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I haven't gotten around to writing full reviews for any of these, because I've been lazy. But here's a brief summary of the few movies I've bothered to see in theaters in recent months:

Persepolis- 10/10

One of the most deeply moving films I've ever seen. Since Marjane Satrapi co-wrote and directed this adaptation of her graphic novel/memoir, it's not surprising it's extremely faithful to the source material and especially to her drawing style (this film truly looks different from any other animated film out there); and the film brings the material to life in a way that only enhances and deepens the poignancy of the story. But it also has moments of humor and silliness-- the "Eye Of The Tiger" montage is absolutely hilarious-- that balance out the more sorrowful passages. A genuine masterpiece, easily the best animated film since Spirited Away and probably in the top three of all movies I've seen, ever.

The Chronicles Of Narnia: Prince Caspian- 7/10

Less fun than the previous installment, in large part due to the hokey special effects (the CGI near the end is particularly egregious, though describing it in more detail would be a plot spoiler) and the incredibly stiff, wooden performance by Ben Barnes in the title role. Not that any of the women in the audience cared, they were too busy oohing and aahing about how sexy he is. As with The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, the movie is extremely faithful to the source material, apart from dragging out the climactic battle a lot longer and making the Telmarines some sort of Spaniards (never did quite figure that one out). I've seen it twice, and enjoyed it more the second go-round; but it's still a disappointment.

Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull- 8.5/10

Now this is more like it. The notion of a new Indy movie this late in the game, with a creaky Harrison Ford and a story by George Lucas well after he lost any credibility as a writer, seemed ill-advised on paper. But the end result is a worthy tribute to the classic trilogy, and it's sure as hell more fun than Temple Of Doom. Ford hasn't lost a beat, and since the film allows for his age there's an undercurrent of sorrow and regret that works perfectly for his character. But of course, there's also plenty of wisecracking dialogue and action, with the Russians now taking the place of the Nazis as the ridiculously exaggerated cartoon villains (and Cate Blanchett in top form as their sadistic leader). Shia LeBoeuf doesn't embarrass himself, Karen Allen makes a welcome return as Marion, and the whole thing moves along at a snappy pace and doesn't get too bogged down by its silly narrative. I've heard people complain about the degree to which Crystal Skull demands suspension of disbelief, but how is that different from any other Indy film? xp