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Born into royalty the kind, gentle, loved, and humane princess Snow White (Kristen Stewart) is locked away in a castle tower while her wicked stepmother, Ravenna (Charlize Theron), wreaks havoc amongst the kingdom. Using black magic to prolong her beauty and power Ravenna has sapped the life of many across the land. But magic has its limits, and, when Snow White stands between Ravenna and immortality the game is afoot. Now an escapee of her tower prison Snow White is sought by The Huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) and the queen’s brother Finn (Sam Spruell). Through the dark woods the Huntsman becomes a protector, meanwhile Finn remains as cruel as ever– but help is nearby as Snow White and The Huntsman are aided by a group of dwarves (Ian McShane, Bob Hoskins, Ray Winstone, Nick Frost, Eddie Marsan, Toby Jones, Johnny Harris, and Brian Gleeson). Still the queen’s wrath grows more fierce with every passing minute, surviving her dark army and returning peace to the land is of the highest importance. But how can the fairest of the fair be done and undone, who will survive, and what of Snow White’s possible prince William (Sam Clafin)? Right off the bat let me be forthright in saying I have not been a fan of Kristen Stewart, Twilight has kind of sucked my soul dry on affection, but wait, what’s this, a non-Twilight role that’s mystical and mythical and you know what, I think I liked it. And, even if I had an issue here or there about Stewart’s chops, Theron’s almost over the top howling evil persona more than makes up for any short comings, fantastic! Meanwhile Hemsworth isn’t really challenged in this role, he’s basically Thor with an axe, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad, he’s just not challenged by the role, that’s all and I bought it. And the dwarves; holy smokes, downright brilliant, if I wasn’t so preoccupied with trying to figure out how human sized actors were crammed into tiny little bodies (CGI and movie magic) I’d say they were nothing short of perfect. Cinematography and all computer graphics felt real and interesting and if ever there was a case for a film to be shot in 3D this is it, surprisingly, the film isn’t in 3D, go figure. James Newton Howard’s masterful score crowns this achievement with a compelling and interesting soundscape to suck the viewer in even deeper. What I’m saying, we’ve got a winner, despite a few snicker points here and there. Snow White and the Huntsman is rated PG-13.

Philippe (François Cluzet), is a well to do, middle aged, French man of culture and taste in need of a caretaker. After interviewing countless candidates for the position, all of whom seem too square or out for money, along comes Driss (Omar Sy), an unsympathetic and brutally honest young man from the projects. A connection is made. Cultural differences and customs clash, yet somehow the two seem to blend together to give what the other needs. But for Philippe, it’s the love of a pen pal from across the country that he yearns for even more. How to make that connection; and, family problems for Driss, sorting will take time and effort. Can the two hold together or will life break them apart? Based on a true story and another winner! Here’s the thing, had this film been done in America instead of France, the film probably would have starred Dustin Hoffman and Will Smith, and probably would have gone over like a lead balloon. Instead writer/directors Oliver Nakache and Eric Toledano give us something so pure, honest, believable, and uplifting despite the circumstances that it’s hard to see things any other way. Solid acting from all parties gives no room to question what we’re seeing; moreover, a compelling story keeps us glued right up till the end giving the audience room to breathe when it’s right, yet gasp for air the next moment. Totally worth your time, The Intouchables is rated R.