411 Movies Roundtable: June 2009 (Part 2)

Posted by Owain J. Brimfield on 06.03.2009

The 411 staff continues their discussion of the upcoming big releases in June!

Please click here if you missed part one!

Coming Attractions

JUNE 5TH

Land of the Lost
Studio: Universal
Directed by: Brad Silberling
Starring: Will Ferrell, Danny McBride, Anna Friel
The plot: On his latest expedition, Dr. Rick Marshall (Ferrell) is sucked into a space-time vortex alongside his research assistant (Friel) and a redneck survivalist (McBride). In this alternate universe, the trio make friends with a primate named Chaka, their only ally in a world full of dinosaurs and other fantastic creatures. Can they all make it back to our world alive, and if so, will Dr. Marshall go from zero to hero with his discoveries?

Lealos: You know, the trailers are making me laugh a little more than the original ones did. Danny McBride is awesome but Will Ferrell doesn't seem to be doing it for me here. I love his movies usually, but I don't see anything here that makes me think this is a must see film. I think kids will go because there are dinosaurs and giant bugs and some adults might go for the nostalgia effect but I'm not that interested right now. It's a week before the release, and that's a very bad thing.

Furious: Not overly enthusiastic here. Silberling is a TV director whose previous films have been cookie cutter and creative failures (in particular the awful City of Angels). Will Ferrell is a great comedy star but when he enters into something that's not a "Will Ferrell movie" things start to go wrong (see Bewitched). Danny McBride could well be the X-factor though. He improved both Tropic Thunder and Pineapple Express with his presence and if his show-stealing antics continue here he could be looking at his own starring vehicle by next summer's run of comedy blockbusters.

Archibald: Sci-Fi (have they changed to SyFy yet?) had a great Land of the Lost marathon that made me remember how cheesy and spectacular the show was. This... is not that same show. Don't get me wrong, I like Will Ferrell, and Danny McBride is cool with me, but... isn't this like a totally different story where the studio just said, "Hey, let's give this some MARKETABILITY! What is this like?" / "Uh, Land of the Lost...?" / "Great, we got a title! Sell it!"

Chamberlain: Will Ferrell seems to be one of those polarizing, love him or hate him type guys. Personally I can take him or leave him depending on the project. Maybe it's my love for dinosaurs, but this one looks like a lot of fun. I remember watching repeats of the old series as a kid and always being charmed by it. With today's special effects (albeit with an admittedly cartoonish vibe) and the always awesome Danny McBride in the mix, this should be a really cool flick.

Kristopowitz: I'm a fan of Ferrell's movies (well, most of them), and while the trailers for this flick are quite funny, I just don't know how Ferrell's humor and acting style (dare I say "screen persona") will work next to extensive special effects. I'm hoping it works because I don't want to see a bad Will Ferrell movie.

Gustafson: I've been hating on this for that past several months but I'm starting to warm up to it...a little. I mean, if you asked me they should have made it more like Wu Tang Clan's "Gravel Pit" video. I thought Big Will would have learned from Bewitched and avoid any more TV remakes, but I guess when you get to a certain level you can do whatever you want (See Jack Black below!) And what's with all the Danny McBride backlash I'm seeing? He's the new Seth Rogen y'all!

Tym: I remember watching the television show as a kid and being a big fan, but that has not carried over into my adult life which is nice, because this will likely be nothing like said Saturday morning diversion. Still, it looks goofy enough and should have jokes for the kiddies and their captive adult ticket buyers, and Farrell doesn't grate on me like some other people. Will there be a $1 Redbox rental in the future? We'll have to shake the Magic 8-Ball when it comes out on DVD.

Thomas: Will Ferrell is a funny person who excels in certain films. This does not look to be one of those films. Instead, it looks like him playing the arrogant, irresponsible and immature bumbling jackass who somehow manages to be likeable despite all of that. This is not my favorite role of his. The effects look impressive sure, and I think that it'll be vaguely entertaining. That doesn't mean it's going to be funny enough or good enough to be worth checking out in theaters. The problem with effects-laden comedies is that it relies too much on the effects and not enough on the comedy, and that appears to be what's happening here. I'm not interested.

Brimfield: This one looks rather drab, but it's great to see Anna Friel of all people in a major summer movie. Anybody else remember her in Brookside?

Away We Go
Studio: Focus
Directed by: Sam Mendes
Starring: Jon Krasinski, Maya Rudolph, Allison Janney, Jeff Daniels
The plot: A couple (Rudolph and Krasinski) who is expecting their first child travel around the U.S. in order to find a perfect place to start their family.

