411 Movies Roundtable: July 2006
Posted by Matthew Craggs on 07.04.2006
A recap of June and a look forward to July.
Greetings, and welcome to the July 411 Movies roundtable. This month we have:
Bryan Kristopowitz of What!?? This Column!?? fame.
Chad Webb of Big Screen Bulletin fame.
Trevor Snyder of The Top 5 fame.
Tim O'Sullivan of all that soccer coverage in the Sports Zone fame. He loves this roundtable so much he did it twice. (Don't worry, only he will understand that joke.)
George H. Sirois, who has been around here so long that no introduction is required.
The Month That Was
Bryan Kristopowitz
Biggest Winner of the Months: Trancas International and the Akkad family. After Moustapha, the head of the company, was killed in a terrorist bombing I didn't think they'd ever do another movie, a Myers movie or anything else. They'd just go into philanthropy or something. But now they're doing another "Halloween." Great.
Biggest Loser of the Month: Pixar and Disney. Yeah, "Cars" made a buttload of money, but the entertainment news media went absolutely insane when the animated flick didn't make as much as expected. It's not like either company (well, aren't they one company now?) is going to go out of business, but I'm sure some of the employees felt like crap. They only made several million dollars, not several tens of millions of dollars.
Biggest Movie News of the Month: Rob Zombie and his directing duties on the new "Halloween." As I pointed out in my fabulous column recently, with a "name" director attached to the series it may finally start to get some serious publicity. Well, it will get that again. I'm sorry, but I'm such a nerd for this series.
Your Most Anticipated Movie of the Month: "Little Man." I'm a total sucker for Keenan Ivory Wayans movies. Dang near everything he does works, and the trailers for this movie are good. It looks funny.
Recommended DVD Release of the Month: "The Boondocks: The Complete First Season." I was skeptical about this series when it was announced. I thought it was too soon to have an animated cartoon for the great "Boondocks" comic strip, that something would be lost in the translation and we wouldn‘t gain anything. I was wrong on all counts. Huey, Riley, Grandfather, Tom, and the rest make for one of the funnier cartoons on TV. And it looks good, too. For some reason I get the feeling I‘m watching "G.I. Joe" when an episode airs. I can‘t wait for the second season.
Classic Movie of the Month: "Lean on Me" (1989): Morgan Freeman in a great performance as Principal Joe Clark, a tough as nails educator brought in to fix a failing school so it can pass a state test and avoid full on state control. How Freeman didn't get an Oscar for this role I'll never know. Everything about it is entertaining, and it has some of the best character lines ever. "I don't have to do nothing but stay black and die!" And who can forget the supporting role of "Benson" himself, Robert Guillaume as the school district superintendent Dr. Frank Napier? They should have made a movie with Freeman and Guillaume together as restaurant owners or something. They work so well together.
Movie Quote of the Month: "Get used to it, it's the way of the world. If you're so hot on discipline, goddamit, start by accepting mine. Because contrary to popular opinion I'm the head nigger in charge!" Robert Guillaume, "Dr. Frank Napier," "Lean on Me" (1989)
Matthew Craggs
Biggest Winner of the Months: See No Evil, because it exceeded its expectations. The expectations were very modest but it had a nice, steady little run down at the bottom of the box office. Not to mention it has given WWE Films hope for the John Cena and Steve Austin pictures.
Biggest Loser of the Month: Cameron Diaz, for being dumped by some child like Michael Jackson impersonator who, if he wasn't a celebrity, would have to sell his soul to be with a girl like her. And by a girl like her I mean a ditzy chick who couldn't act her way out of a wet paper bag.
Biggest Movie News of the Month: Rob Zombie taking over Hallowe'en. Before Hollywood looked down on Rob Zombie. Yeah, yeah, go make your little horror movies metal man. But taking control of a franchise, no matter how old and unappealing to me, is news.
Your Most Anticipated Movie of the Month: Clerks 2, no doubt. Kevin Smith always brings the heat. The sequel looks delightfully crass and delightfully sentimental.
Recommended DVD Release of the Month: Queer Duck: The Movie, from Mike Reiss (of The Simpsons fame). I saw a clip of the series at a Mike Reiss lecture and thought it was hilarious. That was years ago. Now, there is a movie, I guess. A movie that has a great tagline. "He can't even fly straight."
Classic Movie of the Month: Manhattan which recently came on TMN in horrible pan and scan form. When the movie was originally sold to TV there was a clause that it had to be shown in letterbox. In 2006 I guess all bets are off. Nothing irks me more than Manhattan in pan and scan.
Movie Quote of the Month: From Manhattan. Party Guest: "I finally had an orgasm, and my doctor said it was the wrong kind." Isaac: "I've never had the wrong kind, ever. My worst one was right on the money."
Chad Webb
Biggest Winner of the Months: I had trouble narrowing this one down, so I will say every film that debuted with big numbers this month like The Break Up, Cars, The Omen, and Click. No one else really deserves the 411 title of "Biggest Winner."
