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 Theatres

Days and Nights (mixed bag): Christian Camargo, who played Rudy in season one of “Dexter,” steps behind the camera to write and direct his first film, this initially intriguing look at a miserable family dynamic one Memorial Day Weekend. The cast seems impressive, but the film is hardly a home run. Now playing at IFC Center. My review will be up tomorrow.

Lilting (recommended): This British film from director Hong Khaou is an emotional exploration of loss featuring strong performances from Ben Wishaw, Cheng Pei Pei, Naomi Christie, and Peter Bowles that has its especially impactful moments. Now playing at Village East Cinemas. Read my review from Sundance.

The Little Bedroom (recommended): Michel Bouquet and Florence Loiret Caille star in this affecting French drama as an elderly man abandoned by his family and his caretaker who takes a personal interest in ensuring his wellbeing. It’s a strong story with two great central performances. Now playing at Cinema Village. Read my review from Friday.

Two Night Stand (recommended): Analeigh Tipton and Miles Teller have a blast playing opposite each other as a mismatched pair force to endure more time together an ill-fated one night stand. It’s fun, but not always as hilarious and terrific as it could be. Now playing at AMC Village 7. Read my review from Thursday.

New to DVD

Nothing to report this week!

Now on Netflix Instant Streaming

Alfie (recommended): Jude Law is the electric center of this 2004 drama with a sterling soundtrack, positioning its title character as the ultimate womanizer who may or may not have a heart of gold. It didn’t earn too many positive mentions, but it is a fun film with some strong dramatic moments.

The Double (recommended): This Sundance feature from director Richard Ayoade is a dark but extremely intriguing dystopian tale of an anonymous worker whose exact double enters his life only to wreak havoc on it. Jesse Eisenberg and Mia Wasikowska are just the right brand of off-kilter for the film’s tone, but it’s not as good as the similarly-themed “Enemy” with Jake Gyllenhaal.