Lealos: I guess Sam Mendes needed a small break following the very depressing Revolutionary Road. Mendes has become a prestige director over time and it is almost expected that every picture he makes be an award-winning caliber film. That is too much for any man to take and I like the fact that he is scaling things back here for a small, quirky Indie film. It has a lot of the moments that make these pictures successful, starting with off-the-wall characters. John Krasinski (The Office) and Maya Rudolph (Saturday Night Live) look great in this film about a couple trying to find a community to raise their soon-to-be-born child in. Mendes has a great supporting cast for a quirky comedy as well with Catherine O'Hara (Best in Show), Jeff Daniels (The Squid and the Whale), Allison Janney (Juno), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Donnie Darko) and comedian Jim Gaffigan. I liked the trailers and am interested in seeing the movie. It's great counter programming to the summer blockbusters.

Furious: Sam Mendes can get a little heavy with his subject matter but he's both gifted behind the camera and has an eye for a worthwhile script. Early reviews call it "uneven" and his run of great movies can't continue forever. Maya Rudolph also seems like an odd casting choice but it's a good chance for her to show a bit of range. Seeing as Mendes has such a good track record I'll be willing to give this a chance.

Archibald: Wow, this is kinda the anti-Revolutionary Road, isn't it? I loved Mendes last film and this looks like something to check out. The cast is surely one of the more eclectic ones I've seen so far this year. The title isn't exactly the most inspiring, though, is it? At first, one would think this is a family comedy starring Ice Cube and some annoying kids.

Chamberlain: I think I'll pass.

Kristopowitz: Eh. Hasn't the pseudo hipster douchebag genre sort of run its course yet? Because that's the vibe this movie's trailers give off. And I really don't care for Allison Janney, so this movie looks more like something worth watching when it eventually hits TV.

Gustafson: Quirky. I'll give them that. Actually, this is a good move for Krasinski. THIS is the kind of movie he should have made to dip his toe in the big screen pool. Won't do gangbusters at the box office, but will showcase his skills a bit and get some of that critical acclaim actors like so much.

Tym: This looks cute and charming. I like Krasinski on The Office and Maya Rudolph is one of the best females to ever grace SNL. Does it look endearing and funny enough to warrant a theater viewing? My sources say no.

Thomas: You know what? This actually looks pretty good. I love Sam Mendes and he has yet to steer me wrong. The cast is phenomenal for what is mostly non-A-listers and this looks like the kind of indy comedy that either excels or crashes hard. With the cast involved and the filmmaker, combined with all the clips and trailers I've seen, this will definitely be more on the "excels" side. It's certainly going to get lost in the blockbuster shuffle, but if you have the chance and want to escape the big-budgets Blues, this is one you should look into.

Brimfield: It's Mendes so it's bound to be decent quality at the least, but there's nothing about this that appeals to me.

The Hangover
Studio: Warner Bros.
Directed by: Todd Phillips
Starring: Zach Galifanakis, Bradley Cooper, Justin Bartha
The plot: In Las Vegas, three groomsmen lose their about-to-be-wed buddy during their drunken misadventures, forcing them to retrace their steps in order to find him before the church bells ring.

Lealos: Dear Bradley Cooper - do another cool movie for guys. I loved you in Midnight Meat Train and want to see you stretch your acting muscles outside of romantic comedies. Thanks. Ok, this is not a rom-com, and looks to be comedy geared towards both sexes, but still. I liked Old School and this is from the "producers of..." but that can mean anything. They also produced Road Trip. My wife will see it because two of the guys were hilarious in Failure to Launch and she thought the baby with the glasses was cute. I'll see it because I like Bradley Cooper and thought the Mike Tyson scene in the trailer was hilarious.

Furious: Todd Phillips has made a series of increasingly retarded films. The low point being the 2006's re-hash of School for Scoundrels. This sounds like his usual mess. It might have a few funny moments but ultimately I don't trust this guy with a movie script. Having said that early reviews are resoundingly positive and praise the chemistry between the male leads. Perhaps a frat-pack juniors group!

Archibald: Saw the trailer. Not my cup of tea. Mike Tyson be damned. Again, uninspired title.

Chamberlain: Mike Tyson jamming to Phil Collins? TICKET SOLD.

Kristopowitz: The trailers for this movie are hilarious. This is a definite must see, just to see if the movie really is as funny as the trailers suggest. Will the Mike Tyson stuff work? I can't wait to find out.

Gustafson: I can't wait to see this. Yeah, I said it. I. Can't. Wait. Is it going to be huge? Nah. But I'm a big fan of the lead three, especially Galifanakis. By the way, I liked him BEFORE it was cool, thank you very much.

