April 6 & April 13: What to See, Wait, and Pass On

Rather than give a whole overview of the month, we are gonna switch it up and give a look at everything that's coming out, not just the movies I am excited for.  So without further to do, let's take a look at the beginning of April.

Week of April 6

Titanic 3D: Go See

7.5 out of 10 on IMDb

The re-release of Titanic in 3D comes riding in on the wave of 3D movies.  This year brought back Beauty & the Beast, Star Wars Episode I, and will release Finding Nemo in 3D later on. The epic tale now is featured in 3D and is sure to have some stunning visuals. 

In addition to the fact it's in 3D, it also comes at a special time: the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.  On TV, I'm sure you can find specials that are incredibly interesting about the event on channels like Nation Geographic or Discovery, which I would highly recommend viewing.  Director James Cameron has made 33 explorations of the wreck, and continues to check it out.

The other reason to go see it is simply the fact that when it came out, people my age were most likely not allowed to see it in theaters. Silly nudity scenes! But now that we are all grown up, it's okay to go out and see it (assuming you are mature enough to handle it) to view the movie how it was supposed to be seen: on a gi-normous screen. So, be sure to catch it while it's in theaters!

American Reunion: Wait

7.7 out of 10 on IMDb

I get it. "Another American Pie movie with the original cast!" Cool. I'm sure it'll be funny to see where the guys from the original American Pie Trilogy will be years after Jim's wedding, and I'm sure there will be a decent amount of nudity in this installment as well, but what's the point of going out and spending around $10 for the movie.

So far I have heard only good things about the movie, primarily that it is extremely funny.  But, unless you are headed to the movies and desperate to see a comedy, there isn't any reason for me to HAVE to go out to see it. I don't doubt it'll be enjoyable, but this one can wait for rent for me.  And for the people looking for something raunchy in this sequel, I can't see it lacking in the crude/ sexual references, as well as nudity.  But these movies always come out with the un-rated version on their DVD/Blu-Ray releases... Just wait either way on this one.

Moving on to the April 13 releases--

Three Stooges: Pass On It

42% Fresh on RottenTomatoes

Sigh........

Let's rewind, for a second here.  Clear your mind. Okay. Now, what if I told you that Jim Carrey, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, and the guys behind Dumb & Dumber and There's Something About Mary were revamping an old-time favorite? You'd be interested, right?  And what if I told you they were bringing back the comedy trio of The Three Stooges? With a group like that, you would have high hopes. Just like I did...

Well, when people start abandoning ship left and right, and the original three cast members are no longer attached to the project, it gets a little disheartening.  First, if was Sean Penn.  Then it was announced Jim Carrey would no longer have a part in the film... Slowly, it whittled down to Sean Hayes who hasn't been relevant since Will & Grace, Will Sasso who hasn't been relevant (if you could call it that) since Mad TV, and Chris Diamantopoulos who hasn't been relevant... at all.

Clearly, the Farrelly Brothers have lost their gusto over the last 13 years of trying to bring this project to life.  Not saying they are making bad movies (Hall Pass had some lols in it, and Dumb & Dumber 2 is lined up)  but clearly this is a pothole in the road of their career.  If you are trying to get rid of some money, see it. But if you are looking for a film to see in theaters, I suggest you look elsewhere. I'm sure that suggestion will still be relevant when it comes out on DVD...

Lockout: Go See It/ Wait

6.8 out of 10 on IMDb

This movie is on my original list of must see movies in 2012.  But like I said before, that list is always changing and being added to, while some movies need asterisks next to their titles and explained.  This is one of those asterisks...

There are action movies that men absolutely love to see.  The hot damsel in distress, the deadly, crazy antagonist, and the bad-ass toting guns saving the day/country/world. This is one of those action movies.

The storyline revolves around a supermax prison that is in space, where all the craziest, deadly people are sent.  I wouldn't imagine visiting loved ones is an option in this case, if so, I'm sure it costs a little more than driving to Colorado or Texas.  Anyways, the prisoners revolt and gain control over the entire space station prison. Oh yeah, and the President's daughter is on board and must be saved.  With the crazies threatening to run the station into the Earth, the US (because of course, it HAS to be America going in to save the day) is left with no choice but to send in one man who has been convicted of espionage against the US to save the world, and regain his freedom.

