Rescue Dawn

Rescue Dawn (2006) is directed by Werner Herzog, and stars Christian Bale as an American fighter pilot shot down & captured by villagers in Laos. The film is set during the Vietnam War, and is based on a real life story of a German American pilot Dieter Dengler. 'Rescue Dawn' is not an action war movie, but is a moving war drama focusing on internal emotional states of prisoners-of-war struggling to survive in captivity, with plans of escaping. 'Rescue Dawn' was filmed on location in the jungles of Thailand.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0462504/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rescue_Dawn

Mood: War drama
Good Aspects: Werner Herzog film. Christian Bale is cast perfectly in the lead role.

Black Swan

"Black Swan" (2010) is directed by Darren Aronofsky - director of Requiem for a Dream, Pi, The Fountain, The Wrestler-and stars Natalie Portman who won an Oscar for her outstanding performance. The film is a psychological thriller focusing on a ballet dancer Nina who wins the lead in 'Swan Lake', but her life turns to a nightmare as her workaholism and perfectionism leads her down a self destructive path which descends deeper and deeper into darkness. Vincent Cassel stars as the ballet company's artistic director, and Mila Kunis as the understudy to Nina. The film is a masterpiece of filmmaking, showcasing Aronofsky's unique filmic creativity.

Interesting interview with Darren Aronofsky:
http://www.top10films.co.uk/archives/5594

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0947798/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Swan_(film)

Mood: Psychological thriller
Good Aspects: Darren Aronofsky film. A masterpiece of filmmaking.
Worth Noticing: Quite dark.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

"The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (2007) is directed by Andrew Dominik-a New Zealand born Australian director, who also directed "Chopper" (2000). The film stars Brad Pitt as Jesse James the infamous outlaw, and Casey Affleck as Robert Ford. The film is a masterpiece, with beautiful cinematography, lyrical narrative, and though is long at 160 minutes, it doesn't lose its' story or impact. The story focuses on Jesse James, his gang, and Robert Ford-who has idolized Jesse James, but finally turns against him, tempted by the reward offered for Jesse's capture & life. Brad Pitt is cast perfectly in the role of Jesse James, together with a great ensemble cast. Nick Cave makes a cool musical appearance in the film-he also composed the soundtrack with Warren Ellis.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0443680/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Assassination_of_Jesse_James_by_the_Coward_Robert_Ford

Mood: Western with a difference.
Good Aspects: Beautiful cinematography, powerful acting.
Worth Noticing: Violent scenes. Not recommended for children.