The Big Screen Bulletin 9.24.07: An Office Upgrade
Posted by Chad Webb on 09.24.2007
The Birthday Bash, box office results, Spike Lee project abroad, the confirmed "Justice League" director, new DVD releases, the critic's quickee, the 20 Second Sermon, and much more!
This week's title refers to me moving to a new place,and I wish I could have a straight to video nightmare for you, but next week I promise. I rented a U-Haul truck to accomplish this, and I recommend that no one move their belongings themselves. It is a miserable experience, and I wish I had money to just hire random dudes and watch them carry my stuff. On the bright side, my place will be bigger, and more spacious, so as to better have an area to focus on my writing, thus bringing you the reader the very best I have to offer. By the way, only 4 more weeks until the unveiling of my "The Best Movies of the Alphabet" feature. Stay tuned for that.
The Birthday Bash
Tom Felton turns 20 - Here is an image of Draco Malfoy attempting to look like a badass. Anything on his slate has Harry Potter in the title. I'm still waiting for he and Hermione to hook up.
Scott Baio turns 46 - This picture will either attract many weird readers, or cause me to lose the majority. What a ridiculously fruity picture of Baio. Why did I select this? Who knows. Besides Scott Baio is…45 and Single, Charles has not been in charge of anything for a long time.
Jason Alexander turns 48 - I have always dug the George Constanza with a beard look. I mean that in a totally homosexual way, not that there's anything wrong with that. Alexander's minor part in the fabulous comedy The Grand has yet to see the light of day, but other than that, he is involved with a Victoria Pile project.
Catherine Zeta-Jones turns 38 - This should hopefully make up for my hideous Baio picture. Zeta-Jones only gets sexier with age if you ask me. She has one more film marked for a 2007 release date, and three others on the horizon. The most enticing of those is Nine, directed by Rob Marshall, starring Sophia Loren and Penelope Cruz.
Will Smith turns 39 - Will Smith can't dress like a gangster. Denzel Washington is the only one that looks like a bad mofo in that type of costume. Smith is just a cornball here. He never has a shortage of future projects. He has 3 after I Am Legend, which are: Hancock, Seven Pounds, and Time Share.
The News Bulletin
Resident Evil Slaughters the Competition
The third time was charming indeed for Sony Screen Gems' threequel "Resident Evil: Extinction," which took up residence atop the domestic boxoffice for the weekend with a franchise-record $24 million in estimated opening grosses. Other wide openers marked more mundane outings. Lionsgate's "Good Luck Chuck," an R-rated date comedy starring Dane Cook and Jessica Alba, performed roughly in line with expectations with $14 million in second place. The Universal-distributed Amanda Bynes starrer "Sydney White" grossed just $5.3 million to bow in sixth.
The latest frame also featured more daring feats by platforming pics. Those included David Cronenberg's "Eastern Promises," a London-set thriller about the Russian mob, which Focus expanded to 1,404 theaters in its sophomore outing. It grossed $5.7 million in fifth place. Notable limited bows included Paramount Vantage's Sean Penn-helmed "Into the Wild" in four theaters in Los Angeles and New York, where it rang up $206,596 -- a wild $51,649 per playdate. "Wild," which stars Emile Hirsch, expands Friday to 35-40 runs in the top 12 markets. Warner Bros. unspooled the highly anticipated Brad Pitt starrer "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" -- an early object of attention among awards handicappers -- with an estimated $144,000 from five engagements in Los Angeles, New York and Toronto for an impressive $28,717 per location. "Jesse" will tread water for another frame before riding into 25-30 locations Oct. 5.
The Resident Evil threequel did fairly well for the end of September. I kind of figured it would get #1. Not many other contenders from this week or last. It angers me that Good Luck Chuck debuted at #2, and I can't believe Syndey White actually reached #6. That film got virtually no publicity. Limited releases should continue performing admirably as the fall months keep going. Oscar season usually prompts people to check out the ambitious pics. I'm glad to see Eastern Promises getting people attention also. A couple significant drops to discuss. The Brave One and D-War lost some ground, with the latter barely hanging on at #10. Next week, I see The Game Plan edging out The Kingdom. Just a hunch.