Biggest Loser of the Month: I would have to say Director Uwe Boll. The man not only has a bad reputation for his films, but now he has further embarrassed himself by challenging his critics to a boxing match. It seems our German friend has gone off the deep end, and I honestly don't see things getting better for him. I've seen the trailer for his next movie. It looks dreadful.
Biggest Movie News of the Month: For me it was the news that Philip Seymour Hoffman and Tom Hanks will be in a movie together. It is called Charlie Wilson's War, and it also stars Julia Roberts. I can't wait.
Your Most Anticipated Movie of the Month: I would have to say Pirates of the Caribbean because it looks so like such fun film. This is a tough decision because I like Kevin Smith, so I'm looking forward to Clerks II (even though I have doubts), but I also can't wait for Lady in the Water.
Recommended DVD Release of the Month: It would have to be Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story. This was a hilarious and overlooked comedy that is unlike any film you will ever see. Check out my review for more details. Other than this, this month is somewhat dim for DVD releases. Some Like it Hot from 1959 also gets a 2 disc special edition release this month.
Classic Movie of the Month: I'm not sure why, but I'm recommending Charlie Varrick from 1973 starring Walter Matthau and Joe Don Baker. This might not be a classic, but it is an unknown film worth mentioning. Walter Matthau was seen in comedies probably 95% of the time, but here he took on a different role as a bad guy. This film is extremely hard to find on DVD, and basically the only way to find it is through Amazon or Ebay. I recommend seeking it out. IT is directed by Don Siegel, the same man who made Escape from Alcatraz (another great film).
Movie Quote of the Month: Charley Varrick: "I like your bed. You may find this hard to believe but I've never slept on a round bed."
Trevor Snyder
Biggest Winner of the Month: I'm with Webb on this, it doesn't really feel like there was a big winner this month. But, just to play devil's advocate to Bryan Kristopowitz, who picked Pixar as the month's biggest loser, I'll give them the biggest winner. I didn't really notice as much negative press on the performance of Cars as Bryan seemed to, and the fact remains that it opened big and got great reviews, just like every other Pixar film. Add that to the fact that Pixar is now finally in control of Toy Story 3, as they should be, and I'm thinking it's still pretty damn great to be Pixar.
Biggest Loser of the Month: Just like I had a hard time thinking of a big winner for June, it didn't really seem like there were any huge losers, either. So, what the hell, let's give it to Vin Diesel. A few years ago Mr. Diesel turned down 2 Fast 2 Furious because they wouldn't cough up the huge salary he was demanding, what with being the next big thing and all. Cut to today, when Vin is reduced to cameo status in The Fast and the Furious 3. I bet Fast and the Furious 4 isn't looking so bad now, huh Vin?
Biggest Movie News of the Month: I suppose I'm mildly excited about Rob Zombie helming a new Halloween movie (I'd prefer to see work on his own creations, but he's an interesting choice to take the tired franchise in a new direction), but overall there wasn't really any movie new that really struck me this month (man, June, what the hell was your problem?). So, I'm gonna cheat a little and use some TV news instead: Comedy Central's announcement that it's reviving Futurama for at least 13 episodes. Sure, I have to wait till 2008 to see them, but whatever. That news made my day.
Your Most Anticipated Movie of the Month: It's a tie between Pirates 2 and Clerks 2, two very different films that I'm looking forward to equally (and both of which I'm hoping won't be huge letdowns).
Recommended DVD Release of the Month: Part of me wants to say Basic Instinct 2, because I missed it in the theaters (like everyone else in America) and I can't wait to see how bad it truly is. And then there's the new special edition of Road House, an amazingly crappy movie, yes; but the DVD has an audio commentary from Kevin Smith and Scott Mosier, and anyone who has seen their discussion of Road House on the Clerks X DVD has to be looking forward to hearing their full commentary. But what I'm actually looking forward to the most are the DVD releases of The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. and Jack of All Trades, two shows both starring the almighty Bruce Campbell.
Classic Movie of the Month: Fritz Lang's 1927 masterpiece Metropolis, which topped my Top 5 Movies I'd Like to See Remade. Nowadays, pretty much the only people who have seen this are die-hard film aficionados, but everyone else should put aside whatever bias they have against silent films and check out what is still one of the finest science fiction films ever made.
Movie Quote of the Month: "Pain don't hurt" – Master philosopher, and world's greatest bouncer, Dalton (Patrick Swayze), Road House (1989)
Tim O'Sullivan
Biggest Winner of the Month: Bryan Singer. Ebert and Ziegler weren't too hot on his take on the super franchise, but basically everyone else has provided positive feedback. The early numbers have been huge, and big money sequels will be hyped until they arrive.
Biggest Loser of the Month: Er, me. A forum hitch lost my original answers for this roundtable, and subsequently my new ones are uninspired. Plus, England went out of the World Cup and I am just feeling down. I hate life.
