Elysium
Disappointing science fiction film about a dystopian future earth. Characters are all just cutouts, needed more backstory for them to be sympathetic. The jumpy camera really diminished the effectiveness of the action. Excellent special effects couldn’t overcome the other problems. Too bad. **

The Intimate
Well-acted Korean film about two strangers, one is leaving the country and one is engaged, who have an affair. We’re tantalized by the possibility of their time together becoming permanent, but in the end, the woman gets exactly what she wanted all along. **

Failan
Sentimental and brutal Korean film about a Chinese woman who agrees to an arranged marriage with a man she never sees so she can stay in Korea. Story is really about the husband. Well acted and affecting. **

In the Electric Mist
Bad movie version of the James Lee Burke novel. Excellent cast wasted by mediocre dialogue and clumsy directing. Had the aspect of a made-for-TV movie from the 80s. Waste of time. *