Friends with Kids (2012)

Writer-director-star Jennifer Westfeldt and best friend Adam Scott make a baby and a romantic comedy behind a false premise — having kids without marriage is easier. Bullshit. No one wants children without a partner. Other than that, it’s pretty funny.

d: Jennifer Westfeldt | imdb.com | trailer

21 Jump Street (2012)

The remake of the 1980s television series splits the difference between complete goof and homage, casting Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum the next generation of undercover high school cops. The whole thing works, with a few cameos from the original series.

d: Phil Lord, Chris Miller | imdb.com | trailer | Angry black captain
You idiots are perfect. | It’s getting very real.

Salmon Fishing in the Yemen (2012)

Adorable Emily Blunt and Ewan McGregor make witty sparing partners — at least by British standards — in what starts out as a harmless romantic comedy. Then the film turns into an overwrought drama about a missing soldier and dead fish.

d: Lasse Hallstrom | imdb.com | trailer | 32-inch waist | Man of faith

Project X (2012)

Three high school kids throw a party without parental supervision because they want to be cool and popular, but it’s never been done like this. From its text-fueled promotion to Nima Nourizadeh’s crude direction, the movie captures the YouTube zeitgeist.

d: Nima Nourizadeh | imdb.com | trailer | There’s the point.
Where have you been? | Evening, officers. | Midget in the oven