New Release
‘The Fist of the Condor’
An ancient Incan tome containing deadly fighting techniques has remained hidden for ages. But when various martial arts assassins from around the globe seek out the manual, it’s up to a powerful guardian to protect its invaluable knowledge from being stolen.
This film caught me by surprise. On one hand, it resembles an ’80s kung-fu flick, combined with some of the trappings of a Spaghetti Western. But it also features a unique South American flavor that makes it refreshing and sets it apart from the genre’s usual conventions.
Family Pick
In a magical kingdom, princess Elsa (Idina Menzel), who can freeze whatever she touches, distances herself from her sister Anna (Kristen Bell) to protect her. When Elsa unknowingly plunges the entire realm into a perpetual winter, Anna teams up with mountain man Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), his reindeer, and a goofy snowman to find her sister and restore summer.
This great animated family film should appeal to teens and parents, too. It features outstanding animation and themes of self-acceptance and the importance of family.
A Masterful Fantasy
The first movie in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy tells the tale of the young Hobbit Frodo (Elijah Wood), who possesses a magical ring. He teams up with a disparate group of allies and journeys to Mount Doom, where he hopes to destroy the dangerous artifact.
Arguably the greatest adventure ever put to film, the movie features an unparalleled cast, incredible visual effects, a rousing score, and a gripping storyline. The masterpiece brilliantly captures the mythical works of author J.R.R. Tolkien.
One of the Greatest Japanese Dramas
Samurai Taketoki Washizu (Toshiro Mifune) receives a prophecy from a seer that he'll someday become a great lord. But while Taketoki isn’t keen on advancing his career, his scheming wife, Lady Asaji (Isuzu Yamada), spurs him on.
Legendary director Akira Kurosawa’s rendition of Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” combines Eastern and Western elements to create something miraculous.