Tym: Now this looks hilarious, and probably worth the price of admission just to see Mike Tyson singing "I Can Feel It Coming in the Air Tonight." There's nothing wrong with a movie for guys who like movies in the comedy genre, and this looks to be that in spades.

Thomas: Every time I see the trailer for this I laugh myself silly. Don't get me wrong, this could completely suck, or be one of those situations where all the funny parts are in the trailer, but it doesn't give off that feel. Bradley Cooper has a lot of charisma and looks funny here, and Justin Bartha is the unsung hero of the National Treasure franchise. The rest of the cast looks very funny and game for whatever Todd Phillips is willing to inflict on them. The pre-release ratings are so high that Warner Bros. actually greenlit a sequel a couple of months ago, which is a huge statement of their confidence in the movie.

Brimfield: By all accounts this is shaping up to be an amusing and original comedy, of all things. I don't know of any of the guys involved, but it could well be worth a punt.

My Life in Ruins
Studio: Fox Searchlight
Directed by: Donald Petrie
Starring: Nia Vardalos, Richard Dreyfuss, Rachel Dratch
The plot: A travel guide (Vardalos) rediscovers her romantic side, with a very unlikely match, as she whisks a group of tourists around Greece.

Lealos: My Big Fat Greek Wedding was not a movie I enjoyed despite my wife loving it and my screenwriting professor declaring its brilliance. But I bet anything it is better than this.

Furious: Early reviews from RT have this at 0-3 and has been described as "manufactured". I can believe that and it feels like a bit of a Shirley Valentine sans the charm. Nia Vardalos and Richard Dreyfuss are both excellent performers who can make you care about their characters so I've confidence in them but Donald Petrie has a ropey history as a director (Richie Rich, My Favourite Martian, gimme a break). My prediction; this film ends up in ruins.

Archibald: GO CANADA! Nia Vardolos and her stories are not ones that appeal to me right off the bat, but I did enjoy My Big Fat Greek Wedding more than I thought I would. Maybe I'll catch this on DVD when I want some nookie from the wife.

Chamberlain: I thought Dreyfuss retired a few years back?

Kristopowitz: Didn't Nia Vardalos already make a movie where she whines the whole time about how men don't find her attractive and her life sucks, etc? Does the world really want to sit through that movie again? My only hope for this movie is that it gets Rachel Dratch's name out there. She's funny and deserves the exposure. And why the hell is Richard Dreyfuss in this movie? He really doesn't have anything else better to do than this?

Gustafson: This is the kind of movie that you'd see while walking the aisles at Blockbuster and be like, "Hey, look at that. Richard Dreyfuss is still making movies." Then keep walking.

Tym: Pass. Not my cup of tea, and neither was My Big Fat Greek Wedding -something the posters and trailers for this movie keep reminding me Nia Vardalos was in incessantly. This annoys me to no end; I don't need it bashed into my brain every chance the advertisers get. But if you liked that you'll probably like this, and as I always say, whatever blows your hair back.

Thomas: I enjoyed Big Fat Greek Wedding well enough, although my favorite Varadlos film is still Connie & Carla which I consider a drastically, criminally underrated film That being said, I don't have a lot of interest in this, at least not in the theaters. Don't get me wrong, I will totally catch this on DVD because it doesn't look terrible, but this isn't a go to the theater film.

Brimfield: Did you know that Nia Vardalos is Greek, and did you know that she has romantic troubles? Oh yes, of course you did, because that's seemingly all her movies consist of.

JUNE 12TH

The Taking of Pelham 123
Studio: Columbia
Directed by: Tony Scott
Starring: Denzel Washington, John Travolta, Luis Guzman, John Turturro
The plot: Armed men hijack a New York City subway train, holding the passengers hostage in return for a ransom, and turning an ordinary day's work for dispatcher Walter Garbe (Washington) into a face-off with the mastermind behind the crime (Travolta).

Lealos: I love Tony Scott. He rarely disappoints me. I also love John Travolta as a bad guy. Hell, I liked Swordfish, mainly because of Travolta's bad guy role (and a little for Halle Berry's boobs). This movie takes him far, far away from crap like Wild Hogs, always a good thing. Denzel Washington is someone else who rarely disappoints me. There is only one or two bad movies in his post-2000 output. If he and Scott can produce a movie only half as good as Man on Fire, we have a winner here. Count me interested.

Furious: The original was superb but Tony Scott has a habit of banging out stylish thrillers and Denzel Washington is a very solid leading man. True, the roles he attempts nowadays seem a little samey but you could level the same complaint at any number of actors in Hollywood and most of them aren't as consistent as Washington. I worry about Travolta, who has been known to ham it up somewhat, but this should be good enough.