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Go Go Gadget Bond!
Paul Haggis has hinted that "Bond 22", which he is now rewriting, may feature the return of the sort of gadgetry eschewed by the previous James Bond film he scripted, "Casino Royale." MI6.co.uk and CommanderBond.net both report that the Oscar-winning filmmaker appeared Wednesday on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson to tout his new film "In the Valley of Elah" when the host inquired about "Bond 22." Haggis informed Ferguson that he was currently on page 45 of the script, which he clarified was "no where near" the halfway point of the story. According to MI6, Haggis "joked that 'shooting doesn't start until December, so I have plenty of time', and hinted that traditional Bond gadgets may come back in the new film - 'they might, they might, but I won't tell you', he teased." The scribe also revealed that he would finish the script in Italy, which he is looking forward to since it is 9 hours ahead of L.A. and no one can pester him on the phone.
In my humble opinion, the gadgets are a terrific part of the Bond franchise. Without them, the movies can still be good, but to me, the addition of the neato thingamagigs from Q or whoever, is always cool. It is amazing to me that news sites are all over Haggis' progress on this script like every damn day the man appears in public. It is nowhere close to being completed, so let the man be. The much anticipated follow-up will hit theaters when the time is right. I have faith that Haggis will not let anyone affect his writing though. He's a smart cookie, and should give us something to be proud of.
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The Confirmed Director for "Justice League"
After months of rumors online, George Miller has been confirmed as the director of Warner Bros.' planned live-action "Justice League of America" movie, which will go before cameras by early 2008. Variety reports that JLA, "which is in the initial phases of casting, is a pre-strike priority for the studio, which needs a superhero tentpole in 2009." "JLA" will not be a motion-capture film as previously reported, but rather an effects heavy live-action film. "JLA" has proven to be a complicated process for Warners given its already established Batman and Superman franchises. Variety confirmed that "the next installment in the "Superman" franchise has taken a backseat to "Justice League" in part because Warners is so keen on the "Justice League" script by Kieran and Michele Mulroney." The JLA roster will reportedly include Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, the Flash and Aquaman. As for casting, Variety's sources informed them that Christian Bale and Brandon Routh probably won't be in the film as Batman and Superman, respectively. There's still a very distinct possibility, however, that "JLA" could fall apart in the next few months. As Variety points out, "The project is so complicated -- and casting dependent -- that even those deeply involved in the project are holding their breath until production begins."
I received a good bit of negative feedback from folks who did not like that I was bashing this proposed idea. I also said that it would be bad for the Superman Returns sequel to be pushed aside. This is a disaster waiting to happen. Entourage taught us that rushing production can destroy a production in a flash. They are casting new actors for Superman and Batman, which will suck big time because I still say they will clash with the other franchises. I hope this does fall apart, but I'd bet on Warner's delivering a piece of crap the size of the Grand Canyon before dumping it all together.
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Aronofsky's Pitt
Brad Pitt is in negotiations to team with Darren Aronofsky for Paramount's drama "The Fighter." Pitt is replacing Matt Damon, who had to bow out because of scheduling conflicts. Pitt famously pulled out of Aronofsky's "The Fountain" in 2002 which effectively killed that project for several years. Based on the life of boxer "Irish" Mickey Ward (Mark Wahlberg) and his trainer brother Dick Eklund (Pitt), 'Fighter' chronicles their early days on the rough streets of Lowell, Mass., through Eklund's battle with drugs and Ward's eventual world championship in London. Scott Silver ("8 Mile") is rewriting the script. The studio is aiming for a Fall 2008 shoot. Pitt will shoot "State of Play" for Universal in the winter.
