May 27, 2009
WEEKEND FIRST: Movie Comings and Goings
Part 2: Summer Movies
By Tony Rutherford
Huntingtonnews.net Entertainment Editor
Huntington, WV (HNN) – Two tent-poles busted frames Memorial Day weekend lending their different genres and special effects for an all out war at the Multiplex. Depending upon the numbers interpretations and the necessary asterisks, “Night at the Museum Battle of the Smithsonian” edged “Terminator: Salvation” with $70 million to $65 million (including Terminator’s Thursday gross).
SPEAKING of SUMMER, we received word last week that Summersville, WV has moved into the age of digital DLP and out of 35mm projection, according to Curtis McCall, president and CEO of Marquee Cinemas. In fact, he said the chain will soon have Lewisburg, Welch and Scranton (PA) converted too.
Of course, these upgrades bring those towns into 21st Century state of the art projection. But, a journey to NYC or Chicago, brings a dreamy thought about cinematic presentation extraordinaire --- IMAX. The giant camera recorded repairs on the Hubble telescope, which suggests the limitations and requirements.
Mainstream Hollywood has yet to offer a year around schedule of IMAX choices. Big summer and Christmas tent-poles, though, get the treatment (blown up to 70mm IMAX after the fact). Surging popularity of 3D has touched off IMAX at the multiplex. Ultimately, some have opted for a junior version.
McCall has contemplated the format at one or more of the cinemas in the Marquee chain. He’s not convinced for a high sign… yet.
Although “ “I’m not sure if it’s the wave of the future. It’s proven its worth, but it’s to maintain a profitable structure [with limited releases now] since you have to get big dollars out of it,” McCall said, explaining that a true IMAX auditorium is seventy feet high --- twice that of a regular digital stadium seater. “You have to have those [mainstream] pictures around [all year] and not just in the summer. You need people coming and going every week to watch the movie,” adding that the medium works best in more “tourist” styled cities or towns.
Admittedly 3D has become “a substitute alternative,” which does not mandate the giant size auditorium and the tremendous up front costs. 3D has gained popularity and profitability, often twice (even with the premium charge added) a comparable film’s gross, but McCall believes “the animated films are a good fit… good clarity, great picture, and people enjoy them.” Since most animated movies are “bright,” he thinks “darker” toned live action ones --- Transformers, G.I. Joe --- would not have the same 3D impact.
However, film is not the only future for the process. The stakeholders are working to bring more live 3D events to a theatre near you.
“Everybody’s trying to get on the live 3D broadcasts where they can beam live sporting events and live concerts. The problem right now is the rights, getting them in a manner that will still be profitable. You gotta talk to ESPN, Fox or WB and they want more than you will make. The key is to get affordable and obtainable rights to broadcast things [in cinemas],” the West Virginia President of the National Association of Theatre Owners said.
PART TWO: SUMMER RELEASES FROM JULY TO AUGUST 2009
JULY 1
PUBLIC ENEMIES: During the Roaring 20s and the Machine Gun 30s, gangsters ruled certain cities due to the law that prohibited alcohol sales. Mobsters distributed the booze, and dudes like Elliott Ness and his Untouchables battled them like the FBI battles drug traffickers today. One of the most famous bank robbers of the era, John Dillinger, played here by Johnny Depp, faces a determined agent (Christian Bale) who is determined to send the hardened criminal to the electric chair. His story has been told before, but following the popularity of the Sopranos, this could be a rat-a-tat-tat thriller.
All Pictures © Universal
ICE AGE: Dawn of the Dinosaurs: Here’s another animated 3D flick with those huge prehistoric monsters to divert them for several hours. Currently, though, the film’s producer has been fussing with theatre owners over who pays for the non-recyclable 3D glasses.
July 10
BRUNO: Sascha Baron Cohen (better known as “Boart”) returns to satirize the fashion industry and all its icons and haute couture. He plays a fashion reporter traveling the globe with the production displaying a good share of cage fights, baggage claim hassles, runway missteps and political rallies.
All Pictures © Universal
I LOVE YOU BETH COOPER: Do you remember the long haired girl in high school whom you were head over heels in puppy love, but she always saw you as an awkward unknown nerd whose smile at her looked more like a nervous salesman? Directed by Chris (“Harry Potter and Sorcer’s Stone,” “Chamber of Secrets,” “Rent,” and “Home Alone”) Columbus does a homage to John (“Breakfast Club,” “Pretty in Pink,” “Sixteen Candles”) Hughes as a geek declares his love to the hottest cheerleader during his valedictorian speech.
All Pictures © Fox
JULY 15
HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE: How much do you need to know? Isn’t this a given? It’s Radcliffe’s sixth outing as the boy wizard and this is a darker and more hormonal film. Harry knows a final battle fast approaches, so Hogwarts is no longer a safe sanctuary. At the same time, his romance with Ginny grows and so does jealousy.
All Pictures © Warner Brothers
JULY 24
G-FORCE: Disney has given us penguins, a Chihuahua, and now guinea pigs. They will be this year’s little heroes attempting to prevent the world from falling into evil hands.
ORPHAN: As August approaches, so do the influx of horror flicks. Here, a couple adopt after their unborn baby dies. While the nine-year-old orphan they find at a local orphanage who seemed sweet and angelic might have a sinister and demon-like agenda. Vera (“The Boy in Striped Pajamas”) Farmiga and Peter (“Garden State”) Sarsgaard play the parents while Isabella Fuhrman, who has appeared in TV’s “Ghost Whisperer and Justice.
UGLY TRUTH: Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler star as a lonely morning show producer and a macho correspondent bets he can teach her to land and keep a guy. Unfortunately, you can guess what’s going to happen during this process.
