Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome to a weekly feature here at Movies With Abe. I'm going to be 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

I’ve seen a few movies coming out later this month, but nothing this week. I don’t think Being Flynn looks terribly good, but I could eventually see The Lorax, though I’m in no rush.

New to DVD

Hugo (recommended): This Best Picture nominee and winner of five Oscars is a gorgeous cinematic experience with a certain enthusiasm for the movies. It has its magical moments, and its only real flaw is trying to be too fantastical at times. Definitely a worthwhile view, and HD couldn’t hurt.

New to Netflix Instant Streaming

Happy, Happy (highly recommended): This Norwegian Oscar entry for Best Foreign Film is a fascinating and rich tale of two couples living in adjacent homes whose interactions are less than honest and sincere. It’s a great foreign small-ensemble drama, and definitely recommended for anyone that doesn’t mind subtitles.

Transsiberian (mixed bag): This thriller starring Emily Mortimer and Woody Harrelson has its strong, chilling winter moments, but its construction is somewhat lopsided. It’s still an intriguing film, and you can see my live reactions from 2008 in this Minute with Abe.