Archibald: Tony Scott, Denzel Washington, John Travolta as a badass. Yeah, I'm so there.

Chamberlain: Battlefield Earth notwithstanding, Travolta seems to have avoided the Tom Cruise trap of always being judged alongside his scientology beliefs. Maybe it's because the dude has real flair on the screen, and he looks really cool in his role here. And who doesn't love Denzel?

Kristopowitz: I like Tony Scott, in general, as a director, but his last two movies were a bit overdone (especially Domino). I have a feeling that this movie will be the same. Overdone. And is it me or do the trailers for this movie make it look sterile?

Gustafson: When I heard they were remaking it I just shrugged. The trailer does nothing for me which is surprising since I'm a fan of Denzel's. Travolta is hit or miss. The original was the bees knees and this doesn't seem to be anything other than... ordinary.

Tym: Tony Scott is a tricky dude. He has the ability to entertain me with some efforts and exasperate me with others. Man, I really liked Déjà Vu, but the jury's still out on Man of Fire. But it's Denzel, and Travolta has been yearning for something meaty to sink his teeth into, I'll bet. This is one remake I wouldn't mind catching via weekend afternoon matinee.

Thomas: The original is a good 70's action film. This seems to be... less so. It might seriously rock, and the cast is impressive-looking, but like Bryan the trailer just didn't do it for me. I really want to have hopes for this because I like Scott, Denzel, Guzman and Turturro (Travolta I go both ways about), but I have a bad feeling.

Brimfield: The Scott/Washington combination is bulletproof as far as I'm concerned, and although this doesn't look like anything spectacular I'm expecting a serviceable thriller.

Moon
Studio: Sony
Directed by: Duncan Jones
Starring: Sam Rockwell, Kevin Spacey, Benedict Wong
The plot: Astronaut Sam Bell (Rockwell) has a quintessentially personal encounter toward the end of his three-year stint on the Moon, where he, working alongside his computer, GERTY, sends back to Earth parcels of a resource that has helped diminish our planet's power problems.

Lealos: So, we have a movie that looks like a mix of 2001 and Solaris. The problem is most people I know hated both of those movies ‘cause there wasn't enough ‘splosions and stuff. I like Sam Rockwell quite a bit and the character arc he is presented with here looks like it should be a great and hopefully smart one. It has gotten decent reviews from both the Sundance and Tribeca Film Festivals and everyone is raving about Rockwell's performance here. Don't expect a lot of action, and look for a great deal of time to be spent on Rockwell's character toiling away, but I'm hoping for a solid cerebral experience with this one.

Furious: Early reports have Moon as a breakout film for both rookie director Duncan Jones and star Sam Rockwell. Described as "2001 crossed with Solaris" and "one of the most compelling sci-fi films of the past 20 years" by reviewers it shows promise akin to Sunshine or perhaps better!

Archibald: So is Duncan Jones looking to embody Kubrick, Tarkovsky or Soderbergh? Sam Rockwell is a pretty capable actor. This has gotten some positive reviews, but the comparisons to all the other "Great Cerebral Space Films" has me a bit hesitant. I don't want to walk in "expecting" something as great as 2001 or Solaris only to be forced subconsciously to compare. I will definitely check it out, though. Wait... Kevin Spacey? I thought he retired...?

Chamberlain: This looks decidedly trippy. I think it's a rental.

Kristopowitz: Looks and sounds interesting. I'm interested.

Gustafson: Great trailer. Great mood. I'm always down for a cool space flick. But don't you think they are making the twist a little too obvious? Or is that just me?

Tym: This film snuck up on me and looks like a good one. While the GERTY computer is certainly a HAL 9000-like entity this film still seems to contain some of that originality I like so well, and the more "realistic" sci-fi setting and themes have me very interested.

Thomas: Saw the trailer, immediately fell in love with this one. Sam Rockwell is a fantastic actor and this is the exact kind of movie that's up his alley. This won't make any waves with mainstream audiences who will be busy with other films but if I can, I am absolutely checking this one out.

Brimfield: This looks like exactly the kind of movie that comes along far too infrequently for my liking, and while I doubt it'll do anything serious at the box office it's just the sort of material to gain a cult following.

Imagine That
Studio: Paramount
Directed by: Karey Kirkpatrick
Starring: Eddie Murphy, Thomas Haden Church, Vannessa Williams
The plot: A financial executive (Murphy) who can't stop his career downspiral is invited into his daughter's imaginary world, where solutions to his problems await.

