Need date night ideas? Read on for this week's lineup of acclaimed movies showing on the big screen in and around Dallas.
Here are the highest rated films to catch, based on critical scores sourced from review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. (Movie descriptions courtesy The Movie Database; showtimes via Fandango.)
Free Solo
Follow Alex Honnold as he becomes the first person to ever free solo climb Yosemite's 3,000 foot high El Capitan wall. With no ropes or safety gear, he completed arguably the greatest feat in rock climbing history.
With a critical approval rating of 97 percent and an audience score of 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, "Free Solo" has gotten stellar reviews since its release on Sept. 28, with a consensus that "'Free Solo' depicts athletic feats that many viewers will find beyond reason - and grounds the attempts in passions that are all but universal."
It's screening at Angelika Film Center & Cafe (5321 E. Mockingbird Lane) through Wednesday, Dec. 12. Click here for showtimes and tickets.It's a Wonderful Life
A holiday favorite for generations. George Bailey has spent his entire life giving to the people of Bedford Falls. All that prevents rich skinflint Mr. Potter from taking over the entire town is George's modest building and loan company. But on Christmas Eve the business's $8,000 is lost and George's troubles begin.
With a 93 percent critical approval rating and an audience score of 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, this vintage film has garnered plenty of praise. The site's critical consensus notes that "The holiday classic to define all holiday classics, 'It's a Wonderful Life' is one of a handful of films worth an annual viewing."
Want to see for yourself? It's playing at Alamo Drafthouse Dallas (1005 S. Lamar St.) on Sunday, Dec. 9. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
The Favourite
In early 18th century England, a frail Queen Anne occupies the throne and her close friend Lady Sarah governs the country in her stead. When a new servant, Abigail, arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah.
With a 93 percent critical approval rating and an audience score of 78 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, "The Favourite" has garnered plenty of praise since its release on Nov. 23. The site's critical consensus indicates that "'The Favourite' sees Yorgos Lanthimos balancing a period setting against rich, timely subtext - and getting roundly stellar performances from his well-chosen stars."
You can catch it at Angelika Film Center & Cafe (5321 E. Mockingbird Lane) through Wednesday, Dec. 12. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
Gremlins
When Billy Peltzer is given a strange yet adorable pet named Gizmo for Christmas, he inadvertently breaks the three important rules of caring for a Mogwai, and unleashes a horde of mischievous gremlins on a small town.
With an 84 percent critical approval rating and an audience score of 78 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, this 1984 release has much to recommend it, with a consensus that reads "Whether you choose to see it as a statement on consumer culture or simply a special effects-heavy popcorn flick, 'Gremlins' is a minor classic."
Catch it on the big screen at Alamo Drafthouse Lake Highlands (6770 Abrams Road) on Tuesday, Dec. 11. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
Creed II
Follows Adonis Creed's life inside and outside of the ring as he deals with new found fame, issues with his family and his continuing quest to become a champion.
With a critical approval rating of 83 percent and an audience score of 88 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, "Creed II" has racked up generally positive reviews since its release on Nov. 21. The site's critical consensus has it that "'Creed II''s adherence to franchise formula adds up to a sequel with few true surprises, but its time-tested generational themes still pack a solid punch."
Catch it on the big screen at Studio Movie Grill NorthWest Highway (10110 Technology Blvd.) through Friday, Dec. 7; UA Galaxy Theatre Stadium 10 (11801 McCree Road) through Wednesday, Dec. 12; and Studio Movie Grill-Dallas (11170 N. Central Expressway) through Friday, Dec. 7. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
