Five Indie Films To See Before 'The Hobbit' And 'Les Misérables' Take Over Theaters

By Justine Ashley Costanza | December 07 2012 3:18 PM

Photo: IFC

Cheerful Weather For The Wedding

Fans of "Downton Abbey" will enjoy this colorful period romance from up and coming director Donald Rice. Based on the 1932 novel by Julia Strachey, the film centers on Dolly (Felicity Jones), a young bride who attempts to bury memories of the passionate relationship she once shared with Joseph (Luke Treadaway), who also happens to be a guest at her wedding, as she prepares to marry another man.

Photo: Focus Features

Hyde Park on Hudson

Few historical figures are more fascinating that President Franklin D. Roosevelt and any film that offers a glimpse into his life is bound to be intriguing. Though "Hyde Park on the Hudson" has been met with mixed reviews, Bill Murray's fresh interpretation of FDR should make the film worth seeing. Set in June 1939, the film focuses on a busy weekend at Roosevelt's home in which he must play host to the King and Queen of England as they discuss the possibility of a war with Germany.

Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films

Waiting for Lightning

The critically acclaimed documentary "Waiting for Lightning" chronicles the remarkable story of Danny Way, who went from growing up in meager circumstances to becoming one of the most well-known skateboarders in the world. The film follows Way as he grapples with personal difficulties and physical injury while preparing to attempt one of the biggest stunts of all time--jumping the Great Wall of China on a skateboard.

Photo: Weinstein

Quartet

A charming cinematic gem that is bound to get lost in the end of the year line-up, "Quartet" marks the directorial debut of Oscar-winning actor Dustin Hoffman. The ensemble comedy centers on elderly opera singers living in a retirement home as they prepare for their annual concert. Starring Maggie Smith, Bill Connolly, and Michael Gambon, "Quartet" offers the perfect blend of sharp wit and soft sentiment.

Photo: IFC

The Fitzgerald Family Christmas

Actor/writer/director Edward Burns is one of few filmmakers to focus on working-class families. "The Fitzgerald Family Christmas," which debut at this year's Toronto Film Festival, is an ensemble dramedy that captures the emotions, heightened stress, and family squabbles that surface during the holidays. As Gerry (Burns) attempts to organize a family get-together for his mother's birthday, he is forced to confront his inability to cope with his fiancé's death and his damaged relationship with his ailing father.

With the awards season rush set to kick into high gear, a few notable smaller films hit theaters this weekend. Are they all worthy of your attention?