Just like mob flicks, boxing films never seem to get old, and if anyone can create a unique version of a seemingly bland premise, it is Darren Arnofosky, the man who gave us the hugely complex, yet breathtaking Fountain. Look on his website for a new commentary track. Pitt and Wahlberg should be a radical combination; yes I just used the word radical, and if you're not careful, tubular is coming next. Anyway, I have been anxious for more details on this as soon as it was announced. Just because Damon dropped out, doesn't really dampen anything. The director staying put is the primary concern.
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New Sci-Fi for Phillippe
Ryan Phillippe, Eva Green and newcomer Sam Riley will star in first-time director Gerald McMorrow's $12 million futuristic thriller "Franklyn" for the Recorded Picture Co reports Variety. Set in contemporary London and a future metropolis dominated by faith, it weaves the tale of four lost souls divided by two parallel worlds on course for an explosive collision when a single bullet will decide all their fates. Bernard Hill, Susannah York and Art Malik also star. McMorrow previously directed award-winning short "Thespian X."
I don't have a whole lot to say about this, but I thought my readers might find it interesting. Phillippe in a sci-fi thriller should work effectively. Anytime I read about science fiction that is new and intriguing, I like to spread the word. We need this genre to occupy a more substantial place each year.
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Weinstein's Dive For Seals
The Weinstein Company and Exodus Film Group announced today that "Navy Seals," a story concept developed in-house at Exodus, will be the first film under the recently announced CG-animation co-production agreement. Under the strategic partnership unveiled at this year's Cannes Film Festival, TWC and Exodus will jointly develop, produce and finance a multi-picture slate of CG-animated feature films, DVDs, and television series. TWC will oversee distribution for all projects produced under this pact. This new initiative first began a year ago when TWC picked up worldwide distribution rights to Exodus' first CG animated film "Igor." "Navy Seals," an adventurous family comedy, tells the story of an elite pod of US Navy dolphins who are captured and their only hope for rescue is a band of misfit seals!
"Our goal has been to develop ideas in-house that are original and dynamic and will resonate with audiences of all ages," said Exodus CEO John D. Eraklis. "'Navy Seals' is a hilarious adventure comedy inspired by the very real heroics that marine mammals have played in the defense of our country." Harvey Weinstein stated, "'Navy Seals' is the perfect way to jumpstart our strategic partnership with Exodus and build off of our exciting collaboration on 'Igor.' We look forward to working with John Eraklis and his talented team on what promises to be an engaging and clever adventure for both adults and children of all ages." Eraklis is producing along with Exodus President Max Howard, who will serve as executive producer. Justin Eick is set to pen the script. Eric Robinson, Production Executive at The Weinstein Company, is overseeing on behalf of TWC.
Wait a minute, I need to do a double take, that made no mention of friggin penguins, so I am praying that the dolphins swat their flippers and knock the penguins out of the Hollywood arena onca and for all. With the Weinsteins now throwing their two cents into the CGI realm, it should be very exciting to watch how their ideas mesh with those of Pixar and Dreamworks. The storyline doesn't really rub me the wrong way, so you never know, it could be decent. I know the Weinstein's need a boost in the proper direction, so I hope this pans out positively for them.
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Lee Headed to Italy
Maybe if Hollywood had said yes to Spike Lee's James Brown biopic, things would be different. As it is, the filmmaker is getting ready to shoot "The Miracle of St. Anna", the first film in his career to be made almost entirely abroad. Based on the book of the same name by James McBride, "St. Anna" tells the real-life tale of four "negro" 92nd Division 'buffalo soldiers' who while on the run in Italy come across a Tuscan village where partisans are attempting to expose a traitor in their midst. Shooting begins next month, with Lee planning to include some scenes shot at the real St. Anna. Though the bulk of "St. Anna" will be filmed in Tuscany, cast and crew will also put in for some studio days in Rome and New York. The only question now is whether Lee can get courtside seats for the Olimpia Milano or some other Italian basketball team.
