June 18, 2008
WEEKEND FIRST: Movie Comings and Goings
By Tony Rutherford
Huntingtonnews.net Entertainment Editor
Huntington, WV (HNN) – What’s a summer movie season without a little crying and protesting over the content of a previously simply parody about a Guru played by Mike Myers attempting to restart the hockey goal scoring abilities of a love sick super star?
From numerous press releases that have arrived to support the Hindu religion and it’s alleged mockery in “The Love Guru,” the would-be protestors lack pertinent organizational fortitude in successfully bringing their gripes to powers that could assist them.
All Pictures © Paramount
First, I cannot render an opinion YET, since I have not seen “The Love Guru.” It’s a cardinal rule of film criticism and film writing --- reinforced in particular by Marshall University Distinguished Alum and former President of Columbia Pictures, John Fieldler --- you can write what you want ( pro or con) about the picture but you have to watch it and in the review tell me the “why” of your opinion.
While parents may object to letting children go see a movie, then determine, oops, it’s inappropriate that’s why the parents have the benefit of the film ratings board, reviewers, and entertainment reporters. If they’re not enough --- and, Johnny or Jane cries and cries to see it , then you, the parent, should go see it THEN tell your child your reasoning. In some cases, you might decide to go with several children and have a heart-to-heart discussion about the film’s themes over pizza. In other cases, you will simply have to say , no it contains (fill in the blank) and that’s not appropriate for you to see.
Swinging back to “The Love Guru,” American audiences are not likely to be offended by what has been labeled insults to the Hundu culture and religion, particularly since the movie does not attempt to claim it’s a realistic view of the ethnic groups and religions. This is Austin Powers, the dude who spoofed the hippie movement. Give everyone a break, this appears without an advance look to be a comedy wrapped around the “guru” for sake of story continuity, not to insult or ridicule someone belief system.
Whether the Hindus protest the release --- and Paramount not allowing them an advance screening --- the attention will simply bring more viewers to watch the film. Instead of protesting, you might want to engage moviegoers in conversations afterwards, give out a hand bill for a Hindu discussion group, or announce a day and time for such open discussion.
Meanwhile, the “threats” to petition the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has no impact on the release; they do not have jurisdiction over what’s at the multiplex, they have regulatory powers that relate to over-the-air broadcasting stations. It will be years before “Love Guru” plays as a afternoon movie on one of the major networks.
Finally, asking for an NC-17 rating, by the Motion Picture Association of America demonstrates a lack of understanding of the rating system. The MPAA has selected a group of individuals who watch films and then vote on the film’s rating in regard to young people viewing the production. The rating board has specific criteria which in part determine the film’s rating (although some are toss ups, nevertheless). Since “Guru” has received a PG-13 (some material might not be suitable for children under 13), the film does not contain enough cinematic taboos (extensive nudity, explicitly gory violence, a rampage of never ending profanities, etc.) to place it in the category that recommends its unsuitability to anyone under 17.
Dudes, you’re going about this the wrong way, particularly since the studio won’t let you see the film, won’t alter the film, and can forbid your protestors from standing on private property owned by cinemas showing the pic. Do an about face, please, the opportunity exists for an educational campaign about the Hundu belief systems and how they compare to other world religions. You could hold discussions about how the film mis-portrayed Hindu beliefs or even show a segment of a Hindu film that appropriate respects the fundamentals of the religion.
Obviously, you now know, that “The Love Guru” opens on Friday. The other film, which I do not believe anyone can condemn is a re-make of the spy spoof TV series, “Get Smart.”
All Pictures © Warner Brothers
Finally, if you can find the C-notes to cover gasoline, the West Virginia International Film Festival has an evening with Oscar nominee and fellow West Virginian, Morgan Spurlock, along with a showing of his “Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden, on Tuesday, June 24 at the WVSU Capitol Theatre, 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Visit: http://www.wviff.org for details. Mr. Spurlock will be at the showing to discuss his films.
All Pictures © Weinstein Company
June 27:
Wall-E: Pixar Animation Studios. ‘Nuff said. After hundreds of years picking up humanities trash on the Planet Earth, a search robot EVE discovers that the Waste Allocation Load Lifter robot may have found the meaning of life and a way for human to return home safely. Characters include malfunctioning robot misfits and a pet cockroach.
All Pictures © Walt Disney
Wanted: A young man (James McAvoy) finds that his recently murder father was an elite assassin. Now he’s recruited by a man named Sloan (Morgan Freeman) to step into his dad’s shoes. Angelina Jolie also stars. Incidentally, the concept comes from a dark comic with similarity to “Sin City” and “V for Vendetta.”
All Pictures © Universal
July 2:
Hancock: Will (“Men in Black”) Smith bumbles along as a conflicted, sarcastic superhero that saves lives but leaves lots of damage along the trail. Having turned the public against his awesomely stupid deeds, the hero makes a life-changing connection with a housewife.
All Pictures © Sony Pictures
July 11:
HB II (formerly Hellboy 2: Golden Army): The mythical world rebels against humanity hoping to rule the Earth, so Hellboy and his team must intervene. Director Guillermo Del Toro who stunned audiences with Pan’s Labyrinth is on board for the revival of the character he brought to the screen in 2004.
