Little Ashes (R, 2009)

Though it's set in the early 20th century, the complex issues and emotional conflicts in LITTLE ASHES -- the individual pitted against a totalitarian state, the fight for acceptance of sexual preference, and the uncompromising artist versus the opportunist -- are as relevant today as they were then. And although it's clear that budget was a factor here -- old footage and newsreel clips make do for battle scenes and big production demands -- some of the love scenes are shot with heartbreaking beauty and texture.

The filmmakers focus on character and mood to tell their story, with the young stars tackling difficult roles. Dali was a flamboyant narcissist, an over-the-top performance artist as well as painter. Pattinson is courageous in his commitment to bringing balance to his portrayal. Beltran, in his first film role, finds Lorca's tender fragility -- as well as his intellectual brilliance and strength. The only questions may be how much of the romance between Dali and Lorca is fact and how much can be attributed to the source: Dali's conflicted memories as an old man.