"This story is set in Tuscany and so Tuscany is the only place it could be filmed," Lee explained at an Italian press conference earlier this summer. "I have never filmed in Toronto and pretended it was New York, and I'm not going to go somewhere else and pretend it is Tuscany. I don't do that. The place has to be real." Lee is certainly risking bordering on the unreal by having supermodel Naomi Campbell play a small part in the period film. Then again, taking creative risks is a hallmark of the careers of both Orson Welles and Stanley Kubrick, the only two America filmmakers to claim Italy's Fiesole Master of Film prize before Lee this summer. Jazzman Terence Blanchard, whose mother appeared in Lee's Emmy Award winning "When the Levees Broke" and who moved back to New Orleans this past February, will once again provide the score for Lee.
I am fond of Lee's material, but not his views sometimes. More on that later in the column. This new project is the perfect change of pace for him after Inside Man. A sequel to that was bubbling on the surface for awhile, but apparently never went anywhere. By shooting abroad, moviegoers can see just how versatile Lee's range can be. He is a brilliant filmmaker when he wants to be. I'm not sure how crazy I am about Naomi Campbell contributing a role, but we'll see how that goes. The plot sounds excellent, and the setting fits. I respect his decision not to shoot at a location and pretend it is somewhere else. More filmmaker should follow this example.
The 20 Second Sermon
Giovanni Ribisi has joined James Cameron's Avatar, and this is an interesting casting choice. Hopefully Ribisi bounces back a bit after Perfect Stranger. The Dark Knight is preparing to shoot in Hong Kong, which makes the sequel even more awesome. Spike Lee says the reason his James Brown biopic wasn't approved is due to too many white males leading the charge in Hollywood. Oh yeah, that's the issue. You know what, the problems in Hollywood are not due to skin color, they are because of limited IQ. They made a Ray Charles film, so the discrepancies were probably a little more complicated than the head honchos not viewing Brown as a universal figure. David Zucker is readying a new spoof on Superhero flicks, and who the hell cares. These are beyond dreadful and appalling lately.
What's Coming to DVD….Buy or Avoid?
DVD Headline of the Week
Black Book - The highlight this week is a film more people need to see. It is a great effort by Paul Verhoeven, and should go on to be one of the better offerings of the year. Buy
Knocked Up (Unrated 2 Disc Edition) - This is one of the best comedies of the year, and a guaranteed purchase by myself. This was simply marvelous. Get this version, not the one disc. Buy
Bug - William Friedkin's bizarre horror film is complex and strange, but memorable and creepy also. Buy
Evening - This all-star cast cannot save the film by performances, which are poor anyway, because the plot is filled with flaws, not to mention the fact that it's predictable and dull. Avoid
Tekkon Kinkreet - From the people behind The Animatrix comes a new anime submission that looks absorbing. I'd like to rent this.
WWE: Summerslam 2007 - As I have stated before, no wrestling Pay Per Views stick out as special to me.
The TV Set - Keep tuning in to the 411 movie zone for my review of this new DVD also!
The Twisted Terror Collection - With six titles in all, not many of these are overly worthwhile, except maybe Dr. Giggles. Avoid
Babel (Two Disc Collector's Edition) - How frustrating that this new edition with more extras is being released on a day when so many other superb releases are better. If you don't own it, this is worth the price though. Buy
Walking Tall: Lone Justice - Another Direct-to-DVD sequel of the Walking Tall franchise. I actually enjoyed the previous one, so I'll review this.