FRIDAY JULY 31
FUNNY PEOPLE: It’s time for Judd Apatow to take the helm of a summer pic, but this one has him a little out of his element. In fact, early buzz has the flick running well over two hours. Adam Sandler starts as a successful comedian who has a terminal health condition. Hope for a “Punch Drunk Love” but this could the subject matter be the set up for a misfire from the man responsible for “40 Year Old Virgin,” “Superbad,” and “Knocked Up?” His wife, Leslie (“17 Again,” “Drillbit Taylor”) Mann and Sarah Silverman are the opposite sex lures for this comedy-drama.
All Pictures © Universal
ALIENS IN THE ATTIC: Fess up. Don’t you remember telling mommy you were scared of the dark or that a giant monster was hidden in your closet? Taking a little “E.T.” and “Gremlins” along with the standard what lurks behind the attic door, kids on a summer vacation discover knee high aliens in their attic. How can they get them to beam back before mom and dad tell them they’ve been playing too many video games? Incidentally, the cast includes two “SNL” dudes and a gal from “HSM.”
All Pictures © Fox
AUGUST 7
Known as “grind down” time in the film industry, August generally includes anything deemed not strong enough or good enough or just not fitting into June and July. McCall has seen some clips and believes “GI Joe,” “Julie & Julia” and “Shorts” have good potential.
GI JOE RISE OF COBRA: Toys have been the basis for some cool movies, so Hasbro’s G.I. Joe comes to life battling the evil arms dealing forces of Cobra. Rachael Nichols who’s featured in “Star Trek” provides a little eye candy for those that need a bit of eye candy.
JULIE & JULIA: Unknown to one another, a disgruntled secretary (Amy Adams) spices up her boring life by attempting to cook 524 Julia Child (played by Meryl Streep) recipes in a year.
SHORTS: Living in an every house looks the same suburb, a rainbow colored rocks hits a boy in the head. The rock has special powers --- it grants wishes. As the rock is shared, kids conjure miniature spaceships and crocodile armies, then, oh my, an adult gets hit on the head. Directed by Robert (“Spy Kids”) Rodriguez.
All Pictures © Warner Brothers
AUGUST 14
BANDSLAM: Here’s a good one for the tweens. Disney Channel superstars Vanessa Anne Hudgens ('High School Musical 1 & 2,' 'High School Musical 3') and Alyson Michalka ('Phil of the Future,”) are among the stars of a music driven comedy in which a popular gal forms a band with the campus outcast (Gaelan Connell) and enter a competition.
DISTRICT 9: A low budget aliens versus humans story where the E.T.’s have been peacefully surviving for 30 years in South Africa. With their weapons powerless, humankind succumbs to their fears and place a disinterested security company in charge of the alien’s compound. Then, a virus begins spreading… a virus which alters D.N.A. and can activate all those formerly useless weapons. Peter (“Lord of the Rings”) Jackson has a hand in this one.
THE GOODS LIVE HARD, SELL HARD: This could turn into an un-funny comedy depending on the disposition of Chrysler and G.M. Whether it will be a parody, dark themed, or just plain relevant will depend on the success or lack thereof of Detroit’s manufacturers. It’s about a struggling car dealership that lands a fast talking, hustler salesman to save it from bankruptcy. Then, the top salesman meets a woman whose not fond of his slick talking personality…..
PERFECT GETAWAY: Here’s one of those horror slashing films that picks on Hawaii not the Mountain State. Pairs of lovers discover that psychopaths are murdering tourists on the island paradise.
TAKING WOODSTOCK: Turned into a favorite at the Cannes Festival, it tells of how a young man working on his parents farm helps the concert organizers gain a permit for the iconic festival to be.
AUGUST 21
INGLORIOUS BASTERDS: Quentin Tarantino directs a film starring Brad Pitt about an American led killing squad inside German occupied France during the Second World War. Warning: It’s been sitting on the shelf a long time.
POST GRAD: Worst case scenario, but all too common in a recession. Gal graduates from prestigious college and she’s ready for a loft apartment, but she misses out on the job for which she prepared. Former “Gilmore Girl”, Alexis Bledel returns home to her highly eccentric “You Can’t Take It With You” family including a stubborn do-it-yourself dad (Michael Keaton), an overly thrifty mom (Jane Lynch), a politically incorrect grandma (Carol Burnett), a very odd little brother (Bobby Coleman). How’s she going to get a career on the road?
AUGUST 28
BOAT THAT ROCKED: It’s the 60s and broadcasting off the shore on a floating unlicensed radio station, rogue D.J.’s hook listeners on pop music , love and free will.
FINAL DESTINATION: DEATH TRIP: A man’s premonition of a deadly race car crash saves lives, but the Grim Reaper will not be cheated that easily.
HALLOWEEN II: Rob Zombie directs a re-make of the second “Halloween” saga.
SEPT 4
GAMER: In the future, Slayers is a hit of a game. In fact, players can control other humans by their online actions.
PANDORUM: Ben Foster and Dennis Quaid awake on board a spaceship with a case of amnesia.
HOLD OVERS:
17 AGAIN: Can Zac (“High School Musical”) Efron turn a standard getting a second chance to do life right premise into something that’s not part of the time changing formula? In this case, Mike O’Donnell (Matthew Perry) wishes he could change his past by going to college, playing basketball and finding a happy ending.