Biggest Movie News of the Month: ‘The Break Up' taking the number one spot from ‘X-Men III' in the U.S box office. That was a shocker to me.
Your Most Anticipated Movie of the Month: Miami Vice. It's a big month, but Mann, Foxx and Farrell bring enough guaranteed class and star power to the plate for me to anticipate this with enthusiasm.
Recommended DVD Release of the Month: Entourage Season Two and Munich are the two DVD's you should have purchased last month. Boo ya.
Classic Movie of the Month: I dusted off the ‘Happy Gilmore' DVD a few days back. Sandler gets some shit, but this is as good a comedy film as anything from the past decade.
Movie Quote of the Month: From ‘Happy Gilmore'………..
Shooter McGavin: "I eat pieces of shit like you for breakfast."
Happy Gilmore: "You eat pieces of shit for breakfast?"
George H. Sirois
Biggest Winner of the Month: Warner Bros. After all the crap they went through to get Superman back on the big screen, having done it at all is a huge accomplishment. The fact that it wound up being damn good was a nice bonus.
Biggest Loser of the Month: Fans of the Halloween Franchise. So Rob Zombie wants to direct a Halloween film. That's cool, I have no qualms with him. Unfortunately, he wants to direct a "re-imagining" of the original film, which means that the franchise that should have ended with H20 is instead ending with Resurrection. And it really leaves a bad taste in my mouth that such a tremendous franchise with a lot of legs left to it is ending with Busta Fucking Rhymes getting the last shot on Michael Myers.
Biggest Movie News of the Month: The 20th Anniversary Re-Release of TransFormers: The Movie. Sony knows exactly when and how to strike by releasing this DVD in November. This is gonna be a 2-disc set, which is a beautiful thing, so this is one I'm definitely picking up. The single-disc version I already have might as well be a coaster.
Your Most Anticipated Movie of the Month: I gotta go with Clerks II. I just finished reading "Silent Bob Speaks" and recently re-visited Chasing Amy. So Kevin timed his release of this film perfectly, and as much as I'm looking forward to seeing this in theaters, I'm even more looking forward to it on DVD so I can hear the commentary track. They're always a classic on Kevin's discs.
Recommended DVD Release of the Month: Carnivale – The Complete Second Season. This was one of the most intense seasons of television I've ever watched, and the season finale more than lived up to the expectations. Maybe this unjustly cancelled series will get re-visited in some way, shape or form, but for now, get it, sit back, and revel in how incredible a show can be.
Classic Movie of the Month: I picked up the Hot Shots! / Hot Shots! Part Deux double-disc package from Wal-Mart for $10 while I was in St. Louis, so that gets the nod from me. I almost forgot how hilarious Part Deux is, and Part One is just as good.
Movie Quote of the Month: "War! It's fantastic!" -- Commander Arvid Harbinger, Hot Shots! Part Deux
Coming Attractions
PIRATES OF THE CARRIBEAN: DEAD MAN'S CHEST
Action/Adventure
Opening: July 7
Cast: Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley
Director: Gore Verbinski
Synopsis: When Captain Jack Sparrow (Depp) finds out he owes
a blood debt to ghostly Davey Jones (of locker fame), he desperately
searches for a way to pay it off, or else face eternal damnation in the
afternoon. And he's not above interrupting the wedding plans of Will
Turner (Bloom) and Elizabeth Swann (Knightley) to do it.
Kristopowitz: I still haven't seen the first movie, and I'm not sure why. It's been on TV a hundred million times. I'll get to see it one day. As for this sequel, it looks like fun. The big question here with this is will Depp get another Oscar nod for his Captain Jack character, or have we entered the phase where no one will take it seriously and he's just a cereal commercial character?
Craggs: The first installment was exciting enough for the first half and absolutely dragged for the last half. That's all I can remember of the picture. I'm in the minority, but I don't care about Pirates of the Carribean, I don't care about Orlando Bloom, I don't care about Johnny Depp as Keith Richards doing a pirate. Next.
Webb: I really think this looks great, and if anyone wants an example of a sequel to look forward to, this is the one. It has a great cast of some hot young actors, very fine director, and one of the best actors around in Johnny Depp. While Lucas and Speilberg are busy with an unnecessary Indiana Jones 4, this franchise is just getting started with new visuals, new humor, and new storylines.
Snyder: This will almost certainly be the biggest movie of the summer, no matter if it's actually good or not. Unlike the first film, which was a surprise hit, this one has very high expectations to live up to. With the original three leads and director returning, not to mention the always awesome Bill Nighy joining as Davy Jones, it seems like chances are good it will be the entertaining joy-ride it needs to be to keep the franchise alive for next summer's third film.
O'Sullivan: Johnny Depp will undoubtedly continue to carry this would-be franchise on his shoulders, and I am looking forward to seeing this in an, "I can switch my brain off for 150 minutes" sort of way. The fight between Sparrow and Turner on a big ass wheel looks class.