All Pictures © Universal
Journey to the Center of the Earth 3-D: Before resuming his “Mummy” role, Brendan Fraser leads an expedition to Iceland which launches an expedition deep beneath the earth’s surface.
All Pictures © New Line
Meet Dave (formerly Starship Dave): Eddie Murphy plays a man uncomfortable in his own body, except his “body” is a “ship” made in the image of its captain. Piloted by tiny aliens, Murphy’s character jeopardizes the mission when he falls for Elizabeth Banks. Let’s hope this isn’t “Pluto Nash – The Sequel.”
All Pictures © Fox
HOLD OVERS:
BABY MAMA: A Single businesswoman has put off having a baby. Now at 37, she finds there's only a one in a million chance for her to conceive. So, she hires a South Philly working girl to be a surrogate. But the expectant mom is full of vibrancy so it's a tug of war attempting to structure the blonde lady into following all the rules necessary to have a perfect child. Tina Fey , Amy Poehler and Sigourney Weaver star
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian: Aiming for more of a swashbuckling action audience than the fairy tale world, virtually the entire cast and crew reprise. When the children are brought back to Narnia, 1,300 years have passed and the kingdom is now controlled by the evil King Miraz. The kids meet the rightful heir, Prince Caspian, who they must restore to the throne to restore magic and glory in the land.
HAPPENING: Adapting Japanese horror has had a hit or miss record after the phenomenal “Sixth Sense” by M. Night Shyamalan. After “Lady in the Water” (mostly thumbs up by me), “Unbreakable” and “Signs,” “The Happening” has my adrenalin flowing for a possible breakthrough as the premise concerns a natural disaster that threatens to destroy the earth.
INCREDIBLE HULK: After a dull too philosophical venture in 2003, action director Louis Leterrier --- who worked with Jet Li’s fight choreographer/director on “The Transporter” and “Transporter II --- has put the marauding green monster/hero back on screens. As for the story, Bruce Banner (Edward Norton) seeks seclusion to understand and cure his condition that turns him into a monster. With the military wanting him controlled, he also must battle, The Abomination.
INDIANA JONES AND THE CRYSTAL SKULL: Steven Spielberg directs the return of everyone’s favorite globetrotting adventurer who’s been on the shelf for nearly 20 years. George Lucas teams with David Koepp on the screenplay, but it’s under wraps. However, Harris Ford reprises his role, even though his age is starting to limit his death defying stunts.
IRON MAN: Robert Downey Jr. stars as the armor plated hero. Updating the scenatio, Tony Stark remains a billionaire industralist, but has been kidnapped in Afghanistan where he is forced to work on weapons for the bad guys. The villain, none other than perennial nemesis , The Mandarin.
Kung Fu Panda: Not exactly “Happy Feet,” but the big, clumsy Po labors daily in his family’s noodle shop dreaming about Kung Fu. But the bear has been chosen to fulfill a prophesy, so can the panda actually become a kung fun master? (Voices include Jackie Chan, Angelina Jolie and Dustin Hoffman)
MADE OF HONOR: Opening opposite the Marvel juggernaut, Patrick Dempsey and Michelle Monaghan star in MADE OF HONOR, a romantic comedy about a procrastinating lover who ends up as his love’s “maid of honor” instead of the groom. Can he somehow manage to manipulate the situation so he can win her from the rick Scotsman who has swept her off her footsies?
NIM’S ISLAND: Jodie Foster plays an author attempting to assist a fan whose father is missing on a secret island. Billed as a possible Indiana Jones for the sweeter gender, Of course, the author has her share of psychological dilemmas --- she has a fear of leaving her house and , well, the “fan” with the missing father is actually the title character in her novels. Advance word: goofy, sweet, comedic.
SEX AND THE CITY: The movie picks up four year after the six-year-run wrapped in 2004 on HBO. Sarah Jessica Parker returns as Carrie Bradshaw, the style conscious journalist whose romantic exploits ruled the series. As the story continues, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda prepare for Carrie to take the marital plunge
SPEED RACER: The Wachowski brothers (“V is for Vendetta” and “The Matrix” trilogy) direct a family friendly movie about a young gearhead (Emile Hirsch) known as Speed Racer who following the death of his brother, Rex, must race in the death defying cross-country rally known as The Crucible. His main competitor- Racer X played by Matthew Fox (who played Red Dawson in “We Are Marshall”).
WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS: Would you stay married to Cameron Diaz for six months to qualify for $3 million jackpot? She marries Aston Kutcher during a drunken ceremony, then he hits strikes pay dirt on the slots using her quarter.
Limited Release /Art House Films
ONGOING INTERACTIVE FUN
The Rocky Horror Picture Show – Although squirt guns, rice, lighters, and other projectiles are forbidden, you can brush up on your Time Warp dance and check out those character costumes. The long running and cult favorite continues a multiple weekend run at the Cinema with the shadow cast now accompanying the on screen action. Pre Show begins @ 11:30 p.m.
