Movie guide alt: Independent, limited release and foreign-language films

Ratings by the Motion Picture Association of America are: (G) for general audiences; (PG) parental guidance urged because of material possibly unsuitable for children; (PG-13) parents are strongly cautioned to give guidance for attendance of children younger than 13; (R) restricted, younger than 17 admitted only with parent or adult guardian; (NC-17) no one younger than 17 admitted.

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“All Is Lost” — When his boat is wrecked in the middle of the Indian Ocean, a lone sailor must rely on his limited resources and strength of will to survive. With Robert Redford. Written and directed by J.C. Chandor. (1:47) PG-13.

“American Promise” — This documentary chronicles two African-American boys’ educational experiences over 13 years, beginning in kindergarten at the prestigious, largely white Dalton School in New York City. Directed by Joe Brewster and Michele Stephenson. (2:15) NR.

“Big Ass Spider” — A 50-foot alien arachnid escapes from a military lab and rampages across Los Angeles. With Greg Grunberg, Lombardo Boyar and Ray Wise. Written by Gregory Gieras. Directed by Mike Mendez. (1:20) PG-13.

“Big Sur” — An author struggling with success and inner demons seeks respite in three brief sojourns to a California cabin in this adaptation of the Jack Kerouac novel of the same name. With Jean-Marc Barr, Kate Bosworth and Josh Lucas. Written and directed by Michael Polish. (1:21) R.

“Birth of the Living Dead” — A documentary about the making of George A. Romero’s landmark horror movie, “Night of the Living Dead,” and its enduring legacy. Directed by Rob Kuhns. (1:16) NR.