Movies for this week

Cadillac Records
The rise of rock and roll in the 1950’s is documented in this semi-biographical film about Chess Records. Narrated by Willie Dixon (Cedric the Entertainer), the tale of Leonard Chess’ (Adrien Brody) discovery of Muddy Waters (Jeffrey Wright), Chuck Berry (Mos Def), Etta James (Beyonce Knowles) and more are on display in this who’s who of American music history. Well acted by all the major players involved, although a little long in length. Perhaps a good matinee distraction or a rental at a later date. Cadillac Records is rated R.

Punisher: War Zone
Ultra Violence is the theme for antihero Frank Castle, aka Punisher (Ray Stevenson) in this latest graphic novel (comic book) to film adaptation. Tired and discontent with what he’s become Frank decides to retire from the crime fighting business only to be pulled back into the fray for some of the bloodiest battles yet. Basically what the film lacks in good plot and acting, is made up in action and blood. Maybe a rental at a later date. Punisher: War Zone is rated R.

Frost/Nixon
Based on true events after Richard Nixon (Frank Langella) was forced from office, the film looks at British talk-show host David Frost’s (Michael Sheen) now infamous interviews with Nixon in 1977. Retold in a pseudo-documentary fashion director Ron Howard artfully crafts a story showing real depth and insight to what could otherwise be a boring historical look into what many consider a black eye in U.S. History. Strong acting and fun script help this film along as well. Perhaps a good matinee or rental later. Frost/Nixon is rated R.