Starts Friday June 6:
HUNTINGTON, WV
MARQUEE PULLMAN: (Now ALL digital projection) Get Smart 1:20-1:40-4:00-4:20-6:40-7:00-9:20-9:40; Love Guru 12:30-2:50-5:10-7:30-9:50; KID TOONS National Geographic Big Screen Safari Sat/Sun 11:45 a.m. ONLY (all seat $3.50); FREE KID’S FLIX: Tuesday/Wednesday 10 a.m. June 24-25, Mr Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Surf’s Up; TIME CHANGES: Indiana Jones 1:20-4:15-6:20-7:20-9:10-10:10; Kung Fu Panda 11:40-1:40-2:00-4:00-4:20-6:45-9:00; Sex in the City ,12:00-3:20-6:40-9:50; Prince Caspian ,12:50-4:00; What Happens in Vegas 7:15-9:50; ENDS THURSDAY: Baby Mama; For Full Schedule, click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=584
DISCOUNT CINEMA 4: (all shows after 6 p.m. $3.00; Tuesday $2; $2.00 all shows before 6 p.m.) : Baby Mama 1:15-3:20-5:25-7:30-9:35; Harold and Kumar Escape Guantanamo 1:00-3:10-5:20-7:30-9:40; Forgetting Sarah Marshall 1:05-3:15-5:25-7:35-9:45; Made of Honor 7:25-9:30 only; Speed Racer 1:30-4:15 only; ENDS THURSDAY: Nim’s Island, Prom Night; Friday 12 Midnight: 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' (Interactive preshow begins 11:30 p.m.), Baby Mama, Harold and Kumar; For full schedule click and select date: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/cinema/index.html
ASHLAND, KY
CINEMARK CINEMA 10: Get Smart 12:30-3:50-6:55-9:40; Love Guru 12:10-2:30-4:50-7:10-9:30; TIME CHANGES: Sex and the City 2:50-9:20; Indiana Jones 11:50-1:20-4:20-6:35-7;20-10;05; ENDS THURSDAY: Strangers; http://www.cinemark.com/metropolitan_opera.asp
PHOENIX 10 KYOVA MALL: Get Smart 11:45-12:15-2:15-2:45-4:45-5:15-7:15-7:45-9:45-10:15; Love Guru 12:10-2:35-4:40-7:20-9:35; TIME CHANGES: Prince Caspian 11:30-2:25-5:05; Sex and the City 4:20-9:40; Strangers 7:40-9:50; What Happens in Vegas 11:55-2:00-7:25; You Don’t Mess with Zohan 11:40-2:20-4:50-7:30-10:05 (one print); ENDS THURSDAY: Iron Man; Full schedule: http://www.movietickets.com/house_detail.asp?house_id=10480
BECKLEY, WV
Starts Friday
CROSSROADS CINEMAS: Forbidden Kingdom 12:40-3:20-6:10-8:50; Harold & Kumar Escape 12:00-2:20-4:40-7:00-9:20; Bank Job 8:45; 88 Minutes 6:20-8:55; Nim’s Island 12:30-3:30-6:15; Prom Night 6:50-9:00; Horton Hears Who 12:15-2:25-4:35; ENDS THURSDAY: Meet the Browns; Forgetting Sarah Marshall; Leatherheads; College Road Trip; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=560
GALLERIA CINEMAS: (Now All Digital Projection!) : Get Smart 12:45-1:15-3:45-4:15-6:30-7:00-9:15-9:40; Love Guru 12:00-2:30-4:45-7:00-9:15; KIDTOONS National Geographic Kids Big Screen Safari Sat/Sun 12:00 noon ($3.50 all tickets); FREE KID’S FLIX: Tuesday/Wednesday, 10 a.m. June 24/25, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Surf’s Up; TIME CHANGES: Iron Man 6:40-9:35 only; Prince Caspian 12:05-3:15 only; Indiana Jones (one print) 12:50-3:45-6:40-9:30; Strangers 12:10*-2:30-4:45-7:00-9:15 (* No 12:10 show Sat/Sun); You Don’t Mess with Zohan (one print) 1:15-4:00-7:05-9:30-9:45; Kung Fu Panda 11:45-12:15-2:00-2:30-4:20-4:50-6:45-7:10-9:00; ENDS THURSDAY: It Happens in Vegas; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=680
BLUEFIELD, WV
Starts Friday
MERCER MALL: Features/Times To Be Announced; For full schedule, click: http://www.carmike.com/showtimesdetails.aspx?theatrenumber=075503
COMMONS 8 (Marquee Cinemas, Wytheville, Va.): (Now all digital projection!) Get Smart 12:30-3:10-6:10-9:10; Love Guru 12:15-2:30-4:45-7:00-9:15; TIME CHANGES: Sex in the City 12:00-6:20; Strangers 4:00-9:30 only; ENDS THURSDAY: Prince Caspian; FREE KID’S FLICKS: Tues/Wed 10 a.m. June 24/25, Open Season, Water Horse; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabloid=580
CHARLESTON, WV
Starts Friday
MARQUEE SOUTHRIDGE: (Now All Digital Projection!) Get Smart 11:10- 12:50-1:50-3:30-4:30-6:40-7:15-9:20-9:55; Love Guru 12:45-3:00-5:15-7:30-9:45; KIDTOONS: National Geographic Kids Big Screen Safar, Sat/Sun June 14-15, 11:45 a.m.; FREE KID’S FLIX: Tues/ Wed 9:30 a.m. June 24/25, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Surf’s Up; For full schedule click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=583
PARK PLACE STADIUM CINEMAS: Get Smart, 12:30-1:30-3:00-4:00-5:30-7:00-8:00-9:30; Love Guru, 1:00-3:00-5:00-7:05-9:05; FREE KIDS FLIX, Wed. June 25 @ 10 a.m., Bee Movie; For full listing: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/parkplace/index.html
TIME CHANGES
MARQUEE SOUTHRIDGE: The Happening 1:10-3:20-5:30-7:45-10:00; Zohan (one print) 11:15-1:50-4:30-7:15-9:55; Indiana Jones (one print) 11:40-2:30-5:20-8:15; Strangers 7:50-10:05 only; Prince Caspian 1:30-4:40 only; Iron Man 9:30 only; Kung Fu Panda, no 9:30 p.m. show.
