Concussion (2015)

In Pittsburgh, an accomplished pathologist uncovers the truth about brain damage in football players who suffer repeated concussions in the course of normal play.

Professionally made and well cast investigative drama has good intentions revealing a suppressed truth about professional American football, but remains very much in the conventions of this subgenre.

A Most Violent Year (2014)

In New York City 1981, an ambitious immigrant fights to protect his business and family during the most dangerous year in the city's history.

Stylish and unhurried period businees drama is worth a look just for watching Oscar Issac emulating Al Pacino's Michael Corleone in dress and conduct.

Drive (2011)

A mysterious Hollywood stuntman, mechanic and getaway driver lands himself in trouble when he helps out his neighbor.

What would have been another (violent) action flic is successfully given an artsy treatment and the feel of an existentialist drama with a tight-lipped, hard-boiled anti-hero.

Maltin**: "What some see as a prime example of postmodern cool strikes us as a pretentious hogwash from the word go. The bursts of gruesome violence are equally hard to swallow. By the way, Gosling seems fully articulate when he sets up his first gig, but spends the rest of the film nearly silent (and striking poses). Only bright spot is a juicy supporting role for Brooks as a savvy gangster."