Between the solid beginning and the great ending, there’s a long, unremarkable stretch enlivened only by the efforts of the actors and the lens of the cinematographer.

With solid performances and a sensitive screenplay, "The Valley" offers a window overlooking a heartbreakingly common situation whose signs remain elusive.

An emotionally satisfying experience that brings to life a group of appealing characters and allows them to grow and expand in front of the lens.

This clumsy, straightforward caper comedy is neither funny nor clever and leaves no lasting impression beyond the desire to warn people to stay away.

Engages because the actors are sufficiently invested that they give breadth and depth to characters who are, for the most part, underwritten.

Compensates for narrative hiccups by offering an effective performance by Ben Kingsley and a story that goes to places many similar films would avoid.