PARK PLACE STADIUM CINEMAS: Sex and the City 12:35-7:05 only; Iron Man 4:00-9:45 only;
ENDS THURSDAY:
Marquee Southridge: What Happens in Vegas
Park Place Stadium Cinemas: Prince Caspian, What Happens in Vegas
HURRICANE, WV
Starts Friday
TEAYS VALLEY CINEMA 10: Get Smart 10:00-12:45-4:15-7:00-10:00; Love Guru 10:30-1:00-3:10-5:20-7:30-9:40; TIME CHANGES: Kung Fu Panda 10:30:10:45-12:45-3:00-3:15-5:15-7:35-9:50; Ironman 5:05-7:35-10:10; FREE SUMMER KIDS SERIES: Tuesday/Thursday, 10 a.m., June 24 and 26, Bee Movie; ENDS THURSDAY: Strangers; Prince Caspian; (* No Sunday Early Showing ); For full schedule click: http://boxoffice.printtixusa.com/allstar/movies?v=2756
LEWISBURG, WV
SENACA SHOWPLACE: Hulk 4:00-6:45-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Kung Fu Panda 4:30-7:00-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:00-2:15; FREE KIDS FLIX, Tuesday 10 a.m., June 24, Shrek the Third; ENDS THURSDAY: Indiana Jones
LOGAN, W.VA.
Starts Friday
FOUNTAIN PLACE CINEMA 8: Get Smart 12:05-2:30-4:45-7:05-9:45; Love Guru 12:20-2:25-4:55-7:25-9:40; TIME CHANGES: Strangers 7:20-9:20 only; Sex and the City 12:30-4:05 only; FREE KIDS FLIX, Wed. June 25 , 10 a.m., Shrek III; ENDS THURSDAY: What Happens Vegas; Iron Man; For full schedule click: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/fountainplace/index.html
NITRO, WV
Great Escape Nitro 12: http://greatescapetheatres.com or 769-0405
SUMMERSVILLE, WV
NICHOLS SHOWPLACE: CONFIRMED THRU THURSDAY JUNE 19 ONLY --- Hulk 4:00-6:45-9:25, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Kung Fu Panda 5:00-7:20-9:35, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:20-2:40; Don’t Mess with Zohan 3:50-6:40-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Indiana Jones and Crystal Skull: 3:45-6:50-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:50; ENDS THURSDAY: Sex and the City; FREE KIDS SUMMER MOVIES: Tuesday, June 17, 10 a.m. , Sherk the Third
WELCH, WV
MCDOWELL 3: Get Smart 4:00-6:35-9:10, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Hulk 4:10-6:45-9:20, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:15; Kung Fu Panda 4:45-7:00, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:15-2:30; You Don’t Mess with Zohan 9:15; FREE KIDS FLIX: Tuesday 10 a.m. June 24, Shrek the Third; ENDS THURSDAY: None;
UPCOMING RELEASES
June 27: Wall-E, Wanted
July 2: Hancock
July 11: HB II (formerly Hellboy 2: Golden Army), Meet Dave (formerly Starship Dave)
July 18: Dark Knight, Mamma Mia! , Space Chimps
July 25: American Teen, The Longshots, Step Brothers, X Files II
Aug. 1: He’s Just Not That Into You, Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, Rocker, Swing Vote
Aug. 8: Journey 3-D, Pineapple Express, Sisterhood of Traveling Pants II
Aug. 15: The International, Mirrors, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Tropic Thunder, Wild Child
Aug. 22: Accidental Husband, Bangkok Dangerous, Crossing Over, Fly Me to the Moon 3D, The House Bunny
Aug. 29: Babylon A.D., College, Traitor, Hamlet II
· Release dates subject to change; not all films will play in every market and/or every theatre.
