The Road

— “The Road” was a very interesting look at a father trying to preserve an outmoded sense of right and wrong while moving among the few survivors of a cataclysmic event. Vigo Mortensen's performance is outstanding. A rather bleak tale, but then again, what else would we expect from Cormac McCarthy. Oddly, some of the images are also very beautiful in a world with no sun and very little color.

---

[2009. 111 min. Directed John Hillcoat. Starring Viggo Mortensen, Charlize Theron, and Kodi Smit-McPhee.]

The Messenger

— “The Messenger” is certainly not uplifting and nothing like Vietnam era films, but did a great job. The first half dragged for me and I certainly was happy to make it through the first hour and move into less subtle plot development. Great acting.

---

[2009. 113 min. Directed Oren Moverman. Starring Ben Foster, Samantha Morton, and Woody Harrelson.]

Invictus

— Clint never disappoints me, rousing some part of me that needs to be touched every now and then so I know that forgiveness and reconciliation really are possible, and not just on a personal for on a group level. “Invictus” is also a good look at leadership done right, and a reminder not to strive for tolerance when acceptance is possible.

---

[2009. 134 min. Directed Clint Eastwood. Starring Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon, and Tony Kgoroge.]

An Education

— "An Education" is a touching first love story with great acting. There's really nothing like inexperience to drive a plot!

---

[2009. 100 min. Directed Lone Scherfig. Starring Carey Mulligan, Peter Sarsgaard, and Alfred Molina.]