Lealos: And Eddie Murphy wondered why he didn't win the Oscar for his role in Dreamgirls. He is set in his role as kid's movie buffoon. Bullocks to him.

Furious: Does Eddie Murphy ever turn anything down? Or does every script that comes across his desk (Norbit) scream "winner" to him? Worse still this latest venture comes right on the back of Inkheart and Bedtime Stories and if Inkheart suffered from being too similar I think this film is in trouble. Murphy is still convinced he's guaranteed box office and that may have been true once upon a time that's no longer the case. Of course critically Murphy has rarely delivered and I can't see this project being any different from Meet Dave (which bombed) or The Haunted Mansion. After showing a brief blip of change with Dreamgirls he's swiftly jumped back into the mire. What's next Eddie? Beverly Hills Cop IV and a project with Bret Ratner, one of Hollywood's worst directors. I'll just hold my breath on something good coming from you, then?

Archibald: Ahh, Eddie. Eddie, Eddie, Eddie. To quote an African goddess who you brought over only to have her morph into a modern American woman, "Eddieeeeeee! What have you done for me LATELEEEEEEEEEEY!" In all fairness, I have heard some minor (key word) positive buzz about this flick since he is actually being more of a normal human being instead of a make-up artist's worst nightmare.

Chamberlain: Man, Eddie's not even trying anymore...

Kristopowitz: I usually don't mind Eddie Murphy's broad family comedy movies, but this one looks boring as hell. That kid he's paired with comes off awful in the trailers. I hope the movie is actually better than the trailers suggest, because Eddie doesn't need another box office disaster.

Gustafson: Murphy either hits home runs or strikes out horribly. There is no in-between with this guy. But when it comes to kids films he seems to do better than average so this is a safe bet for Eddie. Still, can't you imagine some executive walking out of Bedtime Stories and calling his assistant saying, "This movie would have been so much better with Eddie Murphy in it! If he's not available call Jackie Chan."

Tym: Another kiddie Eddie Murphy film does = $$$, but not mine.

Thomas: You know, I liked this when it was Bedtime Stories with Adam Sandler. Eddie's film comes far too late and will draw those inevitable comparisons to the Sandler film, and you know what, this is probably still karmic payback for him losing his shit over not winning the Dreamgirls Oscar. Anyway this looks terrible to pretty much no one's surprise and it'll draw in a little counterprogramming cash but will bomb overall.

Brimfield: I'm no longer convinced that Eddie Murphy ever made any decent movies. Who's that imposter in the original Beverley Hills Cop, and what did he do with the unfunny doofus with a fetish for rubber makeup?

Tetro
Studio: American Zoetrope
Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
Starring: Vincent Gallo, Alden Ehrenreich, Maribel Verdu, Klaus Maria Brandauer
The plot: Bennie (Ehrenreich) travels to Buenos Aires to find his long-missing older brother (Gallo), a once-promising writer who is now a remnant of his former self. Bennie's discovery of his brother's near-finished play might hold the answer to understanding their shared past and renewing their bond.

Lealos: Holy ... I don't know what I just watched in the trailer. This is Coppola's first original screenplay since The Conversation. He admitted his career has taken him to unexpected places but doing movies like this is what he always wanted to do. The trailer is almost all black & white until a strange theatrical scene is depicted in vibrant colors. If nothing else, Tetro will give fans a glimpse of the genius that is Francis Ford Coppola, filmmaker. It doesn't look like my cup of tea, but it is Coppola so I will give it every chance to win me over.

Furious: I may be being a touch on the hopeful side but Coppola is long, long overdue something sensational. This is a very ambitious film starring the precocious Vincent Gallo. This has every potential to be the director's finest film since Apocalypse Now. Of course I'm frequently wrong about these things and tipped Oliver Hirshbiegel's The Invasion to be an exciting hit movie. Neither of which were the case. If it doesn't pan out then Coppola really only has himself to blame. There's no pressure on him anymore. No one expects anything. Sometimes he just over reaches and creates a mess.

Archibald: This is the movie I have been waiting to see. I practically worship at the Altar of Coppola. Yes, I am aware he made Jack - even God makes mistakes... that's how we wound up with TNA. let the flames begin!!!

Chamberlain: What can I say? Not really a Coppola guy.

Kristopowitz: Eh. Coppola is directing, so it's definitely worth a look, but for whatever reason I'm just not that excited about this.

Gustafson: Hmm...the trailer has a great feel to it. It's something different. Color me curious.

