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

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