I first heard of this movie via trailer in the theaters.  Three names attracted me to this film: Guy Pearce, Maggie Grace, and Peter Stormare.  Guy Pearce (Memento, LA Confidential) has packed on the muscle for this role, and man, does he look like he's about to tear stuff up.  Maggie Grace, most recognizable as the daughter from Taken, looks to have a larger role and is looking better than ever.  And lastly, Peter Stormare (Fargo, Armageddon) will be adding some quality acting to the mix.

But while I am excited and ready for this movie that is perfect for Guy's Night Out, I am starting to get a little hesitant to see it in theaters.  This movie reminds me of the people who partake in one-up-manship as a sport, always trying to out due others.  "So, we have a supermax prison. But wait its in SPACE. And they take control of it with the President's daughter. AND THEY ARE GOING TO CRASH INTO THE EARTH!" As long as this remains an enjoyable action movie, I have no problem giving it my critical grace. But if it turns into a poorly done action movie, like Gamer, it could be one to wait a little bit on...


The Cabin in the Woods: Go See It

7.7 out of 10 on IMDb

First off, I'm not a huge fan of horror movies. Stuff that makes me jump out of my seat, mainly doesn't provide me with any entertainment.  But if I hear there is a must see movie, regardless of the genre, I will attempt to see it sooner-or-later. 

This film follows a group of five friends who are staying in a cabin in the woods. Cue the killer with some messed up motivation/background and let the terror ensue, right? Wrong. Although the deviation from the typical horror movie is boasted in their trailers.  And this is what peaked my interest.

And let's talk about who is involved in this project: Chris Hemsworth and Joss Whedon. Chris Hemsworth is easily most known for his role as Thor in last summer's action movie and in this years Avengers. He is an awesome actor and I'm interested in what he will bring to the table.  Joss Whedon, on the other hand, is the man behind the TV shows Firefly and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as well as The Avengers.  If the creativity that has gone into any of his other projects is present in this film, it is sure to be awesome.  And from everything I have heard, it is.  Be sure to see this game changer in theaters.

Check back for the rest of the movies coming out in April.

Wanna read up on the movies that came out earlier this year? Be sure to read the posts on January, February and March.

2012 in Film: Movies Out Now- March

March is over and done with, but here are the movies you should have checked out and should look for in theaters.  As I mentioned in my original list, these are movies I am pumped for, and think make 2012 one of the best years in film. Be sure to check out my January and February lists as well.  So, let's get this party started.

First off the list:

7.0 out of 10 on IMDb

John Carter tells the story of an American Civil Wer vet who finds himself on Mars in a chaotic new world.  The movie is based on the 11-part series, Barsoom. 

This movie is an interesting case for me: I never read the series, and from the previews, you would think it was another Prince of Persia mistake by Dinsey (in fact, the movie has a net loss of $166 million and is considered the biggest box office bomb of all time) yet I'm still intrigued by the film.


The reviews I have read have been spread out across the board, while family and friends' thoughts on the movie have been nothing but good (with the exception of my sister-in-law, but we can just disregard her, right?).  This looks to be Disney's attempt at an action-packed 3D adventure, but unfortunately people are getting caught up on the previews and aren't that interested. 


Two things can come out of me seeing this movie: I thoroughly enjoy the movie and walk out satisfied, or I see a sub par movie and say I have seen the movie with the largest deficit ever.

Next up:

7.7 out of 10 on IMDb

21 Jump Street bring the 80's TV drama that gave Johnny Depp his thrust into stardom back to life in a comedic fashion.  Just like the series, the film follows a pair of police officers, sent undercover to a local high school to bring down a drug ring.  Only instead of the young, handsome Johnny Depp, we are given the young (and now thin!) Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum (and a cameo from much older Johnny Depp).

