The Big Screen Bulletin 04.07.08: Going Back to the Future and Forward to the Past

Posted by Chad Webb on 04.07.2008

A nightmare with "Bachelor Party 2", the box office results, obituaries, a new Robert Ludlum adaptation, Werner Herzog's new project, "Transformers 2" rumors, new DVD releases, new quickees, new trailer ratings, and much more!

Straight to Video Nightmares

Bachelor Party: The Last Temptation

Starring: Harlan Williams, Josh Cooke, and Greg Pitts
Directed By: James Ryan
Written By: Jay Longino
Release Date: March 11, 2008
Running Time: 104 minutes
Rated R for crude sexual humor/content, nudity and language.







Well here we go again. The latest film to be tarnished by the Direct-to-DVD sequel binge that studios are on is Bachelor Party from 1984. Was that a comedy classic? No, but it was genuinely entertaining, and paved the way for the hundreds of overly raunchy comedies that would follow it in the 90's and 00's like American Pie and Van Wilder. It has always been a guilty pleasure of mine. The reason it possessed any charm was because the star was Tom Hanks. He was fresh off his hit role in Splash, and became an established funny man on the screen. 24 years later, Bachelor Party 2 has been given to us. The result is basically a measly attempt at recreating the original storyline.

The plot is fairly simple, and anyone who has seen the first one will not need to read this paragraph. Ron is engaged to Mel (Sara Foster), a woman he has known for two months. At the engagement party, Melinda's father takes a liking to Ron, and offers him a position in the family business. This development really upsets Todd (Warren Christie), Mel's brother-in-law. He is a scheming cheater who is worried Ron will dethrone him for the president's spot once Melinda's Dad retires. Because of this, Todd agrees to treat the entire bachelor festivities, and gathers Ron's buddies on a private jet to South Beach. So Todd, Ron, Jason (Greg Pitts) the horny friend from childhood, Derek (Harland Williams) the former boss and three-time divorced Dad, and Seth (Danny Jacobs), the neurotic Jewish guy who may or may not be the illegitimate son of Woody Allen all acompany Ron on this outing all expenses paid. Todd has bought a suite that contains hidden cameras in each room. The plan is to set up Ron, catch him cheating, and thus preventing him from winning the family's heart.

Is it the exact same premise? No, but it's close enough to annoy anyone familiar with the predecessor. The cast is uniformly blasé, imitating an unknown number of characters that have come before them. Maybe you recognize the dude on the far left in the picture. He is Greg Pitts, and of course his real name means nothing, but do you remember Office Space ? That's right, he was the guy who said "I‘ll show her my Oh face" and it became a legendary one-liner. Since then, he has found a permanent home in B-movies and guest television appearances. I don't mean to bash him too much, because truthfully, I'd rather watch him than friggin' Jake Busey or Chris Owen again.

The other notable member of this eclectic group is Harland Williams, who has unlimited signs of aging all over him. It really is sad. He has nothing to do these days. He portrays a divorced father, who has children to each marriage. He hates the thought of getting married, and tries to convince Ron his decision is bad. Williams was best in Half Baked if you ask me, but this role doesn't even express any of his brand of humor. He just mopes around as a drunken middle-aged deadbeat. Ron is Josh Cooke, who is a relatively new actor, and has yet to make a mark. He doesn't even have a highlighted picture on IMDB. He needs to write them an email or something. Danny Jacobs is Seth, the Jewish gramophone who breaks both arms as soon as they get off the jet.

The director is James Ryan, who broke his filmmaking cherry with this effort. Ryan has literally not done anything, which makes me wonder how he jumped into this for his first time out. I suppose for not having an iota of experience under his belt, his work was admirable. Granted, this is far from a good film, but it's very unremarkable. The jokes were stale a decade ago. Along the way, you'll see desperate attempts to induce laughter such as a bowling ball covered in a shitty diaper, a Tylenol bottle with Viagra pills inside, a stereotypical black woman jumping on the groom, leather clad homosexual bikers, a stripper fight scene, and more. It's a mess of scenes that scream laugh at me, combined with endless shots of topless women. Ok, I love nude females, but in this genre, who cares?

