The best moments in this long, instructive tale are those that simply bring the slaves' pride, fear and outrage to life. But what it lacks is an Oskar Schindler, a flawed, three-dimensional character through whom the atrocity of slavery can be understood. It has great earnestness, impeccable credentials and Mr.
DUSTIN AMOROUS GUIDE TRIAL
Irrefutably worthy in its attention to a long-overlooked chapter in American history, this story of a slave mutiny and subsequent trial is still a film whose zestiest character is John Quincy Adams (played by Mr. Directed by Steven Spielberg (R, 150 minutes). (Other nominations: cinematography, original dramatic score, costumes). ''AMISTAD,'' starring Djimon Hounsou, Anthony Hopkins (best supporting actor) and Matthew McConaughey. Rudolph's most attractive amorous reveries (Janet Maslin).
Though it grows ever mistier as it moves along, this is still one of Mr. Set in Montreal and looking absurdly chic, the film involves these two half-estranged lovers with a much younger couple, played with at least as much sincerity as their roles warrant (not a lot) by Jonny Lee Miller of ''Trainspotting'' and the slinky Ms.
Nolte equally enjoyable as her spouse, a handyman with a long list of grateful female clients, she creates a striking picture of middle-aged malaise. Christie wafts luminously through this sinuous (if increasingly flaky) romance about a long-married couple with a lively extracurricular agenda. Directed by Alan Rudolph (R, 113 minutes). ''AFTERGLOW,'' starring Julie Christie (best actress), Nick Nolte and Lara Flynn Boyle. Oscar nomination categories, ratings and running times are in parentheses. Here is a listing by critics of The Times of the films that have received major Oscar nominations and are playing this weekend in New York City.