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WEEKEND FIRST: Movie Comings and Goings
By Tony Rutherford
Huntingtonnews.net Entertainment Editor
Huntington, WV (HNN) – What’s a summer movie season without a little crying and protesting over the content of a previously simply parody about a Guru played by Mike Myers attempting to restart the hockey goal scoring abilities of a love sick super star?
From numerous press releases that have arrived to support the Hindu religion and it’s alleged mockery in “The Love Guru,” the would-be protestors lack pertinent organizational fortitude in successfully bringing their gripes to powers that could assist them.
All Pictures © Paramount
First, I cannot render an opinion YET, since I have not seen “The Love Guru.” It’s a cardinal rule of film criticism and film writing --- reinforced in particular by Marshall University Distinguished Alum and former President of Columbia Pictures, John Fieldler --- you can write what you want ( pro or con) about the picture but you have to watch it and in the review tell me the “why” of your opinion.
While parents may object to letting children go see a movie, then determine, oops, it’s inappropriate that’s why the parents have the benefit of the film ratings board, reviewers, and entertainment reporters. If they’re not enough --- and, Johnny or Jane cries and cries to see it , then you, the parent, should go see it THEN tell your child your reasoning. In some cases, you might decide to go with several children and have a heart-to-heart discussion about the film’s themes over pizza. In other cases, you will simply have to say , no it contains (fill in the blank) and that’s not appropriate for you to see.
Swinging back to “The Love Guru,” American audiences are not likely to be offended by what has been labeled insults to the Hundu culture and religion, particularly since the movie does not attempt to claim it’s a realistic view of the ethnic groups and religions. This is Austin Powers, the dude who spoofed the hippie movement. Give everyone a break, this appears without an advance look to be a comedy wrapped around the “guru” for sake of story continuity, not to insult or ridicule someone belief system.
Whether the Hindus protest the release --- and Paramount not allowing them an advance screening --- the attention will simply bring more viewers to watch the film. Instead of protesting, you might want to engage moviegoers in conversations afterwards, give out a hand bill for a Hindu discussion group, or announce a day and time for such open discussion.
Meanwhile, the “threats” to petition the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has no impact on the release; they do not have jurisdiction over what’s at the multiplex, they have regulatory powers that relate to over-the-air broadcasting stations. It will be years before “Love Guru” plays as a afternoon movie on one of the major networks.
Finally, asking for an NC-17 rating, by the Motion Picture Association of America demonstrates a lack of understanding of the rating system. The MPAA has selected a group of individuals who watch films and then vote on the film’s rating in regard to young people viewing the production. The rating board has specific criteria which in part determine the film’s rating (although some are toss ups, nevertheless). Since “Guru” has received a PG-13 (some material might not be suitable for children under 13), the film does not contain enough cinematic taboos (extensive nudity, explicitly gory violence, a rampage of never ending profanities, etc.) to place it in the category that recommends its unsuitability to anyone under 17.
Dudes, you’re going about this the wrong way, particularly since the studio won’t let you see the film, won’t alter the film, and can forbid your protestors from standing on private property owned by cinemas showing the pic. Do an about face, please, the opportunity exists for an educational campaign about the Hundu belief systems and how they compare to other world religions. You could hold discussions about how the film mis-portrayed Hindu beliefs or even show a segment of a Hindu film that appropriate respects the fundamentals of the religion.
Obviously, you now know, that “The Love Guru” opens on Friday. The other film, which I do not believe anyone can condemn is a re-make of the spy spoof TV series, “Get Smart.”
All Pictures © Warner Brothers
Finally, if you can find the C-notes to cover gasoline, the West Virginia International Film Festival has an evening with Oscar nominee and fellow West Virginian, Morgan Spurlock, along with a showing of his “Where in the World is Osama Bin Laden, on Tuesday, June 24 at the WVSU Capitol Theatre, 123 Summers Street in Charleston. Visit: http://www.wviff.org for details. Mr. Spurlock will be at the showing to discuss his films.
All Pictures © Weinstein Company
June 27:
Wall-E: Pixar Animation Studios. ‘Nuff said. After hundreds of years picking up humanities trash on the Planet Earth, a search robot EVE discovers that the Waste Allocation Load Lifter robot may have found the meaning of life and a way for human to return home safely. Characters include malfunctioning robot misfits and a pet cockroach.
All Pictures © Walt Disney
Wanted: A young man (James McAvoy) finds that his recently murder father was an elite assassin. Now he’s recruited by a man named Sloan (Morgan Freeman) to step into his dad’s shoes. Angelina Jolie also stars. Incidentally, the concept comes from a dark comic with similarity to “Sin City” and “V for Vendetta.”
All Pictures © Universal
July 2:
Hancock: Will (“Men in Black”) Smith bumbles along as a conflicted, sarcastic superhero that saves lives but leaves lots of damage along the trail. Having turned the public against his awesomely stupid deeds, the hero makes a life-changing connection with a housewife.
All Pictures © Sony Pictures
July 11:
HB II (formerly Hellboy 2: Golden Army): The mythical world rebels against humanity hoping to rule the Earth, so Hellboy and his team must intervene. Director Guillermo Del Toro who stunned audiences with Pan’s Labyrinth is on board for the revival of the character he brought to the screen in 2004.
