Want to get real? Read on for this week's lineup of dramas showing on the big screen in and around Santa Ana.
Here are the best drama films to catch in theaters, based on critical scores sourced from review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. (Movie descriptions courtesy The Movie Database; showtimes via Fandango.)
Can You Ever Forgive Me?
When bestselling celebrity biographer Lee Israel is no longer able to get published because she has fallen out of step with current tastes, she turns her art form to deception, abetted by her loyal friend Jack.
Boasting a critical approval rating of 98 percent and an audience score of 85 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, "Can You Ever Forgive Me?" has been a must-watch since its release on October 19. The site's critical consensus has it that "deftly directed and laced with dark wit, 'Can You Ever Forgive Me?' proves a compelling showcase for deeply affecting work from Richard E. Grant and Melissa McCarthy."
You can catch it at Regency South Coast Village (1561 W. Sunflower Ave.) through Thursday, Dec. 6. 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 an 83 percent critical approval rating and an audience score of 85 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, "Creed II" has been getting attention since its release on November 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."
Get a piece of the action at Picture Show at Main Place Mall (2800 N. Main St.) through Friday, Dec. 7. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
Boy Erased
Jared, the son of a Baptist pastor in a small American town, is outed to his parents at age 19. Jared is faced with an ultimatum: attend a gay conversion therapy program – or be permanently exiled and shunned by his family, friends and faith.
With a critical approval rating of 81 percent and an audience score of 78 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, "Boy Erased" has been getting attention since its release on November 16.
The site's critical consensus notes that "anchored in empathy by writer-director-star Joel Edgerton, 'Boy Erased' proves the road to complex, powerfully performed drama can also be paved with good intentions."
In the mood for popcorn? It's playing at Regency South Coast Village (1561 W. Sunflower Ave.) through Friday, Dec. 7. Click here for showtimes and tickets.
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