Sirois: Loved the first one, and I'm thrilled that Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio are writing this one too. But why did Hans Zimmer have to replace Klaus Bedalt as the music composer? The theme to the first Pirates was the best piece of music in 2003! Oh well, it's still Hans doing the music, and this is still a Pirates movie so I'm definitely planning on seeing this.
A SCANNER DARKLY
Drama/Mystery
Opening: July 7
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Winona Ryder, Robert Downey Jr.
Director: Richard Linklater
Synopsis: Undercover cop Fred (Keanu Reeves) is one of many agents
hooked on the popular drug Substance D, which causes its users to develop
split personalities. Fred, for instance, is also Bob, a notorious drug dealer.
Along with his superior officers, Fred sets up an elaborate scheme to catch
Bob and tear down his operation.
Kristopowitz: This looks bizarre. It looks good, yeah, but bizarre. It's the animation thing. Will it keep the audience's attention, interest until the end, or is this so far out they won't be able to handle it after the first half hour? It's not like the rotoscope process thing hasn't been done before, but when was the last time it was done in a potentially major release? Who knows, it could be a huge success.
Craggs: Let's face it, we all want to see this picture because the rotoscoping looks cool. The question is can it hold our interest for ninety something minutes. I think it can because the film looks paranoid enough for the creepy animation. Plus, Keanu Reeves is good in movies where he is clueless because he is, in fact, clueless. Chalk his success in movies like The Matrix up to great casting, not great acting. But I digress.
Webb: This sounds and looks very odd indeed, but sometimes that can mean a classic is coming. I am looking forward to this film very much, and especially since it has Richard Linklater as the director. Some may like the casting, and some may not, but I think each of these actors can shine when the time is right. Robert Downey Jr. has been doing some great stuff lately. Yes, I will be seeing this as soon as I can.
Snyder: Blade Runner and Minority Report, two previous Philip K. Dick adaptations, showed that the authors works are perfect for translation into smart, exciting sci-fi masterpieces. This film has a plot every bit as interesting and compelling as those two films, and the unique animation style Linklater first used in A Waking Life (which looks much more suited to this film than it did to that one). I don't expect this to be a huge money-maker, but in terms of sheer quality, it could be the sleeper hit of the summer.
O'Sullivan : Keanu Reeves is the worst big name actor in the history of Hollywood. Plus - this looks weird.
Sirois: I liked the style of Waking Life, but it didn't click with me writing-wise. This film actually looks like things are happening and the animation style looks to be enhancing the action and not covering up the inaction. So I'd like to check this out.
STRANGERS WITH CANDY
Comedy
Opening: July 7 (limited)
Cast: Amy Sedaris, Stephen Colbert, Paul Dinello
Director: Paul Dinello
Synopsis: Fresh from prison, 47-year-old Jerri Blank (Sedaris), moves
back in with her comatose father (Hedaya), his new wife (Rush), and her son
(Cross). A self-admitted "boozer, user, and loser," Jerri re-enrolls as a freshman
at Flat Point High School, where she'll have to use his street smarts to make
alliances, get out of tricky situations, and ultimately help a team of students
win the state science fair.
Kristopowitz: Wasn't this a TV show on Comedy Central not that long ago? It sounds like it could be a hoot, and with Stephen Colbert now having a bit of "it" factor about him this could turn out to be a better movie than expected.
Craggs: Reviews have been good so far, I guess, and there's no denying that Amy Sedaris and Stephen Colbert are funny. The problem is that the trailer isn't funny and it doesn't give me much hope.
Webb: This is a prequel to the show, and I'll be honest I never watched the show because that woman's face told me to change the channel. Just the sight of it bothered me like hell. I'll give it a chance I guess if the film comes around my area, but other than that I really could care less about this.
Snyder: I never watched this show during it's run on Comedy Central, so I cant really say whether it deserved a movie or not. But, as a fan of many criminally cancelled series', I'm happy for the fans on this one who now get another chance to visit the characters they love. As for me, I'll probably check it out on video, if only to see Colbert in action.
O'Sullivan : This sounds unfunny, and I doubt it will make the main cinemas over here in the UK.
Sirois: Hell yes!!! I'm a huge fan of the show, and especially of Stephen Colbert. I'm there!
LITTLE MAN
Comedy
Opening: July 14
Cast: Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Kerry Washington
Director: Keenen Ivory Wayans
Synopsis: A wannabe dad (Shawn Wayans) and mom (Washington) are
duped by a short, baby-faced criminal (Marlon Wayans) on the lam as his
newly adopted son.
Kristopowitz: Good God this looks funny. Like I said up top, I'm a total sucker for everything Keenan Ivory Wayans does (even "Most Wanted," his action flick. "I'm a Marine. We don't plan, we improvise!"). A little midget man criminal running around trying to find the loot he lost and he ends up as a baby? And having that fake head superimposed on the little man's body makes this flick just weird enough to go see anyway, even if you hate Wayans.