FIGHTING: Exploring the world of underground street fighting in New York City, Dito (“Guide to Recognizing Your Saints”) Montiel reteams with Channing Tatum, Terrence Howard and Luis Guzman
HANNAH MONTANA: Rather than a filmed concert, the two personality teen Miley Stewart (Hannah Montana and Miley Ray Cyrus in real life) takes dad (Billy Ray Cyrus) advice and with her head spinning from surging fame, the teen returns to her little home town in Tennessee to revisit her roots and get her head back together.
I LOVE YOU, MAN: Here’s a subtle twist on the chick flicks, call this a “bro” film. When Peter Klaven (Paul Rudd) gets a yes from Zooey (Rashida Jones), he realizes that his withdrawn personality has left him without any friends, specifically ‘best man’ at their wedding. After a series of flops, he meets Sydney (Jason Segel), but when they become inseparable the new best friend threatens to endanger his pending marriage.
KNOWING: When placing objects in a time capsule in 1958, one student has scribbled a series of random numbers for inclusion in the capsule. Professor John Koestler (Nicholas Cage) determines they are anything but random, rather, they tell the times for impending disasters and an upcoming apocalypse. Can Cage prevent global destruction?
MONSTERS V ALIENS: The latest 3D animated Dreamworks creation directed by Conrad (“Shrek II”) Vemon and Rob (“Shark Tales”) Letterman. The plot has a little girl hit by space debris turning into a giant monster, then whisked to a government compound where she finds a group of other monsters. Now, this group of rag tag Monsters must become super-heroes and save the world from aliens bent on killing everyone.
NEXT DAY AIR: A drug shipment goes to the wrong person and lots of people want to recover the package. But when the whacked out courier delivers the drugs to Mike Epps and Wood Harris, they have no intention of turning it over to their next door neighbors. While they grab the cocaine and head for a possible buyer, their next door neighbors start chasing them trying to recover the package before a notorious drug lord realizes what has occurred.
OBSESSED: A sexy office temporary worker named Lisa , (Ali Larter), begins stalking a happily married asset manager. But Derek (Idris Elba) won’t budge to the stalkers advances and soon he and his wife (Beyonce Knowles) must protect themselves from Lisa’s wrath.
SOLOIST: Here’s a real life tearjerker… the true cinematic story of violin prodigy Nathaniel Ayers (Jimmie Foxx) who after two years at Julliard ends up on the streets battling schizophrenia. Robert Downey Jr. plays a journalist wandering skid row who hears the strings coming from a bedraggled figure.
STAR TREK: It’s the dawn of a new Trekkie craze as J.J. Abrams directs, “Star Trek (2009),” which tells the origin of Captain Kirk , Mr. Spock and the crew before they take the USS Enterprise to places not boldly gone before. A sequel is already in the works.
STATE OF PLAY: This one sounds like it’s from the pages of recent Washington , D.C. history. Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck and Rachael McAdams are investigative reporters seeking clues to the cover up in the assassination of a congressman’s mistress.
TAKEN: A former spy (Liam Neeson) traveling through Europe embarks on a frantic quest to rescue his daughter (Maggie Grace) after she is abducted by slave traders in Europe while following U2’s European tour.
ONGOING INTERACTIVE FUN NOW AT 9:45 PM FRIDAYS…
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 @ 9:45 p.m.
Starting May 29 – June 4
HUNTINGTON, WV
MARQUEE PULLMAN: (Now ALL digital projection): Drag Me to Hell 11:50-2:20-5:00-7:30-9:55; Up in Disney Digital 3-D, 11:30-12:00-1:00-2:00-2:30-3:30-4:25-4:55-6:25-6:50-7:20-8:35-9:15-9:45; KIDTOONS: Thomas & Friends the Great Discovery, Sat/Sun 11:35 a.m., All seats $3.50; TIME CHANGES: Star Trek, 12:00-12:35-3:00-6:20-6:35-9:20; Wolverine 11:30-2:05-4:40-7:15-9:50; ENDS THURSDAY: Monsters and Aliens, Hannah Montana, Fighting, 17 Again; For Full Schedule, click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=9219
DISCOUNT CINEMA 4: Admission: $3. After 6 p.m., $2 before 6 p.m. and all day Tuesday; Haunting in Connecticut 5:20-7:20-9:20, Sat/Sun/Tues 1:20-3:20; Monsters v. Aliens 5:15-7:15-9:15, Sat/Sun/Tues Mat. 1:15-3:15; Obsessed, 5:20-7:30-9:40*, S/S/Tues 1:00-3:10 (* No show Friday May 29) ; Fast & Furious 5:20-7:30-9:40, Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues Mat. 3:15; I Love You Man , 9:45, Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 1:05; ENDS THURSDAY MAY 28: Knowing, Race to Witch Mountain; INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCE: Rocky Horror Picture Show, Fridays 9:45 p.m., LIVE pre-show and costumed moviegoer friendly ; often SELLS OUT; For full schedule click and select date: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/cinema/index.html
ASHLAND, KY
CINEMARK CINEMA 10: Up (2D) 11:40-1:00-2:20-3:40-5:00-6:20-7:40-9:00-10:20; Drag Me to Hell 11:20-2:00-4:30-7:00-9:30; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS THURSDAY: Ghost of Girlfriends Past, Obsessed, Wolverine; For full times, http://www.cinemark.com/metropolitan_opera.asp
PHOENIX 10 KYOVA MALL: “Up” 12:30-1:30-3:15-4:15-6:15-7:00-9:00-9:45; “Drag Me to Hell, 1:50-4:35-7:15-10:05; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS THURSDAY: TBA; Full schedule: http://www.movietickets.com/house_detail.asp?house_id=10480
BECKLEY, WV
GALLERIA CINEMAS: (Now All Digital Projection!): Drag Me to Hell 12:00-2:25-4:50-7:20-9:45; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:30-11:55-2:00-2:25-4:30-4:55-7:00-7:25-9:30-9:50; KIDTOONS: Thomas & Friends Great Discovery 11:40 a.m. Sat/Sun only; TIME CHANGES: 17 Again, 2:10-4:40; Fighting 7:10-9:40 only; Star Trek 11:45-12:45-3:00-6:20-6:50-9:15; ENDS THURSDAY: Obsessed, Monsters & Aliens; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=10115
