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Kim Hollis: Here’s a quick shot glance at several of the movies I watched during my end-of-2013 binge to get all caught up.

Philomena – I don’t really know what I was expecting from this film, but it’s a lovely little piece of storytelling with a standout performance from Judi Dench. I’ve always thought that the stories of the Magdalene girls were both interesting and terrible, and seeing Philomena’s tale played out on film was certainly a heart-rending experience.

Nebraska – Apparently, I love Alexander Payne. If you asked me to list my favorite directors, I don’t know if he’d immediately pop to mind, but other than Election, which I liked well enough, I have truly enjoyed every single one of his films. Nebraska might be his highest achievement, too. It’s heartfelt and wistful while still being extremely funny. Honestly, for the most part the Best Picture nominees are all solid choices (even Wolf of Wall Street, which is tough to watch).

Blue Jasmine – Controversy notwithstanding, I generally enjoy about every other Woody Allen film. Thus, Blue Jasmine should have been a film I enjoyed, but I really did not. Jasmine is a horrible human being (although likely mentally ill) and while I appreciate that not every movie has to be all hearts and flowers, this was a particularly oppressive viewing experience for me.

Enough Said – I was devastated when James Gandolfini died, but at least we have this gentle performance to remember him by. It’s not at all what you’d expect from him. Julia Louis-Dreyfus is dynamite, too.

Riddick – I mean, it’s Riddick. You should know what you’re getting when you go into the movie, right? There were no surprises whatsoever but it was enjoyable enough, I guess. Pitch Black is still worlds better.

Kick-Ass 2 – I liked the first film even as I had extreme misgivings about it. The sequel was nothing special, and I’ve more or less forgotten most everything about it except for Jim Carrey’s weird performance. Chloe Moretz was a lot more striking in the first movie.

You’re Next – I echo any recommendation of this horror film. I’ve gotten to the point where I don’t watch movies from this genre anymore, but this one is top notch.

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