Capsule reviews for July 8

Norman Lear: Just Another Version of You

The hagiographic approach of this documentary about arguably the most influential sitcom creator in history doesn’t diminish its entertainment value. That’s because Lear’s life and career offer some rich source material, especially in the way he continuously pushed boundaries with shows such as “All in the Family” and “The Jeffersons” during his 1970s heyday. Lear remains a sharp storyteller into his 90s, and directors Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady (Jesus Camp) provide insight into his influences and his legacy both inside and outside show business. Perhaps best of all, the film gives moviegoers a fresh perspective on his memorable work and its continuing relevance. (Not rated, 91 minutes).

Our Little Sister

Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda (Like Father, Like Son) returns with another bittersweet meditation on family and mortality, this time centered on three young adult sisters who live together in a seaside village. Specifically, it chronicles how their lives change – often in unexpected ways – after they welcome a 13-year-old half-sister they meet at their estranged father’s funeral. The deliberately paced and contemplative film lacks a sense of narrative urgency, but rewards patience with an abundance of powerful character-driven moments. While it lacks some of the more profound observations of Kore-eda’s best work, the filmmaker’s more gentle approach still allows his subtle humanity to shine through. (Rated PG, 127 minutes).

Zero Days

The proliferation of cyber warfare is the unsettling topic for this high-tech documentary from director Alex Gibney (The Armstrong Lie), which focuses specifically on the origins of Stuxnet, a virus that crippled Iran’s nuclear enrichment program in the late 2000s and was later revealed to be a top-secret coordinated attack by the American and Israeli governments. Gibney’s interviews and research offer some intriguing viewpoints on topics ranging from geopolitical ethics to American secrecy to the escalating capabilities of hackers. The film becomes too dense with its historical context and geeky code talk, yet with regard to broader issues, the even-handed approach makes the impact more provocative. (Rated PG-13, 116 minutes).