The Brave One - Neil Jordan has proven that a stale revenge film can evolve, and his direction on this Death Wish yarn with a woman is actually pretty commendable. The problem is, Jodie Foster's performance is much better than the film as a whole. It offers several poignant moments in between the vigilante killings, and reveals the patience taken by Jordan, but in the end, it is nothing more than an average thriller with a brilliant portrayal. For that matter, Terrence Howard hands in some marvelous work as well. I also must say that the screenplay by Roderick and Bruce Taylor was exceptional, and added a vital depth to the overused premise. On the downside, some evident plot holes are difficult to ignore. The manner in which Erica winds up in the violent situations is a bit preposterous at times. The audience must bite their tongue on some occasions. The ending is also poorly handled compared to the remarkable content of what we just watched prior. What makes me recommend this is simply the subdued and unwearied technique applied by Neil Jordan. I also noticed some salutes to Death Wishalong the way, and that scores points in my book. Final Rating = 7.5/10.0
Mr. Woodcock - I had a gym teacher named Mr. Stoner. He was definite prick, and to be truthful, Thornton's depiction reminded me of those years, but he could have approached Woodcock differently than just recycling his usual tired portrayal. I was able to look passed Billy Bob taking his Bad Santa role to The Bad News Bears. It was a dumb remake, but the persona fit. After School for Scoundrels, I said that better be the end of it. With this utterly atrocious comedy, I cannot forgive him. This is one of the worst and most agonizing films of the year. The characters are totally unlikable, their decisions are aggravating, and the jokes are beyond ludicrous and flat as a pancake. Seann William Scott will never be funny again in his life, and if Billy Bob doesn't put this attitude to rest, and concentrate on something else, his career will head straight for the toilet. Craig Gillespie helmed this trash, and yet later this autumn he has Lars and the Real Girlcoming out, which is supposed to be extremely good. I hope this is not indication of what to expect. I wanted more gym class hijincks, and instead we get one endlessly retarded gag after another. Don't bother with this. Final Rating = 2.0/10.0
In the Valley of Elah - Give Paul Haggi's follow-up to Crash a chance. It deserves a huge audience. Read my full review by clicking here for proof.
Eastern Promises - I saw this recently, and hope to get a review finished soon!
Movie Dictionary: Word of the Week
Ealing Studios/Comedies - Ealing Studios, a television and film production company and facilities provider at Ealing Green in West London, claims to be the oldest film studio in the world. The site had been previously occupied by Will Barker Studios from 1896, but was acquired by theatre producer Basil Dean's newly-formed Associated Talking Pictures in 1929, and reopened as Ealing Studios in 1931. In 1933, the company was renamed Associated Talking Pictures. When Dean left in 1938, to be replaced by Michael Balcon from MGM, about 60 films had been made at the studios. Balcon discontinued the ATP name and began to issue films under the Ealing Studios name. In 1944, the company was taken over by the Rank Organisation.
In the 1930s and 1940s, Ealing produced many comedies with stars such as George Formby and Will Hay, who had established their reputations in other spheres of entertainment. The company was also instrumental in the use of documentary film-makers to make more realistic war films. These included "Went the Day Well? " (1942), " The Foreman Went to France" (1942) and " San Demetrio, London " (1943). In 1945, the studio made its influential chiller compendium "Dead of Night ."
In the post-war period, the company embarked on a series of celebrated comedies which became the studio's hallmark. These were often lightly satirical, and were seen to reflect aspects of British character and society. The first was " Hue and Cry" in 1947, and the last "Barnacle Bill " in 1956. However, the most famous in the series were produced between 1948 and 1955. "Whisky Galore!" ( 1949), " Passport to Pimlico" (1949), " Kind Hearts and Coronets" (1949), " The Lavender Hill Mob" (1951), " The Man in the White Suit" (1951), " The Titfield Thunderbolt" (1953) and " The Ladykillers" (1955) are now seen as classics of British cinema. A large number of the Ealing films were photographed by Douglas Slocombe, who went on to shoot the three Indiana Jones films for Steven Spielberg.
The BBC bought the studios in 1955 and created television productions there, such as " Colditz", "The Singing Detective " and Fortunes of War. After the studio at Ealing had been sold to the BBC, productions bearing the Ealing name continued to be made at the MGM studio at Elstree for around two years. In 1995, the studios were purchased by the National Film and Television School (NFTS) and yet again in mid-2000 by Uri Fruchtmann, Barnaby Thompson, Harry Handelsman and John Kao, with a view to reviving the fortunes of the studio. The studio has since begun to churn out hits again, Lucky Break (2001), " The Importance of Being Earnest" (2002), and " Valiant" (2005). In 2007, Ealing is releasing " I Want Candy" and producing a new film based on the St Trinian's series.