Craggs: You know, it's the guys who brought us White Chicks. I was sure I would hate White Chicks but it did something for me. It had a bit of the "You can turn it on at any point and get a few laughs" factor to it. Who knows, it could be worth a rental, but risking ten bucks on a flick where Marlon Wayans plays a midget playing a baby? No, thanks.
Webb : Well either you like the Wayans brothers, or you don't. I don't. I think this looks like a serious contender for the Razzies, or whatever they're called. I have seen numerous bad films this year, but it can always get worse. If I see this, it will be because I am incredibly bored, and have the chance to see it for free.
Snyder: You know, I never would have thought that the Wayans could make a movie that looks even stupider than White Chicks as that film's follow-up, but I guess that's what I get for underestimating them.
O'Sullivan : The film with the crazy long title and the first ‘Scary Movie' movie were both half decent ventures for the Wayan brothers. However, they have suffered a monumental slump in comedic quality over the past few years, and I guarantee that this will be shocking.
YOU, ME AND DUPREE
Comedy
Opening: July 14
Cast: Kate Hudson, Owen Wilson, Matt Dillon
Director: Anthony Russo Joe Russo
Synopsis: A recently married couple's wedded bliss is tested when their
best man (Wilson) moves in with them for an undefined period of time.
Kristopowitz: This movie all rests on Matt Dillon. We all know what we're going to get from Owen Wilson (we've probably already seen his best bits in the various preview trailers) and Kate Hudson will do her stressed, befuddled pretty girl thing and will do it well. But if Dillon just sleepwalks through his part, doesn't adequately interact with both Wilson and Hudson (chemistry, chemistry, chemistry) the whole flick is going to fall apart.
Craggs: I am least excited about this one. Kate Hudson has no chops, Owen Wilson has no chops, and Matt Dillon has chops, but I just can't get into him because, quite frankly, he chooses shitty movies to be in. But the important thing is that this is a nice, inoffensive comedy that will get a decent box office return and be forced on me when it hits DVD.
Webb: Matt Dillon is fresh off his great role in Crash, and it is a shame he has accepted a stupid role like this. I think this looks stupid, stupid, stupid. I don't think Owen Wilson is that funny. Wedding Crashers was pretty funny, but that was a rarity for Wilson in my opinion. The plot looks so dumb and predictable. It looks like a bad episode of an old sitcom actually.
Snyder: I'm sure a lot of people are looking forward to this one, but nothing in the preview really does it for me. It looks like nothing but fairly obvious, overdone "annoying houseguest" jokes: Oops, he barges in during sex; oh no, he stinks up the bathroom; oh man, now he's setting the house on fire. And while Owen Wilson works as part of a comedic team or duo, I'm not sure he can be counted on as the source of all of a film's laughs.
O'Sullivan : Awful title. Decent cast. I will have to read good reviews to go and see this.
Sirois: Nice, a third wheel comedy. I like Owen, I like Kate, and I like Matt, so look for my review here around opening day.
LADY IN THE WATER
Drama/Fantasy/Mystery
Opening: July 21
Cast: Paul Giamatti, Bruce Dallas Howard
Director: M. Night Shyamalan
Synopsis: Apartment building superintendent Cleveland Heep (Giamatti)
rescues what he thinks is a young woman from the pool he maintains.
Kristopowitz: Consummate artist Paul "black knit cap and big thick glasses" Giamatti attempts to make some money doing a fantasy movie big fat critics are probably going to like. Probably. It depends on how much the big fat critics have forgiven Shyamalan for "The Village." I've only seen Catalan's "Signs." I thought it was okay at best, so I'm not expecting much.
Craggs: All we heard about Shyamalan up until The Village was that he is the next Hitchcock. Then The Village came along and it turned into "He thinks he's the next Hitchcock." The fact is he has made four quality thrillers (Go ahead and tell me The Village was bad, I dare you) and the potential fifth has a huge "What is this all about?" vibe going for it. Sure, this one is a bit more youth oriented, but I'd be surprised if it didn't do well.
Webb: A lot of people are too harsh on Shyamalan films, and that gets on my nerves. He has given us unique and innovative films that hopefully last a long time. Paul Giamatti has been near flawless lately, and Bryce Dallas Howard is a terrific up and coming actress. I think this will be solid just like all of his films.
Snyder: The early teaser trailers for this one seemed to heavily play up the fantasy aspect, but it looks like the marketing has recently made a turn to pushing it as another scary jump-fest. Shyamalan needs to deliver here to restore some of his rep, which took somewhat of a hit after the disappointment of The Village. If this is turns out to just be another case of totally relying on a twist ending, it could signal the end of Shyamalan's love affair with audiences.
O'Sullivan : Paul Giamatti is my favourite actor, and he seems to be at a point in his career where he can pick and choose the best stuff for himself. The teaser trailers look interesting, and although I can't imagine it being a classic my faith in Giamatti will allow me to see this with enthusiasm.
