• Karate Robo-Zaborgar

Also, Gromozeka!

In this Russian film, three old friends who were in a rock band together are now dealing with middle age in very different ways. Gromozeka is a novelistic endeavor of a movie, with well-rounded characters, exceptional acting, and an involved plot. It’s rich and occasionally surprisingly joyful. Despite a few clichés (yet another middle aged man having an affair with a younger woman who’s tired of messing around?), it’s a neat trick of a movie. PAUL CONSTANT

Also, Karate Robo-Zaborgar!

You know that moment when all of a sudden a toddler becomes aware of his own cuteness and promptly becomes a cloying little asshole? Karate-Robo Zaborgar is on the verge of tipping over into that realm of annoying self-awareness. All the elements for Japanese cinematic greatness are here—a motorcycle that transforms into a robot, a giant woman destroying a city with the help of a unique weapon—but the movie feels like it’s trying too hard to baste in its own awesomeness while still raising an ironic eyebrow at hip viewers. But hell, maybe I’m just jaded; those who are fond of “shut-your-brain-off-and-like-what-they-give-you” movies will probably die of a thousand little orgasms. PAUL CONSTANT

Also, Dance Town!

North Korea is bleak for our protagonist. To splash a little color about, her husband obtains some festive contraband. But, alas, the North Korean government is on to his shenanigans and captures him. The offense? Possession of pornography! Our protagonist must now escape to the veritable piñata of color that is South Korea—a land of opportunity, choices, and porn. But it contains exactly zero affectionate husbands. So which is worse: to sit and watch the most beautiful sunset, alone eternally, or to sit in an oppressive concrete cell with, at least, the company of people who bring you cheer? I keep thinking about this movie, this question. DOMINIC HOLDEN

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