Monthly Movie Preview: February 2015

After a slow January that was sprinkled with Oscar favorites and not much else, February aims to please with a bunch of action and fantasy flicks, ranging from the supernatural to the super British. Not an action fan? There are also some comedy, horror and gross sex movies available.

February 6 – Jupiter Ascending

Starring: Mila Kunis, Channing Tatum, Sean Bean

*originally written for July 2014 Movie Previews

Jupiter Jones (Kunis) is a unfortunate janitor until she discovers her previously unknown genealogy destines her to greater things beyond Earth. Alongside genetically engineered interplanetary warrior Caine Wise (Tatum), she battles her way across the galaxy to take her rightful place at the throne of the House of Abrasax. This movie marks The Wachowskis’return of original screenplays and the science fiction genre. This movie looks to take place in a very complex world, the details of which aren’t likely to be skimmed. Douglas Booth, who plays a supporting role in the film, describes it as a cross between Star Wars and The Matrix. This makes the film seem promising and I’m interested to see how it will be received. My only fear is that it may be rather predictable, but the trailer leaves much to the imagination, so it’s hard to really say. – Charlotte

February 6 – Outcast

Starring: Hayden Christensen, Nicholas Cage

It was a bond forged in evil. Both Hayden Christensen and Nicholas Cage have done too much damage to their reputation. How could Anakin Skywalker and Johnny Blaze, two of the most badass figures in nerd lore, be reduced to nothing more than a bad joke? “Rawr, I’m a sexy cat!” plays in Cage’s ears over and over. “I know,” Cage says, “We go back to the beginning of time, and become Outcasts…” or at least that’s how it plays out in my head. One part The Witcher, one part Every Other Medievel movie from the 90’s, Outcast looks to be a sad, sad attempt at redemption for these two fallen actors. – Sherif

February 6 – Seventh Son

Starring: Ben Barnes, Jeff Bridges, Julianne Moore, Kit Harrington (Jon Snow!), Djimon Hounsou

The movie adaptation of Orson Scott Card’s novel of the same name is quietly hitting theaters with a solid cast and the promise of a lot of action. The “seventh son of a seventh son,” signs of a rare and powerful being (or in today’s case, one whose family has never visited Planned Parenthood. Though I’m not completely sold on the story – even if it was written by the guy who did Ender’s Game – the beasts swordplay in the trailer does more than enough to convince me that I need to see this in theaters. It’s like the Renaissance Festival on acid. – Sherif

February 6 – The Spongebob Movie: Sponge Out of Water

Starring: The whole Sponebob family, Antonio Banderas

The Krabby Patty formula is missing and it’s up to SpongeBob and his friends to save Bikini Bottom from apocalyptic chaos. While SpongeBob has hit the big screen before, this film will focus more on how our favorite underwater heroes interact with our world, rather than that of their own undersea city in the previous movie. This film could really go either way. I like the one liners and the little bits of social commentary that I’ve seen from the trailer, but just after a first look, I don’t think this movie will outshine the previous SpongeBob film. The team behind SpongeBob has always been ingenious however, so we’ll just have to wait and see. – Charlotte

February 6 – The Voices

Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Anna Kendrick, Gemma Arterton

Things I like about this movie before I’ve even seen it: Well received at Sundance, Ryan Reynolds, Anna Kendrick (who I want to star in the movie of me), Ryan Reynolds, talking animals, Ryan Reynolds, positive reception, Ryan Reynolds, black comedy about murder, and Ryan Reynolds. In reality, Reynolds has gotten a bad rap in recent years. He had a few bombs of movies, but he has not stopped having a tiny piece of my heart (sorry Sherif, my sweet sweet husband who has all of my heart, I swear!). The movie looks hysterical and sinister. It’s the Son of Sam, but funny! This movie will be worth paying for, but more importantly, will give Reynolds his career back. – Adrian

February 13 – Fifty Shades of Grey

Starring: Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Rita Ora, Aaron Taylor-Johnson (Kick-Ass)

“More like Fifty Shades of GROSS!” This is a direct quote from my husband, Sherif, in the middle of a Barnes and Noble. No matter this film, and the book it is based off, being a “Worldwide Phenomenon,” it will not be on my list. Is it because John Oliver convinced me of #NotMyChristian? Possibly. Was it because Ian Somerhalder should have been cast as Christian Grey? Probably. Is it because once I read one page of the book as a joke to a co-worker, and it was about anal? Less likely. It’s really because along with Twilight, this movie is teaching girls that abusive relationships are normal, happy, and something they should want. No. Thank. You. However, if you want a laugh, go check out this alternate preview. – Adrian

February 13 – Kingman: The Secret Service

Starring: Colin Firth, Mark Strong, Mark Hamill, Samuel L Jackson, Michael Caine,

Millarverse finds its way into theaters yet again. Mark Millar and Dave Gibbons’ 2012 book The Secret Service is an original series published by Icon Comics (they’re kind of like Marvel’s version of Vertigo, and also publish Brian Michael Bendis’ Powers) and here it gets a big-scene adaptation. The story is pretty straight-forward: eco-terrorist genius tricks world into trying to commit mass genocide, and British super-intelligence has to intervene. There have been some significant delays in lieu of Kingsman‘s release, so there is some concern about the film’s quality, but if it as awesome as the other Millar-based films (Kick-Asses), I’m down to see this. Plus, with this strong cast of actors, including a very Easter Egg-worthy character, I’m sure to enjoy it. – Sherif

February 20 – The Duff

Starring: Mae Whitman (April O’Neil in the new TMNT series), Robbie Amell, Ken Jeong

High school senior, Bianca (Mae Whitman) has set out to reorganize the high school hierarchy only to figure out that she has been labeled a “DUFF” meaning “Designated Ugly Fat Friend.” After learning this, she enlists the help of a male friend to help her become “datable.” Seriously? Do we REALLY need another “change-yourself-for-a-man, popularity-is-everything, who-gives-a-shit-if-you’re-not-pretty” high school drama movie? There hasn’t been a good high school drama movie since Easy A, and this crap doesn’t even come close. We have to stop telling young girls that their bodies equate their worth as human beings. There better be some wild twist they’re not telling us, or this film isn’t going to be received well. – Charlotte

February 20 – Hot Tub Time Machine 2

Starring: Craig Robinson, Rob Corddry, Clark Duke, Chevy Chase, Gillian Jacobs

Let’s be honest… no one goes to see a Hot Tub Time Machine movie to be enlightened. Heck, did we even really need a sequel to the first mediocre comedy? No. But that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth your time. The first Hot Tub movie had its funny moments, and no doubt its sequel will, too. The preview features some really funny lines, particularly when the group has to go back to the Revolutionary War and Jacob (Clark Duke) tells Nick (Craig Robinson) that he won’t be “super” welcome there. This movie will deal with a lot of time travel, mostly in the future, but I don’t suggest traveling to your movie theater; wait of this one on Netflix, instead. – Adrian

February 27 – Focus

Starring: Will Smith, Margot Robbie

Close your eyes and think really hard to the last time you saw a Will Smith movie. Not After Earth, which was most definitely a Jaden Smith movie. It’s been nearly three years since Will Smith headlined in Men in Black 3, and yet he continues to be the face of the entertainment industry. And then there’s Margot Robbie, which, if you don’t know her name yet, is that really hot girl in The Wolf of Wall Street. The premise of the movie is that Smith plays a Nicky, a con man who lets Jess (Robbie) into the game, and the lust between them causes things to go haywire. Unfortunately, I felt like the trailer gave away way too much plot from the film, but the star power of these two – who will actually be reuniting in 2016’s Suicide Squad – is enough to get me to fork over the price of admission. – Sherif

February 27 – The Lazarus Effect

Starring: Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass, Evan Peters (American Horror Story), Donald Glover

These days it’s nearly impossible for a horror movie to get a wide release, especially outside of the month of October. Much of the genre’s credibility has been lost in the likes of torture porn, an overabundance of found footage (WHO is finding all this footage anyway?), the complete desolation of what Vampires were and the Saw franchise – yeah, I went there. If you feel like there is simply no hope left, please, allow me to introduce The Lazarus Effect. In short, it’s the story of a few brilliant young minds who are determined to toil between the lines of life and death and successfully manage to reinvigorate dead flesh. They start with a dog, and then like all arrogant humans before them, they move on to humans. Naturally, there will be consequences. Yes, this movie pulls ideas from some of its predecessors, (Pet Semetery, Flatliners, Frankenstein) but here’s the thing, those properties were genuinely scary and in no way are they tired and played out like SO many other things. Not to mention, I personally am stoked about the cast. Mark Duplass (The League, Safety Not Guaranteed) is highly underrated, Olivia Wilde (In Time, Cowboys & Aliens) has never missed a beat stealing the show from her male costars, Evan Peters (X-Men: Days of Future Past, American Horror Story) is an Oscar-bound scene-stealer to say the very least, and Donald Glover (Community, Troy and Abed in the Morning) is finally getting a chance to show the world what he can do. If I can give you all any advice this month it is this: save your money on Fifty Shades of Grey and go see The Lazarus Effect instead. Trust me. I’ll see you at the theater! Note: If you find yourself interested in this movie maybe avoid the first trailer. It’s a little spoilery. The second one doesn’t reveal nearly as much vital info. – Keriann

Monthly Movie Preview: January 2015

It’s a brand new year, which means a whole new slew of movies – with no pressure of being the next greatest thing – unlike the action-packed December. A fair amount of these films came out in 2014 internationally but are just getting to the States and a couple more have been pushed back from previous release dates. There’s a little something for everyone here.

January 9 – Inherent Vice

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Jena Malone, Benecio del Toro, Maya Rudolph, Michael K Williams (Omar!)

*Originally scheduled to be released 12/12/14

Based off the book of the same name by Paul Thomas Anderson, Inherent Vice follows pothead Detective Doc Sportello (played by Joaquin Phoenix) who is investigating the disappearance of his ex-girlfriends current boyfriend.  The book has so many characters, it is unlikely that the movie will follow the book to a tee, but with an all-star cast, it surely will not disappoint.  It looks absolutely irreverent and hilarious.  Set in the 70’s, it will be slightly reminiscent of last year’s American Hustle, but with a little more mystery. – Adrian

January 9 – Selma

Starring: David Oyelowo, Tom Wilkinson, Oprah Winfrey, Cuba Gooding Jr., Common, Wendell Pierce (Bunk from The Wire), Lorraine Toussaint (Dee from OITNB)

This movie could not have come out at a more opportune time. With the racial and political turmoil coming to a boiling point lately, the world needs a powerful movie like Selma. With an All-Star cast of strong black actors, Selma has already been given critical acclaim and is nominated for multiple Academy Awards. Plus, two of the biggest names in Hollywood are serving as Executive Producers – Oprah Winfrey and Brad Pitt. The focus of the film are the marches for voting rights, but the scope of the film seems to be to capture the spirit of the entire movement. More than just that, the film will give hope and inspiration to the civil rights movement that is still being fought today. – Sherif

January 9 – Predestination

Starring: Ethan Hawke, Sarah Snook

It’s been over a decade since Minority Report came out, but that doesn’t mean it’s too soon to borrow the plot to make a new movie out of it, right? Predestination is what we wanted Minority Report to be. This Australian film (which can be found in its entirety on YouTube) was released last August, but is finding its way to U.S. theaters next week. It’s about a futuristic detective force that uses time travel to stop crime from happening before they happen, but there seems to be an emphasis more on the science than the fiction with this film. – Sherif

January 9 – Taken 3

Starring: Liam Neeson (duh), Forest Whitaker, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen (Jean Grey from X-Men)

It’s almost over, you guys. The dawning of the final installment to the Liam Neeson trilogy is almost upon us. Thank God. This movie didn’t really need a sequel, but now that the sequel happened, there might as well be a final explosion of glorious murder. It is a little over the top, but what the hell. Chances are that you have already made your mind up on whether or not to see the finale, and my words won’t try to convince you one way or another to go see it. – Sherif

January 16 – American Sniper

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, Max Charles, Luke Grimes

*Originally scheduled to be released 12/25/14

If you know the name Chris Kyle then you also know you NEVER want to be on his bad side and at a distance. American Sniper is an exciting chronicling of real life Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, the most decorated and deadly sniper-gunman in history. With more than 150 confirmed kills and completing four tours of duty, Kyle appropriately earned the nickname “Legend.” The preview had my heart racing and my hairs on end as Kyle (portrayed by Bradly Cooper) decides whether or not to take out a child carrying what might be a bomb while rushing toward an American-military convoy traveling through what looks like rugged alleys of an Iraqi village. This film will take us though not just the dangerous battles of this hero’s life, but also the critical struggle of balance a family from afar and functioning as a normal civilian. 150 kills and four tours is certain to leave some lasting marks on an individual. I’ve honestly never seen a war/soldier movie that I’ve disliked or felt wasn’t worth the price of my movie ticket. Especially when the film takes on the stories of real-life patriots that have risked their lives and mental fortitude to protect the freedoms that many of us often take for granted. This one should definitely be on your list this month. – Taylor

January 16 – Blackhat

Starring: Chris Hemsworth, Viola Davis, Tang Wei

Chris Hemsworth battles hackers and probably frost giants in this movie about a super-hacker that is attacking banks and corporations all over the world. The one hope that the Chinese & American authorities have to stop this hacker is Thor, apparently. As interesting as it seems at first glance, this really sounds like just a way to capitalize on all the fear the world already has about keeping their identities secure. I’m up in the air as far as recommending this film, but if can be convinced that Thor is a master hacker capable of taking down the world’s most powerful cyber-hacker, then you are already closer to wanting to see Blackhat than I am. – Sherif

January 16 – Paddington

Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Nicole Kidman

I wish this had been the first trailer I saw for the movie Paddington. The trailer that first hit America was full of gross bathroom practices, but it looks like this movie is gonna be full of feels. The film based off the children’s book and toy line is going to be adorable. There is a definite Stuart Little vibe as far as the story goes, and this story concept has been beaten to the ground, but the dry British humor should be enough to separate it from its predecessors. If you’re looking for a movie to see with the kids, this might be the one, but don’t expect this to change the game. – Sherif

