Seen and reviewed (Jan. 16)

New films in local theaters this week:

– “Defiance” (rated R), a real-life, World War II survival tale starring Daniel Craig.
– “Hotel for Dogs” (rated PG), a live-action comedy about a brother and sister housing stray dogs.
– “Last Chance Harvey” (rated PG-13), a comedy about a lovelorn jingle composer (Dustin Hoffman).
– “My Bloody Valentine 3-D” (rated R), a remake of the 1981 horror hit.
– “Notorious” (rated R), a musical biography about slain rapper Notorious B.I.G.
– “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” (rated PG), a comedy starring Kevin James as a harried mall security guard.

Neither the “My Bloody Valentine” remake nor “Notorious” were pre-screened locally, though the latter is getting some mixed notices.

And while “Hotel for Dogs” may feature some cute pooches, it’s obsessed with dog-doo jokes and the like. “Paul Blart” takes itself too seriously, and practically turns into a “Die Hard” movie.

As for “Defiance,” some unfortunate Hollywood touches from director Ed Zwick (“Blood Diamond”) undercut some genuine drama. Craig and Liev Schreiber, who plays his brother, are good, though.

So by default, the week’s best is probably “Last Chance Harvey.” It’s predictable, but Hoffman is terrific as always. Emma Thompson is good as his would-be love interest.

Which, if any of these movies, is part of your weekend viewing plans?