Often the best movies of the second half of the year come almost preordained as the Oscars Industrial Complex revs into high gear. The first half, though, can offer more of a thrill of discovery.

A helpful guide on what new releases to watch, including movies in theaters, on streaming or available to rent or buy on digital and on-demand.

Costume & production designer, producer, Prada-file and four-time Academy Award winner Catherine Martin is moving into the ...