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Here is a look at the movies I saw this last week.

Dinner for Schmucks

Starring: Steve Carrell, Paul Rudd, Zach Galifianakis, and Ron Livingston

Synopsis: As a disclaimer, I missed the first 40 minutes of this movie due to an unavoidable circumstance, and when I returned I was worried I'd be lost. Five minutes after returning, those fears disappeared. I had no trouble figuring out what was going on and, after the film I asked my sister if I missed anything. She shrugged and said I saw all the really funny parts. I think I could tell you the same thing if you watched the trailer, and that's the problem with this film. It's a curious situation given that there is so much talent in this cast. I like Rudd and Galifianakis a great deal, and Carrell is a great performer as well. Unfortunately, there is a mean-spiritedness to this film that settles over the top of what should be jokes. There are some quirks that are amusing but not funny, and then there are some droll story elements. The film is far too predictable, and it takes too long to set up the comedic sequences. I had high hopes for "Dinner for Schmucks" given those involved and the scenes from the trailer, but there isn't enough consistent humor for it to be a real break-out hit. This movie is OK, but you can't escape the feeling that all these folks are capable of better.

Rating: PG-13 for sequences of crude and sexual content, some partial nudity and language.

Verdict: Two stars out of four.

The Kids Are All Right

Starring: Mark Ruffalo, Julianne Moore, Annette Benning, Josh Hutcherson, and Mia Wasikowska

Synopsis: I have written about this movie before in terms of outlining the difficult subject matter as it pertains to our faith. I won't rehash that here — if you want the full discussion see last Saturday's entry, "A different shade of normal" — but I will say this film will be a challenge to conservative viewers. It is very liberal in its approach and mindset and tries to normalize a lifestyle that many conservatives will not agree with. The film, from writer-director Lisa Cholodenko, also attempts to offer a look at the difficulties of marriage and raising teenage kids. There are some tender moments that all can identify with, but that is only if you can get past your discomfort with the story construct. The acting is strong and the film is sure to be a strong Best Picture contender. Regardless, this will be one of the most controversial films in contention this year.

Rating: R for strong sexual content, nudity, language and some teen drug and alcohol use.

Verdict: Three stars out of four (for filmmaking quality).

Salt

Starring: Angelina Jolie, Liev Schreiber, and Chiwetel Ejiofor

Synopsis: This is a strong action film. Jolie is a rare performer and the things she brings to a film are unique. I couldn't help but think that watching the way she deftly switched gears during the film. She is good in quiet dramatic or comedic scenes and is equally believable in big-time action sequences. That all works to the benefit of "Salt," which is a spy thriller with twists upon twists. The film isn't hard to follow, and does offer one or two semi-surprises. The story, however, isn't as interesting as it could be and the characters aren't as compelling as they need to be. This film is OK, but can't rise above that level. Perhaps the greatest insult to the audience is the fact that the whole film builds toward a sequel. This is not a movie that needs a sequel. In fact, they would have been better served working on making the story in this film more compelling. Director Philip Noyce ("Patriot Games," "The Bone Collector") has given us some great films, this isn't one of them. The pieces are all there, but they can't get enough out of it. In some ways, "Salt" is the action film version of "Dinner for Schmucks." The cast is great, the idea is intriguing and there are moments that work well, but the whole production is just a bit underwhelming. In that way, it fits in perfectly with what we've seen so far in 2010.

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

Verdict: Two stars out of four.