Capsule reviews for July 29

Attack the Block

The British low-budget monster movie Attack the Block could be this summer’s indie breakthrough hit. It’s a modest sci-fi thriller that achieves the right balance of humor and chills in chronicling the adventures of a handful of London street thugs who turn from the hunters to the hunted after their neighborhood is taken over by vicious aliens. They also have the tables turned by a robbery victim (Jodie Whittaker) who must become an ally. The film by writer-director Joe Cornish is energetic and fun, with a hint of social commentary and an amusing supporting turn by Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead) as a stoner caught in the middle. (Rated R, 88 minutes)

The Future

The latest bizarre comedy from writer-director Miranda July (Me and You and Everyone We Know) has the filmmaker playing a free spirit whose boyfriend (Hamish Linklater) agrees to adopt an injured cat once it is released from the pound. But that incident leads both people to question their place in a romance that is doomed to fail. It’s a surreal and slightly pessimistic look at relationships that leaves an impression once viewers glance underneath the pretentious surface. Eccentric, whimsical, frustrating and audacious, the film sometimes feels like a puzzle. But July does have a powerful voice, even if it’s difficult to figure out what she’s trying to say. (Rated R, 92 minutes)

The Interrupters

Veteran documentary filmmaker Steve James (Hoop Dreams) scores again with The Interrupters, an in-depth look at a year in the life of three “violence interrupters,” each reformed hoodlums who are now trying to stop the same violence they once perpetrated on the streets of Chicago. James does more than simply follow his subjects as they intervene in various incidents. He brings historical perspective to his setting, and chronicles a dangerous cycle of violence that spans generations. Just as we admire the trio for their work, we question whether it will have much long-term impact. So the film is simultaneously uplifting and heartbreaking as a result. (Not rated, 125 minutes)