BLUEFIELD, WV
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!): Drag Me to Hell, 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:30-9:55; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:30-2:00-4:30-7:00-9:30; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS WEDNESDAY: Fighting, ENDS THURS MAY 21: Wolverine, Ghosts of Girl Friends Past, Obsessed; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=9196
CHARLESTON, WV
MARQUEE SOUTHRIDGE: (Now All Digital Projection!): Drag Me to Hell 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:30-10:00; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:30-12:45-2:00-3:15-4:30-6:30-7:00-9:00-9:30; KIDTOONS: Thomas & Friends the Great Discovery, Sat/Sun 11:20 a.m., All seats $3.50; TIME CHANGES: Star Trek (one print) 1:00-4:00-7:00-9:55; Wolverine (one print) 12:00-2:30-5;00-7:30-10:00; ENDS THURSDAY: Monsters v Aliens, Obsessed; For full schedule click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=6021
PARK PLACE STADIUM CINEMAS: Up in 3D, 1:00-3:10-5:20-7:30-9:40; Drag Me to Hell, 12:45-3:10-5:25-7:35-9:55; TIME CHANGES: Wolverine (one print) 12:30-3:30-7:00-9:45; Angels & Demons, 12:30-3:30-7:00-9:45; Star Trek, 12:40-4:00-7:05-9:35; ENDS THURSDAY: Monsters v Aliens; For full listing: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/parkplace/index.html
HINTON, WV
RITZ THEATRE: Closed for renovations; grand re-opening July 4; For full schedule, click: http://www.ritzwv.com
HURRICANE, WV
TEAYS VALLEY CINEMA 10: Up, 11:00*-1:10-3:20-5:30-7:40-9:45; Drag Me to Hell, 11:15-1:30-3:30-5:25-7:30-10:00; TIME CHANGES: Star Trek 11:20*-3:45-7:15 only; Obsessed, 1:45-9:35; Angels and Demons 10:45*-3:05-7:15 only; Ghosts of Girlfriends Past 1:15-5:30-9:50 only Obsessed 10:50*-3:25-7:40-10:00 only; 17 Again, 1:05-5:25 only; Hannah Montana 11:15*-3:15 only; Ghosts of Girlfriends Past 1:15-5:15-7;15-9:50 only; ENDS THURSDAY: NONE; (*Early Bird Show Sat Only); For full schedule click: http://boxoffice.printtixusa.com/allstar/movies?v=2756
LEWISBURG, WV
SENACA SHOWPLACE: Up, 4:10-7:00-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:10; Night at the Museum , 4:00-6:50-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; ENDS THURSDAY: Star Trek; For advance tickets, http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=4500
LOGAN, W.VA.
FOUNTAIN PLACE CINEMA 8: Up in 3D, 4:45-7:05-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:10-2:30; Drag Me to Hell, 4:50-7:15-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:15-2:35; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS THURSDAY: Ghost of Girlfriends Past, Wolverine; 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: Up in Disney Digital 3D, 4:40-7:10-9:35, Sat/Sun Mat. 11:45-2:10; Terminator: Salvation, 4:00-7:00-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Night at the Museum II, 4:50-7:20-9:45, Sat/Sun Mat. 11:50-2:20; Angels and Demons, 3:30-6:30-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:30; ENDS THURSDAY: Star Trek; For advance tickets: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=4499
WELCH, WV
MCDOWELL 3: Terminator Salvation: 4:20-7:00-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat 1:00; Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, 4:00-6:50-9:20, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:30; Angels & Demons , 3:25-6:30-9:35, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:20; ENDS THURSDAY: None; For Advance Tickets, http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=9609
WHEELING, WV
Marquee Highlands 14: (All Digital DLP Projection): Drag Me to Hell 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:25-9:50; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:45-12:15-12:45-2:10-2:40-3:10-4:35-5:05-5:35-7:00-7:30-8:00-9:25-9:55; TIME CHANGES: Wolverine, 11:30-2:05-9:55; Ghost of Girlfriends Past 4:40-7:05 ONLY; Star Trek 12:20-3:20-6:20-9:20 (one print); Angels and Demons 12:00-3:05-6:15-9:20 (one print); ENDS THURSDAY: Obsessed, 17 Again, Monsters and Aliens; For full schedule click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=11469
UPCOMING RELEASES (Dates Subject to Change; not all films in all areas)
June 5: Hangover, Land of the Lost, My Life in Ruins
June 12: Imagine That, Taking of Pelham 1-2-3
June 19: The Proposal, Year One
June 26: My Sister’s Keeper, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (on June 24)
July 1: Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs, Public Enemies
July 10: Bruno, I Love You Beth Cooper
July 17: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
July 24: All Good Things, G-Force, The Orphan, Ugly Truth
July 31: Funny People, They Came from Upstairs
August 7: GI Joe, Julie & Julia, Shorts, When in Rome
August 14: Bandslam, District 9, The Goods: The Don Ready Story, Time Traveler’s Wife
August 21: Goose on the Loose, Inglorious Bastards
August 28: Boat That Rocked, Final Destination Death Trip 3D, Halloween 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
Part 2: Summer Movies
By Tony Rutherford
Huntingtonnews.net Entertainment Editor
Huntington, WV (HNN) – Two tent-poles busted frames Memorial Day weekend lending their different genres and special effects for an all out war at the Multiplex. Depending upon the numbers interpretations and the necessary asterisks, “Night at the Museum Battle of the Smithsonian” edged “Terminator: Salvation” with $70 million to $65 million (including Terminator’s Thursday gross).
