This week at the movies: A track-and-field legend heads to the 1936 Olympics in Berlin despite severe racial discrimination and hardship; a historical Roman military leader embarks on a quest for answers following the death of the rumored Messiah; and extreme hysteria and paranoia surrounding witchcraft in 17th century New England ensnares a farmer’s close-knit family.
Race
Based on a true story, Race follows the journey of track-and-field superstar Jesse Owens (Stephan James) as he prepares to compete in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Not only must Jesse overcome his competition and fight to become an Olympic champion, but he also must do it against Adolf Hitler’s fascist agenda of Aryan supremacy. Jason Sudeikis (who plays Owens’ track coach), William Hurt, and Jeremy Irons also star in this inspiring film.
Perfect for: Fans of sports-films, true underdog stories, and movies about racial and social injustice.
What the Critics Say: Dramatic and uplifting. USA Todaywas particularly positive, stating: “… At a time when the Oscars and movies, in general, struggle with finding racial balance, two guys of different skin colors coming together for some sports-movie magic is a fitting and truly welcoming lapping of the competition.” The Verge’s review is also positive overall, but asserts that the movie’s underlying message should have been more forthright: “But for all its powerful moments and daring simply in bringing another black hero's story to the screen, Race could stand to be rougher around the edges, and more confrontational in its message. It's a polite form of history that makes pretty pictures out of an ugly situation.”
Our Take: Jesse Owens was an incredibly inspirational athlete and individual, and we are excited see his story translated to the big screen – definitely a good one to see.
Risen
Roman military tribune Clavius (Joseph Fiennes) remains set in his ways after serving 25 years in the army. He arrives at a crossroad when he's tasked to investigate the mystery of what happened to Jesus (Cliff Curtis) following the Crucifixion. Accompanied by trusted aide Lucius (Tom Felton), his quest to disprove rumors of a risen Messiah makes him question his own beliefs and spirituality. As his journey takes him to places never dreamed of, Clavius discovers the truth that he's been seeking.
Perfect for: Those interested in Biblical history and the Roman Empire.
What the Critics Say: Although the Biblical events in Risen have been depicted before in many other films, the critics claim that this one stands out from the others due to the filmmaker’s different approach. Says the News Tribune: “… Writer-director Kevin Reynolds has succeeded in presenting the event from an intriguing and unconventional perspective… With intelligence and great move-making skill he has created a classic variation on a venerated ancient theme.” The Detroit Free Press adds: “It’s best to keep in mind that this isn’t a direct telling of events in the Bible. Risen uses the Bible as a basis for a story about finding faith. As long as you look at the movie from that perspective, it will accomplish its purpose of creating dialogue about being a believer.”
Our Take: The film’s different angle and perspective on the Resurrection story is unique, and gives off an educational, thought-provoking vibe – we think it could be really interesting to see.
The Witch
In 1630 New England, panic and despair envelops a farmer (Ralph Ineson), his wife (Kate Dickie) and four of their children when his youngest son, Samuel, suddenly vanishes. The family blames Thomasin (Anya Taylor-Joy), the oldest daughter who was watching the boy at the time of his disappearance. With suspicion and paranoia mounting, twin siblings Mercy (Ellie Grainger) and Jonas (Lucas Dawson) suspect Thomasin of witchcraft, testing the clan's faith, loyalty and love to one another.
Perfect for: Ever study the Salem Witch Trials in school and feel sort of intrigued? Then you’d probably be interested in this creepy flick, which will also likely please the horror movie fans out there.
What the Critics Say: Part horror, part thriller, and part suspense, this movie is disturbing yet intensely fascinating. Time Magazine applauds the director, Robert Eggers, and his efforts to make the film harrowingly spooky: “Although Eggers is extremely discreet – the things you don’t see are more horrifying than those you do – the picture’s relentlessness sometimes feels like torment… some of the creepiest things in it are also the most seemingly benign…” Variety agrees that the taunting tone behind The Witch is captivating: “With its formal, stylized diction and austere approach to genre, this accomplished feat of low-budget period filmmaking will have to work considerable marketing magic to translate appreciative reviews into specialty box-office success, but clearly marks Eggers as a storyteller of unusual rigor and ambition.”
Our Take: Sounds splendidly scary – we already have goosebumps.