The one constant that bothered me is the cover, which is a blatant rip-off of the original DVD cover artwork. Why? And why go to so much trouble hiring Harland Williams, and bringing in the cast to make such a lackluster, bawdy, and loud comedy. I must admit though, what turned me off was the insertion of a German exchange student who had a copy of Mein Kampf, shouted "long live Hitler", and could have been his granddaughter. If that is not the very definition of flat humor, I don't know what is. For those who cherish the original, my advice is not to see this. Bachelor Party 2 is a lazy, predictable, yet harmlessly unmemorable movie that should not be watched unless you love Harland Williams or the guy from Office Space that does the "O" face.

Final Rating = 5.0/10.0

Obituaries

Charlton Heston
1924 - 2008












The Oscar winning actor for Ben-Hur died this past Saturday at the age of 84. His lean and muscular stature combined with his deep and commanding voice led to be a legendary performer, and one that is unmistakable on screen. He had contributed to such films as El Cid, The Ten Commandments, The Greatest Story Ever Told, Soylent Green, and even Wayne's World 2. Having just seen him in the classic Planet of the Apes on the huge Ziegfeld theater, I was struck by dynamic his presence is. Say what you will about his non film related activities, but the fact is Heston was a brilliant actor. He is survived by his wife Lydia Clarke and two children. May he rest in peace. He will be greatly missed. "I can't remember a time when I didn't want to be an actor."

The News Bulletin

"21" Cashes Out Big While "Leatherheads" Loses In OT
Universal's George Clooney-Renee Zellweger romantic comedy "Leatherheads" was sacked at the weekend box office, losing the No. 1 spot to Sony holdover "21" and all but tying with 20th Century Fox's family adventure-fantasy "Nim's Island" for No. 2. "Leatherheads," grossing an estimated $13.5 million from 2,769 theaters, came in below expectations after being widely predicted to win the frame based on tracking. Film, likely hurt by poor reviews, is Clooney's third directing outing. "Nim's Island," a needed boost for label Fox-Walden, grossed an estimated $13.3 million from 3,513 theaters. Film came in on the higher end of expectations.

While U put themselves ahead of Fox in their Sunday estimates, several studios had "Nim's"--starring Jodie Foster, Gerard Butler and Abigail Breslin--ahead of "Leatherheads." Final numbers will be released Monday, resolving the question. Sony's gambling drama "21" beat both new entries in declining just 37% to an estimated $15.1 million from 2,653 locations in its second weekend for a gross of $46.5 million in its first 10 days. Still, the box office downturn experienced throughout much of March continued. Among the weekend's other new offerings, DreamWorks/Paramount's horror title "The Ruins" played soft as expected, grossing an estimated $7.8 million from 2,812 locations. In more limited play, Martin Scorsese's Rolling Stones concert docu "Shine A Light" grossed an estimated $1.5 million from 276 locations, with 93 of those being large format Imax theaters. Per location average was $5,475.

When the year began, I was on a winning streak, but now I seem to be stuck in a rut with my predictions. I had no idea 21 was that popular to viewers. This is not a good period for the box office, and it shows. The problem could be any number of things, but I would say the fact that Leatherheads and The Ruins had trailers playing everywhere caused many to get tired of it. Nim's Island did not, hence they performed well. Nim and Leatherheads are close enough that a final position can not be stated for sure. Next week is anyone's guess. Street Kings and Prom Night are both due out, but I doubt either is strong enough. My bet is on 21, or possibly Nim's Island to gain ground.






The Ludlum Fanatics
MGM and Relativity Media have emerged as the victor in the sweepstakes for a hot Robert Ludlum project that had been making the studio rounds over the past five days. Both Relativity and the Harry Sloan studio, which had broadcast its intentions for large-scale original projects with the hiring of Mary Parent several weeks ago, confirmed late Friday that it has secured rights for "The Matarese Circle." The project, first reported in The Hollywood Reporter, is a thriller based on Robert Ludlum's Cold War novel, with Denzel Washington attached to play the hero. MGM and Relativity are financing the movie 50-50 and are equal partners on the projects.