All Pictures © Universal
Journey to the Center of the Earth 3-D: Before resuming his “Mummy” role, Brendan Fraser leads an expedition to Iceland which launches an expedition deep beneath the earth’s surface.
All Pictures © New Line
Meet Dave (formerly Starship Dave): Eddie Murphy plays a man uncomfortable in his own body, except his “body” is a “ship” made in the image of its captain. Piloted by tiny aliens, Murphy’s character jeopardizes the mission when he falls for Elizabeth Banks. Let’s hope this isn’t “Pluto Nash – The Sequel.”
All Pictures © Fox
HOLD OVERS:
BABY MAMA: A Single businesswoman has put off having a baby. Now at 37, she finds there's only a one in a million chance for her to conceive. So, she hires a South Philly working girl to be a surrogate. But the expectant mom is full of vibrancy so it's a tug of war attempting to structure the blonde lady into following all the rules necessary to have a perfect child. Tina Fey , Amy Poehler and Sigourney Weaver star
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian: Aiming for more of a swashbuckling action audience than the fairy tale world, virtually the entire cast and crew reprise. When the children are brought back to Narnia, 1,300 years have passed and the kingdom is now controlled by the evil King Miraz. The kids meet the rightful heir, Prince Caspian, who they must restore to the throne to restore magic and glory in the land.
HAPPENING: Adapting Japanese horror has had a hit or miss record after the phenomenal “Sixth Sense” by M. Night Shyamalan. After “Lady in the Water” (mostly thumbs up by me), “Unbreakable” and “Signs,” “The Happening” has my adrenalin flowing for a possible breakthrough as the premise concerns a natural disaster that threatens to destroy the earth.
INCREDIBLE HULK: After a dull too philosophical venture in 2003, action director Louis Leterrier --- who worked with Jet Li’s fight choreographer/director on “The Transporter” and “Transporter II --- has put the marauding green monster/hero back on screens. As for the story, Bruce Banner (Edward Norton) seeks seclusion to understand and cure his condition that turns him into a monster. With the military wanting him controlled, he also must battle, The Abomination.
INDIANA JONES AND THE CRYSTAL SKULL: Steven Spielberg directs the return of everyone’s favorite globetrotting adventurer who’s been on the shelf for nearly 20 years. George Lucas teams with David Koepp on the screenplay, but it’s under wraps. However, Harris Ford reprises his role, even though his age is starting to limit his death defying stunts.
IRON MAN: Robert Downey Jr. stars as the armor plated hero. Updating the scenatio, Tony Stark remains a billionaire industralist, but has been kidnapped in Afghanistan where he is forced to work on weapons for the bad guys. The villain, none other than perennial nemesis , The Mandarin.
Kung Fu Panda: Not exactly “Happy Feet,” but the big, clumsy Po labors daily in his family’s noodle shop dreaming about Kung Fu. But the bear has been chosen to fulfill a prophesy, so can the panda actually become a kung fun master? (Voices include Jackie Chan, Angelina Jolie and Dustin Hoffman)
MADE OF HONOR: Opening opposite the Marvel juggernaut, Patrick Dempsey and Michelle Monaghan star in MADE OF HONOR, a romantic comedy about a procrastinating lover who ends up as his love’s “maid of honor” instead of the groom. Can he somehow manage to manipulate the situation so he can win her from the rick Scotsman who has swept her off her footsies?
NIM’S ISLAND: Jodie Foster plays an author attempting to assist a fan whose father is missing on a secret island. Billed as a possible Indiana Jones for the sweeter gender, Of course, the author has her share of psychological dilemmas --- she has a fear of leaving her house and , well, the “fan” with the missing father is actually the title character in her novels. Advance word: goofy, sweet, comedic.
SEX AND THE CITY: The movie picks up four year after the six-year-run wrapped in 2004 on HBO. Sarah Jessica Parker returns as Carrie Bradshaw, the style conscious journalist whose romantic exploits ruled the series. As the story continues, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda prepare for Carrie to take the marital plunge
SPEED RACER: The Wachowski brothers (“V is for Vendetta” and “The Matrix” trilogy) direct a family friendly movie about a young gearhead (Emile Hirsch) known as Speed Racer who following the death of his brother, Rex, must race in the death defying cross-country rally known as The Crucible. His main competitor- Racer X played by Matthew Fox (who played Red Dawson in “We Are Marshall”).
WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS: Would you stay married to Cameron Diaz for six months to qualify for $3 million jackpot? She marries Aston Kutcher during a drunken ceremony, then he hits strikes pay dirt on the slots using her quarter.
Limited Release /Art House Films
ONGOING INTERACTIVE FUN
The Rocky Horror Picture Show – Although squirt guns, rice, lighters, and other projectiles are forbidden, you can brush up on your Time Warp dance and check out those character costumes. The long running and cult favorite continues a multiple weekend run at the Cinema with the shadow cast now accompanying the on screen action. Pre Show begins @ 11:30 p.m.
