Culkin, Kieran

• Cider House Rules, The (1999)

  [6/10]

  "Movies often use an innocent outsider like Homer to bring the viewer a new perspective of contemporary issues. The Cider House Rules effectively uses this cliched character to present its pro-abortion agenda. As Homer falls in love (and has sex), he must adjust his views on abortion, especially when faced with the implications of the unwanted pregnancies of Rose, a fellow apple picker. "

• Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys, The (2002)

  [7/10]

  "The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys tells a touching story that really captures the essence of growing up as a teenage boy in a staunch Catholic family, and in spite of all the anachronisms, I found the movie completely engaging."

• Music of the Heart (1999)

  [4/10]

  "Pamela Grey created an excellent script that demonstrates Roberta's personality and her caring for her students, and Wes Craven (Scream, A Nightmare on Elm Street) demonstrates that he can create emotions other than terror. Unfortunately, Meryl Streep never seemed comfortable in her role and always looked stiff and unnatural -- especially when playing the violin."

  Average score: 5.67