Lee Daniels' The Butler

Interesting civil rights history lesson lacks drive as it meanders through a string of oddly cast presidential cameos.  Whitaker winds his through a compelling family drama with a winning Winfrey and outstanding Oyelowo but Gumps his way into the wrong Forrest and gets lost in a dense thicket of history.

World's Greatest Dad

Baumbach-esque tragicomedy analyzes hypocrisy and grief. Williams shines in role reminiscent of his Will Hunting performance. Daryl Sabara matches Williams from what may be the douchiest child role ever. Abrupt ending detracts from otherwise expert script. Poor editing and music cues hurt film, though not as badly as mismarketing did.

Dead Again

Branagh makes sincere effort to be Hitchcock and fails miserably. Tolerable acting unable to save film from countless failed attempts at suspense. Third act plot twist seems clever compared to rest of film. Saving graces include quirky bit performance by Robin Williams and intensely comedic age makeup on Andy Garcia.