Based on the Trailer…
Newest Trailers
Iron Man - I must admit, any trailer that has Black Sabbath's "Iron Man" is ok by me. This looks funny and could be a decent blockbuster. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0
Cloverfeld - Sorry I haven't gotten this one up yet. The footage here is intriguing because of all the mysteriousness regarding the premise. I am officially ready for this to come out though. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0
The Kite Runner - I have not yet read the book, but the film looks to have Oscar potential for sure. I enjoyed this trailer, but like so many, it gives away too much. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0
September Releases
Resident Evil: Extinction - This was an average teaser trailer. I'm still not sure how this will turn out though. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
The Kingdom - If Chris Cooper is involved, I'm there. Oh yeah, Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Garner are in this Iraqui actioner too. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0
The Assasination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford - Considering how much controversy I've heard, and the negative feedback, this trailer is excellent, despite the annoyingly long title. I can't wait. I love westerns. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0
Into the Wild - I have been told many things about the story, but regardless, Emile Hirsch is a young star who continues to climb in Hollywood, and this film could be very moving and engaging. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0
The Darjeeling Limited - I have never been a humungous Wes Anderson fan, and this will not increase that viewpoint. It looks a bit too weird, but I always like to give him a chance. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0
Lust, Caution - A beautiful, glorious trailer with no narrator. Forget the rating, I urge everyone to go see this. Tony Leung is marvelous, and Ang Lee's filmmaking should be superb. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0
October Releases
The Heartbreak Kid - The new Farrelly brothers comedy with Ben Stiller. It looks shockingly formulaic in my opinion. I am sure it will be funny, but we'll have to wait to see how good. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
Michael Clayton - I would put money on this being an average courtroom drama with a potentially superb performance from Clooney. It seems his acting will be the focus, but I don;t see the plot shaking me at all. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0
We Own the Night - The new film by James Gray looks better than his previous efforts, and has a nice looking cast with Joaquin and Marky Mark. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0
Hitman - Audience members went crazy for this teaser trailer, but I was just kind of sitting there solemnly. I like Timothy Olyphant, so maybe this will be passable, but I doubt it. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
Rendition - The new film from Gavin Hood looks fantastic with Gyllenhaal and Witherspoon. I can't wait. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0
30 Days of Night - Josh Hartnett is in this, and that's about all I have to say that is positive. Creatures and shooting, and darkness = boring. Next! Trailer Rating = 4.0/10.0
Saw IV - I'll give credit to these guys because they know how to craft a clever teaser that doesn't give too much away. I'll admit, I am enticed. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0
Dan in Real Life - Is this Carell's Meet the Parents? I laughed at a few lines, but this is one trailer that gives away too much of the plot, and you all know I hate that. I see this failing. Trailer Rating = 5.0/10.0
Gone Baby Gone - By far the best preview I've seen in awhile. Ben Affleck directs his brother and an all-star cast in the adaptation of a novel from the author of Mystic River. This looks fantastic. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0
Elizabeth: The Golden Age - This is too desperate a cry for Oscars. It might appeal to some, but I smell a tedious humdrum drama. Oh well, you never know. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0
Reservation Road - Wow, this is shaping up to be brilliant. Mark Ruffalo and Joaquin Phoenix seem to be in top form, and the director gave us Hotel Rwanda. This gives away a bit too much, but I still loved it. Trailer Rating = 9.5/10.0
November Releases
Stephen King's The Mist - The new film from Frank Darabont, and it looks like such a departure from his style. I don't know what to make of it. I hope it is good, but I have doubts. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
August Rush - The cast of Freddie Highmore, Rhys Meyers, Keri Russell, and more get my attention quickly. I think this preview might have divulged a bit too much though. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0
No Country for Old Men - The Coen brothers are up there with today's best filmmakers, and this new offering was tremendously intriguing to me. It has a terrific cast, and a unique premise. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0
