In my return to active duty, I’ve updated the calendar listings (in the boxes on the right), reflecting a very busy month. A quartet of indies are opening locally today:

• ‘Sound of Noise.‘ A superb, boisterous, joyous picture about musicians who make music from found objects. (Texas Theatre.) My review at Twitch. Highly recommended.
• ‘Goon.’ A hockey comedy starring Sean William Scott and Jay Baruchel, the latter of whom co-wrote the screenplay. I’ve read very positive reviews from reviewers I trust. (Texas Theatre.) Not previewed.
• ‘The Lady.’ Michelle Yeoh stars as a real-life Burmese political hero; directed by Luc Besson. Reviews have been generally favorable, though not wildly enthusiastic. (Landmark Magnolia.) Not previewed.
• ‘Monsier Lazhar.’ Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. A substitute teacher helps his students deal with the suicide of their previous instructor, as well as racial prejudice. Reviews have been generally favorable. (Angelika Dallas.) Not previewed.

Opening wide:

• ‘The Pirates! Band of Misfits.’ The newest stop-motion animation from Aardman will delight children, though adults may only be amused. My review at Twitch. Recommended.
• ‘The Raven.’ A serial killer stalks Baltimore in 1849, taking inspiration from the works of Edgar Allan Poe. John Cusack’s best effort cannot save the warmed-over plot. My review at Twitch. Not recommended.
• ‘The Five-Year Engagement.’ Jason Segel and Emily Blunt star in a romantic comedy. Reviews have been mixed to negative. Not previewed.
• ‘Safe.’ Jason Statham stars in an action picture. Reviews have been mixed. Not previewed.