January 16 – The Wedding Ringer

Starring: Kevin Hart, Josh Gad, Kaley Cuoco, Affion Crockett

Kevin Hart is at a crossroads in his career; one more crappy movie like Ride Along (it wasn’t THAT bad, but it was entirely forgettable), and he is destined to fall into obscurity like Katt Williams before him, or Eddie Griffin before him. If he can keep the ball rolling, though, then he keeps his crown as the funniest man in comedy. The concept of this movie is somewhere between the lines of I Love You, Man and Hitch, where Kevin Hart is paid for his services as a best man at a wedding. I’m really looking forward to The Wedding Ringer taking comedy back to feel-good entertainment instead of the two-hour long penis jokes they have become. – Sherif

January 16 – Escobar: Paradise Lost

Starring: Josh Hutcherson, Benicio del Toro

You know those movies where the guy is trying to get in with his girlfriend’s family? And then everybody has a good time while they learn more about each other and themselves than they bargained for? Yeah, this is not that film. This isn’t Robert De Niro we’re talking about; this is Pablo freakin Escobar here. Poor Peeta Mallark may have defied the Capitol and the Hunger Games, but finding himself on the opposite end of an argument with the most well-known and respected drug lord in the world means that he is screwed! – Sherif

January 23 – Mortdecai

Starring: Johnny Depp, Gwenyth Paltrow, Ewan McGregor, Olivia Munn, Jeff Goldblum, Aubrey Plaza

Everybody loves Johnny Depp, right? WRONG. This guy has been putting out suckfests for years, and people keep seeing them. You have to give him this, though: the guy is fun to watch. Seeing the movie poster gave me an entirely different reaction than when I watched the trailer. This movie looks absurdly awesome. Mortdecai, besides being one of the fanciest men on Earth, is like a classy version of Austin Powers (or an idiot version of James Bond). Word on the streets is that this will eventually become a franchise, so familiarize yourself with this weirdo. It’s great to see Depp back in a role that does his weirdness justice. – Sherif

January 23 – Strange Magic

Starring: Kristin Chenoweth, Alam Cumming, Evan Rachel Wood, Maya Rudolph, Elijah Kelley

It may not be Star Wars, but Lucasfilm is back. Strange Magic looks like a lot of fun, and is described as “a beautiful fairy tale with goblins and elves, and do it in a way that only [Lucasfilm] can do. (Source: Yahoo)” With Star Wars sold and off the table for Lucas, this is really his time to let loose and do what he wants creatively. As far as kids movies go, this should blow Paddington out of the water, just for the fact that it’s new and creative – something that needs to be applauded more these days. Either way, it looks like George Lucas is back in the lab and having fun making movies, and that is a win for everyone. – Sherif

January 23 – The Boy Next Door

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Ryan Guzman, Kristin Chenoweth

Here’s an interesting one. JLo plays a MILF fantasy gone wrong. Hot suburban cougar gives in and sleeps with her student aaaaaaand then he becomes a psycho stalker who endangers her life, career and family. Did I lose you at JLo MILF fantasy? This is supposed to be a thriller, and although I know the trailer isn’t a lot to go off of, it does have the certain creepy suspense you want in that genre of film – if not just for the thought that something this crazy could realistically happen. Look for the “Booty” singer to continue to try to really milk her time in the limelight as a sexual object. – Sherif

January 30 – Black or White

Starring: Kevin Costner, Octavia Spencer, Bill Burr, Gillian Jacobs

This movie is a huge eyebrow-raiser for me. On one side, you have Kevin Costner’s character, who has tried to raise his black grand-daughter, Eloise, by himself after the passing of his wife and daughter (mother to the child). Meanwhile, you have Octavia Spencer, who is fighting for the grand-daughter for custody. Maybe there’s some big Kumbayah moment where the reluctantly racist white guy and the black mom learn to live in harmony and share custody of the grand-daughter, but I foresee an awkward racial mud-slinger, and very little about what is actually best for Eloise. It’s gotten some pretty crappy reviews since it’s minor, independent release last September, so don’t be surprised when it turns out being awful. – Sherif

January 30 – Project Almanac (AKA Welcome to Yesterday)

Starring: Jonny Weston, Sofia Black D’Elia, Amy Landecker

I am a total sucker for these kind of home-made science-fiction movies that have been the trend the past few years, so when this this time traveling flick came up on the new releases, I got stoked. Unfortunately, this thing has been delayed almost a year, which is a shame since 2014 was an overall weak movie for indy sci-fi. Like Chronicle before it, this group of kids have fun with their new-found discoveries, but soon realize that there are serious repercussions to what they are doing. You may have let Michael Bay ruin your childish with TMNT, but this is one of his projects I could definitely get behind. – Sherif

Monthly Movie Preview: December 2014

Welcome to Oscar-Month! While last month was a little slow, this month is packed with potential Academy Award winners. Be careful of the minefield of crap movies, too, as not every film is slated to be a knock-out.

December 5 – She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry

Starring: Various activists for Women’s Rights

She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry is a documentary coming out from The International Film Circuit that talks about the women’s movement of the 60’s and 70’s. I am utterly stoked about this film and feel it’s high time for something like this to come out. As one of the women says “the bitter lessons are that no victories are permanent.”  Which is true. It’s important to look back on our history and the mistakes that women have made in the movement and move it till now. I like the fact that black women’s liberation was mentioned and I hope the film talks about the divide in the movement. I don’t know about you, but the trailer has me revved up to watch it. – Jené

December 5 – Dying of the Light

Starring: Nicholas Cage, Anton Yelchin, Iréne Jacob

My initial thought following my first viewing of the preview for Dying of the Light was, “This is going to be awful… Just awful!” Before I share my second thoughts let me tell you a little about the film. Evan Lake is a retired CIA agent that ends his stint on the couch to take down an international rival and terrorist, thought to already be dead. Lake simultaneously struggles with dimension and some other personal demons in his attempt to close this troubled chapter of his life. The plot feels pretty intense and it seems that this film has all the qualities of an all-around “good movie.” Except for one thing… Nicolas Cage… I’m convinced that casting this man is a most assured way to make your movie flop. In re-watching the trailer, and replacing Cage’s face with, oh say, Tom Cruise, Ben Affleck or Brad Pitt I instantly become more interested. It’s rare that one man can be so powerfully deterring. Perhaps that’s reason to see this film. I for one, will wait until this flick hits Red Box. Again, at face value (excluding Nicky boy’s face), this movie seems like it will be pretty good. – Taylor

December 5 – Murder of A Cat

Starring: Fran Kranz, Nikki Reed, JK Simmons, Blythe Danner, Greg Kinnear

This is sure to be the silliest movie of the month, maybe the year. Murder of A Cat stars Dollhouse and Cabin in the Woods‘ Fran Kranz and is part Harriet the Spy, part Mystery Team. Clinton (Kranz) is having a bad day, a day that started with his beloved cat, Mouser, struck dead with an arrow. Determined to solve the case, Clinton enlists the help of Sheriff Hoyle (Simmons), and finds out that his cat was living a double life, and had a second family on the side. This film is guaranteed to make you laugh, and its direct release onto iTunes should help people who want to watch the movie but can’t justify paying to see it in theaters. For those of you with a soft spot for the Whedonverse, catching a straight-to-digital movie with Dollhouse‘s Topher in it will be hard to pass up. However, if you’re a cold, heartless soul with no love for Joss Whedon’s creations, you may want to skip out on this one. – Sherif

December 5 – Life Partners

Starring: Leighton Meester, Gillian Jacobs, Gabourey Sidibe, Adam Brody

This film comes from Mangolia Produciton and stars Leighton Meester and Gillian Jacobs who are incredibly close friends; one is gay and the other is straight. It seems like this will be an interesting friendship meets awkward unrequited lesbian romance. It’s a story I have seen play out in the real world time and time again. While it can be a sad and frustrating one, I am glad it’s a story that finally happening on screen. The potential funny and drama that this story can create is endless and I’m surprised I haven’t seen it before.  I hope the two women end up together in wedded bliss like all those romantic comedies are supposed to. I’ll have to go see the movie in order to find out. – Jené

December 5 – The Pyramid

Starring: Ashley Hinshaw, Dennis O’Hare, James Buckley, Christa Nicola, Amir K

The Pyramid marks Gregory Levasseur’s debut as a director, although he has become somewhat well known as a write in the horror genre with titles like P2, High Tension, and The Hills Have Eyes. In my opinion, none of the films were to die for (pun NOT intended) but they ranged from good enough to okay-ish. Needless to say, for me this does not create a whole lot of anticipation for The Pyramid. The film follows young archeologists and their seemingly cool mentor type professor as they unearth and explore a previously undiscovered Egyptian pyramid for the first time. Of course they get lost and become hysterical and desperate as they realize that they are not alone down there. From the trailer it seems like there will be some jump out scares, but not a whole lot else. The whole thing just reeks of another The Descent, Quarantine, Catacombs, and in all honesty The Hills Have Eyes. Call me crazy, but I’m a sucker for originality and this movie doesn’t seem to offer any of it. It probably won’t be bad, but will most likely be your bargain bin run of the mill horror movie. Personally, I most likely won’t be giving The Pyramid a watch unless I find myself bored and surfing Netflix with no other options. However, I do have to acknowledge that Dennis O’Hare may be the sole reason to give this movie a shot. Any fans of True Blood or American Horror Story should know that that guy is freaking awesome. – Keriann

December 12 – Inherent Vice

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Reese Witherspoon, Jena Malone, Benecio del Toro, Maya Rudolph, Michael K Williams (Omar!)

Based off the book of the same name by Paul Thomas Anderson, Inherent Vice follows pothead Detective Doc Sportello (played by Joaquin Phoenix) who is investigating the disappearance of his ex-girlfriends current boyfriend.  The book has so many characters, it is unlikely that the movie will follow the book to a tee, but with an all-star cast, it surely will not disappoint.  It looks absolutely irreverent and hilarious.  Set in the 70’s, it will be slightly reminiscent of last year’s American Hustle, but with a little more mystery. – Adrian

December 12 – Exodus: Gods and Kings

Starring: Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, Aaron Paul, John Turturro, Ben Kingsley, Sigourney Weaver

Oh, great. Another movie about the exodus from Egypt of Moses and his people. If 1998’s Prince of Egypt didn’t do it for you, there’s very little chance that a live-action one will do it for you in 2014. I mean, forget about the historical inaccuracies, which are just about as close to history as Christian Bale’s other films (Terminator, Batman Begins, American Psycho), but they have the roles of Ramessess II by Australian actor Joel Edgerton. That’s right, the King of Egypt, played by an Aussie. It doesn’t stop there, because Kingsley, Weaver and Turturro are all prominent Egyptian figures in history. Sigourney. Weaver. It can’t all be a loss, because they have some knockout actors, and it is a classic tale they are retelling. I just don’t understand how a production company could put $140 million into a story that’s been told so many times. Maybe they are riding on the coattails of Noah, but expect this movie to get washed away from the box office just like [SPOILER] the Egyptian army. – Sherif

December 12 – Top Five

Starring: Chris Rock, Gabrielle Union, Rosario Dawson, Hayley Marie Norman, Kevin Hart, JB Smoove and a LOT of celebrity guest appearances

Chris Rock’s newest film, and possibly his comeback, Top Five looks absolutely hysterical.  And not for the typical reasons, which is why this indie film, bought by Paramount for 12.5 million, will likely be a major hit.  The story is one that follows closely with what the Hollywood of today is like; a major comedian (Chris Rock) is trying to reinvent himself as a serious actor and is also engaged to a reality T.V. star (Gabrielle Union).  Their nuptials are to be televised.  Because of all the hype, Rock’s character is being interviewed by a young journalist for The New Yorker.  All of that sounds like a drama, but with Chris Rock’s quick wit and sharp writing, this is more than likely to be the dramedy of the year.  But I also just really love Chris Rock right now because of this interview. Jump on the Chris Rock bandwagon with me people! – Adrian

December 17 – The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian Holm, Ian McKellen, Benedict Cumberbatch, Orlando Bloom, Richard Armitage

If you’re not on the Tolkien train yet then shame on you good sir or madam! Hop on! The conclusion to Tolkien’s prequel to The Lord of the Rings trilogy is in theaters this month. Even if you struggle gettin’ down with wizards, dragons, trolls, elves and all other fantastic wonders of Middle Earth, you should still go see this movie! The cinematic quality and overall experience alone will be worth it. For fans and aficionados of Bilbo and team – you can guarantee that release day has been circled on their calendars for a long time! Previews and early glimpses of content promise a mystifying and realm altering battle. The title of the film is Battle of the Five Armies after all. Personally, I’m more excited about this film that the previous two. The Two Towers is my favorite LOTR movie primarily due to the Battle for Helm’s Deep at the end. It still give me chills! If The Hobbit can bring it like The Two Towers then this is sure to be a very fun ride. I highly encourage you add this film to your list this month. – Taylor

December 19 – Annie

Starring: Jamie Foxx, Quvenzhané Wallis, Cameron Diaz, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Rose Byrne, Bobby Cannavale

Who hasn’t grown up with Annie?!  Every little girl wanted to be adopted by Daddy Warbucks at some point in their lives.  Today’s generation of little girls gets to relive the magic with an updated cast and plot line.  Starring Quvenzhané Wallis and Jamie Foxx, the classic musical is sure to resonate with a new group of young girls.  It is very refreshing to see a movie that portrays black people in a positive light, and will both stars will surely be adored by all races of children in this country. – Adrian

December 19 – Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb

Starring: Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, and really just a lot of funny people

The trilogy comes to an end this month with Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb. The first two movies were lots of fun and great family movies and I expect nothing less from this one. Although it will be a bit bittersweet for those of us who grew up on Robin Williams. This was his last live action film. The Tablet of Ahkmenrah is losing its powers and Larry Daley, Ben Stiller, is trying to save it’s magic or lose his friends forever. It’s great that the cast has remained almost entirely unchanged through the three films. Robin Williams, Owen Wilson, and Steve Coogan are back in their roles and are helping Larry on his mission to keep the magic alive. I mean, they don’t want to turn back into statues either. Ben Kingsley makes an appearance, this time around, as Merenkahre, creator of the tablet. I think he’ll be a quality addition to the cast. If Secret of the Tomb is as well does as the previous two there nothing to really worry about here. This one should be good for all ages. – Scott

December 19 – The Gambler

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, John Goodman, Brie Larson, Michael K Williams (Omar again!)

