Chasing Mavericks: This fact-based film follows a 15-year-old surfing prodigy (Jonny Weston) who enlists a veteran surfer (Gerard Butler) to train him to ride some of the biggest waves on Earth. There are nice character moments, but the ending lacks catharsis.
The Master: A troubled drifter (Joaquin Phoenix) becomes enamored of the charismatic leader of a cult-like religious movement (Philip Seymour Hoffman). Phoenix and Hoffman give near-perfect performances while exploring human nature's ferocious side.
