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 Guard (2011)

Brendan Gleeson and Don Cheadle play mismatched buddy cops — a smart Irish Archie Bunker and an affluent American FBI agent — familiar archetypes with new chemistry, and John Michael McDonagh directs with bright colors and even brighter dialogue.

d: John Michael McDonagh | imdb.com | trailer
It hurts. | Street value | Disney World | Gaelic

Iron Man 2 (2010)

The “Iron Man” sequel is a disjointed, entertaining mess — the sort of summer fun “The Dark Knight” could never have. Robert Downey Jr.’s smartass charm wears well, and he is supported by Mickey Rourke (a Russian villain) and Sam Rockwell (a clueless rival).

d: Jon Favreau | imdb.com | trailer | Plane jump
New assistant | Grab a quote | Suitcase suit | Ivan Vanko