Tym: Francis Ford Coppola? When did he get back? Just kidding. I think. This is another one that has flown under my radar, and since it has I can only apologize for my lack of an opinion. I guess I could ask if it's going to be Godfather or Godfather III, but someone's no doubt made that joke by now. With his resumé, I'm sure that this effort from Coppola will be worth checking out.

Thomas: Anything Francis Ford Coppola makes, I see. It's a rule of mine. I don't honestly know if this will get the kind of wide release that will enable me to do so before DVD, but if so I'm certainly going to be there. Yes, Coppola has made a few bad films during his day but his successes far overwhelm his failures, and I expect this to be in the former category and not the latter.

Brimfield: I'm no great fan of Coppola, sacrilege as it probably is to say, so I'll be skipping on this.

JUNE 19TH

Year One
Studio: Columbia
Directed by: Harold Ramis
Starring: Jack Black, Michael Cera, David Cross, Hank Azaria
The plot: When a couple of lazy hunter-gatherers (Black and Cera) are banished from their primitive village, they set off on an epic journey through their ancient world.

Lealos: Why do I want to see this? The trailers are about as bad as Land of the Lost but there is something pulling me, begging me to give it a chance. Part of it is Jack Black, who I absolutely love. Part of it is Michael Cera, who continues to be in interesting movies. Part of it is Harold Ramis, directing his first movie in four years. The guy was a freaking Ghostbuster and directed Caddyshack, National Lampoon's Vacation and the wonderfully underrated Multiplicity. The guy is a legend. And look at that cast - Oliver Platt, David Cross, Vinnie Jones, Hank Azaria - Freakin' McLovin'!!!! I have to see this movie.

Furious: I like Harold Ramis. He's not had much to do in the past decade or so. Hopefully this film is a good starting place on the way back to show he's capable of making fun movies. Jack Black has had a bit of a dry spell lately (I say lately, Kung Fu Panda aside, his last really good starring comedy was School of Rock in 2003) so we can only hope he can deliver and both guys have a good result.

Archibald: Harold Ramis! God, this looks like the cheesiest B-movie ever made. The sets look like the rejects from that Wu-Tang Clan video, where the WU are all decked out in Flintstone-endorsed swag (yes, I said SWAG!) Despite all this... I need to see this movie! Is it Michael Cera's Anti-Blogojovich hairstyle? I don't know...

Chamberlain: Come on guys, this looks like a blast! I want to see this because I know it's going to be laugh a minute. It's a really cool concept for a comedy, for one, which is a good place to start. Harold Ramis is the man and Black and Cera are yet to disappoint me.

Kristopowitz: The trailers and commercials have been funny, and it's good to see Harold Ramis back directing. Sounds like a winner. I just hope that the movie isn't stupid. Again, while the trailers and commercials have been funny, the movie does give off a bit of a "potentially stupid" vibe.

Gustafson: My gut says bomb, but my gut steered me to get the burger basket the other night and I got food poisoning, so what does my gut know? The cast is great. Just great. But the story that brings them together on-screen is limper than Ryan Seacrest standing next to Megan Fox. Did they try to fast track this to get in on the Land of the Lost hype?

Tym: Looks funny. Could be a gut-buster, could just be mildly amusing. Where's that Magic 8-Ball? I thought I left it over here…

Thomas: Not a chance in hell. I've enjoyed many a Jack Black movie, but there are many times where he just half-asses it and relies on his usual schtick. This appears to be one of those times. Also, Michael Cera is really starting to annoy me by playing the exact same role again and again and again and again... and again. This looks to be a bunch of people just coasting by on the same old shit, and that doesn't work for me. Pass.

Brimfield: It bears repeating that Michael Cera's character is the most lazily-designed looking character I've seen in years. At least Jack Black looks like a caveman. Anyway, this will undoubtedly consist of little more than cameos, Black's shtick (still funny) and Cera's "awkward/earnest" act (no longer funny), plus a few strokes of genius from Ramis.

The Proposal
Studio: Walt Disney
Directed by: Anne Fletcher
Starring: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen
The plot: A publishing executive (Bullock) forces her assistant (Reynolds) to marry her so she can avoid deportation back to Canada.

Lealos: I want to see Ryan Reynolds reach his full potential. When he made Van Wilder, he topped everyone's Next Big Star lists. Then he alternated between chick flicks (Just Friends, Definitely Maybe), Indie appearances (Waiting, Adventureland) and smaller roles in big budget flicks (Blade: Trinity, Wolverine). Following the Wolverine appearance, he has been signed to star in a Deadpool offshoot movie, pretty cool because it might keep him out of movies like this. Remember when Sandra Bullock was supposed to be the next big thing?

