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Based on the iconic Kerouac book by the same name, the beginnings of the beat movement are outlined and personified. Told in a drug-induced stream of conscious blur with poetic detail, the relationship between Sal Paradise/Kerouac (Sam Riley) and Dean Moriarty/Cassady (Garrett Hedlund) is at the forefront. But so are the other key players, William S. Burroughs (Viggo Mortensen), Ginsberg (Tom Sturridge), LuAnne Henderson (Kristen Stewart), and Carolyn Cassady (Kirsten Dunst). Directed by Walter Salles, this love letter to Kerouac could only stand to be bested if someone was to tap Tom Waits (perhaps the last great beat poet) for narration purposes. Alas, this is not the case; but none the less, this film exists and serves as an inspiration and a gateway to the world of Kerouac for the fans and newcomers alike. From the music that inspired, to the events and people who helped shape and provide form to his work, fans of the author will no doubt smile at the absurdity but fantastic nature of it all. Worth your time through and through, On the Road is rated R, because it’s awesome.

Spring break for Faith, Candy, Brit, and Cotty (Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Benson, and Rachel Korine) was supposed to be a chance to get away from the stress of rules, school, life, and the norm. But to make their dreams come true, the four beauties will reveal just how ugly they can be– fueling the fire is Alien (James Franco), a rapper/gangster/drug dealer living in Florida. Combined, Alien and the girls will search their souls, find their own truths, and make their own paths in life; but their self-discovery could have severe impacts. By far his most accessible film to date, writer/director Harmony Korine’s love for the seedy, the derelict, and the destitute is evident and omnipresent. Meanwhile, Korine’s juxtaposition of dialogue to visuals is ironic and poignant as ever, making for a sharp, grating message, almost guaranteed to leave you a little queasy all the while poking the idea of spring break in the eye, and probably causing a sty. The acting here is solid, the visuals are interesting, just know that this could be a tough watch for the weak of stomach. Worth your attention in some form, Spring Breakers is rated R, and remember to bring your antibiotics.

Growing up in London, two best friends since birth, Ginger and Rosa (Elle Fanning and Alice Englert), challenge their love for each other in light of the cold war and the Cuban Missile crisis; but, it’s the yearning for love from boys, men, and fathers that will contort them both more than anything else. How to maintain a friendship while growing up so fast? Written and directed by Sally Potter, the film moves at a difficult pace, spreading out in many directions but often not staying on one course long enough to add enough meat. Regardless, acting from the ensemble is stout all round, that includes performances from Annette Bening, Christina Hendricks, and Alessandro Nivola. Drama heavy this wont be everyone’s cup of tea, but still earns respect. Maybe a matinee, Ginger & Rosa is rated PG-13.