What do America's first celebrity chef, a poetry biopic and a heavyweight boxing drama have in common? Hint: They are your weekend plans, courtesy of Up To Date's independent, foreign and documentary film critics. With an extra day off from work comes more time to lay low and take in a film — or four! It'll be well worth your while.
Steve Walker
A Quiet Passion, PG-13
- Sharp wit and deep feelings permeate Terence Davies’ intoxicating biopic of Emily Dickinson, played with steely resolve and palpable bitterness by Cynthia Nixon.
Chuck, R
- Committed performances and a solid script elevate this true story about New Jersey boxer Chuck Wepner, who was the inspiration for the Rocky Balboa character before Wepner's downward spiral into crime and cocaine.
Jeremiah Tower: The Last Magnificent, R
- Lydia Tengalia's beautifully executed documentary about the chef considered "the father of American cuisine," who eventually crashed and burned at the famed but maligned Tavern on the Green in New York.
Cynthia Haines
Jeremiah Tower: The Last Magnificent, R
- A film for the foodies. Catch Anthony Bourdain's flavorful documentary about America's first celebrity chef.
A Quiet Passion, PG-13
- This telling biopic about Emily Dickinson paints a portrait of a poetic genius ahead of her time, whose life was woven with intelligence and wit.
Chuck, R
- Former liquor salesman turned pro boxer takes on The Greatest himself, Muhammad Ali. This drama goes far beyond the ring, narrating the trials and tribulations of Chuck Wepner's life, while diving into deeper themes of human resilience and redemption.
Bob Butler
A Quiet Passion, PG-13
- Cynthia Nixon's portrayal of Emily Dickinson weaves the poetry paragon's complexities and convictions into a beautiful, dramatic biopic, by British director Terence Davies.
Chuck, R
- A biographical drama based on the real-life boxing match that inspired the movie Rocky. Liev Schreiber delivers a powerful performance of heavyweight Chuck Wepner, who challenges Muhammad Ali in a contest for the ages.
The Lovers, R
- A tired, lackluster marriage leads to serious affairs by both husband and wife. An honest movie seasoned with humor looks at how, despite infidelity, a couple reignites their spark and finds love again.
