3 Movies to Check Out this March

Dead Man Down

Opening: March 8

Dead Man Down marks the English language directorial debut of Niels Arden Oplev, best known to American audiences for his direction of the 2009 Swedish version of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. In this revenge-laced neo-noir, a criminal (Colin Farrell) quietly seeks to enact retribution against the menacing gang leader (Terrence Howard) who ruined his life. Like Dragon Tattoo, the film co-stars Noomi Rapace (otherwise known for Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows) and may become a popular fixture on the Netflix platform following its theatrical release for its appeal as a violent, gloomy meditation on the nature of crime. Regardless of the outcome of that prediction, Dead Man Down proves worthy of at least a consideration as early as this very weekend.

Rated R for violence, language throughout and a scene of sexuality.

Trance

Opening: March 27

Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle returns after a three-year absence from the multiplex with Trance, a seemingly provocative thriller that, like most films present in the director's catalogue, is clearly not for the faint of heart. James McAvoy stars as a painting thief subjugated to hypnotism by a criminal organization after he fails to recall the location of the latest work of art he tries to steal. Co-starring Vincent Cassel (Ocean's Twelve and Thirteen; Black Swan) as the leader of said criminal organization and Rosario Dawson (Unstoppable; Sin City) as a hypnotist, Trance will likely register as a brutal and highly cerebral effort that effectively challenges local audiences and one that you should consider marking on your calendar.

Rated R for sexual content, graphic nudity, violence, some grisly images, and language.

The Place Beyond the Pines

Opening: March 29

Blue Valentine director Derek Cianfrance's The Place Beyond the Pines looks to be a highly ambitious and potent crime drama featuring excellent performances from the likes of Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper. The film's multi-generational plotline concerns expert motorcyclist Luke Glanton (Gosling), who, in an effort to provide his ex-girlfriend (Eva Mendes) and their infant son some form of livelihood, embarks on a dangerous bank robbing spree. Alongside colleagues far less scrupulous, rookie cop Avery Cross (Cooper) follows Glanton's case. With what looks to be outstanding production value and acting across the board, The Place Beyond the Pines could serve as an early contender for 2014 awards season glory.

Rated R for language throughout, some violence, teen drug and alcohol use, and a sexual reference.