The price is estimated at $3 million for the package and roughly $2 million for the writers. The story centers on two secret agents -- an American and a Russian -- who must work together to fight a mysterious group of killers known as the Matarese. The twist is that the agents, Bradley Scofield and Vasili Taleniekov, have been nemeses for years, with each responsible for killing someone close to the other. According to those familiar with the pitch, Washington would play Scofield. Michael Brandt and Derek Haas, the scribes behind Lionsgate's "3:10 to Yuma" and upcoming Universal tentpole "Wanted," are attached as writers. Veteran producers Jeffrey Weiner, Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Nick Wechsler are on board as producers. Universal, which has released the three "Bourne" movies, was thought to be highly interested in the project, as was Fox. A number of other studios also had entertained the pitch.

After decades during which the late Ludlum's novels failed to gain big screen traction, the thriller novelist is now hot in Hollywood. Universal's "Bourne" series, based on his globehopping Cold War novels and with Damon as the title character, has earned more than $900 million worldwide. "Matarese" could be attractive to studios seeking a new franchise. The property is the only other Ludlum invention to feature more than one novel; a second book, "The Matarese Countdown," was published in 1997. Universal, meanwhile, has announced a fourth "Bourne" movie reteaming Damon and director Paul Greengrass, though Ludlum wrote only three novels. Two recent Bourne books were written by Eric Van Lustbader and published after Ludlum's death, with a third Van Lustbader title is expected in the summer.

Personally, I am glad that Ludlum's material is sought after now. I'd rather see a dozen more adaptations of his work instead of the same redundant Tom Clancy adventures. For those keeping score at home, five other Ludlum novels besides the Jason Bourne franchise have been adapted to either television or for theatrical release. They include: The Rhineman Exchange mini-series, The Osterman Weekend helmed by Sam Peckinpah, The Holcroft Covenant helmed by John Frankenheimer, and most recently Covert One: The Hades Factor. In the future, The Chancellor Manuscript is set with Leo DiCaprio attached. Ludlum's writing is more accessible to screenwriters, and enables filmmakers to really sink their teeth into it while updating for modern audiences. This new project with Denzel sounds fascinating. I can't wait to see who the director will be.






Making the Wright Choices
Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead helmer Edgar Wright has signed a new deal with Working Title to make two new films for Universal. First up is Baby Driver, which is described as a crazy take on the action/crime genres to be set in the U.S. He will follow that with The World's End, a comedy he'll co-write with Simon Pegg, who will also topline the film. The duo have said the film will complete their trilogy of tributes to their favorite genres. Don't expect these projects anytime soon however, as Wright has to finish comic adaptations Antman (currently in pre-production) and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World first.

Edgar Wright certainly deserves this deal, but my concern is how adept a director he is without Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. Only time will tell I suppose. Michael Cera is attached to Scott Pilgrim vs. the World. Those styles of comedy merging should be interesting. He also has a title called Them on the slate according to IMDB.com, and as the article states, Ant-Man is in pre-production. Generally, I think Wright takes his grand ol' time to finish a film, so when they say do not expect the results of his new deal anytime soon, they mean it literally.






Werner Herzog Tunes His Piano
Werner Herzog will write and direct "The Piano Tuner," a lush Victorian-era drama about a Brit's journey to war-torn Burma, for Focus Features. Mandalay Independent Pictures' Cathy Schulman is a producer on the project. Based on Daniel Mason's 2002 debut novel, the story centers on Edgar Drake, a man sent to a remote village in the late 1800s to repair an eccentric military man's piano. Drake falls in love with a Burmese woman and her country, but as the officer wins over locals through music and medicine, things grow treacherous when his troops begin to suspect him of treason. "Tuner" is right up the intense helmer's alley. Herzog has directed several films about men venturing into exotic locales ("Rescue Dawn," "Grizzly Man," "Fitzcarraldo"), but this will be his biggest English-language costume drama in more than four decades as a filmmaker.

