Capsule reviews for Dec. 15

Anselm

With an innovative visual approach befitting its dynamic subject, this 3D documentary from venerable German filmmaker Wim Wenders (Wings of Desire) is an immersive and compelling deep-dive into the life and work of artist Anselm Kiefer. It combines dramatic reenactments of various episodes in the life of the renowned painter and sculptor notable for pieces that confront and scrutinize elements of Germany’s dark past. That’s where aficionados should really appreciate the film, for the depth of its appreciation and analysis of the massive artwork and its inspiration. The result is deliberately paced and contemplative but also a thought-provoking window into Kiefer’s process and his catalogue. (Not rated, 93 minutes).

Immediate Family

Paying tribute to the often unheralded talent of great session musicians, this rhythmic documentary focuses on four of the best — who happen to play together these days in the titular band. None are household names, but guitarists Danny Kortchmar and Waddy Wachtel, bassist Leland Sklar, and drummer Russ Kunkel helped to write and record some iconic rock and pop songs from the 1970s and 1980s, with artists including James Taylor, Stevie Nicks, Phil Collins, and Don Henley. Affectionate salutes come from those and other luminaries, while director Danny Tedesco (The Wrecking Crew) tracks their longevity and creative processes amid the anonymity that goes with the territory. (Not rated, 102 minutes).

Ruthless

At least the title accurately describes the protagonist in this otherwise predictable vigilante thriller, which squanders a committed lead performance by veteran character actor Dermot Mulroney. He plays a high school wrestling coach grieving his daughter’s tragic death when a female athlete (Melissa Diaz) reports abuse from her mother’s boyfriend (Mauricio Mendoza). Frustrated with the slow investigation, he takes revenge into his own hands, using his own grappling skills to uncover the perpetrator’s sinister motives in the process. Although it deserves credit for not taking things too seriously, the film eventually is derailed by its absurdly incoherent screenplay, especially in the Vegas-set final act. (Rated R, 92 minutes).

The Taste of Things

Although its delectable dishes provide a feast for the eyes — but unfortunately not the stomach — this French period romance is equally nourishing for the brain. In the late 19th century, Eugenie (Juliette Binoche) is a devoted cook in an upscale restaurant under head chef Dodin (Benoit Magimel), who also happens to be her romantic partner. While he wants to get married, she prefers independence. So he tries to persuade her with a new plan — cooking for her, for a change. The screenplay by Vietnamese director Anh Hung Tran (The Scent of Green Papaya) is deliberately paced, yet the chemistry between the actors keeps it simmering. (Not rated, 136 minutes).

The Zone of Interest

The nonchalant approach of this powerful Holocaust drama from director Jonathan Glazer (Sexy Beast) makes the cumulative impact more visceral and horrifying. It’s set at the estate of an Auschwitz commandant (Christian Friedel), who callously operates the incinerators for the concentration camp while living in luxury just outside its walls as his wife (Sandra Huller) hosts tea parties and garden tours. They remain steadfastly committed to the cause even as the Gestapo regime is ambivalent in return. Bolstered by terrific portrayals that shine a new light on Nazi atrocities, the film is meticulously detailed, conveying an appropriate detachment. The audacious result is harrowing and heartbreaking. (Rated R, 106 minutes).