Sirois: The teaser had me teased, and the trailer has me curious. Will it be M. Night's redemption from The Village? Well, Bryce Dallas Howard was the best thing about that movie and Paul Giamatti's one of my favorites so I'd say I'm willing to take the risk.
MONSTER HOUSE
Animation/Family
Opening: July 21
Cast: Mitchel Musso, Sam Lerner, Spencer Locke
Director: Gil Kenan
Synopsis: Three young kids discover that one of the houses in their
neighborhood really a living, breathing, scary monster.
Kristopowitz: This looks good. A house that eats people can only work in a cartoon.
Craggs: I bet the rest of the homes in the neighbourhood are worth squat with this monster house around.
Webb: This is Gil Kenan's debut as a director, and I think this looks above average for a CGI film. Most of the animated offerings are either overrated or just plain bad this year (except Cars), but this had some adult jokes in the trailer, and an enjoyable plot for children.
Snyder: A pretty unique concept for a kid's movie, actually, and the trailers look kind of fun. But is anyone else starting to get tired of computer animated family films, which seem to be hitting every other week now? Although kudos to this one for not being about animals or insects, unlike the majority of computer animated fare (See The Ant Bully, below).
O'Sullivan : What's that coming over the hill? Is it a monster? Is it a monster? Who gives a shit?
CLERKS II
Comedy
Opening: July 21
Cast: Brian O'Halloran, Jeff Anderson, Rosario Dawson
Director: Kevin Smith
Synopsis: When the Quick Stop abruptly folds, old pals Randal Graves
(Anderson) and Dante Hicks (O'Halloran) are forced to join the crew at
Mooby's, a fast food joint where dreams go to die.
Kristopowitz: This movie will make a ton of money on DVD. I can't say that I'm all that interested in this movie. I'm not much of a Kevin Smith fan (I think it has something to do with his name and face constantly appearing in "Wizard" magazine). It will probably be funny, a riot, but, heck, too, didn't Smith say he wasn't doing these movies anymore? Wasn't he supposed to do some space movie or something?
Craggs: A thousand times yes. Not only is Kevin Smith fully, but he can tug at the heart strings as good as anyway. I have been anticipating this one like I anticipated losing my virginity.
Webb: I love Kevin Smith's movies, most of the time anyway, and while I have some doubts about doing a sequel to this film, I am hoping he delivers the magic just like he did all those years ago. Smith's movies usually don't do great in the theaters. They find an audience on video I think. It is really up in the air on how this will turn out.
Snyder: I suppose I could rag on Smith for returning to these characters after promising that Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back would be the final "New Jersey" film, but why bother? The truth is, I'm damn happy to see Smith return to the View Askewniverse, as I'm sure most of his fans are. This one looks a little broader and goofier than the original film, so I'm guessing it wont please all die-hard Clerks fans. But, as for me, there is no comedy I'm more excited about this summer.
O'Sullivan : The original is a stonewall classic, and that fact alone will encourage me to see this. However, I'm not expecting much if I'm honest.
Sirois: See my "Most Anticipated Movie of the Month."
MY SUPER EX GIRLFRIEND
Comedy
Opening: July 21
Cast: Uma Thurman, Luke Wilson, Anna Faris
Director: Ivan Reitman
Synopsis: Matt (Wilson) dumps his girlfriend Jenny (Thurman) for being
too needy, and eventually hooks up with his co-worker (Faris). Little does
he know, Jenny's also a superhero, the now-scorned G-Girl, who will use
all of her abilities to bust up Matt's new union.
Kristopowitz: The Wilson brothers own July, apparently. We haven't seen much from Ivan Reitman lately (his last flick was in 2001, "Evolution," which was good but bombed for some reason) and it's too bad. This guy did "Stripes" and both "Ghostbusters." Even when his movies fail they're still interesting. This looks funny, and Uma looks good in her superhero outfit (which will probably be the make it or break it part of the movie. If she isn't convincing as a superhero the whole thing will be for bupkiss).
Craggs: This just in: Luke Wilson is as talented as his brother. Am I the only one who notices that Wilson plays the same character in each of his movies. He is always the level headed one who talks in the calm voice with a touch of sarcasm. Screw him. The only reason he is famous is because he is so strikingly handsome… I mean… umm… next.
Webb: Every part of this movie looks horrible except the guy from The Office being involved. She might be a super hero, but that alone, does not eliminate the obvious ending and clichés that will overwhelm this film. This month isn't looking promising for the Wilson brothers. Reitman's career consists of ups and downs, so who knows about this.
Snyder: Love Uma Thurman. Love Anna Faris. Love Eddie Izzard (who is playing Thurman's arch-nemesis). Love the concept. Not sure about the movie. If it's a truly twisted take on the havoc a superhero could wreak on a normal person's life, it could be quite good. But if it turns out to be just another romantic comedy with a fantasy element, it could be a huge waste of talent.
O'Sullivan : Interesting premise, and Uma is always good value, but this could be a giant turkey. On the other hand, it could be quirky and endearing.
