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by Mary Morgan is a member of the St. Louis Gateway Film Critics Association.
           In this rather sparse, in-between season for films a few interesting releases can be found for those willing to wade through a pool of mediocrity. The first three selections below are well worth seeing. The fourth is a cute bit of fluff, with some fine talent but with a plot definitely lacking much substance. That is not to say that it isn’t perfect for a pleasant night out with a good friend.
            IN BRUGES (R) A pair of hitmen get assigned to the beautiful, historic Flemish city of Bruges, Belgium, where their mission becomes much more complicated than was originally expected. Criminals Ray (Colin Farrell) and Harry (Brendan Gleeson) may be a bit out of their element in this storybook setting, but that doesn’t deter them from seeing the sights and enjoying the usual tourist attractions. While the two have quite a bloody legacy back in London, they manage to get caught up in the beauty and serenity of this medieval treasure. All is not about beauty; a few local prostitutes, an American dwarf and Chloe (Clemence Poesy), an unlikely love interest for Ray, keep the action flowing while the men await a call from Harry (Ralph Finnes), their boss. And when that call finally comes, the real games begin.
            Martin McDonagh makes his directorial debut in this quirky, action-packed crime drama. An excellent cast and a solid screenplay make his job seem easy. The contrasts are many and the plot is riveting enough to hold the attention of even the most discriminating movie fan. The American tourist scene is one of my favorites. See what you think.
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            PENELOPE (PG) is a fairy tale with all of the important elements for success. A lovely damsel in distress, a handsome prince who can save her, a family curse and a great lesson in life, combine to create a tale of self-discovery and true love. Naturally the curse that must be broken is quite cryptic and it takes a bit of deciphering to get the proper perspective on the problem, but perseverance pays off as Penelope (Christina Ricci) and her “prince,” Max (James McAvoy), work out the details. No wicked step-mother here, but instead Penelope’s socialite mom (Catherine O’Hara) manages to fill the role without being too evil, just self-centered.
            When Penelope decides to break free from her family, her life takes on a new energy and her first, and only, friend, Annie (Reese Witherspoon), holds the key to her freedom. Notable performances turn this fresh, little tale into a must-see for the pre-teen ladies in the viewing area. Chances are they’ll want to see it more than once. And that’s just fine; it’s mild and very kid friendly.
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            CHARLIE BARTLETT (R) Teen angst raises its head once more in this dark comedy about a rich kid, Charlie Bartlett (Anton Yelchin), who just can’t break the social barriers at the public school he’s currently attending. Fortunately Charlie has a natural talent for counseling and takes it upon himself to hang his shingle out for those in need of his services. His insight, wit and charm allow him to break the barrier and become a very unusual “resource” to his school mates as he dishes out both advice and some occasional meds to those in need.
            A fine performance from Robert Downey Jr. as the school principle, Mr. Gardner, adds volumes to the school yearbook. If you’re not bored with hearing about teen problems, give this one a try. It’s different enough to avoid the hackneyed episodes found in most films of the same genre.
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            FOOL’S GOLD (PG-13) A romantic treasure hunt begins back in the 18th century when the dowry of a Spanish queen was lost at sea. Centuries have passed and now the modern-day, soon-to-be-divorced treasure hunting team of Ben “Finn” Finnigan (Matthew McConaughey) and Tess Finnegan (Kate Hudson) decide to bury the hatchet for a few weeks at sea and go after the booty.
            Teaming up with wealthy yacht owner Nigel Honeycutt (Donald Sutherland) and his glamorous daughter, the two manage to combine their nautical and detective skills to go for the gold one more time. But wait, they’re not the only ones who are searching for the loot. Like any good treasure hunt, the “bad guys” want it, too.
            Very good talent, working with a weak script, but they manage to turn out the best product possible under those conditions. Not terrible, just lacking.
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            THE SPIDERWICK CHRONICLES (PG) Spiderwick Estate is a mansion that just screams to be haunted by un-earthly beings. It seems an unlikely dwelling for a family, but the Grace children and their mom will call it home nonetheless. Jared, Simon and Mallory and Mrs. Grace leave New York for the estate once owned by their great uncle, Arthur Spiderwick. But there’s so much more than just the decay and spookiness that initially meets the eye. Strange happenings and frightening creatures surround the gates. There are mysteries to be solved and secrets to be unveiled, and a book penned by Arthur Spiderwick holds the key.
            Based on The Spiderwick Chronicles series of children’s books, this film is packed with peril and may be a bit too scary for the younger set. Middle schoolers and their parents seem to be more comfortable with the para-normal happenings and creature action than the little folks. But be afraid, be very afraid.
            In a stand-out performance young Freddie Highmore takes on the dual role of twin brothers Jared and Simon Grace. And the owner of that spooky voice behind the head troll is none other than Nick Nolte.
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