My man-crush!! Super stud Mark Wahlberg will be gracing theaters across America this winter as a hopeless, lecherous, conniving, and loveable college literature professor and gambling addict. Okay – I’m less sure about that loveable part, but you get the gist. The plot here is that Jim Bennett (Wahlberg) borrows a loan from a very powerful crime lord (I think played by John Goodman… if not it should be Goodman) using his own life a collateral. Good for him!! I’m guessing that things will likely not go well for Bennett and he will most likely have to conceive of some clever way of making good on his repayment while walking away with both legs and pumping heart intact. Oh – and he falls in love (lust?) with one of his sexy students (Brie Larson). Sounds like we’re in for a movie full of super-gambling, sex and guns! More exciting that the prospect of potentially seeing BOTH Larson and Wahlberg naked is the fact that The Gambler was written by William Monahan, the same man that wrote The Departed; my favorite and arguably the best gangster film ever. This one’s no joke Hush fans! Go see it! – Taylor

December 25 – American Sniper

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, Max Charles, Luke Grimes

If you know the name Chris Kyle then you also know you NEVER want to be on his bad side and at a distance. American Sniper is an exciting chronicling of real life Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, the most decorated and deadly sniper-gunman in history. With more than 150 confirmed kills and completing four tours of duty, Kyle appropriately earned the nickname “Legend.” The preview had my heart racing and my hairs on end as Kyle (portrayed by Bradly Cooper) decides whether or not to take out a child carrying what might be a bomb while rushing toward an American-military convoy traveling through what looks like rugged alleys of an Iraqi village. This film will take us though not just the dangerous battles of this hero’s life, but also the critical struggle of balance a family from afar and functioning as a normal civilian. 150 kills and four tours is certain to leave some lasting marks on an individual. I’ve honestly never seen a war/soldier movie that I’ve disliked or felt wasn’t worth the price of my movie ticket. Especially when the film takes on the stories of actual patriots that have risked their lives and mental fortitude to protect the freedoms that many of us often take for granted. This one should definitely be on your list this month. – Taylor

December 25 – Into the Woods

Starring: Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine, Johnny Depp,

If you have been in high school in the last 10 years, chances are, Into the Woods has been one of the spring musicals.  Now on the big screen, theater nerds are rejoicing.  With the recent successes of Maleficent and Alice in Wonderland, Disney is getting their formula down with live-action movies.  This musical, that began on Broadway over 25 years ago, follows a baker and his wife who are trying to have a baby, but must overcome a witch’s curse first.  Featuring Cinderella, Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Little Red Riding Hood, Into the Woods is sure to thrill children, but most likely will be a bigger hit with adults. – Adrian

December 25 – The Interview

Starring: James Franco, Seth Rogen and Lizzie Caplan

The comedic gentlemen duo of Franco and Rogen are back again with a plot to kill Kim Jong-Un. I’m game, I mean Pineapple Express was funny and this was written by the same people, Evan Goldberg and Seth Rogen. So the idea here is that James Franco is a late night talk show host, Dave Skylark and Seth Rogen is his the show’s producer, Aaron Rapoport. Skylark and Rapoport are commissioned by and agent of the CIA, played by Lizzie Caplan, to go into North Korea under the guise of getting an interview with the glorious leader himself, Kim Jong-Un. In reality they are being sent in to assassinate the stout little dictator. This seems sort of like a comedy version of Argo, but with more dick jokes I’m sure. The Interview is has a good comedy foundation with its writers and stars and should be fairly funny taking those things into consideration. Of course we all thought that about Anchorman 2 also. – Scott

December 25 – Big Eyes

Starring: Amy Adams, Christoph Waltz, Krysten Ritter

I think everybody gets a handful of actors/actresses that they feel obligated to see their entire filmography. For me, Christoph Waltz is one of those actors. The former Jew Hunter from Inglorious Basterds plays the villain in Big Eyes, a Tim Burton film not to be confused with Big Fish. Big Eyes chronicles the life of painter Margaret Keane (Adams), whose signature paintings revolutionized printing. In order to sell more copies, her husband Walter (Waltz) convinced her to let them sell under his name. Things went downhill fast as the ruse ended up costing their marriage, yet Walter insisted on continuing to take credit for her work. I think it will make us take a long, hard look at who were are as a society – that a woman had to give credit to a man before her work was appreciated. – Sherif

December 25 – Unbroken

Starring: Jack O’Connell, Domhnall Gleeson

Just in time for Christmas, Unbroken tells the story of the Louis Zamperini, Olympian, World War II hero, and Japanese POW.  Directed by Angelina Jolie, Louis’ story is finally being made to film, a wish he had for a long time.  The things Louis had to overcome are unbelievable, and are sure to inspire people everywhere.  While this is a movie geared towards the greatest generation, I, at 27 years old, am excited to see the triumphs of Louis Zamperini, too. – Adrian

December 31 – A Most Violent Year

Starring: Oscar Isaac, Jessica Chastain, David Oyelowo, Albert Brooks, Catalina Sandino Moreno

A Most Violent Year is guaranteed to be nominated for the Oscar.  That may detour some people from wanting to see it, but the ratings on Rotten Tomatoes prove otherwise.  A Most Violent Year is about a family in New York City in 1981, one of the most violent years for the city.  The family and their business is dragged into the demise of the city.  Starring previous nominees Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain, this drama has the markings of award season written all over it. – Adrian

Monthly Movie Preview: November 2014

After the month of October brought us a handful of diverse, good movies, we come to the barren wasteland that is November. Aside from a new Oscar contenders, indie films and family blockbusters, this November looks to be a relatively quiet one. Take advantage of the time off and go see one of these movies!

November 7 – Big Hero 6

Starring: Ryan Potter, Jamie Chung, Damon Wayans Jr., TJ Miller, Maya Rudolph, Alan Tudyk

The powerhouse combo of Marvel and Disney have teamed up to bring us the newest, and probably one of the best, animated feature of the year.  Big Hero 6 is based on a comic series of the same name, chronicling the adventures of Hiro Takachiho, a kid genius who is forced to join a group of superheroes to save Tokyo.  The comic seems much darker, with its roots engrained in the aftermath of WWII.  The Disney movie will be a light version, using similar characters, but giving a lot of heart to inflatable robot Baymax, the robot who wants to help people.  I don’t know if it was the first trailer released, or the epic song they play during the preview, but I’m pretty sure this is the kind of inspirational animation that I might need to bring my box of tissues to. – Adrian

 

November 7 – Interstellar

Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Wes Bentley (Seneca Crane from The Hunger Games)

The mad genius Christopher Nolan and his brother Jonathan at it again. After a couple years off from directing, the legendary filmmaker who brought us Momento and The Dark Knight trilogy is taking us out of this world in Interstellar. This film focuses on space travel, and Earth’s need for a sustainable life source. To add to the validity of the storyline, physicist and longtime colleague of Stephen Hawking was brought in as scientific consultant to the movie. While Interstellar has some star power attached to it in Oscar-winners Matthew McConaughey, it will no doubt rely on its heavy sci-fi elements and beautiful effects to bring people in. Look for this film to be as awe-inspiring visually as it is in subject, so this might be the one time that you pay the extra bump to see this movie in iMAX. – Sherif

 

November 14 – Foxcatcher

Starring: Steve Carrell, Channing Tatum, Mark Ruffalo

Who would have known that the only thing keeping Steve Carrell from looking like a total sex offender was his eyebrows? Carrell, who takes a step outside his normal funny-man role (waaay further than The Way, Way Back), plays a creepy millionaire who sponsor wrestling brothers Mark and Dave Schultz to win a gold medal as part of “Team Foxcatcher.” In real life, the story of the Schultz brothers is one of triumph turns tragedy, and has already been subject of a book called Wrestling With Madness. Long story short, sponsor John Eleuthère du Pont (Carrell) becomes schizophrenic and murders Dave. While I hope that this doesn’t become another platform movie for mental illness, I hear that the movie is chilling and suspenseful; some great performances by trio of stars here could really take this movie from cliché to something with substances. – Sherif

 

November 14 – Beyond the Lights

Starring: Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Nate Parker, Minnie Driver, Danny Glover, Machine Gun Kelly

The movie is a romantic drama which is both written and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood. When the pressures of stardom pushes Noni (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) to attempt suicide, Kaz (Nate Parker), a police officer, saves her from throwing herself off a building. A romance soon buds as both are pressured by fame and family who threaten their relationship. I like the preview. I am a sucker for romantic dramas and the story looks engaging enough. I don’t know if it’s a romance to blow use out of the park, but it looks like an emotionally-fulfilling movie. It also has some great actors that I know I’ll get a lot of entertainment out of. I might not go to the theater to see if, but I will definitely see it when it come out on DVD. – Jené

 

November 14 – Dumb and Dumber To

Starring: Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels, Laurie Holden (Andrea from The Walking Dead)

So… Is Jeff Daniels low on money? Did Jim Carrey lose a bet? I can’t see any other reason that these guys would want to get together and do this absolutely laughable movie – and not the type of movie that you laugh with. The only thing that I’m really glad to see back here is the dog van. I was a huge fan of the original Dumb and Dumber, and even snickered at Dumb and Dumberer, but from the trailers, this looked like another recycled bastardization of a classic 90’s film. If you’re really hoping for some nostalgia, cross your fingers and hope that the Farrelly brothers can bring back the magic, but chances are you will be better off seeing Big Hero 6 and Interstellar for the second time instead. – Sherif

 

November 21 – Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1

Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Pete Hutcherson, Liam Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Elizabeth Banks, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Phillip Seymour Hoffman’s CGI’d face, Donald Sutherland, Natalie Dormer

The wait is almost over!  Mockingjay is here, but not to its fullest; we will have to wait a whole year for Part 2 to be released.  But what we have is the beginning of the Revolution.  While I loved the book Mockingjay it is one of the few books I have read that I thought, “I would love to see this on the big screen.”  The battles are sure to cause goosebumps, Katniss’s use of celebrity is sure to produce a fire within her young audience, and the deaths of beloved characters may start tears in the eyes of tweens around the country.  While the first two movies were aimed toward a younger generation of girls, I feel that Mockingjay becomes very adult – much like Harry Potter did at the end.  I know that this movie will create the same atmosphere; the marketing strategy is brilliant by using the same marketing campaign that President Snow uses on the people of Panem – a direct attribute of the mature nature of the story. – Adrian

 

November 21 – V/H/S: Viral

Starring: Emilia Ares Zoryan, Emmy Argo, Gregg Bishop, Nick Blanco, Dan Caudill, Angela Garcia, Amanda Hall, Justin Welborn

VHS: Viral is the third installment in only two years to the relatively well received found footage VHS series. Like the others in the series, VHS: Viral will include one overarching storyline as well as a handful of individual stories. This time around, we’ll meet a group of fame hungry young people as they take to the streets to try and get some footage of the runaway ice cream truck that has captivated all of Los Angeles. Yes, you read that right. While the main storyline sounds like a bad version of Twisted Metal, the short stories within the movie range from really intriguing (Parallel Monsters, about monsters within parallel universes) to just plain the stupidest thing I have ever heard (Dante the Great, about an actual magic cape). VHS: Viral seems to be the weakest addition so far, this time even attracting the least exciting directors for each short. Judging from the trailer it seem like it will have its moments, but where the other films had somewhat weak segments and awesome segments, it’s seems the juxtaposition this time around will be just alright and god awful. I’ll give it a shot, because I always do, but I’ll probably hate myself for it. – Keriann

 

November 21 – The Imitation Game

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Charles Dance (Tywin Lannister from Game of Thrones)

Get ready to learn somethin’ ‘Murica.  Unlike the flurry of WWII movies made in recent years, The Imitation Game follows a British group of scientists who use computer science via the Enigma machine to break the Germans advanced communication codes.  Spearheaded by Alan Turing, the group uses their technological prowess to learn the codes created by the Nazis.  Based on the true events, the film is sure to shed some light on the major contributions of other countries in the war.  Turing is credited with making some of the biggest contributions and advancements in the war, possibly stopping the war from continuing for an estimated two to four years longer.  If you want to learn more about Alan Turing’s life (warning: it ain’t pretty), I highly recommend checking out The Enigma by Andrew Hodges from your local library. – Adrian

 

November 26 – Horrible Bosses 2

Starring: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx, Chris Pine, Christoph Waltz, Kevin Spacey, Jonathan Banks (Mike from Breaking Bad), Keegan-Michael Key (Key from Key & Peele)

Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, and Jason Sudeikis are back to commit crimes against employers for a second time in Horrible Bosses 2. If you saw the original Horrible Bosses, you know that the three of them have excellent chemistry and they are one of the funniest groupings of comedic actors I’ve seen. Director Sean Anders looks like he knows how to do a sequel right. He took what was already a funny movie and just built upon it well. He brought back the main cast of characters and kept the favorites in Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey. Jennifer Anniston is also back but….meh. They also bring the talents of Christoph Waltz and Chris Pine. You wouldn’t expect to see Waltz in a comedy but I have a feeling he’ll be good. I liked him in The Green Hornet, yeah I said it. Chris Pine looks like Gary from Team America: World Peace. This time instead of trying to kill their bosses they’re the bosses. When Christoph Waltz comes around to take over their company with some slick investments the trio decides to get their hands a little dirty again with a terribly misguided kidnapping of Gary Pine. Horrible Bosses 2 looks to be a very successful sequel, which can be hard to do with comedies, just ask Will Ferrell. Takes some time around Thanksgiving to see this one.

 

November 26 – The Penguins of Madagascar

Starring: Tom McGrath, John DiMaggio, Chris Miller, Christopher Knights, Benedict Cumberbatch, John Malkovich, Ken Jeong

The lovable quartet of special ops penguins make their return after stealing hearts in the Madagascar trilogy, as well as getting their own cartoon series. As far as family movies go for the holiday, this is it, and that’s not a bad thing. Penguins of Madagascar could be a hit, and 20th Century Fox is really pulling out all the stops to make sure that it is, accompanying the movie with a video game and a comic book mini-series. I don’t think the train has already left the station just yet for Madagascar, but with the lackluster reception of Madagascar 3, this definitely feels like more of a desperate attempt to gain back an audience than a capitalization on a growing franchise. Nevertheless, Penguins of Madagascar is sure to guarantee some good laughs and a sure-fire way to entertain the whole family during your Thanksgiving Day break. – Sherif

Monthly Movie Preview: October 2014

It’s October already!  That means Christmas decorations are on the shelf before Halloween has come, and that movies will be a good mix of horror, indie and Oscar-worthy.  Check out what we had to say about this month’s movie releases:

October 1 – Nas: Life is illmatic

Starring: Nasir Jones

Twenty years ago, a relatively unknown rapper from Queensbridge released one of the most historic Hip-Hop albums in history. Labeled one of the quintessential albums in the genre, it cemented Nasir Jones’ legacy after just one album. Illmatic is heralded as bringing harsh, honest poetry to the industry that was beginning to become just a little too convoluted and chances are that you have definitely heard at least one of the songs on the album if you know very little about Hip-Hop. This documentary focuses on the making of the album, featuring commentary from some of the best authorities on Hip-Hop in New York in the 90’s and even a lot of collaborators from Illmatic. Nas kicked off his Life is Illmatic tour earlier this year, and this movie is set to premiere with a very limited release, so check here for cities and theaters that will be playing it.

 

October 3 – Gone Girl

Starring: Ben Affleck, Neil Patrick Harris, Rosamund Park, Tyler Perry

Based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Gillian Flynn, Gone Girl looks downright creepy.  Gone Girl comes off as a classic suspenseful murder mystery, but the preview does a wonderful job of making the audience realize that this story is not so simple.  Starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike as Nick and Amy Dunne, Amy disappears, and is assumed dead.  Media scrutiny leads to Nick becoming the prime suspect in the case.  The book and the movie (let’s hope the movie) do a great job of leading the audience to not be so sure of either party.  Not only am I expecting the plot to be rife with edge-of-your-seat-iness, I trust that Director David Fincher has lead the entire feel of the film in the right direction.  He is the director of some little known films like Fight Club, Seven, The Social Network, and The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo just to name a few.  In addition, the screenplay was written by the author of the book, so it it will be hard for anyone to break out their hipster glasses and say, “Well, in the book…”  I am excited to see the film, but I think it may make me terrified of the Bat-ffleck.  – Adrian

October 3 – Harmontown

Starring: Dan Harmon, Jeff Davis

#Sixseasonsandamovie? More like #FourSeasonsAFiredCreatorAndAWholeLotOfTimeToKill. Let’s see if that one catches on. Dan Harmon created one of the best sitcoms we’ve had the pleasure of watching; Community has been an inspiration to all of the social misfits in the world, letting them know that there is a place for them to fit in, be loved, and thrive. However, after an explosion at Chevy Chase left the show without its creator, Harmon had to come up with some way to spend his time. Enter, Harmontown, a weekly podcast where discussions of all type take place – from personal anecdotes to random social issues. The podcast became some type of therapy for Harmon, who was taking his separation from NBC and Community quite harshly. The tone of the documentary is sad, yet uplifting, and I will not be surprised if I never watch Community the same after watching Harmontown. – Sherif

 

October 10 – Dracula Untold

Starring: Luke Evans, Dominic Gordon, Sarah Gadon, Art Parkinson, Charles Dance

Did you know that Dracula was actually a nice guy? Yeah, turns out that Vlad the Impaler was just some poor sap that went to extraordinary lengths to save his people, and ends up losing his soul instead. As overdone as vampire movies have been the past couple decades, this sort of Dracula: Year Zero concept intrigued me. Even though I’m far more interested in the Impaler part than the Vlad, this could still be a reasonably good movie. Origin story aside, look for this to be everything you’ve already seen in a vampire flick before. Do yourself a favor and, unless you have a thing for Dracula, save your money to see one of the other viable horror options this Halloween. – Sherif

 

October 10 – The Judge

Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Vera Farmiga, Leighton Meester, Dax Sheppard, Billy Bob Thornton, Robert Duvall

Honestly, if Robert Downey Jr. weren’t in The Judge, I don’t know if I’d be sold.  I could be, but it’s hard to say. The plot seems solid, but if not done right, it could be a wreck.  Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall star as father and son, Hank and Joe Palmer.  Hank has come home for his mother’s funeral to find that his father, a Judge in their small town in Indiana, is being charged with murder.  Hank must reconnect with his father and represent him in the case.  I am slightly worried that this film won’t have some revelation at the end about fathers and sons, but I am also really hoping I cry like a baby when it turns out that there is a revelation. – Adrian

October 10 – Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Starring: Steve Carrell, Jennifer Garner, Donald Glover, Ed Oxenbould

I’ll admit, remember this book from my childhood on Reading Rainbow, I expected this film to be a slap-sticky mess.  Turns out, I was wrong.  Granted, I haven’t seen the movie, but the preview made me laugh out loud.  And I was at the library when I watched it, so I got stared at, but I didn’t care.  It was worth the laughs.  The book was originally a children’s book published in 1972, but the new Disney film is an updated version of the story of Alexander, who is the type of boy that if it can go wrong, it will.  Judging from the trailer, I think this movie will be perfect for the middle school demographic.  Alexander and his family are relatable without being too grown up, like so much media for that demographic are.  Plus, Donald Glover is in it, so now I have to go see it. – Adrian

October 10 – Automata

Starring: Antonio Banderas, Birgitte Hjort Sørensen, Melanie Griffith, Dylan McDermott

“Automata,” which translates from Greek to mean “self-acting,” is the study of self-operating virtual machines to help in logical understanding of input and output process, without or with intermediate stage(s) of computation (thanks, Wikipedia). If you need that it layman’s terms, it means that this is going to be one kick-ass, intelligent film that changes the way we think about AI. One part A.I., two parts I, Robot, Automata follows robotics insurance agent Jacq Vaucan, who is investigating a robot who is making modifications to itself. Through his investigation, he discovers a lot more than he bargained for. The concept behind the movie is brilliant, offering a much more cognitive approach than the fear used in I, Robots or Terminator. And with the “2045 Initiative” coming to light, the outcome of this movie is a much more realistic possibility than it would have been when Skynet first went live. – Sherif

October 10 – Kill the Messenger

Starring: Jeremy Renner, Berry Pepper, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Michael K Williams, Rosemarie DeWitt, Ray Liotta

Conspiracy theories are great! There’s probably only one thing better than a good conspiracy – one that’s actually true! Kill The Messenger is about one of the most renowned conspiracy theories turned factual – the US government’s involvement of introducing cocaine into America for weapons fundraising for the Contras army in Nicaragua. Told from the perspective of the journalist who blew the story open, Gary Webb (played by Renner), this movie will take audiences deeper into the events that led to this watershed fiasco. Previews lead me to believe that this movie will be engaging and educational without being too preachy. In contemporary America, sentiment toward government is seldom cast in a positive light. Any political themed film I’ve seen in the last five years or so has had to be dashed with bits of salt. The events in Kill The Messenger are recent and will likely be very eye-opening to those who are generally unfamiliar with this shady piece of American history. All good traits a good movie should have. If you’re looking for a little more intellectual stimulation without fear of growing too bored, then I’d add Kill The Messenger to you must-see-list for this month. It’s on mine! – Taylor

October 10 – Dead Snow 2: Red vs. Dead

Starring: Martin Starr, Amrita Acharia, Vegar Hoel

Dead Snow 2, the second installment of the Norwegian zombie series, sets a new standard in utter malarkey. It’s like if Shaun of the Dead were directed by Wes Anderson. The entire trailer looked like a giant slugfest between humans and Nazi zombies, and the fighting is ridiculous to the point of hilarity. Don’t try for a second to understand the plot or why anything happens, just laugh at the stupidity of it all. Martin Starr, which some of you may remember as Bill Haverchuck from Freaks and Geeks, is a surprisingly good choice as leading man in this movie. Red Dead 2 doesn’t need to explain anything to me, because if it is as funny and action-packed as the trailer, this will be one of October’s best movies. – Sherif

October 10 – Kite

Starring: Samuel L Jackson, India Eisley, Callan McAuliffe

It doesn’t take much for me to get excited about seeing a movie. I love the medium so much that whether it’s sci-fi, comedy, or even a chick-flick I typically find a yearning to watch it. There is one exception. Anime-turned-live action. In all my life I’ve only ever seen one live action anime based film that I enjoyed. Watching 10 minutes of Dragonball: Evolution made me want to punch all the babies in the whole-wide world. In the face. Hence, it should come as no surprise when I say that Kite will not make my viewing list. The film is about a girl on a mission to track down her father’s mob-boss-killer and a bunch of his goonies. Like I mentioned earlier, this film is based on the Anime of the same name. Don’t excited anime fans. This series lasted all of two episodes and is half (literally) hentai; I learned from Google… not personal experience. I hate being a pessimist, so I’ll try to end this on a good note. The movie looks like it will contain some decent fight scenes. The preview hints at some pretty solid cinematography which will certainly help. And it’s got the one thing every C-grade movie needs to bump it up to that potential B-grade: Samuel L. Snakes on a Plane Jackson!! If you like Sam as much as me, then this movie will likely stay on your radar – even if shamefully so. In short, don’t get your hopes up, but maybe give it a shot. – Taylor

October 17 – Fury

Starring: Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf, Michael Peña, Jon Bernthal

I’m sold.  ‘Nuff said.  Ok, maybe I have more to say.  I am always a sucker for World War II movies. And then there is Brad Pitt.  And yeah, he’s hot (still), but there are two things about Brad (yeah, we are on a first name basis): he doesn’t pick bad movies and I loved it when he was killing “Nat-zees” in Inglorious Basterds.  Also starring Jon Bernthal aka Shane from The Walking Dead and Shia LaBeouf (LeBoof), the film centers around a group of five army men who are sent behind enemy lines in a tank named Fury.  I am sure that getting attached to any character is inevitable but a mistake because it is a war-time movie, and most likely they will die.  Knowing the end doesn’t spoil it for me, though, because I’m hoping that Brad tries to distract the enemy with his Italian accent. – Adrian

October 17 – Birdman

Starring: Michael Keaton, Zach Galifianakis, Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts

It’s been decades since Riggan Thomson donned a superhero’s cape and cowl, and perhaps the separation anxiety has gotten to his head. Perfectly cast is Michael Keaton, who was once a superhero himself in the Tim Burton Batman duo-logy. Birdman tells the tale of his comeback, which comes in the form of a Broadway play. He begins hallucinating that parts of his Birdman persona is real, and it becomes quickly apparent that there is something disturbingly wrong in his head – good for us, bad for him. The cast of Birdman is top-tier, with Emma Stone topping my list of anticipated actors. The trailer makes Birdman look like Batman had a hard acid trip, and that’s all I need to know to justify paying to see it. – Sherif

October 17 – Dear White People

Starring: Tyler James Williams, Tessa Thompson, Teyonah Parris, Dennis Haysbert

Tyler James Williams, former star of Everybody Hates Chris, stars alongside a group of young, black talent in this film centered around four Ivy League students’ reactions to a black-themed party that the white students on campus held. The film wastes no time attacking the subtle racism and unroots multiple accounts of that are seated just below the surface, and although it can be a stretch at times (Gremlins), it’s great seeing a collective of intelligent black kids challenge popular thought like this. This film won’t solve Ferguson, and it won’t undo the years of damage Lil Wayne has done. However, if it helps make young black people stop taking things at face value and gets the unassuming white people of the world to understand what it’s like to be marginalized, then we can chalk this movie up to a win. – Sherif

October 17 – The Book of Life

Starring: Zoe Saldana, Diego Luna, Channing Tatum, Christina Applegate, Ice Cube, Ron Perlman, Cheech Marin, Gabriel Iglesias

The Book of Life is bound to be the cutest animated feature out this fall.  The fantastical story follows Manolo, a man who is in love with Maria, but must compete for her love.  I would like to think this is more of Maria’s story.  She is practically a princess, but not your typical girl; she strong, smart, sassy.  Unlike most girls in animated flicks, she is not a woman in need of a man, but a woman that a man needs.  The other bonus of The Book of Life is that it focuses on Mexican culture, something that is very rare in ANY American movie, much less an animated film.  I have a feeling that Maria will be the girl that many little girls will look up to, because for once, she looks like them.  I am very excited to see this film and how well it does. – Adrian

October 24 – John Wick

Starring: Keanu Reeves, Bridget Moynahan, Williem Dafoe, Alfie Allen

Keanu Reeves is back, this time with crappy Boondock Saints-inspired tattoos and a thirst for vengeance. John Wick, former hitman, is forced to come out of retirement when Theon Greyjoy flexes his muscle on the wrong person, killing Wick’s dog and stealing his car. If this sounds like a tired concept, that is because it most certainly is. Keanu Reeves’ last major motion film, 47 Ronin, was a critical failure, and it doesn’t seem like there’s much room for him in Hollywood when there are so many other actors out there with talent. This could be where things turn around, though, as the action here looks on par with [insert Jason Statham movie here]. With all the great movies coming out this month, I will be hard-pressed to find a justification for seeing this one, but I’m curious to see if it does well. – Sherif

 

October 24 – St. Vincent

Starring: Bill Murray, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts, Chris O’Dowd

St. Vincent looks like About a Boy, but funny.  Bill Murray, comedic god, stars as St. Vincent de Van Nuys, an adult with a lot of adult problems.  He ends up helping his neighbor by watching her child.  St. Vincent introduces the 12 year-old into his seedy world, but learns a few lessons along the way.  St. Vincent‘s preview made me laugh out loud.  I expect this one to be an indie hit; afterall, Bill Murray knows indie. – Adrian

October 31 – Horns

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Juno Temple, Heather Graham

As much as I’d like this to be named Harry Potter and the Half-Blood King, Horns will do nicely. Daniel Radcliffe plays Ignatius Perrish, a young man who is cast out by society after his girlfriend’s mysterious death. What makes this an instant sell for me is that it is based off the 2012 book of the same name, written by Joe Hill – writer of comic book Locke & Key and son of the legendary Stephen King (hence the Half-Blood King joke). Ig’s transformation into a horned devil is quite breath-taking, and some of the early screenshots around the web confirm that this movie will be TERRIFYING. Almost as terrifying as Daniel Radcliffe’s American accent (although LaBoof originally got the role, so I’ll count my blessings now). Seriously though, if you’re looking for a good horror movie to see on Halloween, look no further than Horns. – Sherif

October 31 – Nightcrawler

Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Anne McDaniels

At first, I thought Nightcrawler would be about the teleporting X-Man.  So when I heard it wasn’t, I was disappointed.  But then I saw the trailer, and I am waiting with bated breath for October 31st.  The description says that this film is about a driven journalist.  I have to disagree.  This is about a man who suffers from obsession.  Jake Gyllenhaal looks frightening.  It is clear for me that Nightcrawler is his comeback.  I don’t know if it was the music or the terrifying pace of the trailer, but I am sure Nightcrawler will be one of my favorite films of the year. – Adrian

Monthly Movie Preview: September 2014

August, and with it the summer, is coming to an end, and it looks like the blockbusters are gone with it. September is all about love stories, family fun and thrillers. There are many films we want to see this month, and there’s something for everybody; check out what we have to say about September’s films:

September 5 – Forrest Gump (20th Year Anniversary)

Starring: Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Sally Field, Gary Sinise

“I may not be a smart man, but I do know what love is.” Get ready for Forrest, Forrest Gump as he makes his return to the big screen for ONE WEEK ONLY to celebrate the film’s 20th anniversary. It shouldn’t be worth mentioning that Forrest Gump is one of the greatest American films ever made, but I will do so anyway. Decades later, the pop culture references and historical relevance is even more fascinating. I would go so far as to say that not celebrating this re-release, whether at home or on iMAX, is completely un-American. So get your Southern drawl on, select your favorite kind of shrimp dish and come enjoy one hell of a movie. – Sherif

September 5 – The Longest Week

Starring: Jason Bateman, Olivia Wilde, Billy Crudup, Jenny Slate

First and foremost, my wife is the female lead in The Longest Week.  That’s right, you had me at “Olivia Wilde.”  Besides the most beautiful woman in show biz, The Longest Week features the always funny Jason Bateman as Conrad Valmont, a rich New York man who lives off his parents money.  He also falls for his best friends girl, played by Wilde.  While the plot would not usually strike me as intriguing, there are glimmers of laughter throughout the preview, but the cast alone will send me to the theater for this indie dramedy. – Adrian

September 12 – No Good Deed

Starring: Idris Elba, Taraji P. Henson

I’ll admit, I am terrified that I will end up in a situation like Taraji P. Henson is in in the new thriller No Good Deed.  Also starring Idris Elba, No Good Deed is about a stay-at-home mom who lets a stranger use the phone.  Then he terrorizes her for the next two hours (at least two screen time hours).  I was excited to see the movie after hearing who starred in it, but I am equally excited to see how the situation pans out, particularly for Henson’s character.  This is probably a movie I’ll watch during the day because every bump in my house will scare the bejeezus out of me otherwise.  – Adrian

September 12 – The Drop

Starring: Tom Hardy, James Gandolfini (RIP), Noomi Rapace

There are quite a few thrillers out this month, but none as interesting to me as The Drop. The premise of the movie is this: Gandolfini’s character, Marv, used to be the big cheese in town, until the mob forced him into retirement. He now owns a bar that he and Tom Hardy’s character, Bob, tend to – a bar that is the drop spot for all the organized crime activity in the neighborhood. Then said bank gets robbed. After Inception, I’ve pretty much become a Tom Hardy fan for life, so to see him and the legendary Tony Soprano go to war with the mob is an instant sell. The story seems unimpressive, but if the actors behind the story pique your interest enough, I would go see The Drop.

September 12 – The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby

Starring: James McAvoy, Jessica Chastain, Bill Hader, Viola Davis, William Hurt

Fellas, if your ladies are looking to see a nice romantic flick, steer them towards The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby. This film star’s Professor X himself, James McAvoy, and Zero Dark Thirty‘s Jessica Chastain. Originally released as three separate films (Him, Her and Them), the film follows the romantic life of Eleanor and Connor as their relationship builds and ultimately dissolves. What makes the movie unique is that multiple events are replayed with varying tones and language depending on whose point of view it is being told from. There’s a very Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind vibe going on here, which I love. Surprise the lady and take her to this chick flick you might enjoy, too. – Sherif

September 19 – A Walk Among the Tombstones

Starring: Liam Neeson, a whole bunch of soon-to-be dead people

I really thought A Walk Among the Tombstones was going to be a form of Taken.  Let me tell you, if you haven’t watched the preview above, and you have only seen the previews on TV, take the time to watch the preview we provided.  Based on the 10th book about Matt Scudder by Lawrence Block, Liam Neeson plays Scudder, a former detective looking into the kidnapping and murder of a drug dealer in New York City.  The movie looks absolutely chilling, but I am sure that Liam Neeson is the hero we need on the big screen.  – Adrian

September 19 – The Maze Runner

Starring: Dylan O’Brien, Thomas Sangster, Kaya Scodelario, Will Poulter

It seems like all movies come from books or comic books lately, or at least all the good ones do. The Maze Runner based on the best-selling novel by James Dashner, is about Thomas who is thrown into a community of boys trapped within a maze. Amnesiac and determined to understand what is happening, Thomas does what any hero of a dystopian novel does: he breaks the rules and he runs like hell. If you haven’t read the novel yet, run out to your nearest bookstore and devour that baby soon because the movie comes out September 19th. – Charlotte

September 19 – The Skeleton Twins

Starring: Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Luke Wilson, Ty Burrell

Here’s another heart-warming comedy starring two all-stars from Saturday Night Live‘s graduates, Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig. Fate brings these two twins together after years of being estranged, and two explore why their lives are so dysfunctional. It’s a tired concept that’s been done often, but the chemistry between the two will make all the difference. Hopefully there is something substantial to take away from the movie, because these two are great on film together. – Sherif

September 19 – The Zero Theorem

Starring: Christoph Waltz, Mélanie Thierry, David Thewlis, Matt Damon, Tilda Swinton

Oh Terry Gilliam and your crazy style, you sure know how to suck me in despite not knowing what the hell is going on in the trailer for The Zero Theorem. This is the third film of Gilliam’s taking place in a dystopian society and is among Brazil, and 12 Monkeys which are both great films. This focuses on a computer hacker who is tasked at figuring out why humans exist and the management sends a teenage girl down to distract him from his work, which creates a whole hullaballoo and sends us on a crazy fantasy adventure. If you are one for visual films this is one for you as well and deep and well written stories as Gilliam always choses the best stories for his films despite whether they are popular or well liked. – Jacob

September 19 – This Is Where I Leave You

Starring: Tina Fey, Jason Bateman, Adam Driver, Rose Byrne, Corey Stoll & Jane Fonda

Let it be known that September is the month of Jason Bateman.  And I’m O.K. with that.  This Is Where I Leave You is about four adult siblings who return home when their father passes away.  It sounds like August: Osage County, but with Tina Fey in the lead female role and Adam Driver as one of the brothers, this movie is sure to be… funny.  I expect This Is Where I Leave You to make me laugh, cry, and hopefully make me feel pretty good by the time I walk out of the theater.  -Adrian

September 19 – Tusk

Starring: Justin Long, Michael Parks, Genesis Rodriguez, Haley Joel Osment, Johnny Depp, Harley Quinn Smith & Lily-Rose Depp

Kevin Smith sure has had a weird couple of years as far as retiring, revoking that retirement, making a very anti religious horror film with Red State. He went a more comedic and weird turn with Tusk. Making it based off of an idea on one of his multitude of podcasts, Kevin Smith took a small ridiculous idea and is lucky enough to be able to make it into a major film. The film is about a podcaster who goes to interviewing a mysterious man causing a search for him only to find out he is being tortured and slowly being turned into a walrus by the man. Although it is reminiscent of the horrible Human Centipede series, having Kevin Smith behind it make me realize it will likely be much better and on top of my favorite comedic horror films. This may be one to miss if you don’t like horror or Kevin Smith but if you like either it will likely be one not to miss. – Jacob

SHERIF – September 19 – The Scribbler

Starring: Katie Cassidy, Garret Dillahunt, Eliza Dushku, Michelle Trachtenberg

In wake of the awful Sin City sequel, it’s time for something new and exciting, but still with a hint of the gratuitous violence that we so crave. Enlisting Buffy alumnae Eliza Dushku and Michelle Trachtenberg is a great start. The kick-ass girl power movie is about Yang (Cassidy), a girl with multiple personalities who undergoes an experiment to get rid of them. The only problem is, the most prominent personality becomes a sociopathic murdered. Great. Wash out the bad taste in your mouth that A Dame to Kill For left with this story based off Daniel Schaffer’s 2006 original graphic novel. – Sherif

September 24 – Jack and the Cuckoo-Clock Heart

Starring: Mathias Malzieu, Olivia Ruiz, Jean Rochefort

Jack and the Cuckoo-Clock Heart looks like an adorable animation drama.  I loved the preview when I watched it, but in my research for the movie, I found out some really interesting facts about it.  Originally a French animation, it is based off not only an animated novel titled La Mécanique de Cœur (translated to Mechanic’s Heart) by the same man who wrote the movie, Mathias Malzieu, but it also based off of a concept album by Malzieu’s band Dionysos.  Fascinatingly enough, the album is a sequel to another album of Dionysos’, Monsters in Love.  I am so intrigued with all this, I must leave writing this preview to listen to their albums and learn French all at the same time.  À la prochaine! – Adrian

September 26 – Jimi: All Is By My Side

Starring: André 3000, Hayley Atwell, Burn Gorman

Much in the same way that August’s Get On Up spread the word about James Brown’s life, I will look to Jimi to show us the side of Jimi Hendrix we have not seen before – especially considering that I really don’t know a whole lot about Hendrix to begin with. Andre 3000, who was remarkable in Outkast’s Idlewild, takes center stage as Jimi. Jimi has already had critical acclaim as it’s made its way around film festivals throughout the world, despite personal friends of Jimi detesting a lot of the events that occurred – but hey, it’s Hollywood. – Sherif

September 26 – The Equalizer

Starring: Denzel Washington, Chloë Grace Moretz, a whole bunch of soon-to-be dead people

The the Hollywood Gods: Denzel Washington is back.  The Equalizer is an adaption of the 1980’s TV series of the same name.  Robert McCall is a former member of the Black Ops.  He is a man who believes in justice and will do anything to protect those around him, including Chloë Grace Moretz, even if it is against the Russian Mob.  What else can I say about The Equalizer?  It sells itself with Denzel being a bad-ass.  ‘Nuff said.  – Adrian

September 26 – The Boxtrolls

Starring: Ben Kingsley, Isaac Hempstead-Wright, Elle Fanning, Nick Frost & Simon Pegg, Tracy Morgan

The Boxtrolls looks simply adorable.  Based off the 2005 children’s book Here Be Monsters by Alan Snow, The Boxtrolls is about a boy, Eggs, who is raised by garbage trolls underground.  When they are threatened to be exterminated by Ben Kingsley’s Archibald Snatcher, Eggs must figure out how to save his family.  The Boxtrolls is sure to make all ages laugh and probably feel like we are all kids again. Before you go to the theaters, go to the IMDB page and learn all about the movie, book, and different Trolls. – Adrian

September 26 – Laggies

Starring: Keira Knightley, Chloë Grace Moretz, Sam Rockwell

Honestly, I wasn’t so sure about Laggies when I heard about it.  After watching the preview, I am all about it.  This could be a resurgence for Keira Knightley.  The beautiful Brit is known for her looks, the Pirates franchise, and her adaptations of classic British novels.  It will be very refreshing to see her in a comedy and one she stars in.  Along side Sam Rockwell and Hollywood’s favorite teen actress Chloë Grace Moretz, Knightley plays Megan, a woman in her 20’s dealing with growing up but not very gracefully.  She decides to take a break from life and hang out with a 16 year-old she met at a liquor store and the teen’s father.  The story is female driven, a rarity in movies, and something I will gladly watch. – Adrian

September 26 – Good People

Starring: James Franco, Kate Hudson, Omar Sy, Tom Wilkinson

Rounding out the September movie previews is yet another thriller, but the preview does not disappoint.  Based off a novel by the same name, Good People stars James Franco and Kate Hudson.  I like them both, but I haven’t thought of either of them in the “thriller” genre.  Say what you will about Franco and his antics, but he is a fantastic actor.  And after seeing Wish I Was Here, I will always love Kate Hudson.  Plus the plot line is something most of us have thought about: taking money you find and paying your debt with it.  Except Good People will explore what the true consequences of that action are, and it seems really terrifying. – Adrian

Monthly Movie Preview: August 2014

July has come and gone in the blink of an eye. August promises to close out the summer in style, with a few notable blockbusters and some good independent films sprinkled in. Check out what we have to say about August’s films:

August 1 – Guardians of the Galaxy

Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Djimon Hounsou, Glenn Close, Benicio del Toro

I’m hooked on a feeling… that this might be the greatest Marvel movie ever made. Although the Guardians have been around in comic books for decades, and the team being used for the film having existed since 2008, the number of people who can name any of the individual team members is far surpassed by the volume of fans who have no idea what is going on – and that will work to the film’s benefit. Nobody has any expectations of this rag-tag group, whose diversity is its strongest card. A talented set of actors, endless humor and explosive action will round out the intergalactic adventure that, at worst is a thrilling movie to see with the family, and at best could be this generation’s Star Wars. One thing is certain – we will be at the theaters on Friday to find out. – Sherif

August 1 – Get on Up

Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Nelsan Ellis (True Blood), Dan Aykroyd, Viola Davis, Craig Robinson, Jill Scott, Octavia Spencer

HEEEYYY!!! Now one more time, say that with your best James Brown impression. Couldn’t do it? That’s okay, because Chadwick Boseman sure can when he plays James Brown in the upcoming biopic titled Get on Up. If you are a fan of James Brown, soul, funk, music, and history, this movie is for you. Be prepared to get on up and enjoy this movie directed by Tate Taylor (The Help). However, get on up silently because, well, you are still in a movie theater. I honestly believe this movie is going to be great and it’ll make you feel so many emotions including excitement, happiness, sadness, and sorrow. Despite this movie being about the music of the godfather of soul, it is also about his family and his life, which has not been struggle-free. Basically, I think this movie is going to be fantastic; however, if James Brown and his music is not your thing, it is possibly the drama and the history will be enough to hold your interest. So one more time, get on up, and give it your best HEEEYYY!!! – Evan

 

August 5 – Dragonball Z: Battle of the Gods

Starring: Original voice cast

I’ve been trying to get into DBZ since I recently signed up for Crunchyroll, but there are just so many other great animes out that I haven’t gotten a chance to get to really dive into the series. What really has me interested is the fact that a year after its release, Funimation has taken it upon themselves to get the American theatrical release rights and is showing this in select theaters for a few nights. Something happened with a Tekken animated movie a few years back and it was definitely worth the trip. I don’t personally care about this movie and I figure that any major fan would have already seen the dubbed version, and while I don’t really care for some of the business practices of Funimation, this gives me hope for the future. Anything that gets a big enough following could be a potential candidate for the big screen. There are plenty of animes I would pay to see so if this is your type of thing, make sure to get out there and support it as it will give companies a reason to continue doing this in the future. – Robert

 

August 8 – Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles

Starring: Johnny Knoxville (voice only), Tony Shalhoub (voice only), Megan Fox, William Fichtner, Will Arnett, Whoopi Goldberg

August is here, and whether or not fans burn down the House that Bay built depends on this film. Long-time fans are either reserved or outraged, whether it be the way the Turtles look, the fact that Megan Fox is playing April O’Neil, or if it’s just based off the fact that Michael Bay is the director. All of these points are quite valid, but I can’t help but want to take a chance on this new take on the Heroes in a Half-Shell. We all have our own impression on what we consider the Turtles to be, and I think that any major motion picture attention to the franchise is a win in my books. There’s simply no way this TMNT incarnation will be as amazing as the originals, or even the new Nickelodeon television series, but as long as Bay can capture the magic of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles that made it such an instant classic 30 years ago, it may continue to be at the forefront of pop culture for all ages. – Sherif

August 8 – What If

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Zoe Kazan, Adam Driver

Originally titled The F Word for its initial 2013 debut, What If is the tale of Harry Potter trying to avoid being put in the friend-zone with a decidedly hot blonde. It sounds like a cliché concept, but What If has already garnered a lot of critical acclaim, earning Best Adapted Screenplay at the Canadian Screen Awards. Daniel Radcliffe is finally believable as an adult actor, and his best friend in the movie is played by Adam Driver – who is the one sole reason that HBO’s Girls is a watchable show for me. This movie won’t break any new ground, but for any guys looking to get over the Friend Zone hump, this would be the movie to take her to (unless she likes TMNT, in which case you should just marry her). – Sherif

August 8 – Step Up: All In

Starring: Ryan Guzman, Briana Evigan, Adam Sevani, Stephen Boss, and Cyrus Spencer

Confession time:  I have seen every single episode of So You Think You Can Dance.  Every. Single. One.  I haven’t seen any of the Step Up movies, but I am always happy for the contestants of SYTYCD when they make it to gigs beyond the show.  For Stephen Boss aka tWitch and Cyrus Spencer aka Glitch, this is exactly the case.  And really, is anyone going to see these movies for the plot?  No, its a dance movie.  But the dancing should be worth seeing this film, even if it is just for the SYTYCD alum.  – Adrian

August 15 – Frank

Starring: Michael Fassbender, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Domhnall Gleeson (AKA Bill Weasley), Scoot McNairy

I have absolutely no idea what to make of this movie. It looks like Deadmau5 has a crack-head brother or something and we are getting to watch the story of his tomfoolery. The story of a guy who wears a fake head and never ever takes it off seems like it could be humorous but I don’t know if this is my kind of comedy. After watching the trailer my interest is definitely piqued but there are too many other things I would rather see so I would say that I will wait to rent this at Redbox or something, but truth be told I will probably forget about this movie once I’m done writing this. – Robert

 

August 15 – Life After Beth

Starring: Aubrey Plaza, Dane DeHaan, Anna Kendrick, John C. Reilly, Molly Shannon

As much as I love these actors and zombies, I am rather sick of people being in love with monsters. Although the idea may be over done in this we see upcoming actor Dane DeHaan (Amazing Spider-Man 2) as Zach, a young man who we see struggling emotionally due to the loss of his girlfriend. This quickly changes as Zach sees Beth (Aubrey Plaza), his lost girlfriend and finds she has been resurrected somehow, and although she initially shows no signs they start to figure out she is a zombie and needs to eat human flesh. This will almost guaranteed bring laughs if for nothing else due to the cast, but ultimately it will be lost among the other blockbusters this month. It is definitely not a family film and is marketed towards the teen and young adult community. Although the film itself may be easily forgotten due to other massive films this month don’t forget it as it will likely be a well liked film among certain groups. – Jacob

August 15 – The Expendables 3

Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Antonio Banderas, Jet Li, Wesley Snipes, Kelsey Grammer(?), Terry Crews, Victor Ortiz, Harrison Ford, Mel Gibson, Arnold Schwarzenegger

Initially sold as a man-gasm inducing thrill-fest, this franchise is two strokes away from permanently shooting blanks. I love action flicks as much as the next guy, and I genuinely thought the franchise was a good idea, but is there something really so wrong with just letting the legends ride off into the sunset without having to sit through multiple hours of screaming, slow-motion firefights and catchphrases that barely worked twenty years ago? Let’s be honest; nobody is watching this film for the acting, or the storyline. Twenty & thirty-something men get to see some of their action star idols duke it out as one last hurrah. The third installment gives us Antonio Banderas, Mel Gibson (the new bad guy), Harrison Ford, a post-prison Wesley Snipes and Kelsey Grammer. If the fate of the world is in Frasier Crane’s hands, we’re all screwed. There’s no way I’m influencing you’re decision to see The Expendables 3, as you’ve likely already made your decision before reading this. – Sherif

August 15 – The Giver

Starring: Brenton Thwaites, Jeff Bridges, Meryl Streep, Odeya Rush, Katie Holmes, Taylor Swift

I won’t lie.  When I see the trailer for The Giver, I get chills.  Based off the book The Giver by Lois Lowry, the movie will be a look into one boy’s world… a utopia that isn’t actually that perfect.  It feels odd to be writing a preview on this for two reasons.  One being that practically every millennial and younger have read the book in school.  The other being that if I say much more for those who don’t know the plot, there is a lot to give a way.  In short, go see this movie.  You will not be disappointed.  -Adrian

August 22 – Sin City: A Dame to Kill For

Starring: Jessica Alba, Josh Brolin, Rosario Dawson, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Eva Green, Bruce Willis

Is it 2005 again, or did Robert Rodriguez just find a way to make Jessica Alba hot again?? It’s been nearly a decade, but Frank Miller’s Sin City is coming back to the silver screen in its second installment, A Dame to Kill For. Just like last time, the star-studded cast will take turns adding their pieces to the puzzle. Sin City vets like Alba, Bruce Willis and Josh Brolin are back, but several big name newcomers will also be sharing the spotlight, including Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Viewers should expect multiple plot twists, both in a sequel and prequel aspect to the original. Miller and Rodriguez’s visual style also looks to be prevalent throughout the film. This is going to be a fun movie any way you look at it. If you can’t wait for the movie to come out, you can also read the graphic novel of the same name, as it was released over 20 years ago. – Sherif

August 22 – To Be Takei

Starring: George Takei

Oh my! To Be Takei is a documentary depicting the life of brilliant and ever-exuberant George Takei. It tells his story from his childhood in a Japanese internment camp to his ground breaking role on Star Trek to his coming out story and marriage. This promises to be an incredibly inspiring film, especially for anyone who has felt trapped by society just for being who they are. George cleverly reminds us in the tagline that “It’s Okay to Be Takei!” As a Trekkie and proud member of the LGBT community, I’m extremely excited to see this movie hit the big screen, On Demand, and iTunes on August 22nd.  – Charlotte

 

August 22 – Are You Here

Starring: Owen Wilson, Zach Galifianakis, Amy Poehler

This movie looks like it could be a more light-hearted sequel to Due Date. The movie stars Zach Galifinakis as yet another crazy person with a myriad of issues, only this time he inherits a small fortune and everybody seems to be out to get it from him. It actually looks pretty funny but looks like it might have more of those light-hearted friendship moments than I would prefer from a movie with him in it. His usual style of comedy hasn’t yet grown old to me so this definitely looks like something worth checking out. – Robert

August 22 – If I Stay

Starring: Chloë Grace Moretz, Jaimie Blackley, Liana Liberato, Mireille Enos, and Joshua Leonard

Honestly, I have never read If I Stay.  However, it doesn’t look half bad.  The story follows a teenage celloist named Mia who has a pretty good life going on until her family gets in a fatal car wreck.  Mia experiences an out of body experience while in a coma and must decide whether to go back to living or go… elsewhere.  I don’t know whether this will appeal to the masses, but anything that gets teenagers to read seems pretty decent to me. – Adrian

August 29 – Life of Crime

Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Tim Robbins, Isla Fisher, Yasiin Bey

Life of Crime reminds me of the type of comedy that my parents would have watched when I was a kid, and one that I wouldn’t have understood for the life of me. I have a feeling this could be the same way. Tim Robbins plays a rich man whose beautiful wife (Aniston) is kidnapped. When the kidnappers attempt to collect the ransom, Robbins refuses to pay. If it sounds like an idea that’s been done before, that’s because it has. The 1986 movie Ruthless People had pretty much the same premise, and Life of Crime is credited as being based off the book The Switch. I’d be lying if I said that Jennifer Aniston, Mos Def and Tim Robbins didn’t sell me on seeing the movie, but otherwise, Life of Crime doesn’t bring nearly enough to the table to make me want to sit through it. – Sherif

Monthly Movie Preview: July 2014

 After a relatively quiet June, the summer really heats up with a slew of sci-fi thrillers, as well as a few comedies and independent films sprinkled in. If you’re a movie buff, you won’t be bored this month. Check out what we have to say about July’s films:

 

July 2 – Earth to Echo

Starring: Teo Halm, Brian “Astro” Bradley, Reese C. Hartwig, Ella Wahlestedt

There is no way anyone can watch this preview and not feel a bit of a squeal emerge from their throats.  There could be a way, but you have no heart.  Earth to Echo follows a group of tweens who find “Echo,” an alien who looks like the cutest owl ever, and just happens to be the target of some things the group of kids aren’t ready for.  The kids are sure to learn some lessons about themselves and about life.  Earth to Echo may be this generation’s E.T. and is sure to be the family movie of the Summer. – Adrian

July 2 – Tammy

Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Susan Sarandon, Kathy Bates, Dan Aykroyd

O.K., I’ll admit it.  As soon as I saw Melissa McCarthy walking through a parking lot to “Gangsta’s Paradise,” I immediately spat out whatever I was drinking and simultaneously snorted.  While the teaser shows her sticking up a fast-food joint with her finger, the movie is about a woman caught between a rock and hard place.  She just lost her job and her husband has been cheating on her.  What better time than now to road trip with her grandmother, played by Susan Sarandon?  Tammy looks hysterical.  I just hope the film lives up to the hype of the trailer. – Adrian

July 11 – Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

Starring: Andy Serkis, Jason Clarke, Gary Oldman, Keri Russell

The much-anticipated sequel to Rise of the Planet of the Apes is finally here! We pick up years after the last film and Caesar and the apes have made a city for their own but a virus wiped out a ton of humans, which will ultimately create a ton of enemies through out time. After a while of peace between Apes and Humans, a war starts to begin that will ultimately reveal whether or not Humans are actually more powerful than Apes – or if it is the other way around. The Planet of the Apes films of past and present have always intrigued me because of how realistic they can be, even though the idea is far-fetched, much like zombies. It obviously is not a film for most kids as you may never be able to take them to the zoo again, but ultimately, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes is going to be one of the most popular films this summer and there is already a sequel being planned, which usually disappoints me when a film has not even been released, but is definitely awesome to me. – Jacob

July 11 – A Long Way Down

Starring: Pierce Brosnan, Toni Collete, Imogen Poots, Aaron Paul

A Long Way Down is based on the best selling novel by Nick Hornby, which follows the story of a band of four suicidal individuals coming from all walks of life. There’s Martin, the middle-aged, newly divorced celebrity, Maureen, the 51-year-old single mother, politician’s daughter Jess, and American immigrant JJ, all which meet on top a building one night, ready to jump. Deciding not to jump, they make a pact to keep living until Valentine’s Day. When the story is picked up by the media, they decide to put their own twist on what happened. Being the daughter of a therapist and having dealt with mental illness for several years, this intrigues me. I only hope they don’t romanticize suicide, but rather tell a story that shows how people with depression can find solace in one another. Knowing Nick Hornby, this dark comedy will probably do just that. I’m excited for this movie and will try to squeeze in time to read the book beforehand so I can get more out of it. – Charlotte

July 18 – Jupiter Ascending

Starring: Channing Tatum, Mila Kunis, Sean Bean

Jupiter Jones (Kunis) is a unfortunate janitor until she discovers her previously unknown genealogy destines her to greater things beyond Earth. Alongside genetically engineered interplanetary warrior Caine Wise (Tatum), she battles her way across the galaxy to take her rightful place at the throne of the House of Abrasax. This movie marks The Wachowskis’return of original screenplays and the science fiction genre. This movie looks to take place in a very complex world, the details of which aren’t likely to be skimmed. Douglas Booth, who plays a supporting role in the film, describes it as a cross between Star Wars and The Matrix. This makes the film seem promising and I’m interested to see how it will be received. My only fear is that it may be rather predictable, but the trailer leaves much to the imagination, so it’s hard to really say. – Charlotte

July 18 – Planes: Fire and Rescue

Starring: Dane Cook, Ed Harris, Stacy Keach, Julie Bowen

Last year, Disney/Pixar tried their best to capitalize on their success with the 2006 hit Cars by basically giving all of the characters wings and making them fly. Planes  was not nearly as well-received as Cars, so for whatever the reason, they decided to make a sequel, Planes: Fire & Rescue. In this continuation, Dusty Crophopper, played by Dane Cook (that should be a red flag for most people) realizes he cannot race anymore, so he chooses to pursue more noble endeavors to become a firefighter, helping to put out forest fires with the help of a rescue helicopter named Blade Ranger (Ed Harris). Unless you have kids that really enjoyed the first Planes, you probably won’t be seeing this one. I’m sure that it has appeal to the much younger crowd, and like every other Disney/Pixar movie, there will be bones thrown to the adults and parents who happen to be taking their children,  With veteran voice actors like Patrick Warburton, Regina King, and Brad Garret filling in the gaps in casting, there is at least some assurance that some of it will be funny. In the end, I’m not exactly chomping on the bit to buy a ticket to Planes: Fire and Rescue. But I also don’t have a kid who would be old enough to enjoy such a film. Although if you saw the first Planes and enjoyed it, there is no reason you shouldn’t head out and take this one in as well. – Scott