SPEAKING of SUMMER, we received word last week that Summersville, WV has moved into the age of digital DLP and out of 35mm projection, according to Curtis McCall, president and CEO of Marquee Cinemas. In fact, he said the chain will soon have Lewisburg, Welch and Scranton (PA) converted too.
Of course, these upgrades bring those towns into 21st Century state of the art projection. But, a journey to NYC or Chicago, brings a dreamy thought about cinematic presentation extraordinaire --- IMAX. The giant camera recorded repairs on the Hubble telescope, which suggests the limitations and requirements.
Mainstream Hollywood has yet to offer a year around schedule of IMAX choices. Big summer and Christmas tent-poles, though, get the treatment (blown up to 70mm IMAX after the fact). Surging popularity of 3D has touched off IMAX at the multiplex. Ultimately, some have opted for a junior version.
McCall has contemplated the format at one or more of the cinemas in the Marquee chain. He’s not convinced for a high sign… yet.
Although “ “I’m not sure if it’s the wave of the future. It’s proven its worth, but it’s to maintain a profitable structure [with limited releases now] since you have to get big dollars out of it,” McCall said, explaining that a true IMAX auditorium is seventy feet high --- twice that of a regular digital stadium seater. “You have to have those [mainstream] pictures around [all year] and not just in the summer. You need people coming and going every week to watch the movie,” adding that the medium works best in more “tourist” styled cities or towns.
Admittedly 3D has become “a substitute alternative,” which does not mandate the giant size auditorium and the tremendous up front costs. 3D has gained popularity and profitability, often twice (even with the premium charge added) a comparable film’s gross, but McCall believes “the animated films are a good fit… good clarity, great picture, and people enjoy them.” Since most animated movies are “bright,” he thinks “darker” toned live action ones --- Transformers, G.I. Joe --- would not have the same 3D impact.
However, film is not the only future for the process. The stakeholders are working to bring more live 3D events to a theatre near you.
“Everybody’s trying to get on the live 3D broadcasts where they can beam live sporting events and live concerts. The problem right now is the rights, getting them in a manner that will still be profitable. You gotta talk to ESPN, Fox or WB and they want more than you will make. The key is to get affordable and obtainable rights to broadcast things [in cinemas],” the West Virginia President of the National Association of Theatre Owners said.
PART TWO: SUMMER RELEASES FROM JULY TO AUGUST 2009
JULY 1
PUBLIC ENEMIES: During the Roaring 20s and the Machine Gun 30s, gangsters ruled certain cities due to the law that prohibited alcohol sales. Mobsters distributed the booze, and dudes like Elliott Ness and his Untouchables battled them like the FBI battles drug traffickers today. One of the most famous bank robbers of the era, John Dillinger, played here by Johnny Depp, faces a determined agent (Christian Bale) who is determined to send the hardened criminal to the electric chair. His story has been told before, but following the popularity of the Sopranos, this could be a rat-a-tat-tat thriller.
All Pictures © Universal
ICE AGE: Dawn of the Dinosaurs: Here’s another animated 3D flick with those huge prehistoric monsters to divert them for several hours. Currently, though, the film’s producer has been fussing with theatre owners over who pays for the non-recyclable 3D glasses.
July 10
BRUNO: Sascha Baron Cohen (better known as “Boart”) returns to satirize the fashion industry and all its icons and haute couture. He plays a fashion reporter traveling the globe with the production displaying a good share of cage fights, baggage claim hassles, runway missteps and political rallies.
All Pictures © Universal
I LOVE YOU BETH COOPER: Do you remember the long haired girl in high school whom you were head over heels in puppy love, but she always saw you as an awkward unknown nerd whose smile at her looked more like a nervous salesman? Directed by Chris (“Harry Potter and Sorcer’s Stone,” “Chamber of Secrets,” “Rent,” and “Home Alone”) Columbus does a homage to John (“Breakfast Club,” “Pretty in Pink,” “Sixteen Candles”) Hughes as a geek declares his love to the hottest cheerleader during his valedictorian speech.
All Pictures © Fox
JULY 15
HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE: How much do you need to know? Isn’t this a given? It’s Radcliffe’s sixth outing as the boy wizard and this is a darker and more hormonal film. Harry knows a final battle fast approaches, so Hogwarts is no longer a safe sanctuary. At the same time, his romance with Ginny grows and so does jealousy.
All Pictures © Warner Brothers
JULY 24
G-FORCE: Disney has given us penguins, a Chihuahua, and now guinea pigs. They will be this year’s little heroes attempting to prevent the world from falling into evil hands.
ORPHAN: As August approaches, so do the influx of horror flicks. Here, a couple adopt after their unborn baby dies. While the nine-year-old orphan they find at a local orphanage who seemed sweet and angelic might have a sinister and demon-like agenda. Vera (“The Boy in Striped Pajamas”) Farmiga and Peter (“Garden State”) Sarsgaard play the parents while Isabella Fuhrman, who has appeared in TV’s “Ghost Whisperer and Justice.
UGLY TRUTH: Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler star as a lonely morning show producer and a macho correspondent bets he can teach her to land and keep a guy. Unfortunately, you can guess what’s going to happen during this process.