The original screen adaptation by Peter Buchman is being rewritten by Herzog. Focus Features executives John Lyons and Kahli Small will oversee the project for the studio. Mason sold "Tuner" and another novel to Knopf in 2001 for $1.2 million. Schulman optioned the novel with her fellow Bull's Eye Entertainment principals Bob Yari and Tom Nunan in 2003, shortly before their bitter separation. Other producers might be added in the coming months as preproduction ramps up.

If any filmmaker deserves to be in the spotlight for an Oscar sweep, it is Werner Herzog. His previous two releases have gotten snubbed by the Academy totally. Rescue Dawn should have received at least one acting nom, and Grizzly Man was insulted by losing the best documentary award to the insipid March of the Penguins. This Piano Tuner premise does have echoes of his past efforts, but it is not exactly the same to the point where it will appear worn out for the legendary director. The fact is, when venturing into bizarre locations, no one can do it better than Herzog. On a side note, when "Piano" is in the title, the Academy normally raises its head. Take for instance The Piano and The Pianist, which took home statues, but do not forget the overlooked Don't Shoot the Piano Player from Francois Truffaut. Ok I'll be quiet now.






Circuits Are Shorting Out Once More
Dimension Films is rewiring "Short Circuit," acquiring rights to remake the 1986 film. The original introduced Number 5, a robot built by the military to be a highly sophisticated weapon. It developed a conscience and a personality after being hit by lightning, and then needed the help of humans after it was targeted for destruction by its makers, once it became a peacenik. S.S. Wilson and Brent Maddock, who created the characters and wrote both "Short Circuit" films, have been hired to write the remake. David Foster and Ryan E. Heppe will produce with John Hyde. Deal was made by Dimension co-chairman Bob Weinstein, who called "Short Circuit" a worthy addition to its family film slate. Foster, who produced the original with his partner Lawrence Turman and son Gary Foster, said the film will be similar in theme to the original, but it will factor in advances in technology.

Well, I do think that 1986 is a bit too recent for any discussion or plans for a remake, but there is a bright side to this, albeit a small one. At least the original writers will be involved, as well as the original producers. At the same time, Pixar‘s Wall-E has a similar structure to that of Number 5, so that is a risk unless they plan to alter his looks. The problem lies in whether or not Steve Guttenberg will be signed on to star again with Ally Sheedy. Honestly, does anyone see the point in having a remake without the Gutts? Those who listen to our movie zone podcast will understand this joke. Others will simply think I am an idiot.

The 20 Second Sermon

Word is that Transformers 2 will include some help for the Decepticons in the form of Constructicons, and possibly Devastator. Hell yeah. I'm up for this. Silly as these movies will be, the little kid in me can't help but be excited. I'm sure Sirois will back me up. Ioan Gruffud and Thandie Newton have signed on as Tony Blair and Condoleezza Rice in Oliver Stone's W. This cast is huge, and Stone must be putting all his eggs into one basket for it. I hope it's not as cheesy as it sounds. I've been listening to a lot of music lately. Panic at the Disco's new album Pretty. Odd. is precisely that minus the periods. They try a bit of everything to see what sticks. Some of it works, and some doesn't. It must be an experimental release for them. Counting Crows released Saturday Nights & Sunday Mornings. The band stills sounds solid. I'd give an average rating to it overall. One of the better disc I've heard this year is The Raconteurs new effort Consolers of the Lonely. From start to finish, it was brilliant. If you enjoy Jack White, I urge you to pick it up.

What's Coming to DVD….Buy or Avoid?

DVD Headline of the Week



There Will Be Blood (2-Disc Collector's Edition) - Look for my review of this on the site tomorrow!

The Water Horse – Legend of the Deep (2-Disc Special Edition) - This was released around Christmas with a dozen other films, so unfortunately I didn't have time to see it.

Reservation Road - Here is one drama I regretted missing. I heard horrible things about it, but I am still curious enough to rent it.

Lions for Lambs - This extremely preachy and ridiculous hyperlink drama from Robert Redford tanked big time. It had no focus, and the only compliment I can afford I that Tom Cruise looked good in a suit. Borrow

The 11th Hour - Leonard DiCaprio's documentary is only $5 to buy, so why wouldn't I give it a chance. They want the world to see it.

