Where to start, where to start. You know there's only going to be one title on the lips of the masses this weekend. No, it's not going to be The Blind Side, so stop being silly. New Moon opens this weekend and it is sure to do insane business. Frankly, I doubt it matters much if the movie is even halfway decent. In any case, I will be avoiding that one this weekend and look to the other offerings, which include inspirational dramas and animated science fiction.

The Blind Side. (2009, 126 minutes, PG-13, drama) Based on a true story, The Blind Side tells the story of a poor black teen and the rich white woman who saves him. I know, it sounds rather cliched, but the cast looks solid and if it doesn't come across as too preachy it could be worthwhile. Still, it strikes me as a typical inspirational story intended to manipulate the audience's emotions so they leave feeling like they have seen something important. Of course, I do hope that it turns out to be better than that. The cast includes Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Kathy Bates, and Quinton Aaron.

Planet 51. (2009, 91 minutes, PG, animation/science fiction/comedy) This actually looks like fun. I am hoping that it pays off more than Monsters Vs. Aliens, which had moments, but as a whole was not so good. The idea behind this one has an astronaut landing on an alien world only to discover a thriving community where he is the alien. Voice cast includes Dwayne Johnson, Justin Long, Jessica Biel, Gary Oldman, Seann William Scott, and John Cleese.

The Twilght Saga: New Moon. (2009, 121 minutes, PG-13, teen supernatural romance) The phenomenon rolls on. The first movie arrived this time last year to mediocre critical acclaim and massive popular response. The sequel is here with a bigger cast, bigger budget, a new director, and an insane amount of hype. This second feature sees Bella (Kristen Stewart) delve deeper into the supernatural world as vampire and werewolves fight around her. Frankly, I am not all that interested in the movie, and I think that may be more due to the fanatical fan base than anything the movie may or may not do. That said, the first movie is not all that good. I am also not sure how much I really want to write about it. It is going to be a monster, I can tell that just by looking locally, where my favorite theater has 13 sold out midnight shows! To the fans, I hope you love it.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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