I detested "The Hours," both film and book. Pointless.

Last night I rented a film which was good, and hasn't received a lot of PR. It's called "Max," and stars John Cusack. NYT called it one of the best films of the year. I won't say what it's about, so as not to spoil it, but suggest renting it.

Another that no one has heard of and which is equally good: Susan Sarandon in "Safe Passage."