Starts Friday June 6:
HUNTINGTON, WV
MARQUEE PULLMAN: (Now ALL digital projection) Get Smart 1:20-1:40-4:00-4:20-6:40-7:00-9:20-9:40; Love Guru 12:30-2:50-5:10-7:30-9:50; KID TOONS National Geographic Big Screen Safari Sat/Sun 11:45 a.m. ONLY (all seat $3.50); FREE KID’S FLIX: Tuesday/Wednesday 10 a.m. June 24-25, Mr Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Surf’s Up; TIME CHANGES: Indiana Jones 1:20-4:15-6:20-7:20-9:10-10:10; Kung Fu Panda 11:40-1:40-2:00-4:00-4:20-6:45-9:00; Sex in the City ,12:00-3:20-6:40-9:50; Prince Caspian ,12:50-4:00; What Happens in Vegas 7:15-9:50; ENDS THURSDAY: Baby Mama; For Full Schedule, click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=584
DISCOUNT CINEMA 4: (all shows after 6 p.m. $3.00; Tuesday $2; $2.00 all shows before 6 p.m.) : Baby Mama 1:15-3:20-5:25-7:30-9:35; Harold and Kumar Escape Guantanamo 1:00-3:10-5:20-7:30-9:40; Forgetting Sarah Marshall 1:05-3:15-5:25-7:35-9:45; Made of Honor 7:25-9:30 only; Speed Racer 1:30-4:15 only; ENDS THURSDAY: Nim’s Island, Prom Night; Friday 12 Midnight: 'Rocky Horror Picture Show' (Interactive preshow begins 11:30 p.m.), Baby Mama, Harold and Kumar; For full schedule click and select date: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/cinema/index.html
ASHLAND, KY
CINEMARK CINEMA 10: Get Smart 12:30-3:50-6:55-9:40; Love Guru 12:10-2:30-4:50-7:10-9:30; TIME CHANGES: Sex and the City 2:50-9:20; Indiana Jones 11:50-1:20-4:20-6:35-7;20-10;05; ENDS THURSDAY: Strangers; http://www.cinemark.com/metropolitan_opera.asp
PHOENIX 10 KYOVA MALL: Get Smart 11:45-12:15-2:15-2:45-4:45-5:15-7:15-7:45-9:45-10:15; Love Guru 12:10-2:35-4:40-7:20-9:35; TIME CHANGES: Prince Caspian 11:30-2:25-5:05; Sex and the City 4:20-9:40; Strangers 7:40-9:50; What Happens in Vegas 11:55-2:00-7:25; You Don’t Mess with Zohan 11:40-2:20-4:50-7:30-10:05 (one print); ENDS THURSDAY: Iron Man; Full schedule: http://www.movietickets.com/house_detail.asp?house_id=10480
BECKLEY, WV
Starts Friday
CROSSROADS CINEMAS: Forbidden Kingdom 12:40-3:20-6:10-8:50; Harold & Kumar Escape 12:00-2:20-4:40-7:00-9:20; Bank Job 8:45; 88 Minutes 6:20-8:55; Nim’s Island 12:30-3:30-6:15; Prom Night 6:50-9:00; Horton Hears Who 12:15-2:25-4:35; ENDS THURSDAY: Meet the Browns; Forgetting Sarah Marshall; Leatherheads; College Road Trip; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=560
GALLERIA CINEMAS: (Now All Digital Projection!) : Get Smart 12:45-1:15-3:45-4:15-6:30-7:00-9:15-9:40; Love Guru 12:00-2:30-4:45-7:00-9:15; KIDTOONS National Geographic Kids Big Screen Safari Sat/Sun 12:00 noon ($3.50 all tickets); FREE KID’S FLIX: Tuesday/Wednesday, 10 a.m. June 24/25, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Surf’s Up; TIME CHANGES: Iron Man 6:40-9:35 only; Prince Caspian 12:05-3:15 only; Indiana Jones (one print) 12:50-3:45-6:40-9:30; Strangers 12:10*-2:30-4:45-7:00-9:15 (* No 12:10 show Sat/Sun); You Don’t Mess with Zohan (one print) 1:15-4:00-7:05-9:30-9:45; Kung Fu Panda 11:45-12:15-2:00-2:30-4:20-4:50-6:45-7:10-9:00; ENDS THURSDAY: It Happens in Vegas; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=680
BLUEFIELD, WV
Starts Friday
MERCER MALL: Features/Times To Be Announced; For full schedule, click: http://www.carmike.com/showtimesdetails.aspx?theatrenumber=075503
COMMONS 8 (Marquee Cinemas, Wytheville, Va.): (Now all digital projection!) Get Smart 12:30-3:10-6:10-9:10; Love Guru 12:15-2:30-4:45-7:00-9:15; TIME CHANGES: Sex in the City 12:00-6:20; Strangers 4:00-9:30 only; ENDS THURSDAY: Prince Caspian; FREE KID’S FLICKS: Tues/Wed 10 a.m. June 24/25, Open Season, Water Horse; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabloid=580
CHARLESTON, WV
Starts Friday
MARQUEE SOUTHRIDGE: (Now All Digital Projection!) Get Smart 11:10- 12:50-1:50-3:30-4:30-6:40-7:15-9:20-9:55; Love Guru 12:45-3:00-5:15-7:30-9:45; KIDTOONS: National Geographic Kids Big Screen Safar, Sat/Sun June 14-15, 11:45 a.m.; FREE KID’S FLIX: Tues/ Wed 9:30 a.m. June 24/25, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, Surf’s Up; For full schedule click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/Default.aspx?tabid=583
PARK PLACE STADIUM CINEMAS: Get Smart, 12:30-1:30-3:00-4:00-5:30-7:00-8:00-9:30; Love Guru, 1:00-3:00-5:00-7:05-9:05; FREE KIDS FLIX, Wed. June 25 @ 10 a.m., Bee Movie; For full listing: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/parkplace/index.html
TIME CHANGES
MARQUEE SOUTHRIDGE: The Happening 1:10-3:20-5:30-7:45-10:00; Zohan (one print) 11:15-1:50-4:30-7:15-9:55; Indiana Jones (one print) 11:40-2:30-5:20-8:15; Strangers 7:50-10:05 only; Prince Caspian 1:30-4:40 only; Iron Man 9:30 only; Kung Fu Panda, no 9:30 p.m. show.
