KANSAS CITY, Mo — New movies are available to watch at home. Watch the video above to hear from the FOX 4 film critics and find out which films are worth checking out.
- SELMA (PG-13)
Paramount
RUSS
Who knew that a movie about events that took place in 1965 could be this timely? The incidents leading up to the famous civil rights march from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama provide the backdrop for the sincere and thoughtful drama, “Selma.”
SHAWN
Hard to believe this is the first feature film ever about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and it’s brilliant. A perfect balance of the politics of protesting and the life of King behind closed doors. Fascinating. Intriguing. Emotionally draining. All directed with skill by Ava DuVernay who did a tremendous job of humanizing Martin Luther King all while not letting the magnitude of the Civil Rights Movement not crush the movies’ indy vibe.
RUSS
The racism that characterized the time and place is depicted in all it’s ugliness, but the film’s overall impact is one of hope. “Selma” is a fitting tribute to those who marched and proves to be a potent reminder of how far we still have to go.
SHAWN
David Oweyello who plays Dr. King is a revelation. A big broad performance when it had to be and small and honestly open during the more intimate scenes. Every aspect of “Selma” rings with authenticity. A film for the ages that deserved more recognition than it received. The DVD is loaded with extras including riveting commentary from director Ava DuVarney and historical reels.
RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 5 Popcorn Bags
2. BLACK OR WHITE (PG-13)
Relativity Media
RUSS
Oscar winners Kevin Costner and Octavia Spencer battle one another over custody of their granddaughter in the well-meaning but only modestly effective drama “Black or White.”
SHAWN
Somewhere there is a great story hidden under this movie’s cheap attempt to stir up emotion. Talk about playing the race card. And the filmmakers even cheated at that. Nothing new is discussed in this lazy and misguided attempt to examine race relations in America.
RUSS
This well-acted film valiantly attempts to forward the discussion of race relations, but it never quite seems credible and occasionally descends into awkward melodrama. Chalk it up as a near miss.
SHAWN
It’s too bad that “Black or White” misses the mark. The premise is really interesting but so poorly executed you really don’t care.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 3 Popcorn Bags
- MR. TURNER (R)
Sony Pictures Classics
RUSS
Timothy Spall is terrific in “Mr. Turner,” a biopic about the famous and controversial British landscape painter from the 1800s, J.M.W. Turner. While the film is very slow moving and austere, Spall’s performance and the lovingly detailed production values make “Mr. Turner” a must-see for art lovers.
SHAWN
Timothy Spall is a joy to watch in this expertly made film. It’s pace is its detriment but it’s so fascinating it deserves an audience. Not much in the extras department but “Mr. Turner” is a really solid film.
RUSS: 3 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags
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