Rise of the Planet of the Apes (2011)

In this origin story and second “Planet” redux, scientist James Franco raises an ape with the help of a super drug. During Caesar’s maturation, the film does the near-impossible, humanizing the ape as it displays and elicits real emotions.

d: Rupert Wyatt | imdb.com | trailer | Ape escape | Charlie Rose

Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)

Isla Fisher’s charm can’t save a screwball comedy about an addiction to shopping and credit card debt during the current economic crisis — serious subjects for a serious time. What was intended as light fare comes off as irresponsible.

d: P.J. Hogan | imdb.com | trailer | getting back the mail

Footloose (1984)

Serious execution problems: There isn’t enough dancing, and the music isn’t good enough. Kevin Bacon, the new kid in a town where dancing and rock and roll are banned, needs more dirt under his fingernails. Yet there’s a good idea for a film in there somewhere.

d: Herbert Ross | imdb.com | trailer | “Holding Out for a Hero”