‘Uncut Gems’ and ‘Bombshell’ Soar, Malick’s ‘A Hidden Life’ Drags

This pre-Christmas weekend often launches awards contenders into limited release ahead of wider audience attention.

Both “Uncut Gems” (A24) and “Bombshell” (Lionsgate) gambled and won, clicking with strong New York/Los Angeles performances.On the other hand, Terrence Malick’s “A Hidden Life” (Fox Searchlight), though never expected to have the same potential, fell far short of its hopes with a weak start in the same cities.

It broadens out to more limited engagements next week.“Seberg” (Amazon) starring Kristen Stewart as the iconic actress booked a qualifying one-week run (with no grosses reported) ahead of further limited theatrical play, with a Prime date set for February.OpeningUncut Gems (A24) – Metacritic: 89; Festivals include: Telluride, Toronto, New York 2019$525,498 in 5 theaters; PTA: $105,100The Safdie brothers’ character study of a troubled Diamond District merchant (Adam Sandler) boasted a triumphant start at five New York/Los Angeles theaters.

Aided by some Q&a screenings,

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