Walk Hard – The Dewey Cox Story - This was the first disappointment from the Apatow camp. A parody on Johnny Cash just wasn't necessary, and most of the jokes fell flat. I did enjoy the songs, but that is not enough for a recommendation. Rentable

Classic Musicals from the Dream Factory, Volume 3 - A box set of 9 musicals, only a few of which are decent, though Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds are involved in some.

P2 - This was released in theaters, but I'm not sure anyone saw it. Ok some people saw it, but I have no interest. Pass.

Bette Davis Centenary Celebration Collection -For the price, you can't go wrong here. It contains two of here most popular and revered films, in addition to three others that are worthwhile for lovers of the classics. All of these will be released individually as well. Buyable

All About Eve (Two-Disc Special Edition) - I will say that this is long overdue for a better DVD treatment, but as I discussed in the podcast, I am not as big of a fan of this classic as most are. I thought Anne Baxter horribly overacted, and the plot was too predictable. That being said, to many it is worth owning. Buy it Used

Resurrecting the Champ - This is easily forgettable, but in truth the performances are quite satisfactory. The plot is ho-hum and travels at a fairly basic pace, but I would urge you to check it out. Rentable

Day of the Dead - At long last this sequel is released, and on a Direct-to-DVD format, though it has been available illegally online for months, not that I would know anything about that mind you.

The Adventures of Baron Munchhausen (20th Anniversary) - I saw this a long time ago, but remember some neat special effects and witty humor. I don't know if I would buy it unless it was a bit cheaper. Buy it Used

Houdini: The Movie Star - This is a three disc box set containing all the surviving films that Harry Houdini films as an escape artist and magician. This seems like a treasure chest for film buffs. I must pick this up.

Music Within - A Direct-to-DVD, or something close to it anyway, starring Ron Livingston and Rebecca De Mornay. Ummm…nah, I don't care. Ok, I'm being too harsh...sorry.

Innocent Voices - This foreign film was in theaters for a small time, but not enough of them. If I remember, I would love to see this.

The True Story of Charlie Wilson - Unfortunately, this documentary will probably not be included with the fictionalized film starring Tom Hanks. What a sham. I would love to watch both back to back.

Movie Dictionary: Word of the Week

Scriptment - A scriptment is a treatment of a film or a TV show that is more elaborate than a standard draft treatment. The term scriptment was originally coined by film maker James Cameron, possibly during his early involvement in the development of the "Spider-Man" film series. The term became more widely known, when Cameron's 1995 scriptment for the film Avatar was leaked on the internet during pre-production, although other directors like John Hughes and Zak Penn had already written "scriptments" before.

A scriptment borrows characteristics from both a regular screenplay and a film treatment and is comparable to a step outline: the main text body is similar to an elaborate draft treatment, while usually only major sequences receive unnumbered headings, which is different from the extensive scene headings in standard screenplays. Scenes and shots are simply separated as paragraphs and can also include explanatory excursuses. As with standard treatments, much of the dialogue is summarized in action. However, important dialog scenes are often fully developed. In most cases scriptments have been penned by directors, not screenwriters, and often seem like an intermediate stage in the development from draft treatment to the first draft of the screenplay. Like a draft treatment, a scriptment can be anywhere from 20 to 80 or more pages, while regular presentation treatments or outlines only summarize the plot in not more than 30 pages.

