Friday’s openings: War and love, oil and aging

Note: This post was edited to include a third opening film at the Magic Lantern.

Back in Spokane after an eight-day trek around Iceland, where I learned to say Eyjafjallakötull more or less correctly (thanks to the many t-shirts and refrigerator magnets providing pronunciation guides). Now, back to the business of what's opening at local theaters, which this week includes everything from World War II to the joys of aging with style.

First, at the mainstream theaters:

"Fury": The crew of an American Sherman tank faces down German resistance during the final months of World War II. Wow, never heard that story before.

"Book of Life" (3D and regular): This CGI production follows the story of Manolo (voiced by Diego Luna) as he fights to get back to the woman he loves. Family time.

"Men, Women & Children": Characters of all ages (played by a cast including, of all actors, Adam Sandler) have to deal with how social media have affected their lives and relationships. Hint: Things don't go well.

"Best of Me": A rekindled love affair leads to trouble for all involved. Two words: Nicholas Sparks.

And at the Magic Lantern:

"Pump": A documentary about America's addiction to oil. Think maybe it has something to do with corporate profits?

"Advanced Style": A documentary exploring the lives of seven New Yorkers and their respective ways of dealing with aging. Substitute "flair" for "style" and you know what to expect.

"Soul of a Banquet": A documentary on Celia Chiang, the woman who, in 1961, introduced authentic Mandarin dishes to the U.S. Chances are, after watching, an hour later you'll want to watch again.

And, finally, a second Spokane run of "The Skeleton Twins."

So go see a movie. And enjoy.