The Last Mimzy (2007)

Children's Sci-Fi - Two children find unusual items on a secluded beach in Washington and are led to the metaphysical. The artifacts contain highly advanced intelligence from a future generation of alien-like humans. Sent to earth to find a missing link to solve their problems. Fun acting and fine photography, the story moves quickly though it is not always clear what is happening. 90 min.

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee (2007)

Drama - based on the novel of the same name - tells the story of a Sioux tribe led by Sitting Bull and their resistance to being put on reservations. The hero of the story is a young Sioux warrior who is persuaded to adopt white ways thereby eventually achieving a medical education and marrying a white woman. Fine performances all around and a vivid historical look at governmental mistreatment of the red man. 132 min.

A Scanner Darkly (2006)

Animation - based on psychological novel by Phillip K. Dick. Undercover drug agent (Keanu Reeves) accidentally becomes addicted to "Substance D" while spying on his own drug infested household and friends. Many complications arise as he falls in love with female drug dealer (Winona Ryder) and wrestles with himself when collecting evidence to convict his buddies. Unusual film with very in depth dialog (drug paranoia) and convincingly drawn cartoon characters. Also starring Robert Downey and Woody Harrelson. 100 min.

Punch-Drunk Love (2002)

Rom-Com, Awkwardly shy and somewhat neurotic small business owner (Adam Sandler) struggles to create a romance with a delightful girl (Emily Watson). Unusual story has some really fun moments. 95 min.

Wonder Boys (2000)

Dark Comedy - University professor goes through a cloudy and unsuccessful period in wake of his first novel. Bizarre circumstances include his falling deeply in love with the head of the English Department's wife (Frances McDormand), and dangerous intimacies with two of his students. Michael Douglas is perfect as the aging professor. Cast also includes Tobey Maguire and Robert Downey. Clever clever tale. 112 min.

Tropic Thunder (2008)

War comedy (funny!!) with over the top performances by Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., Jack Black, Nick Nolte, and others. Wonderful satire on all great war films (Bridge Over River Kwai, Rambo, Apocalypse Now). Photography and special effects truly impressive. 107 min.

The Truth About Cats and Dogs (1996)

Rom/Com - Female veterinarian with a radio show falls for a guy caller but is not confident to form a relationship. A girl friend offers to help but it mistakenly turns into an awkward love triangle. Fun with a message. And some nice performances. 97 min.

A Fish Called Wanda (1988)

Comedy - entertaining mix of British and American humor. Four thieves plan a bank robbery in London and succeed (almost). One of the four is captured. The remaining three struggle to find out where the captive one hid the loot. Plenty of double crossing and malintent as greed takes over. Jamie Lee Curtis plays a charming seductress and Kevin Kline is a violent-loving fool. Many many fun moments. 112 min.

Persepolis (2007)

Animation (French) by Iranian author Marjane Satrapi - serious cartoon version of life in Iran under Khomeni. Follows a young girl's escape from the Iranian revolution and her adjustments to school life in Europe, and finally her return to her home country. Sometimes comical but often dark, packed with messages. Nearly 2 hours.