The Critic's Quickee

21 - Director Robert Luketic has made himself a nifty little "cards" movie. I can't say "poker" or "gambling" because that's really not what this is about. I had fun watching the beginning of this story, but towards the end, it drifted into the realm of standard twisty thriller, and that is annoying. Maybe it is because I have seen so many efforts about Vegas, blackjack, and playing cards in general, but this will appeal to the casual moviegoer. The people that go once every few months or so. Luketic's flashy and colorful filmmaking went out its way to captivate the audience with vivid visuals of chips, tables, and lights, but at times, I thought they were a distraction from the plainness of the plot. It is supposedly based on true events, and the book Bringing Down the House. It must be loosely. I have never read it, but I did overhear another ticket holder stating that the stories are not the same. My main issue deals with the coincidence of always pulling the scam where Laurence Fishburne's Cole Williams is heading security. Oh well, the mathematical portions were engrossing, though I hate the subject. Jim Sturgess is a promising young talent that needs a project to sink his teeth into. He was fantastic in Across the Universe, and good here, but he needs a supportive filmmaker who will combine his strengths with an equally as capable script. I am not a fan of Kate Bosworth, and that has not changed. She is eye candy, and nothing else. I fail to see how she keeps obtaining these substantial roles. Kevin Spacey is well…Kevin Spacey. Nuff said. In the end, this is worth a rental, and/or watching one time. I cannot afford a hearty thumbs up because I won't remember this in a month, whereas Rounders and The Grand will remain brilliant. Final Rating = 6.5/10.0

The Grand - Sadly, this new documentary has not been released in many theaters, but if you spot it near you, check it out. Read my full review for more details by clicking here!

Stop-Loss - I've seen several films showing the consequences and mental effects war has on soldiers, but this has to be the most artificial, ridiculous, and convoluted excuse for a filmmaker to vocalize her problems that I have seen in quite some time. Writer and Director Kimberly Peirce has not crafted a decent story about what happens to soldiers after war. See In the Valley of Elah or The Best Years of Our Lives for that. Her goal was to take Army characters and have them unload social commentary and political issues she thought we should all hear. If done tastefully, it can be convincing. Now, I have read forums and blogs debating the stop-loss topic and whether or not this film was an accurate portrayal of that or not, and I say certainly not. You can't tell me soldiers would like how they were presented here. These guys come home and immediately beat up on their girlfriends, drive drunk into telephone poles, and suffer mental breakdowns. It happens in less than a day to 3 pals. I don't blame the cast. Ryan Phillippe, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and dare I say it, Channing Tatum are actually quite moving in their performances. They did not deserve this, especially Gordon-Levitt who is one of the best young actors of this generation. The problem is the plot is contrived, the dialogue is filled with long exaggerated speeches for attention, and the polemic message so obviously does not fit the characters. If that wasn't enough to dislike, Peirce throws in a bunch of montages complete with rap and rock songs in the background. I will say the beginning battle sequence was great, brilliant in fact, but when the boys come home, it all goes down hill in a hurry. This was Peirce's first film in almost ten years, and unfortunately it makes Home of the Brave look like four stars by comparison. Final Rating = 4.0/10.0

Based on the Trailer…

Newest Trailers
The Legend of Zelda - Yes, this was an April Fools joke, but a creative one nonetheless. Judging the trailer like others, this would be atrociously cheesy on the level that the original unreleased Fantastic Four was. Still, it made me laugh, especially the horrid CGI. Why would anyone want this movie to be made for real? Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

Bangkok Dangerous - Nicolas Cage continues his "Next" phase with this assassin story. Ehh, Cage is starting to piss me off. He's such a talented actor, and he does this junk. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

Redbelt - A new David Mamet drama with Tim Allen in a serious role. I have to see it just out of sheer morbid curiosity. I have to admit, the premise does seem complex and intriguing. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Iron Man - At first, this looked ok to me, but now, I can't wait to see it. Robert Downey Jr. is terrific, and this trailer was fantastic. Who can't love a bald Jeff Bridges? Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Wall-E (3) - How can some people not be lovers of Pixar? This movie looks wonderful, and I'm pleased this trailer revealed some added characters. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

April Releases

Street Kings - Keanu Reeves stars in a movie about cops, guns, and killers. Excuse me while I yawn. Youknow, when Forest Whitaker is on, he is really on, but it seems his Oscar is causing him to overact a lot more than usual. Trailer Rating = 5.0/10.0

Sex and Death 101 - Simon Baker is a very underrated actor, and Winona Ryder is ok too, but this film looks like the definition of mediocre. At least it will have a decent cast. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0