Sirois: Not a bad idea at all for Ivan Reitman to get involved with the comic book crowd and cater to both those fans and the romantic comedy fans. But I have a bad feeling about it and, judging by the trailer, I don't think either crowd is gonna walk away too happy.
POSTER BOY
Drama
Opening: July 21 (limited)
Cast: Matt Newton, Michael Lerner, Karen Allen
Director: Zak Tucker
Synopsis: With the help of a hot, slightly older new acquaintence (Noteworthy),
the closeted son (Newton) of a conservative U.S. Senator (Lerner) puts a shocking
spin on his dad's re-election campaign.
Kristopowitz: From the plot synopsis given I still have no idea what this movie is about. Is it supposed to be about uptight conservatives accepting gays as people or something? Is that what's going on here? Could be good if it turns out to be something else entirely. Like, you know, a movie.
Craggs: To tell you the truth, I'm not really sure what this movie is about either, and I've seen the trailer.
Webb: Ummm, this seems too boring for me to write a lot about.
Snyder: I haven't seen anything about this one; in fact, I'd never even heard of it until doing this roundtable. The plot sounds like it would be a wacky "those darn conservatives clash with those darn gays" kind of comedy, but it's listed as a drama. Eh, I have no idea. Next.
O'Sullivan : I have zero prior knowledge on this film, but the synopsis has genuinely intrigued me. This summer's surprise hit perhaps?
LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE
Comedy/Drama
Opening: July 26 (limited)
Cast: Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Greg Kinnear
Director: Jonathan Dayton Valerie Faris
Synopsis: A dysfunctional family determined to get their young daughter
into the finals of a beauty pageant take a trip from New Mexico to California
in their VW bus.
Kristopowitz: Wasn't this the movie that everyone crapped their pants about last year at Sundance? I saw a still photo for it, with Steve Carrell and the rest of them, about six times in "The New York Times." So it has that appeal. I'm going to assume that this flick all depends on how much people still like Brick Tamblin. Are they banking on the TV audience ("The Office") flocking to see this?
Craggs: Seems charming enough for me. Greg Kinnear is great when he's being a dick. I'm not quite sure he'll be a dick in this picture, but I'm sure he'll be fun to watch. Toni Collette can be great and Steve Carell… well… everyone loves Steve Carell. This could be the sleeper indie-ish blowup on DVD four months later film of the summer.
Webb: This appears to be a very funny and original comedy, and that is a breath of fresh air. The cast looks wonderful with Carrell, Kinnear, Collette, and more to bring on the laughs. The trailer really looked fantastic to me, even after I saw it multiple times. Unfortunately, this is a limited release, so it might not be in many theaters. I hope it comes somewhat close to me. I will go see it if I have the chance.
Snyder: There's been a lot of positive hype on this one, and Steve Carell is enjoying that magic time that only certain comedians get, where everything they do seems to strike gold. Add Toni Collette and the always underrated Greg Kinnear (yes, even despite the Oscar win, he's still underrated), and this one seems like a perfect antidote for moviegoers looking for an alternative to the big summer event movies.
O'Sullivan : Is the forty year old virgin losing his way just as he's getting started? This sounds horrible, and although Carell and the excellent Toni Collette may save this from dudsville, I can't imagine this reaching the dizzy heights of his breakthrough film from last summer.
MIAMI VICE
Action/Crime
Opening: July 28
Cast: Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, Li Gong
Director: Michael Mann
Synopsis: Vice detectives James Crockett (Farrell) and Ricardo Tubbs
(Foxx) take on the Florida drug world.
Kristopowitz: I liked the TV show (TV Land will probably do another 48 hour marathon thingie. And the Sleuth Channel will probably do something in celebration of the opening) and with Michael Mann as the director, this should be a hit or an interesting failure. I think, ultimately, the movie is just going to fail. Why do directors, producers, and studios still want Colin Farrell in their movies? The man is a terrible actor. Just horrendous. If and when the movie bombs I hope they blame him.
Craggs: Next.
Webb: I hope everyone is prepared for a dozen TV show adaptations for the future. This one is directed by a director I love named Michael Mann, and it looks as if he has stripped the show bare of what most people are familiar with, and created a vision of his own. The trailer was awesome with a great song in the background. The casting looks to well done, and I you can see from the preview that this has all the feel of a Mann film. That is a good thing in my opinion. The plot is about drugs, which should be no surprise, but I still think excellent things could come from this.
Snyder: I'm betting this film won't get a lot of respect upon its release, for a number of reasons. Hollywood's attempt to push Colin Farrell as the next big star seems to have fizzled out a long time ago. Any belief that Foxx was a bona-fide hit machine after his Oscar win was quickly dispelled by Stealth. And, of course, it's based on a TV show. But, let's not forget this is coming to us from the original creator of the television show it's based on. And let's also not forgot that that creator is the great Michael Mann, who brought us some of the modern era's best crime films, like Heat and Collateral. Mann's wise decision to reinvent Miami Vice in modern times, rather than pay tribute to the show's cheesy ‘80s aesthetic, could actually make this yet another intelligent, worthy addition to his filmography.
