Her

Reborn Phoenix proves he can still play an empathetic everyman.  Jonze delivers another soft sci-fi with cinematic brilliance and deep philosophical conjecture.  Adams, Wilde and Rooney are brilliantly quirky/real, but the added sound of Scarlett gives the movie color, leaving Joaquin and us wondering what Her would be without her.

Adaptation.

Writing fifty words about Adaptation.  Could be difficult.  Would have to be introspective and witty.  Cleverly self-referential perhaps.  Can’t employ Kaufman’s witty plot-structure.  Must handle subjective abstract concept in concrete form.  But that would be a boring review indeed.  No.  Brilliant editing! Ingeniously crafted!  Streep, Cooper, Cage and especially Cage!

Moneyball

Pitt delivers another expectedly good performance in least sporty sports movie ever. Jonah peaks over the comedic hill, revisiting Evan Alrighty. A quick clever movie that actually says very little, very simply and slowly. Sorkin and Zaillan’s writing again make uninteresting premises into compelling stories, and competent leads cement quality.

Three Kings

Brilliantly comedic serious film beginning with disclaimer that stylistic decisions were intentional. Shifts tone perfectly as Clooney, Wahlberg, and random supporting cast realize gravity of their situation. Sends great message amidst laughs galore. All around excellence helped by Jamie Kennedy, Adaptation’s director, Ice Cube, and two hidden Arrested Development stars.