1
The Crime Of Monsieur Lange
(Siskel, opens January 12)
The only good reason this warm, rollicking, if murderous political comedy is one of Jean Renoir’s lesser-known movies is that it’s been out of circulation for years. A savory 4K restoration will put it up there with any Renoir considered his best.
2
Phantom Thread
Paul Thomas Anderson’s serenely sensual sub-dom stare-down rom-com is generous, wicked and tailored with surprise after surprise. Another all-American original.
3
Happy End
(Landmark Century, opens January 5)
It’s Michael Haneke’s indiscreet, harm-of-the-bourgeoisie apocalypse, we just live in it.
4
Porto
(Music Box, opens January 19)
Jake meets Mati, in the picturesque Porto, Portugal, Gabe Klinger’s first fiction feature.
5
Stranger Than Fiction
(Siskel)
The winter selection of the world doc crop includes fest favorites “Beuys,” “42 Grams,” “No Dress Code Required,” “Tokyo Idols” and “Shadowman.”