O'Sullivan : I am pumped for this big time. I loved, loved, loved ‘Heat' and ‘Collateral' so my faith with Michael Mann is certainly in tact. Farrell and Foxx are two of the slickest young actors in Hollywood, and this could be pure class.
Sirois: Just when I'm about to think, oh boy, another TV show adaptation, I see that Michael Mann is writing and directing this one. Now I'm interested, since we'll get to see what Mann had in mind when he created Miami Vice and he won't have to keep it censored for the small screen. Plus, Jamie Foxx did fairly well the last time he and Mann teamed up. Hopefully the old theme will be heard in this one.
THE ANT BULLY
Animation/Family
Opening: July 28
Cast: Paul Giamatti, Nicolas Cage, Julia Roberts
Director: John A. Davis
Synopsis: After Lucas Nickle floods an ant colony with his watergun, he's
shrunken down to insect size and sentenced to hard labor in the ruins.
Kristopowitz: I haven't seen a preview for this in a long time. The idea sounds great and if "Lady in the Water" tanks (Ha!) Pig Vomit can make money off this. It's a potential two-fer for the man. The animated movie just ain't gonna stop.
Craggs: Julia Roberts is really beefing up her voice over resume this year, with Charlotte's Web coming in the winter. I dunno, this one does nothing for me, but I'm not the audience for it. My guess it is will do fairly well because every kid will have seen cars by July 28, and the kids still need something to do in the summer.
Webb: I'll give this film credit for having a very funny trailer. Well, we already had a film about ants, but this one looks to be interesting at least. It is Giamatti's second release this month. I hope his films do well. He deserves it.
Snyder: A Bug's Life. Antz. And now, The Ant Bully. After this, can we put a halt on computer animated films about insects? I'd like to see Giamatti and Cage together in a movie, I guess. Just, not this one.
O'Sullivan: Animation without Pixar is pointless.
Sirois: Saw Antz. Saw A Bug's Life. I don't need to see this one.
JOHN TUCKER MUST DIE
Comedy/Romance
Opening: July 28
Cast: Jesse Metcalfe, Ashanti, Arielle Kebbel
Director: Betty Thomas
Synopsis: When three girls realize they're all dating the same guy (Metcalfe),
they set out to ruin his life.
Kristopowitz: I've never heard of this, but Betty Thomas has a pretty good track record, so this should be funny. It depends on how "stupid" it is.
Craggs: Lame teen comedy that I will avoid with all my might, even though I have nothing against Betty Thomas.
Webb: Who really cares about the plot? The award for best poster of the year will go to this film. That is all.
Snyder: If this was a dark comedy where the three girls actually decide that, yes, John Tucker MUST DIE, and then proceed to try to eliminate him, maybe then I would be interested. As it is, I think I can take a pass on this one. After all, how can these girls even hope to have the best "making a guy's life hell" movie, when they're competing with a superhero doing the exact same thing in the same month?
O'Sullivan:…………………….yes, he must.
Sirois: South Park did Scott Tennerman Must Die, and I seriously doubt the girls in this one are gonna make John Tucker eat his parents, so I'm gonna pass.
SCOOP
Comedy
Opening: July 28 (limited)
Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Hugh Jackman
Director: Woody Allen
Synopsis: A spirit visits a journalism student (Johansson) and provides
her the scoop of a lifetime -- a tip that sees her to shine up to Peter Lyman
(Jackman), an arisocrat who might just be the notorious Tarot Card Killer.
Kristopowitz: How can a movie starring Hugh "the new Mel" Jackman only get a limited release? Oh, yeah, it's a Woody Allen movie. That stopped being really interesting like twenty years ago. It's not that the movie is going to be terrible (his "Match Point" got rave reviews last year and all kinds of people thought it got screwed out of an Oscar nod) but, as a Woody Allen movie, eh… maybe if they don't advertise it as such. Like when Rob Reiner does a Stephen King movie and they don't announce that it's a "Stephen King" movie.
Craggs: Woody Allen is my favorite director and I can't wait for this picture. It has received decent reviews but will obviously not be blowing up the box office or wowing people like Match Point. Speaking of which, isn't it interesting that the only reference made to Allen as director in the trailer is "From the director of Match Point?"
Webb : I did see this trailer not too long ago, and I think it looks very good. I have not seen enough Woody Allen films, and I enjoy his stuff more and more as time goes along. The plot looks intriguing, and the cast has sexy Scarlett in it. What more could you want?
Snyder: Allen's last collaboration with Johansson, Match Point, was, by most accounts, his best movie in years. But, it was also a dark thriller; not exactly your typical Allen fare. So it will be interesting to see if his new muse can help him deliver his first funny comedy since Deconstructing Harry.
O'Sullivan: Another one bites the dust. See you in August.
