“Red”
A retired group of spies led by Bruce Willis gets back together after an assassination attempt.
The action scenes are solid and the pedigree of the cast, which includes Helen Mirren, John Malkovich and Morgan Freeman, elevates “Red” from a 21st century gang who couldn’t shoot straight to a smart and fun action film.
Even a dud of a performance by Mary-Louise Parker as a fussy civilian can’t keep this film from being a mindless good time.
Grade: B
“Secretariat”
This is less a story about the Triple Crown winner and more about the determined woman who believed in the horse.
Diane Lane turns in a first-rate performance in this story of determination, family, sexual bias, hope, second chances and strength set against a sports backdrop.
Grade: B
“Nowhere Boy”
Director Sam Taylor-Wood’s look at the early life of John Lennon is entertaining for Beatles fans. But it’s the strong story about wanting that gives it a universal appeal.
Aaron Johnson turns in a solid performance as the lad from Liverpool, especially in scenes with the two women who had the most influence on Lennon when he was 15: his mother and the aunt who raised him.
Grade: B
Also new
“Glee: Season 2, Volume 1”: Features the work of Golden Globe winners Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch.
“The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest”: Third part of the series starring Noomi Rapace.
“Saw: The Final Chapter”: The long-running horror series dishes up a final serving of blood.
“The Traveler”: A mysterious stranger (Val Kilmer) is trouble for six deputies.
“American Experience: Robert E. Lee”: The documentary examines the life and reputation of Robert E. Lee.
“Zorro: The Complete Series”: Duncan Regehr stars in the cable series that aired 1990-93.
Rick Bentley, The Fresno Bee (Fresno, Calif.)
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
