Saturday Night Movie Recommendations with Abe

Welcome back 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 theatres 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

Morning (mixed bag): This bleak drama is the feature directorial debut from actor Leland Orser, who previously made a short about the same subject matter, parents grieving after the death of their young child. While its aim is emotional, its characters are difficult to connect to and the movie never reaches a relatable or cathartic point. Now playing at AMC Village 7. Read my review from yesterday.

The Paw Project (recommended): This documentary looks at the practice of declawing cats and the movement to stop it from being allowed. Filmmaker Dr. Jennifer Conrad makes her case in an informative and compelling look at something that is recommended by many veterinarians and the push to make it illegal by others. Now playing at IFC Center. Read my review from Wednesday.

New to DVD

Fill the Void (highly recommended): One of the most powerful and memorable films from the Sundance Film Festival was this highly specific but universally applicable story about a Hasidic Jewish woman in Tel Aviv dealing with a tragic event and its unexpected implications. Those familiar with customs and traditions will find it extremely meaningful, and those unfamiliar should find it very effective as well.

Now on Netflix Instant Streaming

Side Effects (recommended): Steven Soderbergh’s latest film stars Rooney Mara as a depressed wife adversely affected by the medication prescribed to her by Jude Law’s psychiatrist. Through many half-plausible twists and unexpected turns, this film turns into something wholly different than what it is when it begins.