eyes

Big Eyes

Unbroken

 

Lest I be accused of too many Santa Claus star ratings, let’s get to the bad stuff.

Selma

Airless, flat and squirmy, Ava DuVernay’s “Selma” is the epitome of what I call the “broccoli movie”: you’re supposed to see it because it’s good for you.

Into the Woods

Rob Marshall, who directed the Oscar-winning adaptation of “Chicago” (2002), again gives moviegoers a Christmas gift with the disproportionately enjoyable “Into the Woods,” with book by James Lapine and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

Mr. Turner, The Captive, The Circle

Mr. Turner

The Circle

The Captive

Capsule reviews on the week's other releases:

Annie

If you want to know what’s wrong with Hollywood, look no further than the Golden Globe nomination for young Quvenzhane Wallis for “Annie.”

She's Beautiful When She's Angry, Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson Welles

Magician: The Astonishing Life and Work of Orson Welles

She's Beautiful When She's Angry




Quick capsules on two of the week’s new documentaries: