This weekend brings a nice selection of films representing a variety of genres, most of which interest me. You have a romantic comedy as Valentine's Day approaches, a stop motion animated fantasy, a sci-fi action flick, and a sequel to a popular comedy. That last one is the least on my list considering how poorly I think of the original. In any case, there are plenty of choices this weekend, even if you want to avoid the depressing best picture nominees and thirst for something a little closer to pure entertainment.
Coraline. (2009, 100 minutes, PG, animated fantasy, trailer) Based on a story by Neil Gaiman and directed by Henry Selick (The Nightmare Before Christmas, James and the Giant Peach), this looks like a winner. It is a stop motion animated feature that tells the story of a bored girl who discovers a doorway to an alternate universe that is quite similar to the real world, only better. However, all is not as it seems and when things take a dangerous turn, Coraline will need to use all of her ingenuity to get back home. The voice cast includes Dakota Fanning in the title role and Teri Hatcher.
He's Just Not That Into You. (2009, 129 minutes, PG-13, romantic comedy, trailer) I am looking forward to this. It looks like the sort of romantic film that both men and women can get into. It has a big cast to tell its tales of dating, singlehood, and married life. The cast includes Drew Barrymore, Ben Affleck, Justin Long, Jennifer Connelly, Ginnifer Goodwinn, Scarlett Johannson, Bradley Cooper, and Jennifer Aniston. Ken Kwapis is at the helm, having spent a lot of time on television, most recently directing for The Office. Hopefully it will turn out to be fun.
Pink Panther 2. (2009, 92 minutes, PG, comedy, trailer) Sorry. No, thank you. I have no interest in this. I can still taste a little of the last one, which was absolutely horrid. This will need to have some killer word of mouth to get me through the doors, unless someone wants to buy my ticket?
Push. (2009, 111 minutes, PG-13, action, trailer) I really want this to be good. The trailer looks pretty snazzy, but I get a strong flashback to Jumper (and that is not good). The story centers on those with special abilities who are being hunted by a clandestine government agency that is intent on using them to its own gain. Sounds familiar, right? The film has some positive buzz around it. I hope not to be let down. The cast includes Chris Evans, Dakota Fanning, and Djimon Hounsou. Paul McGuigan is at the helm, following up serviceable turns in Lucky Number Slevin and Wicker Park.
Article comments