Furious: I hate Disney. I don't care for Sandra Bullock and insist she hasn't made a good film since her first year in the business ('93-'94). Ryan Reynolds is horrible in rom-coms. And the storyline sounds stupid. Pass!

Archibald: Another Canada reference! You know how I know this movie is pure BULLSHIT? The HR Supervisor where I work wouldn't leave me alone until I had my green card (after my initial K-1 Visa expired). There is no possible way that anyone could make it to "publishing executive" without having a special work Visa. And even then the U.S. Government will hunt you down with the fire of JACK BAUER to make sure you renew it or get your permanent Green Card. Sorry, I just can't watch this movie and suspend disbelief when I know how shit actually works.

Chamberlain: Why, cause being Canadian is bad? EH?!?! Meh, I'm not a Bullock fan.

Kristopowitz: Ryan Reynolds is in it so screw that.

Gustafson: Hey, just what we need! A cookie cutter romantic comedy! If this movie had a stomach I would give it a raspberry and send it on its way. You feel like Reynolds' agent pushed him into this in order to increase his female demographic?

Tym: I think Ryan Reynolds is a funny guy, and often wonder where the hell Sandra Bullock has been. Having said that and given the fact that I've seen this trailer for the past year or so with no release ‘til now, I hereby declare DUD.

Thomas: No. Sorry, I love Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock can be funny, but no. That's all I have to say here.

Brimfield: Oh, quality and non-stupid romantic comedies, how I yearn for thee.

Whatever Works
Studio: Sony
Directed by: Woody Allen
Starring: Evan Rachel Wood, Larry David, Henry Cavill
The plot: An eccentric older man (David) encounters a Southern belle (Wood) and promptly falls in love. But how will the couple, her family, and his New York City friends mix?

Lealos: I don't like Woody Allen movies. The only Allen movie that completely won me over was Annie Hall. That bodes well for this film starring Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm) because this movie feels like Annie Hall, made for a new world. David does his best Woody Allen impersonation in the trailer and, for the first time ever, I actually want to see a Woody Allen movie.

Furious: Woody Allen had a degree of success with his last film Vicky Cristina Barcelona, scoring him critical points and box office success (yes, box office and Woody Allen together in 2008, who would have thought it?) So collaborating with Larry David could take Woody to another new level of unexpected success! I won't be watching it because I haven't gotten past how bad Match Point was.

Archibald: Okay, seriously... it's Larry David playing Woody Allen playing Larry David... Curb Your Enthusiasm meets Manhattan. First in line.

Chamberlain: I'll take a pass on this one. Woody is productive though, I'll give him that.

Kristopowitz: I haven't seen a trailer for this yet, so I don't know. I'm not a big fan of Woody Allen, but, hey, this could be good. Maybe.

Gustafson: Woody Allen movies are critic-proof. They are what they are. It's like he's given his own sandbox to play in, away from Hollywood and its "rules". Me? I feel the same way each time I watch his movies. Eh. Yeah, I know. He's awesome, blah, blah, blah. Not my cup of Yoo Hoo. I'll be (bored) watching this on DVD sometime in the future.

Tym: Larry David + Woody Allen = SOLD! Not much else to see here, folks. Move along.

Thomas: Woody Allen and Larry David working together? Yeah, that's all you had to say to get me interested. And Evan Rachel Wood is in it too? Just an added bonus. Allen's string of good films could well continue with this film, and I'm quite hopeful.

Brimfield: Otherwise known as Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Movie. No thanks!

JUNE 26TH

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen
Studio: Dreamworks
Directed by: Michael Bay
Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, John Turturro, Peter Cullen
The plot: When Decepticon forces return to Earth on a mission to take Sam Witwicky prisoner, after the young hero learns the truth about the ancient origins of the Transformers. Joining the mission to protect humankind is Optimus Prime, who forms an alliance with international armies for a second epic battle.

Lealos: I mentioned earlier this was my movie of the month for June. I cannot wait for this movie to be released and will see it at the first opportunity (hopefully a midnight showing). I have no doubt it will kick ass.

Furious: The Michael Bay Transformers flick is the absolute definition of what is wrong with Hollywood. A big budget, more effects than storyline and extended sequences that looked like commercials. Bay's insistence at shooting every film the same exact way has caused me to hate all of his films equally. Even the ones I really enjoyed the first time around! That's how much I hated Transformers. So naturally it goes without saying that I have zero interest in a sequel. Or anything else Michael Bay ever vomits onto celluloid.