Words can not describe how much I dislike Channing Tatum.  Yes, ladies, I get it: he's a hunk.  But he hasn't been in anything outside of Coach Carter that I enjoyed (and he wasn't that good in the role, to be honest) up till now plus he helped make GI Joe a ticking timebomb.  HOWEVER, Jonah Hill looks to be the man who, when paired with Tatum, will change my outlook. 

I first saw a preview for the film when seeing The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in theaters, and I loved it.  In its opening weekend, 21 Jump Street brought in $35 million and grabbed the top of the box office.  Also, Jonah Hill is proving himself as an actor lately and showing he isn't just "the funny fat guy from Superbad and Accepted".  He was nominated for the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his work in Moneyball, and is showing he can handle big time roles. 

The movie has received great buzz and its success at the box office has already hooked Sony for a sequel.  Go out and see it before its too late! 

Next up:

7.8 out of 10 on IMDb

The Hunger Games tells the futuristic story of teens battling it out till the death on national TV.  The first film to be made from the Hunger Games trilogy is out and is PHENOMENAL.  In the book and film, we follow Katniss Everdeen who volunteers to take her sister's place in the games.  But regardless if you read the book or not, it is sure to please.

With the film there have been two large complaints, one logical, one irrational.  The main complaint with the film has been the shaky-camera technique used in the film.  In addition to the action scenes, there are parts shot handheld that people say made them feel nauseous.  While I agree, in some scenes it went a little overboard, most times I thought it did the story justice.  The story is set in a world were we offer up 24 teenagers to fight it out to the death.  And with the film following Katniss around, it makes sense that everything is shaky because IT IS NERVE-RACKING!  The shaking should make people feel tense and on the edge of their seat. Yes, it might get annoying but just enjoy the movie and story for what it is until you go out and make your own movie.

The last complaint is the worst: some fans have been upset in the casting selection of the characters.  The characters in question are played by black actors/actresses, however, in the book they are even described as having darker skin.  So, beware of all the racist critics that will complain about the turn of events.

With the way the first movie turned out, I can't wait until the second book, Catching Fire, comes to film.  Until then, I might just have to go pick up the books and start this "reading" thing.

Last, but certainly not least:

8.4 out of 10 on IMDb

The Raid: Redemption is an action packed movie about 20 cops trapped in a 30 story building with tons of bad guys.  Its Die Hard meets Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon.  Not interested? Watch the trailer...

In addition to the package of delicious action that has been delivered to us, I'm looking forward to the score of the film, made by Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda.  I grew up listening to them and think it will be great to see what he can do.  In fact, musicians that crossover and compose for film usually work out great (see LCD Soundsystem's James Murphy or Nine Inch Nails' Trent Reznor).

That's it for this month.  Be sure to check back for the movies coming out in April!  Until then, go out and watch some good movies.

2012 in Film: Movies You Might Have Missed- February

2012 is probably the best year for movies.  If you haven't read the initial post or my post about January films, be sure to check those out as well, as they offer incite into how I view this year's cinema.  There are some pretty amazing movies coming out in 2012 and some have already come and passed through theaters.  Here's a list of must-see movies that debuted in February.

First up:

7.4 out of 10 on IMDb

Before you judge Chronicle, I'd just like to say I think the concept is awesome, plus the delivery is an interesting, but fitting, choice. The story depicts three high school students who gain super powers after making a discovery.  With their new abilities, they are pushed to the edge and begin to embrace the dark unknowns that come with the discovery.

I am the first to bash the found-footage/ documentary genre, especially when it is done wrong.  And believe me, they are easy to find.  But there are times where these styles of film making are executed perfectly (see District 9 for documentary).  Lately, horror movies have been frequenting the found-footage format and making me vomit a little every time a new one comes out.  My hatred in general for this style may stem from the fact that people are stupid enough to believe these movies actually happened ("Based on a true story" used to mean a nice, steady foundation in an event, not just one small detail) and Hollywood doesn't mind making a quick buck off these people.  But that is a story for another time.

