The International

It's unfortunate Tykwer couldn't turn the action knob up to "11". The premise accurately portrays how some global finance works, but all of the season's good action sequences ended up in the otherwise offensive "Taken." "The International" is left with one great set piece (which is probably the most transgressive and exciting thing that has been on display in the Guggenheim in quite some time).

Seven Pounds

Will Smith is sincerely trying to demonstrate his good intentions. He still hasn't found the right vehicle.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

I didn't like Forrest Gump the first time, and I still don't like it, backwards.

Valkyrie

After supporting Hitler for more than a dozen years, a group of Nazi aristocrats decide that since the Allies are about to win the war, they should kill Hitler to try to avoid utter defeat.

The Last Lullaby

The hit-man-with-a-heart-of-gold is a cliche second only to the hooker. But this straight noir is a reminder that a cliche became a cliche for a good reason -- and can be re-invented when a filmmaker pays attention to the details, characters and story.

This film, while also dealing with revenge, raises questions a film like Taken doesn't know exist.

Taken (2008)

A
silly movie. Some good action, but a simple plot with a resounding
message: Americans should stay home. The world is a dangerous place.
When threatened, attack with deadly force.

Mostly French
produced, set, written and directed. To paraphrase "The Man Who Fell To
Earth": maybe we're not so different, after all.

Thank you, Mr. Besson.