Django Unchained (2012)

Quentin Tarantino does what “Lincoln” can’t — blow up the damn plantation himself. An emancipated Jamie Foxx brings the explosives in an (important) slavery revenge fantasy and spaghetti western, while Samuel Jackson is stunning as an Uncle Tom.

d: Quentin Tarantino | imdb.com | trailer | Charlie Rose
I’m curious ... | I’m getting dirty. | You scaring me.

Flight (2012)

The opening sequence plane crash is thrilling and Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle and John Goodman elevate the material, but too much of the film feels like a movie of the week about alcoholism. Plus, all the talk about religion and miracles gets old.

d: Robert Zemeckis | imdb.com | trailer
Uncontrolled dive | Harling visits Whip | Life in prison

The Blues Brothers (1980)

John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd reprise their “Saturday Night Live” characters, two white boys playing the blues on a mission from God in a musical action-comedy. But the highlights are performed by James Brown, Ray Charles and especially Aretha Franklin.

d: John Landis | imdb.com | trailer

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Christopher Nolan’s third Batman movie is forgettable entertainment that keeps going for 2 hours, 44 minutes. Christian Bale’s Batman voice and villain Tom Hardy (Bane) are nearly inaudible. As Catwoman, Anne Hathaway is no Michelle Pfeiffer.

d: Christopher Nolan | imdb.com | trailer

Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

Director Wes Anderson crafts a first love story (with newcomers Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward) so specific yet as universal as the blush of a first kiss. Back with Anderson are Bill Murray and Jason Schwartzman, who lead an All-Star supporting cast.

d: Wes Anderson | imdb.com | trailer | Were you followed?
Jiminy Cricket | Loaded question | The Most Important Decision ...

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