PARK PLACE STADIUM CINEMAS: Sex and the City 12:35-7:05 only; Iron Man 4:00-9:45 only;
ENDS THURSDAY:
Marquee Southridge: What Happens in Vegas
Park Place Stadium Cinemas: Prince Caspian, What Happens in Vegas
HURRICANE, WV
Starts Friday
TEAYS VALLEY CINEMA 10: Get Smart 10:00-12:45-4:15-7:00-10:00; Love Guru 10:30-1:00-3:10-5:20-7:30-9:40; TIME CHANGES: Kung Fu Panda 10:30:10:45-12:45-3:00-3:15-5:15-7:35-9:50; Ironman 5:05-7:35-10:10; FREE SUMMER KIDS SERIES: Tuesday/Thursday, 10 a.m., June 24 and 26, Bee Movie; ENDS THURSDAY: Strangers; Prince Caspian; (* No Sunday Early Showing ); For full schedule click: http://boxoffice.printtixusa.com/allstar/movies?v=2756
LEWISBURG, WV
SENACA SHOWPLACE: Hulk 4:00-6:45-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Kung Fu Panda 4:30-7:00-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:00-2:15; FREE KIDS FLIX, Tuesday 10 a.m., June 24, Shrek the Third; ENDS THURSDAY: Indiana Jones
LOGAN, W.VA.
Starts Friday
FOUNTAIN PLACE CINEMA 8: Get Smart 12:05-2:30-4:45-7:05-9:45; Love Guru 12:20-2:25-4:55-7:25-9:40; TIME CHANGES: Strangers 7:20-9:20 only; Sex and the City 12:30-4:05 only; FREE KIDS FLIX, Wed. June 25 , 10 a.m., Shrek III; ENDS THURSDAY: What Happens Vegas; Iron Man; For full schedule click: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/fountainplace/index.html
NITRO, WV
Great Escape Nitro 12: http://greatescapetheatres.com or 769-0405
SUMMERSVILLE, WV
NICHOLS SHOWPLACE: CONFIRMED THRU THURSDAY JUNE 19 ONLY --- Hulk 4:00-6:45-9:25, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Kung Fu Panda 5:00-7:20-9:35, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:20-2:40; Don’t Mess with Zohan 3:50-6:40-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Indiana Jones and Crystal Skull: 3:45-6:50-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:50; ENDS THURSDAY: Sex and the City; FREE KIDS SUMMER MOVIES: Tuesday, June 17, 10 a.m. , Sherk the Third
WELCH, WV
MCDOWELL 3: Get Smart 4:00-6:35-9:10, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Hulk 4:10-6:45-9:20, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:15; Kung Fu Panda 4:45-7:00, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:15-2:30; You Don’t Mess with Zohan 9:15; FREE KIDS FLIX: Tuesday 10 a.m. June 24, Shrek the Third; ENDS THURSDAY: None;
UPCOMING RELEASES
June 27: Wall-E, Wanted
July 2: Hancock
July 11: HB II (formerly Hellboy 2: Golden Army), Meet Dave (formerly Starship Dave)
July 18: Dark Knight, Mamma Mia! , Space Chimps
July 25: American Teen, The Longshots, Step Brothers, X Files II
Aug. 1: He’s Just Not That Into You, Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, Rocker, Swing Vote
Aug. 8: Journey 3-D, Pineapple Express, Sisterhood of Traveling Pants II
Aug. 15: The International, Mirrors, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Tropic Thunder, Wild Child
Aug. 22: Accidental Husband, Bangkok Dangerous, Crossing Over, Fly Me to the Moon 3D, The House Bunny
Aug. 29: Babylon A.D., College, Traitor, Hamlet II
· Release dates subject to change; not all films will play in every market and/or every theatre.
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