 

July 18 – Sex Tape

Starring: Jason Segel, Cameron Diaz

Jason Segel and Cameron Diaz star as a couple who, in an attempt to reignite their love life, decide to make a sex tape. However, instead of deleting this video, they unknowingly upload it to the Cloud. They make a desperate attempt to try and get the video off the internet. Apparently nobody told them that there is no way to get something off the net after it has been uploaded. Watching this preview kind of reminded me of Road Trip. I also wondered what the point of trying to get this video off the net after the majority of the people they know have already seen it or why they didn’t make it on an actual video recorder. But this is a movie and there is no room for logic here.  This should be a pretty funny movie and definitely looks like it would be worth seeing. – Robert

 

July 18 – The Purge: Anarchy

Starring: Frank Gillo, Carmen Ejogo, Michael K Williams

Even though the reviews for the first Purge were mixed, they still managed to surpass their budget by a very large margin. This time around instead of one story, we are given three separate stories that have people from all over the city coming together to try and survive the night. I was genuinely surprised when I saw that there was going to be a sequel to the original, I hadn’t realized that it had done that well sales wise. I can’t honestly see this being that great but I guess there is a market for these types of movies. I still haven’t seen the first one, so maybe I will rent that…….. and then wait for this to come out on Blu-Ray and rent it. – Robert

July 18 – Aftermath

Starring: People

Have you heard of this movie? Neither have I. But do not despair, according to the movie we are all going to die anyway, from what I’m not too sure. It could be some infection, a nuclear explosion, crazy people out in the world; our death is still somewhat unclear. Based off the trailer I really can’t give an accurate description of what we all need to start training for. This film seems to be one that you movie hop over to if the times fit with your first or second movie. I can’t really judge this movie though (I’m totally judging) because I am not a horror film kind of person. Director Peter Engert pulls together Edward Furlong (where the hell has that guy been the past ten years?), Monica Keena, Andre Royo (who played Bubbles in The Wire), and several other starts to create this horror film. With all the characters being stuck together in a barn or cellar, and just trying to survive, things are probably going to get a little crazy and bloody. Survive what, I’m not too sure still. This low-budget, post-apocalyptic film seems to have all the qualities of an good “B film”. So if any of you out there know exactly how were are supposed to die based of this movie, be kind and let the rest of us know. – Evan

 

July 25 – Hercules

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, John Hurt, Ian McShane, Rufus Sewell, Rebecca Ferguson

IF YOU SMEEEEELLLLLL… WHAT HERCULES… IS COOKING, get your butt down to your local movie theater on July 25th because he is serving up some giant lion mane, some giant warthog meat, and a healthy dose of awesome. This film, directed by Brett Ratner, looks really cool. At first, I was skeptical of another Hercules movie; however, once I heard that Dwayne Johnson was going to be playing our very own demigod, I was on board. Hercules looks as though it is going to be a thrill-ride of non-stop mythological madness, and I am completely okay with that. This action also seems that it will have a darker side to it that fits perfectly in with the story of Hercules. After enduring the 12 labours and losing his family, Hercules seeks only the pleasure of battle. Being praised for his battle skills, the King of Tharce hires the demigod to trains his warriors to be just as rootless. Is it possibly that this may lead to some deep insight and perspective? I’m confident that this movie is going to lay the smackdown on the box office’s candy ass! (3 Rock references. Yes. I. Did.) – Evan

July 25 – Lucy

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Morgan Freeman, Analeigh Tipton

This film is probably going to be categorized as a super hero film as it is a about a person with super human powers, but this film is so much more than that. It is set in a world that is run by criminals of all kinds and Lucy (Johansson) is a woman in Taipei, Taiwan who is used by these criminals as a drug mule for one of the mobs. But this is where everything goes bad for anyone who considers themselves a bad guy as the drug get released into Lucy’s system which opens up her mind to use more than just 10% of it at a time which gives her incredible memory, the power to move objects with her mind and she feels no pain and she obviously uses these powers to take down the mob and everyone in her way. Although the film could definitely be good I feel with the amount of advertising and word of mouth around the film it will likely be forgotten like Hancock, the last original super hero film I remember. – Jacob

July 25 – Wish I Was Here

Starring: Zach Braff, Donald Faison, Kate Hudson, Ashley Greene, Jim Parsons

A year and some change after Zach Braff became the poster boy for Kickstarter, Wish I Was Here is finally coming out in theaters. Reaching its goal of a $2 budget in three short days, it’s clear that this is a movie that plenty of other people want to see. Those unfamiliar with Braff’s work need only look at Garden State. Braff’s latest film is guaranteed to fill you with warm fuzzies, but not without a few tears along the way. The story revolves around Aidan (Braff), a mid-thirties dad who is trying to figure life out, while trying to keep his family afloat financially. To avoid the terrors of public school, Aidan home-schools his children – and in an attempt to teach them, he learns even more about life. Unless the genre is a no-go for you, this movie should be a sure thing. – Sherif

Monthly Movie Preview: June 2014

May was full of comic book movies, but June is about to get the summer poppin’ with a variety of family and comedy films. There are some pretty cool independent films out, too. Here’s the skinny on this upcoming months’ movies:

June 6 – Edge of Tomorrow

Starring: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt

Another year, another Tom Cruise action flick. It’s not that I don’t think he does a poor job at being an action star, but every idea he’s in feels completely recycled. Even though the premise of the film is nothing like Oblivion, the ambiance of the films feel exactly the same, and there is absolutely nothing to convince me there is something new and exciting to see here. Actually, the plot reminds me of 2011’s Source Code; in Edge of Tomorrow, Tom Cruise is forced to repeat the same day of war against the Mimic aliens over and over again, trying to find the point in all of it. The film is borrowed from the Japanese novel All You Need is Kill. It’s a really cool concept, and looks worth seeing if you like the genre. – Sherif

June 6 – The Fault in Our Stars

Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort

“Hazel Grace Lancaster (Shailene Woodley) is an atypical teenager living with cancer, oxygen tank trailing forever behind her. While medication and frequent doctors visits have extended her life quite a bit, she is very much aware that she is dying. After being deemed depressed by both her mother and doctor, Hazel begins attending a cancer support group. It is here that she meets Augustus Waters (Ansel Elgort), a charismatic, sly, metaphoric loving cancer survivor determined to make his mark on the world. Together they find “a forever within the numbered days,” a love that transcends their illness, and an adventure that makes them both feel infinitely alive whilst on the border of death.” – Charlotte (an excerpt from her full spoiler-free review here)

June 13 – How to Train Your Dragon 2

Starring: Jay Baruchel, Cate Blanchett, Gerard Butler, Djimon Hounsou, Craig Ferguson, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Kristen Wiig

How To Train Your Dragon was an incredibly well done movie about a boy that brings peace to his viking village and the dragons who inhabit the area. There’s several different dragon types shown in the movie (and even more are presented in the TV show spin off, The Riders of Burk). However, the spotlight shines brightest on Hiccup and his Night Fury Dragon named Toothless.The pair make an amazing team, ending a war and saving lifes, all while Hiccup learns to accept himself and discover his unique calling in life. The first movie is phenomenal, and a must see, full of moments that will make you laugh, cry, and leave you on the edge of your seat. The second movie introduced a character previously alluded to be dead, Hiccup’s mom (can’t wait to hear that explanation); it turns out that dragon training is in his blood. This reunion comes just in time as an enemy force, composed of more dragon-riding vikings, threatens to strip Hiccup and his friends of their beloved dragons. The trailers give me high hopes that this sequel can be held to the same standards as the first. The imagery is stunning (makes me sad I don’t have a dragon of my own) and there appears to be more of the same adorable dragon humor as the original. I look forward to seeing all the new dragon types and Hiccup all grown up. – Sara

June 13 – 22 Jump Street

Starring: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube

Ever since the first modern 21 Jump Street, starring Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill, I have loved seeing this combo on the big screen. And now that the sequel is being released, I am absolutely excited. This movie better hold up to my expectations because if it doesn’t, I might just have to go back to either high school or college and start selling drugs, and they don’t want that. In this action-packed comedy the police duo are stepping out of the little leagues and heading into the majors as they tackle college. That’s right! The big give-me-a-C-O-L-L-E-G-E, and what does that spell? It spells nothing but chaos and comedy rolled into one movie. With returning characters such as Captain Dickson, played by Ice Cube, Deputy Chief Hardy, played by Nick Offerman, and Mr. Walters, played by Rob Riggle, I believe that this will be a great movie. And if you go see this movie for anything, anything at all, you must go see it to see Channing Tatum’s flawless Hispanic accent. And I do mean flawless. So go see this movie. It will be amazing; it will be your worst…I mean best nightmare (see what I did there?). – Evan

June 20 – The Rover

Starring: Guy Pearce, Robert Pattinson

A huge economic collapse happened 10 years ago in the West and now all hell breaks loose in the new drama, The Rover. This film takes place in Australia where we meet  Eric (Guy Pearce), a man whom, after the collapse, has nothing left but one possession and a gang breaks in and steals it and in the process of them trying to get away one of the gang members is  injured and left behind for dead. The gang member, Rey (Robert Pattinson), teams up with Eric to catch the gang since they left him for dead. The film seems like a good drama but it also seems like a movie that may not hit certain audiences too well. It seems like a lot of the post apocalyptic sort of drama action films like Children of Men, I Am Legend, and Book of Eli. I tend to like this genre and I will not pass any Twilight hate onto Robert Pattinson and not see the film which may end up being a performance that shows he is more than just sparkly Edward to a lot of people. If you like intense dramas definitely check this out as well as if you enjoy the end of the world with no zombies but lots of action and thrills type of film. – Jacob

June 20 – Coherence

Starring: NIcholas Brendon, Elizabeth Gracen

Honestly, the plot of Coherence is a little befuddling.  However, that won’t stop me from seeing it.  Coherence takes place in one night at a dinner party of eight close friends.  When a comet passes Earth, weird stuff starts to happen, and the friends find out about each other, them selves, and their relationships.  Every review has touted it as being incredibly well written and acted.  I will go see it purely off the cast, though.  Elizabeth Gracen, who played Amanda in The Highlander TV series is a seller.  But the winner is to Nicholas Brendon, who played Xander Harris on Buffy the Vampire Slayer.  Not only have his roles since Buffy ended been sparse, but this role doesn’t make him seem like the “nerd” he has so often portrayed.  I am excited to see him break out of his typecast shell and explore other roles.  -Adrian

 

June 27 – Transformers: Age of Extinction

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci

Say what you will about Michael Bay, but he has made some damn good Transformers movies. The fourth installment, Age of Extinction, finally lets go of the formerly famous Shia LaBeouf and choosing a more adept action hero. Marky Mark himself takes the reigns on this one; giant robots are already the fail-safe summer blockbuster, but now that Mark Wahlberg is starring instead of LaBeouf, I’m much more interested in seeing it. Since Dark of the Moon pretty much wrapped up the trilogy with Optimus Prime pretty much going Sub-Zero on Megtron, I’m not too sure where Age of Extinction is going, but it almost looks to be LEGO Movie type of thing going on, inspiring kids to pick up their Robots in Disguise one more time. The world has recovered from the Decepticons’ attack and the Transformers have officially been rendered obsolete. Somewhere along the line, the stupid, puny humans reactivate the Decepticons and create DINOBOTS! Don’t expect this to blow you away, but it’s a necessary summer action movie carried by a vetted action hero. Plus, DINOBOTS! – Sherif

June 27 – WHITEY: United States of America v. James J. Bulger

Starring: Various

Okay, I admit it. I’m a total sucker for crime documentaries; there’s just something alluring about organized crime that I love watching stories about. That being said, James Bulger’s story is straight-up frightening. There is nothing entertaining about mass murder and dealing; Bulger reign in Boston ranks up there with some of the most gruesome. It also opens up eyes in the way that he was able to stay out of prison. He had the FBI on pay-roll for decades. He was just convicted in 2011, at 81 years old. Bulger is such a bad man that he was used as the inspiration for Jack Nicholson’s Frank Costello in The Departed, as well as Showtime’s Brotherhood, and an upcoming film titled Black Mass starring Johnny Depp. This won’t be for the faint of heart, or for people who are bored by the genre, but it will make for a captivating and horrifying documentary about one of America’s most notorious gangsters. – Sherif

Monthly Movie Preview: May 2014

May 2 – The Amazing Spider-Man 2

Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx, Sally Field, Dane Dehaan, Paul Giamatti, and Stan Fudgin’ Lee

Ok, I won’t even lie to you; Hush Comics got to see this movie a week in advance (check out our spoiler-free review here), so my job here is difficult. How do I write a preview for a movie I’ve already seen, without spoilers? Hang on web-heads, here we go! Andrew Garfield reprises his role as Peter Parker, alongside real life girlfriend Emma Stone (Gwen Stacy). While uncovering the true nature of his parents demise he discovers a dark truth about Oscorp, now run by his child-hood friend Harry Osborn (Dane Dehaan). Add an Eminem Stan-like social outcast with newly acquired powers over all things electrical in Electro (Jamie Foxx) and you have 142 minutes of web-slinging action.  Spidey swings through New York City GoPro style in this amazing sequel. Directed by Mark Webb (500 Days of Summer). Produced by Ari Arad (Iron Man) and Matt Tolmach. Easter Egg: Wait for those post credits and Shazam the Alicia Keys/Kendrick Lamar mash-up, “It’s On Again,” to access the bonus clip. Details here http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=52504 – John

May 2 – The Protector 2

Starring: Tony freaking Jaa, The RZA

The martial artist legend, Tony Jaa, returns for a sequel to the 2005 The Protector. There’s really never much in terms of storyline with his film, but he busts out some of the most ridiculous stunt work I’ve ever seen. On the other hand, The RZA is in the movie. I know that he loves martial arts flicks, and that he’s kind of earned his striped in that department, but him as the main antagonist is a joke – an Iron Fist sized joke. The movie technically came out last October internationally, but for some reason has had a fair amount of trouble making a US release date (initially Protector 2 was given a March update. If you’re looking for great martial arts and can put up with sub-par acting, then you should give this a go – or at least go rent Ong Bak and The Protector. – Sherif