Archibald: One word: DEVASTATOR. Oh yes, I will see this. As much as I HATE Michael Bay, by the power of Greyskull it is the only thing on his resume (besides The Rock) that he's been able to fit his style to. I know, HE RAPED MY CHILDHOOD. Seriously, did you EVER think this movie would ever happen? Even a sequel? Enjoy it in all its loud obnoxious glory. DEVASTATOR!

Chamberlain: Ok, if I didn't love the first movie (which I did); if this didn't look like a blast (and it does); and if the special effects didn't look insane (which they do)... I would STILL see this movie, just for that shot of Megan Fox pouring herself onto that motor bike in the trailer. I mean, GOOD GOD. Unreal. Give me two hours of that in 3D, please.

Kristopowitz: Oh, hell yeah. Giant robots beating the crap out of one another. Who the heck doesn't want to watch that? I just hope that Michael Bay found a way to make it easier for the audience (well, people like me) to differentiate between the Autobots and the Deceptacons. Besides Optimus Prime and Bumblebee, I couldn't tell the robots apart.

Gustafson: This will make lots of money. Do we need to say anything more?

Tym: See my thoughts in the anticipated movie of the month section. More big robots, more big explosions, more ticket money spent by yours truly. Hey, I can't be nitpicky all the time.

Thomas: Yeah, yeah, I know, giant robots, blah blah blah. Michael Bay is a douche bag, and he's already said enough about this film to ruin it for me. I enjoyed the first one when it wasn't making the Autobots and Decepticons look like goofballs and comedy characters. This film looks to be more of the same, since because Bay delivered a huge hit he got license to do whatever he wants. Devastator looks cool, sure, and yes, I will be there to see it, but outside of Devastator and Megan Fox wearing even less than she did in the first one this looks like utter ass.

Brimfield: Do Michael Bay's movies remind anyone else of Baldrick's poem from that episode of Blackadder Goes Forth? You know the one: "Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom..."

My Sister's Keeper
Studio: New Line
Directed by: Nick Cassavetes
Starring: Cameron Diaz, Abigail Breslin, Alec Baldwin, Jason Patric
The plot: Anna Fitzgerald (Breslin) looks to earn medical emancipation from her parents (Diaz and Patric) who until now have relied on their youngest child to help their leukemia-stricken daughter Kate remain alive.

Lealos: This is based on the novel by Jodi Picoult, an amazing writer that touches upon very difficult subject matters. The subject at the base of this story is a young girl (Abigail Breslin) who is genetically engineered through in vitro fertilization to be a genetic match for her older sister, who has leukemia. When she was born, her cord blood was immediately donated to her sister. When her sister's leukemia returned, she had to donate blood and bone marrow. Now both girls are older and her sister's kidneys fail and when she is told she has to give up her kidney she fights back and sues her parents for medical power of attorney over her own body. The subject matter is touchy because what happens to a person who was only created for spare parts? This is not so much a chick flick as an adult drama with a very touching story at its heart. If the movie comes close to the resolution of the novel, there won't be many people leaving the theater with dry eyes. See Transformers for the explosions; see My Sister's Keeper for a good story.

Furious: Jason Patric still works? Preview screenings have produced extremely positive response but I think this might be a touch depressing for big screen viewing. Although Alec Baldwin might be enough to draw me into a rental if reviews hold up.

Archibald: My wife was in TEARS when the trailer ended. Shit. I will probably be seeing this on opening night. Everyone says to read the novel, though.

Chamberlain: No, no, no.

Kristopowitz: This movie looks incredibly depressing. Why isn't this a Hallmark TV movie? That's what it looks like.

Gustafson: My girlfriend and sister will never talk to me again if I bash this. Actually, to be fair, this looks like it has some spirit to it. Something other than a typical chick flick, so I can't hate on it. Have I read the book? No comment.

Tym: I have to be in the mood for movies like this. You know - depressed, deranged, wanting to inflict psychological pain upon myself. Surely there's a reason for this film, but I have to admit that I'm not it.

Thomas: Wow, now there's counter-programming and a half. Giant robot combat extravaganza... tear-jerker from hell. The cast is good, Cassavetes is a good director and I'll probably see this on DVD. Not in the theaters, though... it's not the kind of movie I enjoy theatrically.

Brimfield: Having suffered through working the general fiction section of a book store and having to "enjoy" another volume of Picoult's mawkish tripe hitting the shelves every other month, rest assured I'll be giving this a wide berth.



The votes are in... Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen is the 411 staff's hit of the month, while The Proposal is our shit of the month!


That's all for now, folks. Stay tuned next month for a look at Public Enemies, Harry Potter and a whole lot more!

All poster images courtesy of IMDB.