EntErtainmEnt films LincoLn Director: Steven Spielberg Studio: Participant Media Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn, Tommy Lee Jones QQQQ One of this year’s certain Oscar nominees for Best Movie and Best Actor, Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln is an impressive historical entry into the award season. While the title is a misnomer given the film’s look at slavery as a subject more than the President himself, the work still stands as a powerful reminder of the best and worst in humanity, yet the script never feels heavy-handed. AnnA KAreninA Director: Joe Wright Studio: Focus Features Starring: Jude Law, Keira Knightley QQQQ Leo Tolstoy’s masterwork is brought to life by one of Hollywood’s most underrated directors in Joe Wright. His previous work with Keira Knightley in Atonement was resonant and powerful, and the same can be said of this aristocratic tale that speaks volumes about love, happiness and our search for both. Knightley, in particular, turns in a fantastic performance that stands among her best yet. rise of the GuArdiAns Director: Peter Ramsey Studio: DreamWorks Animation QQ Rise of the Guardians is the latest holiday fare aimed at bringing in the family-based box office returns. Unfortunately, the kitchen sink approach sinks it from the outset. The overwrought story: Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Sandman and the Tooth Fairy work to protect Jack Frost from the Nightmare King. It’s as burdensome as it sounds, and every joke and plot device are quite predictable, removing any real charm or depth to the material. Keep your expectations low. C C CM C M M Ma a g g az a zi i ne n e. .c co o M M