FRIDAY JULY 31
FUNNY PEOPLE: It’s time for Judd Apatow to take the helm of a summer pic, but this one has him a little out of his element. In fact, early buzz has the flick running well over two hours. Adam Sandler starts as a successful comedian who has a terminal health condition. Hope for a “Punch Drunk Love” but this could the subject matter be the set up for a misfire from the man responsible for “40 Year Old Virgin,” “Superbad,” and “Knocked Up?” His wife, Leslie (“17 Again,” “Drillbit Taylor”) Mann and Sarah Silverman are the opposite sex lures for this comedy-drama.
All Pictures © Universal
ALIENS IN THE ATTIC: Fess up. Don’t you remember telling mommy you were scared of the dark or that a giant monster was hidden in your closet? Taking a little “E.T.” and “Gremlins” along with the standard what lurks behind the attic door, kids on a summer vacation discover knee high aliens in their attic. How can they get them to beam back before mom and dad tell them they’ve been playing too many video games? Incidentally, the cast includes two “SNL” dudes and a gal from “HSM.”
All Pictures © Fox
AUGUST 7
Known as “grind down” time in the film industry, August generally includes anything deemed not strong enough or good enough or just not fitting into June and July. McCall has seen some clips and believes “GI Joe,” “Julie & Julia” and “Shorts” have good potential.
GI JOE RISE OF COBRA: Toys have been the basis for some cool movies, so Hasbro’s G.I. Joe comes to life battling the evil arms dealing forces of Cobra. Rachael Nichols who’s featured in “Star Trek” provides a little eye candy for those that need a bit of eye candy.
JULIE & JULIA: Unknown to one another, a disgruntled secretary (Amy Adams) spices up her boring life by attempting to cook 524 Julia Child (played by Meryl Streep) recipes in a year.
SHORTS: Living in an every house looks the same suburb, a rainbow colored rocks hits a boy in the head. The rock has special powers --- it grants wishes. As the rock is shared, kids conjure miniature spaceships and crocodile armies, then, oh my, an adult gets hit on the head. Directed by Robert (“Spy Kids”) Rodriguez.
All Pictures © Warner Brothers
AUGUST 14
BANDSLAM: Here’s a good one for the tweens. Disney Channel superstars Vanessa Anne Hudgens ('High School Musical 1 & 2,' 'High School Musical 3') and Alyson Michalka ('Phil of the Future,”) are among the stars of a music driven comedy in which a popular gal forms a band with the campus outcast (Gaelan Connell) and enter a competition.
DISTRICT 9: A low budget aliens versus humans story where the E.T.’s have been peacefully surviving for 30 years in South Africa. With their weapons powerless, humankind succumbs to their fears and place a disinterested security company in charge of the alien’s compound. Then, a virus begins spreading… a virus which alters D.N.A. and can activate all those formerly useless weapons. Peter (“Lord of the Rings”) Jackson has a hand in this one.
THE GOODS LIVE HARD, SELL HARD: This could turn into an un-funny comedy depending on the disposition of Chrysler and G.M. Whether it will be a parody, dark themed, or just plain relevant will depend on the success or lack thereof of Detroit’s manufacturers. It’s about a struggling car dealership that lands a fast talking, hustler salesman to save it from bankruptcy. Then, the top salesman meets a woman whose not fond of his slick talking personality…..
PERFECT GETAWAY: Here’s one of those horror slashing films that picks on Hawaii not the Mountain State. Pairs of lovers discover that psychopaths are murdering tourists on the island paradise.
TAKING WOODSTOCK: Turned into a favorite at the Cannes Festival, it tells of how a young man working on his parents farm helps the concert organizers gain a permit for the iconic festival to be.
AUGUST 21
INGLORIOUS BASTERDS: Quentin Tarantino directs a film starring Brad Pitt about an American led killing squad inside German occupied France during the Second World War. Warning: It’s been sitting on the shelf a long time.
POST GRAD: Worst case scenario, but all too common in a recession. Gal graduates from prestigious college and she’s ready for a loft apartment, but she misses out on the job for which she prepared. Former “Gilmore Girl”, Alexis Bledel returns home to her highly eccentric “You Can’t Take It With You” family including a stubborn do-it-yourself dad (Michael Keaton), an overly thrifty mom (Jane Lynch), a politically incorrect grandma (Carol Burnett), a very odd little brother (Bobby Coleman). How’s she going to get a career on the road?
AUGUST 28
BOAT THAT ROCKED: It’s the 60s and broadcasting off the shore on a floating unlicensed radio station, rogue D.J.’s hook listeners on pop music , love and free will.
FINAL DESTINATION: DEATH TRIP: A man’s premonition of a deadly race car crash saves lives, but the Grim Reaper will not be cheated that easily.
HALLOWEEN II: Rob Zombie directs a re-make of the second “Halloween” saga.
SEPT 4
GAMER: In the future, Slayers is a hit of a game. In fact, players can control other humans by their online actions.
PANDORUM: Ben Foster and Dennis Quaid awake on board a spaceship with a case of amnesia.
HOLD OVERS:
17 AGAIN: Can Zac (“High School Musical”) Efron turn a standard getting a second chance to do life right premise into something that’s not part of the time changing formula? In this case, Mike O’Donnell (Matthew Perry) wishes he could change his past by going to college, playing basketball and finding a happy ending.
FIGHTING: Exploring the world of underground street fighting in New York City, Dito (“Guide to Recognizing Your Saints”) Montiel reteams with Channing Tatum, Terrence Howard and Luis Guzman
HANNAH MONTANA: Rather than a filmed concert, the two personality teen Miley Stewart (Hannah Montana and Miley Ray Cyrus in real life) takes dad (Billy Ray Cyrus) advice and with her head spinning from surging fame, the teen returns to her little home town in Tennessee to revisit her roots and get her head back together.
