Penelope

Christina Ricci does her otherworldly best as Penelope Wilhern, the protected daughter of a wealthy British family. Born with a pig’s nose, the result of an ancient family curse, Penelope believes the curse can only be reversed if she marries a male counterpart of equal disadvantage. Penelope’s parents (played by Catherine O'Hara and Richard E. Grant) arrange parlor dates with potential suitors that Penelope observes from the safety of a two-way mirror. Enter tabloid reporter Lemon (Peter Dinklage) to bribe a young gambler (James McAvoy) to captivate Penelope and thus provide front-page ammunition with proof of her existence. "Penelope" is a new twist on an old fairy tale template that succeeds for the heartfelt performances of Ricci and James McAvoy.

Rated PG. 104 mins. (B) (Three Stars)