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Here's a look at the new movies I saw this week.

Argo
Starring: Ben Affleck, John Goodman, Alan Arkin, Bryan Cranston, and Victor Garber
Synopsis: Though it’s a small sample size, Ben Affleck has established himself as a first-rate director. Both his previous feature films — “Gone Baby Gone” and “The Town” — secured Academy Award nominations. But if there’s been one question or critique of his films, it’s that he’s stuck close to his roots. Both feature films were set in Boston, an area he knows well. That led to questions about whether he could develop as strong a film set in a world not so familiar. That’s what makes “Argo” an interesting treat. It’s a period piece set in the volatile Middle East — about as far removed from the time period and setting of his previous films as you can get. Yet it’s equally as good, perhaps better, showing that Affleck the director could be a force for years to come. “Argo” is based on an incredible true story. It follows the story of six U.S. diplomats who escaped just before the Iranian embassy was captured, and the heroic lengths many went to just to ensure they got home safely. Most are familiar with the Iran hostage crisis, but this particular part of the story was classified for years, before being unclassified by President Bill Clinton. As the story came out, it proved to be something perfect for the movies. “Argo” is a fascinating true-life story. It’s got drama, intrigue, action, and some comedy to lighten the tone in parts. It’s bolstered by strong performances and some top-notch direction. The film is based on an article from Joshuah Bearman and a script from Chris Terrio. For Terrio, it marks his first feature film script. He does a good job of laying out the characters, the story, and setting the stakes of the mission. Affleck, as a director, does a good job of creating the world. The film dives right into the period — even splicing in real news footage where appropriate — to give an audience a sense of the scene and the tension of the moment. The film is also a fascinating study of the behind the scenes work that went into getting these six people home alive. “Argo” features good performances as well. Affleck, in the lead role, anchors the film, but it’s bolstered by a strong supporting cast. Cranston does a good job as the CIA chief overseeing the operation, while Goodman and Arkin have fun in their roles helping pull off the cover story. There are also fun supporting performances from a variety of actors in smaller roles, such as Kyle Chandler as White House Chief of Staff Hamilton Jordan. “Argo” has been buzzed about as a possible award contender, and for good reason. It’s a solid, entertaining, and engrossing film. Affleck delivers another gem as a director, showcasing his range as a storyteller while illuminating an interesting bit of history.
Rating: R for language and some violent images. Enter with caution.
Verdict: Four stars out of four.

Here Comes The Boom
Starring: Kevin James, Henry Winkler, Selma Hayek, Greg German, and Bas Rutten
Synopsis: By now, we know basically what to expect from a Kevin James film. James is an excellent comedian who's not afraid of embracing self-depricating material. Though the context of his stories change, the fact he's playing a loveable shlub stays the same. That's true with "Here Comes The Boom," which derives its title from a POD song that James' character uses to pump himself up before fights. The plot is simple. James is a teacher at a school where funding is an issue. I guess that just means he's a teaching in America in 2012. His friend and fellow teacher, played by Winkler, risks losing his job as a music teacher due to budget cuts. Reluctantly, James' character decides to do something about it — partly to help his friend, partly to piss off the principal, and partly to impress the school nurse, played by Hayek. Unable to come up with any better ideas, James' character decides to fight in mixed martial arts (MMA). This doesn't seem totally believable, but it doesn't seem totally crazy either. In terms of plot, anyone who has seen more that three movies in their life can guess where this one is going. It's not about that. It's about the fun of the ride — and with James and Winkler forming an unlikely comedy duo, this ride is a lot of fun. James is a likeable lead in these type of films, and he brings all his best assets and charms to this film. Again, it's not deep and it's fairly predictable, but it's also enjoyable. While "Won't Back Down" tackled the problems of the educational system in a realistic way, this one uses that truth as a plot point to dive into a comedy story. It works, and it still sheds a little light on the idea that if we don't change our values and priorities as a society, our schools are going to get much worse.
Rating: PG for bouts of MMA sports violence, some rude humor and language.
Verdict: Three stars out of four.

Upcoming Releases:

Friday, Oct. 19 — "Alex Cross," "Paranormal Activity 4"
Friday, Oct. 26 — "Cloud Atlas," "Chasing Mavericks," "Silent Hill: Revelation 3D," "Fun Size"