I LOVE YOU, MAN: Here’s a subtle twist on the chick flicks, call this a “bro” film. When Peter Klaven (Paul Rudd) gets a yes from Zooey (Rashida Jones), he realizes that his withdrawn personality has left him without any friends, specifically ‘best man’ at their wedding. After a series of flops, he meets Sydney (Jason Segel), but when they become inseparable the new best friend threatens to endanger his pending marriage.
KNOWING: When placing objects in a time capsule in 1958, one student has scribbled a series of random numbers for inclusion in the capsule. Professor John Koestler (Nicholas Cage) determines they are anything but random, rather, they tell the times for impending disasters and an upcoming apocalypse. Can Cage prevent global destruction?
MONSTERS V ALIENS: The latest 3D animated Dreamworks creation directed by Conrad (“Shrek II”) Vemon and Rob (“Shark Tales”) Letterman. The plot has a little girl hit by space debris turning into a giant monster, then whisked to a government compound where she finds a group of other monsters. Now, this group of rag tag Monsters must become super-heroes and save the world from aliens bent on killing everyone.
NEXT DAY AIR: A drug shipment goes to the wrong person and lots of people want to recover the package. But when the whacked out courier delivers the drugs to Mike Epps and Wood Harris, they have no intention of turning it over to their next door neighbors. While they grab the cocaine and head for a possible buyer, their next door neighbors start chasing them trying to recover the package before a notorious drug lord realizes what has occurred.
OBSESSED: A sexy office temporary worker named Lisa , (Ali Larter), begins stalking a happily married asset manager. But Derek (Idris Elba) won’t budge to the stalkers advances and soon he and his wife (Beyonce Knowles) must protect themselves from Lisa’s wrath.
SOLOIST: Here’s a real life tearjerker… the true cinematic story of violin prodigy Nathaniel Ayers (Jimmie Foxx) who after two years at Julliard ends up on the streets battling schizophrenia. Robert Downey Jr. plays a journalist wandering skid row who hears the strings coming from a bedraggled figure.
STAR TREK: It’s the dawn of a new Trekkie craze as J.J. Abrams directs, “Star Trek (2009),” which tells the origin of Captain Kirk , Mr. Spock and the crew before they take the USS Enterprise to places not boldly gone before. A sequel is already in the works.
STATE OF PLAY: This one sounds like it’s from the pages of recent Washington , D.C. history. Russell Crowe, Ben Affleck and Rachael McAdams are investigative reporters seeking clues to the cover up in the assassination of a congressman’s mistress.
TAKEN: A former spy (Liam Neeson) traveling through Europe embarks on a frantic quest to rescue his daughter (Maggie Grace) after she is abducted by slave traders in Europe while following U2’s European tour.
ONGOING INTERACTIVE FUN NOW AT 9:45 PM FRIDAYS…
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 @ 9:45 p.m.
Starting May 29 – June 4
HUNTINGTON, WV
MARQUEE PULLMAN: (Now ALL digital projection): Drag Me to Hell 11:50-2:20-5:00-7:30-9:55; Up in Disney Digital 3-D, 11:30-12:00-1:00-2:00-2:30-3:30-4:25-4:55-6:25-6:50-7:20-8:35-9:15-9:45; KIDTOONS: Thomas & Friends the Great Discovery, Sat/Sun 11:35 a.m., All seats $3.50; TIME CHANGES: Star Trek, 12:00-12:35-3:00-6:20-6:35-9:20; Wolverine 11:30-2:05-4:40-7:15-9:50; ENDS THURSDAY: Monsters and Aliens, Hannah Montana, Fighting, 17 Again; For Full Schedule, click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=9219
DISCOUNT CINEMA 4: Admission: $3. After 6 p.m., $2 before 6 p.m. and all day Tuesday; Haunting in Connecticut 5:20-7:20-9:20, Sat/Sun/Tues 1:20-3:20; Monsters v. Aliens 5:15-7:15-9:15, Sat/Sun/Tues Mat. 1:15-3:15; Obsessed, 5:20-7:30-9:40*, S/S/Tues 1:00-3:10 (* No show Friday May 29) ; Fast & Furious 5:20-7:30-9:40, Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues Mat. 3:15; I Love You Man , 9:45, Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 1:05; ENDS THURSDAY MAY 28: Knowing, Race to Witch Mountain; INTERACTIVE PERFORMANCE: Rocky Horror Picture Show, Fridays 9:45 p.m., LIVE pre-show and costumed moviegoer friendly ; often SELLS OUT; For full schedule click and select date: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/cinema/index.html
ASHLAND, KY
CINEMARK CINEMA 10: Up (2D) 11:40-1:00-2:20-3:40-5:00-6:20-7:40-9:00-10:20; Drag Me to Hell 11:20-2:00-4:30-7:00-9:30; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS THURSDAY: Ghost of Girlfriends Past, Obsessed, Wolverine; For full times, http://www.cinemark.com/metropolitan_opera.asp
PHOENIX 10 KYOVA MALL: “Up” 12:30-1:30-3:15-4:15-6:15-7:00-9:00-9:45; “Drag Me to Hell, 1:50-4:35-7:15-10:05; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS THURSDAY: TBA; Full schedule: http://www.movietickets.com/house_detail.asp?house_id=10480
BECKLEY, WV