Chronicle has a great storyline for a found footage movie and presents something that is a novel concept.  Growing up, we always see superhero stories that focus on the good side and how they endure through their problems.  The Dark Knight tested the waters and showed us how Bruce Wayne and Harvey Dent both struggled and had different outcomes, but it didn't show us Batman reach into his dark place.  Plus, Batman technically doesn't have superpowers other than being super BA, but that's getting off topic. 

Seeing these kids deal with their superpowers and the dark abilities of them is an interesting story that is perfect for the found-footage style and hooked me from the first trailer on.  Recommendation: catch it on Blu-Ray.

Side note: Fox has hired Max Landis, the master behind the screenplay, to begin writing a script for Chronicle 2.  If it's good enough for a sequel, it has to be good, right?


Next up:

6.8 out of 10 on IMDb

Harry Potter and the Woman in Black, wait no, just, The Woman in Black offers us two things: a nice horror/thriller about a haunted house, and Daniel Radcliffe's first post-Potter film; two things I am crazy excited for. 

Let's start with the story:  A lawyer (without the aid of his two best friends) heads to a remote village to deal with the deed of a house.  The house is haunted by the woman in black. You get the point.  But what sounds like a stereotypical horror movie presents it in an interesting way: the titular character isn't shown for the majority of the movie.  That's right, the story about the woman in black and she isn't even seen for awhile? Dats crazy, yo.  From everything I heard (hey, I can't see every movie known to man), the story is great and provides us with a solid horror movie in an age with too many found-footage horrors and exorcism movies.  I don't know what I would do if they ever made a movie like that...

Most intriguing aspect for me though has to be Radcliffe outside of Harry Potter.  We know he can act just fine, especially in comparison to other movies tweens might grow attached to, cough* Twilight* cough. Radcliffe picked a great movie to start his post-wizard phase of movies.  I'll be looking to see what else he can provide.  Please, just don't start making a bunch of Romantic Comedies, Mr. Radcliffe.


Next up:

7.0 out of 10 on IMDb

Safe House reminds me a lot of Training Day: a young law enforcement officer and Denzel Washington being awesome.  Mix in a plot similar to 16 Blocks and Assault on Precinct 13 and its sure to be an action thriller you can't take your eyes off of.  The story follows a young CIA operative (Ryan Reynolds) put in charge of protecting a deadly fugitive (Washington) when the safe house in which they are staying comes under attack and they are forced to move.

I like Denzel Washington, I like Ryan Reynolds, and I like gunfight, actiony-movies.  Of course I am going to want to see this.  And more than Denzel Washington, I like bad Denzel Washington.  I think he has his best performances in his nitty-gritty roles.  Ryan Reynolds on the other hand, hasn't had too many roles to show his serious acting, outside of Smokin' Aces.

 Regardless, it's an action packed thriller we all should be able to enjoy (minus kids- I wouldn't imagine it to be too kid-friendly).  Try to grab that before its taken out of theaters, or just wait until it comes out on Blu-Ray/DVD

Last, but certainly not least:

6.4 out of 10 on IMDb

Star Wars: Episode I in 3D is one of the early 3D re-releases coming out this year, and by far the most action-packed.  If you are interested, the list includes Beauty and the Beast, Finding Nemo, and Titanic.  So yeah, there's that...

But back to Star Wars in 3D.  Last Fall, the complete series was release on Blu-Ray for the first time, packaged by their trilogy.  If you thought lightsaber duels were great in High-Def, wait till you see Darth Maul get sliced in half in 3D (and don't even say "ohhh! Spoiler Alert, Brah!" That movie came out over a decade ago and if you didn't realize, he's not advertised for Episode II at all... except for the Clone Wars stuff on Cartoon Network, but let's just all disregard that.)

Now that everyone knows the Prequel Trilogy couldn't stand up next to IV, V, and VII, its okay to go and enjoy this one on the big screen again, along with podracing in 3D and the wonderful Jar Jar Binks. 

If you missed it, well there's always Titanic you can go see in 3D later....

That's it for February!  If you missed my selection for January movies, be sure to go check that out, and be sure to read the original post for a full list of my highly-anticipated 2012 films.