Seen and reviewed (Feb. 5)

New films in theaters this week:

– “Broken Embraces” (rated R), a romantic drama/mystery starring Penelope Cruz. Spanish with subtitles.
– “Crazy Heart” (rated R), a drama starring Jeff Bridges as a washed-up country music singer/songwriter.
– “Dear John” (rated PG-13), the latest Nicholas Sparks adaptation, starring Channing Tatum.
– “From Paris With Love” (rated R), a terrorism thriller starring John Travolta as a CIA agent.
– “Frozen” (rated R), a thriller about stranded skiers. Shawn Ashmore stars.

Travolta looks and sounds ridiculous as a would-be action star in the over-the-top “From Paris With Love.” And even though “Frozen” was shot locally — at Ogden’s Snowbasin resort — it’s pretty awful.

Poster art courtesy Sony Pictures Releasing

Neither of the romances work that well either. Cruz is good as usual, but for a change, Pedro Almodovar’s plotting and direction aren’t up to snuff. As for “Dear John,” it starts decently. But the second half features the customary, hackneyed Sparks plot twists and character tragedies.

Poster art courtesy Fox Searchlight Pictures

The week’s best movie is easily “Crazy Heart.” Best Actor Oscar nominee Bridges is terrific as a musician-at-a-crossroads. The plotting is by-the-numbers, but Bridges and the original music make the film worthwhile.

Which, if any, of these movies fit into your weekend viewing plans?