The Beguiled

A startling amount of subtle comedy accompanies Colin into the cloistered Confederacy of Dunst’s, where her vampire character has finally grown up but Kidman still treats her wards as others. Simple cinematography and luxurious location add gravitas to an otherwise over-simplified and somewhat soap-operatic look at uncivil love and war.

Live by Night

Affleck’s Godfather doesn’t own the night in a film roughly as lively as a prohibition documentary. His wooden performance blends in perfectly with the muted Gray color palette and similarly sedated supporting stars. Interesting story, crisp dialog and bloody Tampans leave hope that Ben’s directorial success isn’t gone baby gone.

The Neon Demon

Refn’s starry-eyed lady-Drive warrants forgiveness for failed followup. Sequin sequences periodically punctuate a story that begs comparison in content and style to Ellis’ Glitterama. Decadent cinematography and superbly surreal performances make this alien film stand out in smoggy sky. Cautions against dangers of self-absorption, like monogramming NWR under the title.