As the leaves turn color and autumn comes in to full swing, movies about change and time seem fitting. Up to Date's indie, foreign and documentary Film Critics' recommendations this weekend are filled with laughter, aging and the end of life. So pull on your favorite sweater, buy some popcorn and fall into the season at your local theater.
Steve Walker
"Tea With the Dames," not rated
- This delightful documentary finds British acting royalty Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Joan Plowright, and Eileen Atkins spending a dishy afternoon talking about the ups and downs of their lengthy careers and home lives.
"Thunder Road," not rated
- An accomplished writing and directing debut from Jim Cummings, who also stars as a cop and divorced dad who becomes slightly unhinged after his mother's death but eventually returns to his new normal.
"Colette," R
- Keira Knightley is fierce and steely as the main title character, the celebrated, often scandalous French novelist who eventually wrote under her own name after her husband takes credit for her successful early books.
Cynthia Haines
"Colette," R
- A biographical drama about Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette's rise from self-described French country girl to the talk of Paris at the turn of the 20th century. A vibrant Keira Knightley stars alongside Dominic West's energetic portrayal of Henry Gauthier-Villars.
"Tea With the Dames," not rated
- Four legendary British actresses invite you to join them for tea, gossip and a lot of laughter. Maggie Smith, Judi Dench, Eileen Atkins, and Joan Plowright are familiar faces and longtime friends, 60 years and counting. For the first time, these trailblazers share a screen, and it's a moment you don't want to miss.
"Thunder Road," not rated
- In the midst of his mother's death, a bad divorce, and trying to connect with his young daughter, a man has a brazen mental breakdown. Fluctuating between heartbreaking grief and cringe-worthy comedy, Jim Cummings takes the viewer on a downward-spiraling journey that will leave you strangely inspired.
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