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This week, we feature a drama with excellent acting about a boxer balancing family and career and a heartfelt tale about a boy’s bond with his father.
New Release
‘Laws of Man’
Set against the rugged Nevada deserts, this actioner spins a tale of grit and justice. U.S. marshals Frank Fenton (Jacob Keohane) and Tommy Morton (Jackson Rathbone) are drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse as they track fugitive Benjamin Bonney (Dermot Mulroney), a man whose path is marked by dead bodies.
This crime drama brims with the raw energy of a bygone era, evoking the spirit of 1980s and 1990s action films. With unapologetic swagger, high-octane confrontations, and larger-than-life characters, it’s a fun thrill ride.
Crime | Drama | Thriller
Release Date: Jan. 10, 2025
Director: Phil Blattenberger
Starring: Forrie J. Smith, Dermot Mulroney, Jackson Rathbone
Running Time: 1 hour, 38 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Where to Watch: Theaters
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
Family Pick
‘Boy’
Directed by and starring Taika Waititi, this drama is a heartfelt exploration of childhood and hero worship. Set in New Zealand, the film follows 11-year-old Boy (James Rolleston), whose idolized vision of his absentee father Alamein (Waititi), is upended when Alamein returns.
With a blend of humor and heart, it deftly captures the innocence of youth and the complexities of family bonds. It masterfully balances whimsy with raw emotion, crafting an entertaining coming-of-age tale brimming with charm and sincerity.
Comedy | Drama
Release Date: March 2, 2012
Director: Taika Waititi
Starring: James Rolleston, Te Aho Eketone-Whitu, Taika Waititi
Running time: 1 hour, 27 minutes
Not Rated
Where to Watch: Hoopla, Amazon, Vudu
Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
A Family’s Battle for Redemption
‘The Fighter’
This family drama centers on two brothers pursuing boxing glory while wrestling with their fractured relationship in a tough working-class town. Mark Wahlberg stars as Micky Ward, a boxer determined to break free from the shadow of his troubled, drug-addicted brother Dicky Eklund (Christian Bale), a former fighter turned wannabe trainer.
While Wahlberg grounds the story, Bale, Melissa Leo, and Amy Adams deliver standout performances, authentically portraying a dysfunctional yet fiercely loyal family.
Biography | Drama | Sport
Release Date: Dec. 17, 2010
Director: David O. Russell
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams
Running time: 1 hour, 56 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Where to Watch: Amazon, Vudu, Apple TV
Rated: 3 1/2 stars out of 5
Revenge on the Range
‘Tall Man Riding’
Larry Madden (Randolph Scott) confronts Tuck Ordway (Robert Barrat) for past wrongs and challenges his claim to a ranch. He’ll face obstacles from several people, including Ordway’s daughter Corinna (Dorothy Malone).
Scott’s performance here is uniquely intense, making it a slightly more distinctive B-western. It’s a predictable film at times, but still an enjoyable watch.
Western
Release Date: June 18, 1955
Director: Lesley Selander
Starring: Randolph Scott, Dorothy Malone, Peggie Castle
Running time: 1 hour, 23 minutes
Not Rated
Where to Watch: DVD
Rated: 3 stars out of 5
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