Great films add spice to holidays

If the holidays were lost to you in a flurry of wrapping paper and New Year's confetti, you may have been kept from the local movie theater. Here are the best films of the season: 1. "Catch Me If You Can" Leonardo DiCaprio's face was front and center across the nation's cinemas with the release of a pair of flicks. One film felt the weight of his presence far greater than the other. "Catch Me If You Can" is the latest work from Steven Spielberg. His work on this film takes a dramatic twist from his previous two films ("Minority Report," "A.I."). The movie is based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr., historically one of the nation's most famous con men. As a teenager, Frank (DiCaprio) runs away from home upon discovering the separation of his parents. Out of money and nurturing hands, Frank begins forging checks. He quickly perfects the art of forgery and finds himself a very wealthy and respectable citizen, having attained a pilot's uniform. With the aid of his new skill and snazzy uniform, Frank travels the world posing as a variety of professionals. Unfortunately, the trail of checks attracts the attention of FBI agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks). Suddenly aware of his pursuer, Frank slowly finds his carefree life has come at a price and possibly jail time. The strength of "Catch Me If You Can" is the charisma of its stars. Hanks and DiCaprio carry the audience through a simple, yet engaging story of a young man's pursuit of a happy life. Though lacking the intellectual challenge of his recent works, Spielberg has molded a story that pulls at a range of emotions. The story of Frank Abagnale Jr. is intriguing enough to carry this feature film to blockbuster status. Catch this movie ... if you can. 2. "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers" The second installment of the J.R.R. Tolkien classic series is an intermission away from the No. 1 spot. "Towers," the most visually stimulating film since "The Fellowship of the Ring," was released last December but is only a sneeze away from being three hours long. While the length may seem daunting, the content of the film is astounding. The story picks up where "Fellowship "left off and is too complex to accurately summarize. Though a continuation of the first, "Towers" surpasses the original film with its beautiful imagery and nonstop action. The film includes several detailed battle sequences that should leave audiences salivating for the final installment of the series, coming in December. 3. "Drumline" Band nerds everywhere were fighting to see this film in early December. The movie follows a skilled drummer from Harlem who finds himself at a Southern school. While the adjustment is at first difficult, the drummer melds into his new environment and helps lead this band to success. What may seem like an odd concept results in a very entertaining movie. The movie is a heartening insight into what the brave men and women of the college band must fight through. No band camp stories here - none of that flute funny business - just good music, a good story and a touch of soul.