 

May 2 – Walk of Shame

Starring: Elizabeth Banks, James Marsden, Gillian Jacobs

Effie Trinket takes a break from leading children to the  slaughter to murder brain cells with this incredibly shallow attempt at comedy. Banks plays Meghan, a workaholic reporter who is pressured to go out with her friends – one of which is Gillian Jacobs AKA Britta from Community. When news arrives that she has an opportunity to be a news anchor, she slips out and misfortune ensures. Poor helpless white girl gets lost on the wrong side of town and must find her way back to her dream job opportunity. It’s like a cross between The Hangover and Homeward Bound, except it will most definitely suck ass. Can we expect anything more from the guy who directed Movie 43? – Sherif

 

May 2 – Belle

Starring: Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Tom Wilkinson, Miranda Richardson, Penelope Wilton, Matthew Goode, and Emily Watson

I saw the preview for Belle waiting for The Grand Budapest Hotel. If the movie is anything like the preview, I expect myself to be a puddle of tears by the end of the movie. The music alone had me wishing I’d brought tissue to the theater, though I’m a sucker for period movies that question the landscapes of society.  Belle is about Dido, an illegitimate biracial daughter of a naval officer. As a child, Dido is brought back England and raised by her uncle and her white cousin.  The movie seems to be awash with the intersections of race, gender, and class during a time when England was questioning their participation in Slavery. Grab your tissue; this movie looks like it’s going to be a tearjerker.  – Jené

May 9 – Neighbors

Starring: Seth Rogen, Zac Efron, Rose Bryne, Dave Franco (21 Jump Street, Scrubs), Christopher Mintz-Plasse (McLovin), Lisa Kudrow,

Are you prepared for a war of the neighbors like never before? What will surely be the best comedy of the year so far pits Mac and Kelly Radner (Rogan and Bryne) against Teddy (Efron) and his army of frat brothers. Things are civil until Mac snitches, starting an all-out war between a full-grown adult and a group of college kids with literally nothing to do. The prank wars and satirical one-liners in the trailer were enough to get me excited about it. Historically, it marks the only time I can say I’m interested in a Zack Efron movie. Especially when I’m getting to the age where I side with the grown-ups, it should be fun to see if viewers are as polarized when choosing sides as I am. – Sherif

 

May 9 – Chef

Starring: Jon Favreau, Robert Downey Jr., Scarlett Johansson, Sofía Vergara, Dustin Hoffman, John Leguizamo, Bobby Cannavale (Gyp Rosetti in Boardwalk Empire), Amy Sedaris

Want to know what it’s like to watch a “feel-good” movie all about “feel-good” food?  If you answered no to that I think you need to calm down and try again…  I’m just trying to tell you about Jon Favreau’s newest movie titled Chef coming out this month.  Starring himself and cast of other comedians, this movie is all about food, family and passion.  Favreau portrays a chef with ambition and bristling culinary creativity.  After being stifled by his boss (Hoffman), he decides to take matters into his own hands and purchase his very own food truck.  Toss all that into a pan, add in some strong morals and family values, and top off with Scarlett Johansson and Sofia Vergara and throw it in the oven for 115 minutes.  Oh, I forgot the final step… Enjoy. – Taylor

 

May 9 – Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return

Starring: Lea Michele, Dan Aykroyd, Kelsey Grammer, Jim Belushi, Martin Short, Patrick Stewart

Dorothy has returned to the land of Oz! It’s a fun concept that is justifiably revisited to explore upon the vast and imaginative world. This animated film is surely for the kids, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop yourself from enjoying it, too. It looks adorable, and it’s one of the few movies out anymore that’s genuinely for young children, so parents, this might be a rare opportunity to see a movie without having to lie to your kids about what certain things mean. The cast is full of old Hollywood stars. I’m sure it can’t touch Frozen, but for parents who think their children will find Maleficent too frightening, this is your movie of the month. – Sherif

 

May 16 – Godzilla

Starring: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ken Watanabe, Elizabeth Olsen

There isn’t a lot to say about Godzilla. IT’S FREAKING GODZILLA! Also, Bryan Cranston – so that’s pretty sweet. At first look, this reboot appears to be a true homage to the delightfully campy Japanese originals, but without all of the cheese from the Matthew Broderick reboot. The trailers brought me pure excitement and when they revealed Godzilla in all of it’s glory, I felt my eyes get wider.  Having Gareth Edwards (Monsters) directing this reboot bodes well for its reception; Edwards proved that he can combine giant monsters with good storytelling quite successfully. I have a little trepidation when it comes to the writing because Godzilla is literally the second screenplay that writer Max Borstein has ever done. Trusting such a monsterous (no pun intended) property with a virtually untested writer comes as a bit of surprise. Rounding of the already large (pun intended) cast is a strong line up of actors and actresses that I have no doubt will hold the story together. Bryan Cranston is always fantastic and appears to bring some serious intensity to the movie. Ken Wantanabe is usually a strong part of any cast. With Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Elizabeth Olson, Juliette Binoche and Sally Hawkins evening everything else out I have no doubt that this will be the reboot Godzilla deserved.  Now go see it! – Scott

 

May 16 – Million Dollar Arm

Starring: Don Draper Jon Hamm, Madhur Mittal (Slumdog Millionaire), Suraj Sharma (Life of Pi), Lake Bell, Aasif Mandvi (The Daily Show)

I figure if you’re going to begin Jon Hamm’s futile effort to try to avoid being typecast as the star of Mad Men, you might as well go half-way around the world to do it. Based off a real-life Indian reality TV show, Million Dollar Arm follows struggling agents who travel to India to recruit cricket players capable of throwing fast enough to be competitive features. What Bernstein (Hamm) learns along the way is that these recruits are people, not cash cows (or cows at all, seeing as they are sacred in India). Everybody bonds, players become professionals, Disney credits roll, it all makes sense. It’s an interesting story – one that you can buy the book for if interested – but I just don’t see it having the appeal that a sports movie of that magnitude should have. – Sherif

May 16 – The Immigrant

Starring: Marion Cotillard, Joaquin Phoenix, Jeremy Renner, Angela Sarafyan

Not to star this off biased but it is hard for me to see an ad for a Joaquin Phoenix film and think, “Awesome, I am definitely seeing that!” After he sort of lost his mind for the sake of the fake documentary, I’m Still Here, he has lost the amazing appeal he had before for me at least. Besides him though this films stars the great Marion Cotillard whom you may know as Miranda/Talia Al Ghul from The Dark Knight Rises, and Jeremy Renner whom we all know as Hawkeye from the Marvel Comics cinematic universe. The story follows Ewa (Cotillard) as a newly arrived immigrant in Manhattan. Ewa was traveling with her sister Magda (Angela Sarafyan) who when they get to New York is quarantined because of a lung disease and can only be helped with money which neither woman has. Ewa is then taken in by Bruno (Phoenix) who although seems friendly at first forces her into prostitution to earn the money to help get her sister out of quarantine. Bruno’s cousin Emilaka Orlando the Magician (Renner) tries to save Ewa from having to be a prostitute and things go crazy in the process. This film seem kind like one that will be loved for being a great drama but the plot is not original as I have seen female immigrants being helped by sleazy American’s who make them be prostitute’s a lot in my film and story experience. This obviously is going to be aimed at the 25- 60 year old range of people as kids and most elderly people would find the material a bit too much to handle. Overall, the film looks like it could be good but most likely will be forgotten in the realm of the huge blockbusters this month has to offer. – Jacob

May 23 – X-Men: Days of Future Past

Starring: James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, Halle Berry, Hugh Jackman, Jennifer Lawrence, Anna Paquin, Peter Dinklage

So this movie has basically everyone in it. With the cast that has credits in: The Chronicles of Narnia, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Lord of The Rings, Hunger Games and Game of Thrones, what more could you possibly want? The original X-Men cast join our First Class mutants in a fight to save humanity. The movie, adapted from The Uncanny X-Men story arc #141-142, follows Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) as he travels in time to prevent an event that leads to push mutant kind to the brink of extinction. Produced and directed by Bryan Singer (Usual Suspects, soon to be National Sex Offender Registry member). Runtime 130. Fun Fact: According to IMDB, the legal issues between Marvel Studios and Fox films have reached mutant proportions!  Due to a court order, “No reference to Quicksilver’s (Evan Peters) membership in the Avengers can be made in an “X-Men” film, and no allusion to his relations to the X-Men or Magneto (the character’s father) can be made in an “Avengers” film; the rights agreement between Fox and Marvel even goes so far as to stipulate the character cannot be referred to as a “mutant” in any Marvel film.” – John

May 23 – The Angriest Man in Brooklyn

Starring: Robin Williams, Mila Kunis, Peter Dinklage, James Earl Jones, Melissa Leo

Robin Williams’ career has fallen off more steeply than the slalom of cocaine he used to balance it with. Since completely abandoning his family-friendly persona, Williams has failed to connect with the masses on the big or small screen. The Angriest Man in Brooklyn is the tale of Henry (Williams), a patient who pisses his nurse (Kunis) off, so she messes with him and tells him that he has 90…minutes left to live. It’s a cruel joke, but one I’m sure every nurse wishes they could tell a belligerent patient and get away with it. As Henry frantically tries to right his wrongs, he realizes how much he actually appreciates what he has. It’s a tired story (actually a remake of a 1997 Israeli film), and I’d honestly rather see the new Adam Sandler movie than this; that’s how bad this looks. – Sherif

 

May 23 – Tracks

Starring: Mia Wasikowska, Adam Driver

Tracks, based on Robyn Davison’s memoir by the same name, was originally released in 2013 in Australia. The movie was directed by John Curran, director of The Painted Veil. In 1970, Robyn travels 1700 miles across the deserts of west Australia. Her only companions are four camels and her dog.  There have been two previous attempts to adapt this book into a movie; however, all of them failed. Julia Roberts at one time was going to play the lead in the movie. Just watching the preview the landscape is breathtaking and the desert a force to be reckoned with. The aerial shots of the desert reminded me of the Egypt’s desert, which is both beautiful and harsh – a seemingly perfect backdrop of Robyn’s journey of the soul.  Looking forward to May’s lineup of movies. – Jené

May 23 – Blended

Starring: Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Shaquille O’Neal, Terry Crews, Joel McHale

Another Adam Sandler movie?…  Instant reaction: severe rolling of eyeballs (I swear I saw my brain).  By the end of the preview: giggles and a quick re-checking of the release date.  Nobody does “hit-or-miss” to greater extremes than Sandler.  I mean, Jack & Jill… That’s My Boy…  come on.  But then you remember Click, Spanglish, and The Wedding Singer and you feel a little forgiving.  Now, if you carefully think about Sandler’s resume you’ll notice a theme.  His best movies include one particular co-cast member that makes HALF of every movie they appear in.  If you weren’t thinking of Drew Barrymore, YOU LOSE!  She headlines Blended with Sandler this May.  The two of them play single parents struggling to find a new love connection.  After some initial and disheartening first dates (all 50 First Dates, to be specific), they both seem content to continue focusing on their kids.  That is until the two families collide on a coincidental exotic, safari vacation.  While I’m still trying to dislodge one of my eyes from the back of my skull, I can’t help but feel excited at the prospect of seeing Sandler and Barrymore on screen together again.  I wonder if it’ll top The Waterboy (yeah, right). – Taylor

 

May 30 – Maleficent

Starring: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Sharlto Copley, Sam Riley, Imelda Staunton, Juno Temple, Lesley Manville

Villains are always best when they think they are the hero. Stripped of her beautiful wings, her homeland ravaged and, on top of it all, not invited to Princess Aurora’s christening? Maleficent has gotten the raw deal. Played by the ageless beauty, Angelina Jolie, Maleficent must protect the realm from the ignorance and belligerence of man. The film was originally set to release in March, but was adjusted around to the end of May. The tone is dark, but still beautiful, as embodied in the theme “Once Upon A Dream,” covered by Lana Del Ray – who was hand-picked by Jolie to sing it. It may have a Disney label, but I expect this to be more dark fantasy than the 50’s princess tale it’s inspired by. The film is being directed by Robert Stromberg, who is new to directing, but has made major design contributions to Disney’s two most recent live-action releases: Oz the Great and Powerful and Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. Anybody who still holds Disney in their hearts need to find their way to the theaters and check this out. – Sherif

 

May 30 – A Million Ways to Die in the West

Starring: Seth McFarlane, Charlize Theron, Amanda Seyfried, Liam Neeson, Giovanni Ribisi, Neil Patrick Harris, Sarah Silverman

I can’t even remember the last time I looked forward to one, let alone two, comedies in a month. The tail end of May gives us another Seth McFarlane film about surviving in the wild West. Boasting an all-star cast that’s guaranteed to coax laughter, McFarlane should be able to recreate the same laughs from the same crowd he received in Ted. When Albert (McFarlane) falls in love with Anna (Theron), her husband Clinch (Neeson) makes Albert duel for her. A Million Ways is becoming a comedian’s orgy the more I hear about it with word of Bill Maher, Christopher Lloyd, Gilbert Gottfried (yuck, maybe orgy was a poor choice of words) joining the cast. I’m expecting cheap thrills and non-stop jokes, just as anybody who follows his body of work would. – Sherif

 

May 30 – Filth

Starring: James McAvoy, Imogen Poots, Jamie Bell

Filth, released in Scotland last year and soon to be released in the U.S., James McAvoy plays Bruce Robertson, a detective. Now, Bruce is a pretty well-rounded a-hole. McAvoy portrays the king of degenerates, abusive, alcoholic, drug using, manipulative and a real dick to everyone he works with. And the guy just wants a promotion to Detective Inspector.  Now that sounds like fun, and watching the trailers will confirm that it looks like fun. Filth is directed by Irvine Welch, creator of Trainspotting. McAvoy appears to very much in the same vain of Ewan McGregor’s character, Renton, from Trainspotting. He’s not someone you’d ever want to associate with but you still feel for him in the end.  Rotten Tomatoes gave it a 78% fresh rating so that helps out too. If you like dark British (Scottish) comedies like Trainspotting, Snatch, and In Bruges, I’m sure Filth will not disappoint. – Scott