Capsule reviews for April 8

Havana Motor Club

Classic-car aficionados will best appreciate this breezy documentary that showcases the changes in contemporary Cuba through the eyes of some gearheads trying to stage the first sanctioned drag race in Havana since the Revolution in 1959. Much has changed in the country during the 50-plus years since such practices were outlawed, in terms of muscle cars and the fast-and-furious drivers whose activities have been relegated to an underground subculture until now. Both are explored by director Bent-Jorgen Perlmutt, who sometimes pays more attention to the characters on four wheels than those on two feet. Still, the result offers a rare and insightful glimpse into Cuban culture. (Not rated, 84 minutes).

Louder Than Bombs

A sharply observed if uneven examination of grief and healing, this character-driven drama chronicles the effects of the death of a famed war photographer (Isabelle Huppert) on her family, straining an already fragile relationship between her actor husband (Gabriel Byrne) and two sons — a college professor (Jesse Eisenberg) and a socially awkward teenager (Devin Druid) who struggle to comfort one another. Although it stretches credibility, the screenplay co-written by Danish director Joachim Trier (Reprise) offers a compelling look at fractured family dynamics and coping mechanisms without settling for conventional catharsis. It’s bolstered by strong performances from a cast that includes Amy Ryan and David Straithairn. (Rated R, 109 minutes).

Mr. Right

Contrary to its title, this derivative romantic comedy gets it wrong with its story of an eccentric hitman (Sam Rockwell) trying to go straight and a vulnerable woman (Anna Kendrick) suffering a nervous breakdown. At first, he conceals his identity to protect their relationship, but once a corrupt cop (Tim Roth) and a criminal cartel begin chasing him, she’s thrown into the action. The goofy charm in the script by Max Landis (American Ultra) is compromised by a reliance on quirks and a passive female lead. The concept requires an outrageous suspension of disbelief, and considering the inconsistency of the laughs, it’s hardly worth the effort. (Rated R, 95 minutes).