This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.
KANSAS CITY, MO —
FLIGHT (R)
RUSS
Sometimes, the success or failure of a movie is utterly dependent on the performance of its lead actor. Such is the case with the wrenching drama, “Flight.” Fortunately, Denzel Washington is more than up to the task.SHAWN
Yes, Sir. Denzel Washington is money. Perhaps the most complex character the two-time Academy Award winner has brought to life and he does it with razor sharp precision and edgy execution.RUSS
Don’t be deceived by the trailer, however. “Flight” is NOT an “action-packed mystery thriller.” It’s a dark character study of an alcoholic’s battle with booze, drugs and self-deception. Its frank use of nudity, foul language and drug abuse is unique for a big Hollywood production, earning it a hard R rating.SHAWN
Nope it’s not a diaster flick but about a man who’s life is a diaster. First rate cast. Terrific directing. Excellent writing. “Flight” does more than soar. It burns. And Denzel Washington is a man holding a can of gasoline.

RUSS
While it’s overlong and repetitive and occasionally dips into clichés, thanks to Washington’s solid portrayal, “Flight” remains airborne.

SHAWN
“Flight” is one of the best movies of the year.

RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 5 Popcorn Bags

WRECK-IT RALPH (PG)

RUSS
Can you remember the ancient days of the 1980s when video arcade games swept the nation? If so, you may feel downright nostalgic when viewing the new Disney animated flick, “Wreck-It, Ralph.” John C. Reilly provides the voice of Ralph, a destructive video game bad guy, who’d just like to be nice for a change.

SHAWN
“Wreck-It Ralph” is the rare animated feature that will please both kids and adults. It has a truly playful spirit and overflows with originality.

RUSS
It plays a bit like a mash-up of “Toy Story” and “Monsters, Inc.” While it’s no classic, “Wreck-It, Ralph” is zippy enough for the kids while providing a humorous walk down memory lane for Mom and Dad.

SHAWN
“Wreck-It Ralph” really is an infectious blast. This movie has very few glitches.

RUSS: 4 Popcorn Bags
SHAWN: 4 Popcorn Bags

Chinese Take-Away” is comedy from Argentina about a shop owner who reluctantly gets stuck helping a Chinese immigrant. Mira Sorvino and Dermot Mulroney star in a drama about human trafficking called “Trade of Innocents.” “Chicken With Plums” is a French comic fantasy from the makers of “Persepolis.”