THE GREAT DEBATERS: Inspirational film about Wiley College debate coach Melvin Tolson (Denzel Washington) and his all-black team that rolled over opponents in the Jim Crow era. Strong performances all around, and more than enough substance to make up for any schmaltz. Also starring Jurnee Smollett, Nate Parker and Denzel Whitaker. Directed by Mr. Washington.

David Lee/The Weinstein Co.

Denzel Washington stars in The Great Debaters.

UNTRACEABLE: Diane Lane stars as an FBI computer expert matching wits with a serial killer who offs his victims live on the Web. A competent but unremarkable crime thriller, Untraceable does introduce the fascinating, troubling notion that Americans are so addicted to their media that they would happily become accessories to murder to get their fix of electronic thrills. Also starring Colin Hanks and Billie Burke. Directed by Gregory Hoblit.

YOUTH WITHOUT YOUTH: Director Francis Ford Coppola's first film in 10 years is ambitious in scope and Byzantine in logic. The movie tackles time, consciousness, reality, the mystery of human potential, the origins of language and the likelihood of lightning striking twice within one couple. Starring Tim Roth, Alexandra Maria Lara and Bruno Ganz.

MAD MONEY: A trio of cleaning ladies loots a Federal Reserve bank of millions in old bank notes headed for the shredder, figuring nobody will notice. This heist comedy manages to be mildly diverting without ever being truly funny. Starring Diane Keaton, Queen Latifah, Katie Holmes and Ted Danson. Directed by Callie Khoury.

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