Baby Mama - I wouldn't mind this trailer if Amy Poehler wasn't in it. I really think she is annoying on a whole new level. Tina Fey is amusing, but I think this will be a very blasé comedy. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

Prom Night - This is going to be a stinky turd. Nothing else needs to be said, and the trailer doesn't help. The bad cover song hurts as well. Trailer Rating = 4.0/10.0

88 Minutes - I do think this will be a competent thriller, mostly due to Pacino. For once the trailer revealed a lot without exposing too much. Hopefully this delivers. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden? - Morgan Spurlock hunts for the Al-Qaeda leader. Morgan Spurlock is funny, and he tackles interesting topics, but this just seems goofy to me. What is the goal of this documentary keeps popping into my head. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

The Visitor - From Tom McCarthy, the director of The Station Agent, comes this new drama which actually looks pleasant and heartwarming with Richard Jenkins. I'll give it a shot. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Forgetting Sarah Marshall - The new pic from the Apatow pack looks hilarious with Jason Segel in the lead role. At this point, we'd go see anything with Apatow's name attached. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

May Releases

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - Hey, it Indy, our favorite history professor, and he has returned. This preview was wonderful. The action looks fantastic. I am so there. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

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

Speed Racer - This film looks weird. I mean, it should visually amazing like only the Wachowski's know how, but I'm not sure about this one yet. It should be entertaining though. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

Speed Racer (2) - I had massive doubts from the first trailer, but this new one is worlds better, and I actually an amped to see it. If it sticks to a family tone, it could work. It still may be a huge dud, but you never know. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Son of Rambow - Since this was tagged to Rambo the action movie, one can't help but think this looks cute. It should be an entertaining children's film despite the peculiar title. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Sex and the City (2) - The teaser was fine, and that should have been it, but this new trailer spoils the end of the series, and most of the plot in the film. Why bother seeing it now? This is one of the worst kind of previews. Trailer Rating = 2.5/10.0

What Happens in Vegas - This is a movie that gives people reason to say there is nothing good out. This will be a total and complete piece of junk. You know it, and I know it. Trailer Rating = 2.0/10.0

The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian - I must admit, after disliking the first one, this trailer actually has me anticipating the sequel. Perhaps they improved with age. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Midnight Meat Train - You watch this preview, and it strikes you as a riveting thriller, then the title comes up, and you can't help but chuckle. It seems to take itself way too seriously for a bizarre title like that. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

June Releases
You Don't Mess With the Zohan - What a shame that Adam Sandler's films seem to be getting worse. I have no interest in seeing this, and I did not laugh once during this trailer. Same old song and dance from him. Trailer Rating = 4.0/10.0

Kung Fu Panda - This could be funny. Jack Black has solid voice for CGI, and the premise is intriguing. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Get Smart - I need to catch a few episodes of the original show before seeing the film. The trailer is funny, which means it should be somewhat fun. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

The Love Guru - I usually enjoy Mike Myers, but this new character might not be as popular as Austin Powers or Wayne Campbell. I laughed a few times, but this has not really jumped out as all that spectacular. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

The Incredible Hulk - I love Edward Norton, but I fail to see how this will right all the wrongs of Ang Lee's version. Is the origin story the biggest demand from fans? This just looks ok so far, and the CGI appears sloppy. It is a long ways away, but I'm not impressed. Trailer Rating = 5.5/10.0

Wanted (2) - This movie does look extremely cool, but I still se a lot of Matrix elements. Oh well, Angelina Jolie is sexy, Morgan Freeman is playing his customary wise instructor role, and the special effects look neat. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

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

Wall-E (2) - The second trailer for Pixar's upcoming film makes me want to see it even more. I'm sorry, but this company is doing wondrous things right now. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

The Happening - While many have lost all faith in Shyamalan, I think he can still supply riveting thrillers if he puts his mind to it. I actually see this as a vast improvement from Lady in the Water. Here's hoping anyway. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Kitt Kittredge: An American Girl - The new Abigail Breslin vehicle. I'll bet this blows as it looks similar to Nancy Drew, which was horrendous by itself. I'll be passing on this one. Trailer Rating = 3.0/10.0

July, TBD, and Beyond Releases

Righteous Kill - The new crime thriller with Pacino and De Niro! This looks average at the moment, but it should be fantastic with the two of them as a duo on screen for most of the film. The supporting cast looks excellent as well. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Meet Dave - Just when you think Eddie Murphy will only dove lower for his comedies, this to me, actually looks kind of funny. I'm having trouble admitting that after Norbit, but this seems original. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Madagascar: The Crate Escape - This is some sort of weird DVD trailer, but we see the basic layout of the plot, and it is not very funny or interesting. I could care less about this one. Trailer Rating = 4.5/10.0

Lost Boys: The Tribe - I stumbled upon this trailer for the Direct-to-DVD sequel starring Corey Felmdman. For a B-movie, it doesn't look half bad, though Feldman is not the actor he once was. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

Mamma Mia! - I have never seen this musical on Broadway, but I suppose I'll have to see this film, featuring music from Abba…ugh. It doesn't look terrible, but it's not my type of thing. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0

Journey to the Center of the Earth 3D - This will most likely be cheesy and preposterous, but hey, it's in 3D, and it has Brendan Fraser, so it should be semi-enjoyable. This should be fun in the theater, but not much else. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

The Duchess - This is a goofy trailer. You wonder who could be introduced, and then the title "The Duchess" comes up, and you wonder why all the hassle of building it up. Knightley is to period pieces as Seagal is to B-movie action. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

Hancock - Will Smith plays one of the most extraordinary looking super heroes in history. I'm actually excited to see this. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 - I generally hate the term "chick flick", but really what else applies here. Never saw the first one, won't see this one, and this trailer is not up my alley. That is all. Trailer Rating = 4.5/10.0

Step Brothers - Now this is a Will Ferrell comedy I can't wait to see. The premise is unusual, and the jokes in this preview are hilarious. Plus, it's directed by Adam McKay, who knows his stuff. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Star Trek XI - The teaser was superbly placed before Cloverfield, and this causes me to be amped for the next installment despite my doubts about the cast. I hope it's as good as we deserve. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

Hellboy II: The Golden Army - I loved the first film, and am greatly anticipating the sequel. It looks to have kept the same sense of visual excitement and adventure. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

The Dark Knight (2) - I have to admit, despite the endless news bits about this film, the trailer is marvelous and could not have been handled better. This will rock. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Tropic Thunder - I am liking the plot to this film, and the trailer is pretty funny. Hopefully this is a Ben Still flick I don't hate. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

The Pineapple Express - This is the red band trailer by the way. I Haven't laughed this hard at a trailer in awhile. This is going to be great. The cast is fantastic, and James Franco is being put to good use. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Defiance - This new Edward Zwick film looks outstanding with Daniel Craig leading the cast in World War II story. This gave me chills. I can't wait. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

Other Stuff to Read

The Best Movies of the Alphabet – From A to E
The Best Movies of the Alphabet – From F to J
The Best Movies of the Alphabet – From K to O
The Best Movies of the Alphabet – From P to T
The Best Movies of the Alphabet – From U to X
The Best Movies of the Alphabet – From Y to #

411 March Roundtable - This month Owain J. Brimfield takes the reigns and compiled the thoughts of the movie zone staff on the spring releases for April!
Fact or Fiction - Ben Piper gathers the thoughts of Bryan Kristopowitz and Leonard Hayhurst this week!
Furious on Film - Arnold Furious gives you his opinions on various films every week in his brand new news report.
What!!-This-Column!?? - Bryan Kristopowitz continues his column about…stuff. Check out his B-movie column too.
Two Tivos to Paradise - Al Norton brings all the news and updates in television that you can handle.
Ask 411 Movies - Leonard Hayhurst answers all the questions in Ask 411 movies.
The USB Evening Movie News - George Sirois brings the Thursday news for you.
Misunderstood Masterpieces - Will Helm gives you his weekly misunderstood masterpiece for your reading pleasure.
The MeeThinks Friday FreeThinks - Thanks again to John Meehan for providing my banner here, and for the Alphabet feature.

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.