MOVIE TIP

Oppenheimer

This is the best movie of the year so far. (Sorry, “Barbie.”) Christopher Nolan’s epic take on J. Robert Oppenheimer, the “father of the atomic bomb” who eventually fell victim to political backstabbing and anti-communist sentiment, is fascinating. It’s also cleverly constructed; the intricate editing (including bursts of Oppenheimerian visions of subatomic particles and roiling fire) and the haunting soundtrack should absolutely win Oscars. As should Cillian Murphy, who holds the center of this sprawling piece with his quietly expressive face (and those eyes!). Robert Downey Jr. makes the most of his most complex role in years as Lewis Strauss, who was the Atomic Energy Commission director and an Oppenheimer antagonist. The cast overflows with great actors giving great performances. (Although Casey Affleck seems miscast as a military intelligence officer.) “Oppenheimer” runs three hours, but it never feels it.

– Kristina Dorsey

MUSIC TIP

Vidékek vannak ideben

The Devil’s Trade

My Polish is a little rusty, but I believe the title of this album translates to “There are Landscapes Within.” If indeed Dávid Makó, the musician/songwriter behind The Devil’s Trade, is referring to the core of his own being, and this music reflects what we might find there, get ready for an immersive experience. These songs, anchored around Makó’s aching voice and plucked acoustic guitar arpeggios, are then set adrift on gray clouds crossing the acreage from autumn to winter. I can’t imagine Makó tells many jokes in his real life, but I’m completely calmed and pleased by his inner landscapes.

— Rick Koster

FOOD TIP

Chicken and lemongrass potstickers

GG to Go

185 Main St., Niantic

File this under: A reporter has to do her research. Before I interviewed Gourmet Galley owner Anna Lathrop about her 25 years of running the business, I stopped into Gourmet Galley’s newest site, in Niantic, to sample some of the goods. I was pleased with everything I bought, but the chicken and lemongrass potstickers ($15.99) are the ones I’ve gotten most often. Again. And again. The chicken and lemongrass are a tasty combination. The potstickers are cooked to perfection, and you just have to heat them up at home. I will say I prefer plain soy sauce to the sauce that GG to Go includes in a small container. But otherwise? A fave.

– Kristina Dorsey