Bee Movie - This is the second trailer. It is much funnier. I can't wait to see this. It's not made by Pixar, yet it still looks good. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0
Beowulf - Robert Zemeckis returns to directing, and this film looks pretty damn entertaining. It might be too CGI-ish, but overall, I'm excited. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0
American Gangster - This is the one I have been waiting for, and it does not disappoint, and least by the looks of this preview anyway. I was surprised by the music contained, but this new Ridley Scott flick looks great. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0
Enchanted - This started as a good trailer, but mixing live-action and animation is always risky, and this looks kind of stupid. Amy Adams has the cute thing down for the role, but she can do better. Trailer Rating = 5.0/10.0
Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium - This looks bizarre. I like Dustin Hoffman and Natalie Portman, so I'll give it a chance, but I'm not sure yet. Is it supposed to be reminiscent of Willy Wonka or something. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
Margot at the Wedding - Noah Baumbach's newest offering looks watchable, but I wish he would concentrate on serious topics instead of just comedy. Nevertheless, this could be very good. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
Lions for Lambs - You would think a film with such a powerful cast (Cruise, Streep) and director (Redford) might entice me more, but this did not. I hope it's good, but right now I have no emotion. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0
Fred Claus (2) - Vince Vaughn and Paul Giamatti are funny, but this looks like a huge bomb of a Christmas flick. I'll see it just because of Giamatti. Trailer Rating = 5.0/10.0
I'm Not There - This is the Bob Dylan biopic starring many actors portraying him during various periods. Only Cate Blanchett looks like Dylan. This teaser actually disappoints me at the moment. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0
December, TBD, and Beyond Releases
The Savages - With Philip Seymour Hoffman and Laura Linney. This looks pretty funny, and with two outstanding performers, it should be halfway decent. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0
National Treasure: Book of Secrets - I loved the first film, despite harsh reviews. They are entertaining. This one looks more of the same adventure of history. It's right up my alley. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0
Alien vs. Predator: Requiem - I disliked the first one because of the trivial human plot, and this appears to be more of that sludge. I'll see it out of curiosity, but I'm not expecting anything out of this world. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0
Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story - This might be mildly humorous, but probably nothing more. My respect for John C. Reilly will get me into the theater, but the plot looks blase. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0
Vantage Point - Hmmm. I'm not sure about this political thriller. The cast is fine, but will that matter if the film blows hard? Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
I Am Legend - This is what I call a brilliantly constructed trailer. It gives you just enough to be excited, and then rips it away from you. I can't wait. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0
Wall-E - Another Pixar classic is under our belt, and I can't wait for the next one. This robotic adventure should be great, and easily superior to Robots. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0
The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep - The "loch ness" angle in the story intrigues me, but I'd bet this is a Free Will tale all over again. No thanks. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0
10,000 B.C. - I'm not sure if this wants to be Apocalypto or Pathfinder. Either way it is helmed by Roland Emmerich, so it is likely to blow aside from the special effects. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0
Drillbit Taylor - Another movie from the people who brought us Superbad and Knocked Up, and this one has Owen Wilson as bodyguard to high school kids. It looks ok I suppose. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0
Alvin and the Chipmunks - I am probably nuts, and even though I hate to see Jason Lee taking his career in this direction, I kind of enjoyed this teaser. It looks funny. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0
Other Stuff to Read
411 September Roundtable - This month I compiled the thoughts of the movie zone staff on the summer releases of September!
Fact or Fiction - Ben Piper gathers the thoughts of Nick Wallander and Jerome Cusson this week!
Furious on Film - Arnold Furious gives you the top 10 of his top 100 Director's list.
Make sure to check out all of this week's reviews of DVD's, Movies, Music, and more!
And of course read every movie review with the name Chad Webb attached to it.
Thanks for reading the whole way through, and make sure to tune in next week. (All news sources from Hollywoodreporter.com, ign.com, moviehole.net, and definitions from Wikipedia.org)
