Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. Absent a wealth of new film reviews during the weekend, I’d like to start providing a handy guide to a few choice movies currently playing in NYC as well as several films newly released on DVD. I’ll also aim to comment on those films I have not yet had the chance to see, and I invite you to add in your thoughts on any films I haven’t seen in the comments below. Understandably, some weeks will have considerably fewer releases to address than others.

Now Playing in NYC

Cars 2 (recommended): This Pixar sequel is just as fun as the first, though those who didn’t enjoy the 2006 original probably won’t care for this bigger, louder, showier film which incorporates some spy adventure into the familiar car-racing storyline. As tends to be the case with Pixar films, it’s just as fun for the parents as it is for the kids. Read my review from yesterday.

Bad Teacher (mixed bag): Despite a clever poster, this comedy isn’t creative and doesn’t offer all too many laughs. Cameron Diaz isn’t putting together too much effort, and the film is lazy when it should be trying much harder. Supporting stars Lucy Punch and John Michael Higgins provide some laughs, but the film is a disappointment. Review coming tomorrow.

New to DVD

The Adjustment Bureau (recommended): The latest Philip K. Dick short story to be adapted into film is a fun, energetic thriller with wonderful performances from Matt Damon and Emily Blunt. It’s equal parts fantasy and love story, and both parts are just as effective. Science fiction predilection not required for enjoyment.

Cedar Rapids (recommended): I ranked this independent comedy as my sixth favorite film of 2011 so far. Ed Helms makes his transition from a small screen office to the big screen with this winning and surprisingly sentimental film that features fun performances from the likes of Anne Heche and John C. Reilly.