The Life-of-Crime Drama

• Road to Perdition. Like Gladiator or Saving Private Ryan, this could be the lauded summer movie that returns for a successful Oscar run. It has all the earmarks of a contender: literate script by David Self, elegant mise-en-scene from director Sam Mendes (American Beauty) and cinematographer Conrad Hall, and deeply felt performances by Tom Hanks and Paul Newman. Plus: DreamWorks won't let voters forget the movie. Minus: This film is more admired than loved.

• 25th Hour. Spike Lee's best movie since 1992's Malcolm X (nominated for two Oscars) was adapted by hot-as-flapjacks young writer David Benioff from his novel. Two-time Oscar nominee Edward Norton plays a busted drug dealer with one night left before he is to begin serving a seven-year prison term; pal Barry Pepper (Saving Private Ryan) stands out in a stunning ensemble. Plus: Norton's regret at his wasted life is echoed by the larger reality of scarred New York City post-9/11. Minus: Disney is not known for adroit Academy marketing.