In Brief: Views and Reviews

Lincoln (2012): While Spielberg was wise to limit his focus on Lincoln to one aspect of his Presidency, the passage of the 13th Amendment, it would have been wiser still if he had ended it at the scene where he was laying down his gloves before he went to Ford's Theatre. We did not need the histrionics of the assassination and subsequent deathbed scene. As it was, the gentleman behind us during that scene had the audacity to take a cell phone call (so much for enjoying a night out at the movies)! Daniel Day Lewis was the physical embodiment of Lincoln; however, and as usual, Tommy Lee Jones walked away with the whole shebang, as Thaddeus Stevens, a prominent member of the House of Representatives, with an able assist from James Spader, as a persuasive lobbyist. Based on Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin.
Les Miserables (2012): While not being especially a fan of the Broadway show (I saw it once), I was surprised at how many of the songs were familiar to me and how much I enjoyed the singing, even from those actors (ahem, Russell Crowe) who obviously did not have much in the way of vocal training.  The standout as everyone has noted was Anne Hathaway as Fantine. Now I want to read the book!
Django Unchained (2012): If you count yourself a fan of Quentin Tarantino (I do), then you will enjoy this movie about a slave turned bounty hunter, looking for his wife, although I don't believe it to be his best work. There is never a dull moment on screen and many exciting ones. Please be advised that, as per Tarantino, it is very, very violent, particularly  the last half hour which turns into a blood fest.  The whole cast is brilliant,   especially Christopher Waltz.
Silver Linings Playbook(2012): I've been anxious to see this movie for a while, and finally got to it yesterday. Indie-type movies about family disfunction are totally my cup of tea, especially when they have big-name cast members, like Robert De Niro. I've been a fan of Bradley Cooper since Alias, and he did not disappoint as a bipolar man coping (or not coping) with the aftermath of a breakup. I have not seen The Hunger Games or Winter's Bone, but know of Jennifer Lawrence's reputation, and she was indeed excellent as another troubled soul he meets along the way.
The Guilt Trip (2012): Wait for the DVD.