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

Beasts of No Nation
Starring: Idris Elba and Abraham Attah
Synopsis: "Beasts of No Nation" has drawn some rave reviews and there's talk of award nominations, particularly for young actor Attah, who carries a lot of this film. It's also an interesting gamble — a movie with loft aspirations that made its debut on NetFlix. Now, the cinema is coming to our home, too. Cary Fukunaga — who brilliantly directed the first season of "True Detective" — writes and directs this film, based on a book, about a child soldier in an unnamed African nation. It's not an easy watch, in fact it's a somewhat brutal film to watch. That's in part because of the good performances from Attah and Elba, who plays a violent and brutal military leader. It isn't a feel good movie or the kind of film you're supposed to be excited about watching. It's one that tells a specific story of a specific  experience of generations of young men in Africa whose lives are being ruined and/or lost. This isn't the first film to tackle this subject, and I think others have done it better. I like Fukunaga's eye as a director, but I wasn't drawn to this story. There are some good performances but overall it's just a mediocre viewing experience.
Rating: R for disturbing graphic war violence, drug use, some nudity, and language including some sexual references--all involving child soldiers. Enter with caution.
Verdict: Two stars out of four.

Bridge of Spies
Starring: Tom Hanks, Mark Rylance, and Amy Ryan
Synopsis: Good things happen when Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg collaborate on a film. The most classic example is “Saving Private Ryan,” a World War II film that is, perhaps, one of the greatest films ever made. The two have collaborated on other projects as well — including “Band of Brothers,” “Catch Me If You Can” and “The Terminal.” But it’s been a decade since they last made a movie together. “Bridge of Spies,” set in the Cold War and based on a true story, is well worth the wait. This is a fascinating docudrama that features great performances and good storytelling techniques. October has been a fantastic month for new movies, and “Bridge of Spies” adds to that list. Since this is based on a true story, those who wish to know the outcome can easily figure it out before the movie concludes. But that’s not the point. The point of this film is journey, not the destination. And that journey is engrossing and beautifully told. Spielberg is one of the greatest directors in American film. He’s created so many iconic films in so many different genres. “Bridge of Spies” feels like the kind of film that will add to that legacy. It’s also a great performance from Hanks. At one time Hanks was the premier actor working in American film, having won two Best Actor awards and being a near perennial nominee. He brings that acting ability and gravitas to this part, turning in a great performance as Donovan and carrying the 141-minute film. He finds a great partner in Rylance, a talented actor who sinks into the role of Abel. Rylance has a great screen presence and does a great job with this role, bringing a touch of humor to the part. This is a fascinating story and it’s well told. It’s a story many might not be familiar with but a great demonstration of holding to the principle of our law and patriotism despite difficult circumstances.
Rating: PG-13 for some violence and brief strong language.
Verdict: Four stars out of four.

Upcoming Releases:

Friday, October 23 — "Steve Jobs," "Jem and the Holograms," "Paranormal Activity: Ghost Dimension," "The Last Witch Hunter," "Burnt," "Rock the Kasbah"

Friday, October 30 — "Our Brand is Crisis," "A Scout's Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse"