Movie & Television Reviews

Far-fetched and ham-fisted, the grim fantasy “Antebellum” (Lionsgate) is marked by an outlook on timely racial issues that lacks both balance and a humane spirit.

The film is sprawling and picturesque. And, as scripted by Rick Jaffa, Amanda Silver, Lauren Hynek and Elizabeth Martin, it salutes courage, solidarity and devotion to family while also showcasing the conversion of one of its villains.

Director Miranda de Pencier’s drama tells the inspiring true story of a town that suffered the highest suicide rate in North America but found hope through the introduction of a lacrosse program for its teens.

With a commendable sensitivity to both the inanities and the unrelenting raw horror of combat — and careful attention to the emotional lives and steadfast valor of soldiers — “The Outpost” (Screen Media) seems likely to become an instant classic of the war-film genre.