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Here's a look at the films I saw this week!

Inception

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ellen Page, Michael Caine, Ken Watanabe, Tom Hardy, Marion Cotillard, and Cillian Murphy

Synopsis: Christopher Nolan is probably the most consistently excellent filmmaker working today. He is among a handful of directors — The Coen Brothers, Clint Eastwood, Jason Reitman — that represent the best in the craft. "Inception" is a multi-layered masterpiece that will leave you questioning your perception of reality. It's a high-concept narrative set in the world of the dream, but Nolan always manages to create vibrant characters, which is what endears his films to audiences. While I still think "The Dark Knight" is his best film, "Inception" is right up there. DiCaprio does a great job in the lead role and the supporting cast, as always in Nolan films, is expertly assembled. Gordon-Levitt has done a great deal the past few years to demonstrate his range and talent, and this is another strong step toward that goal. Page has been criticized by many including myself for playing characters that were too similar. With "Inception," she shows range and the quality of her acting skills. This is one of the best films of the year, and one of the most layered. There is a lot to take in as Nolan weaves the dream sequences so deep that it blurs the line between fantasy and reality. The ending, which is purposely open-ended, will leave audiences talking, thinking, and guessing as well. I can't recommend this film strongly enough. It's the kind of film you'll want to see more than once.

Rating: PG-13 for sequences of violence and action throughout.

Verdict: Four stars out of four.

The Sorcerer's Apprentice

Starring: Jay Baruchel, Alfred Molina, and Nicholas Cage

Synopsis: I have often mocked Nicholas Cage's film choices in recent years, quipping that he should be forced to give his Academy Award back. The rare exception has been his work with director Jon Turtletaub. That proves true again with "The Sorcerer's Apprentice." This is the second movie from producer Jerry Bruckheimer released this summer that I was skeptical of before seeing it. But much like "Prince of Persia," the film exceeded my expectations and was entertaining. It's not a great film, but it's a fun summer film. Baruchel has a limited range of parts he can play, but this is in his wheel house. Cage also has fun with the role and seems to fit. The film offers nice homages to "Star Wars" and "Fantasia," among others. It's got comedy, some action, and an easy to follow plot. What more can you expect from a release during the dog days of summer.

Rating: PG for fantasy action violence, some mild rude humor and brief language.

Verdict: Three stars out of four.