GALLERIA CINEMAS: (Now All Digital Projection!): Drag Me to Hell 12:00-2:25-4:50-7:20-9:45; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:30-11:55-2:00-2:25-4:30-4:55-7:00-7:25-9:30-9:50; KIDTOONS: Thomas & Friends Great Discovery 11:40 a.m. Sat/Sun only; TIME CHANGES: 17 Again, 2:10-4:40; Fighting 7:10-9:40 only; Star Trek 11:45-12:45-3:00-6:20-6:50-9:15; ENDS THURSDAY: Obsessed, Monsters & Aliens; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=10115
BLUEFIELD, WV
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!): Drag Me to Hell, 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:30-9:55; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:30-2:00-4:30-7:00-9:30; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS WEDNESDAY: Fighting, ENDS THURS MAY 21: Wolverine, Ghosts of Girl Friends Past, Obsessed; For full schedule: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=9196
CHARLESTON, WV
MARQUEE SOUTHRIDGE: (Now All Digital Projection!): Drag Me to Hell 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:30-10:00; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:30-12:45-2:00-3:15-4:30-6:30-7:00-9:00-9:30; KIDTOONS: Thomas & Friends the Great Discovery, Sat/Sun 11:20 a.m., All seats $3.50; TIME CHANGES: Star Trek (one print) 1:00-4:00-7:00-9:55; Wolverine (one print) 12:00-2:30-5;00-7:30-10:00; ENDS THURSDAY: Monsters v Aliens, Obsessed; For full schedule click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=6021
PARK PLACE STADIUM CINEMAS: Up in 3D, 1:00-3:10-5:20-7:30-9:40; Drag Me to Hell, 12:45-3:10-5:25-7:35-9:55; TIME CHANGES: Wolverine (one print) 12:30-3:30-7:00-9:45; Angels & Demons, 12:30-3:30-7:00-9:45; Star Trek, 12:40-4:00-7:05-9:35; ENDS THURSDAY: Monsters v Aliens; For full listing: http://www.ourshowtimes.com/parkplace/index.html
HINTON, WV
RITZ THEATRE: Closed for renovations; grand re-opening July 4; For full schedule, click: http://www.ritzwv.com
HURRICANE, WV
TEAYS VALLEY CINEMA 10: Up, 11:00*-1:10-3:20-5:30-7:40-9:45; Drag Me to Hell, 11:15-1:30-3:30-5:25-7:30-10:00; TIME CHANGES: Star Trek 11:20*-3:45-7:15 only; Obsessed, 1:45-9:35; Angels and Demons 10:45*-3:05-7:15 only; Ghosts of Girlfriends Past 1:15-5:30-9:50 only Obsessed 10:50*-3:25-7:40-10:00 only; 17 Again, 1:05-5:25 only; Hannah Montana 11:15*-3:15 only; Ghosts of Girlfriends Past 1:15-5:15-7;15-9:50 only; ENDS THURSDAY: NONE; (*Early Bird Show Sat Only); For full schedule click: http://boxoffice.printtixusa.com/allstar/movies?v=2756
LEWISBURG, WV
SENACA SHOWPLACE: Up, 4:10-7:00-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:10; Night at the Museum , 4:00-6:50-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; ENDS THURSDAY: Star Trek; For advance tickets, http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=4500
LOGAN, W.VA.
FOUNTAIN PLACE CINEMA 8: Up in 3D, 4:45-7:05-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:10-2:30; Drag Me to Hell, 4:50-7:15-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:15-2:35; TIME CHANGES: NONE; ENDS THURSDAY: Ghost of Girlfriends Past, Wolverine; 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: Up in Disney Digital 3D, 4:40-7:10-9:35, Sat/Sun Mat. 11:45-2:10; Terminator: Salvation, 4:00-7:00-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:00; Night at the Museum II, 4:50-7:20-9:45, Sat/Sun Mat. 11:50-2:20; Angels and Demons, 3:30-6:30-9:30, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:30; ENDS THURSDAY: Star Trek; For advance tickets: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=4499
WELCH, WV
MCDOWELL 3: Terminator Salvation: 4:20-7:00-9:40, Sat/Sun Mat 1:00; Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, 4:00-6:50-9:20, Sat/Sun Mat. 1:30; Angels & Demons , 3:25-6:30-9:35, Sat/Sun Mat. 12:20; ENDS THURSDAY: None; For Advance Tickets, http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=9609
WHEELING, WV
Marquee Highlands 14: (All Digital DLP Projection): Drag Me to Hell 12:00-2:30-5:00-7:25-9:50; Up in Disney Digital 3D, 11:45-12:15-12:45-2:10-2:40-3:10-4:35-5:05-5:35-7:00-7:30-8:00-9:25-9:55; TIME CHANGES: Wolverine, 11:30-2:05-9:55; Ghost of Girlfriends Past 4:40-7:05 ONLY; Star Trek 12:20-3:20-6:20-9:20 (one print); Angels and Demons 12:00-3:05-6:15-9:20 (one print); ENDS THURSDAY: Obsessed, 17 Again, Monsters and Aliens; For full schedule click: http://www.marqueecinemas.com/location.asp?location=11469
UPCOMING RELEASES (Dates Subject to Change; not all films in all areas)
June 5: Hangover, Land of the Lost, My Life in Ruins
June 12: Imagine That, Taking of Pelham 1-2-3
June 19: The Proposal, Year One
June 26: My Sister’s Keeper, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (on June 24)
July 1: Ice Age Dawn of the Dinosaurs, Public Enemies
July 10: Bruno, I Love You Beth Cooper
July 17: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince
July 24: All Good Things, G-Force, The Orphan, Ugly Truth
July 31: Funny People, They Came from Upstairs
August 7: GI Joe, Julie & Julia, Shorts, When in Rome
August 14: Bandslam, District 9, The Goods: The Don Ready Story, Time Traveler’s Wife
August 21: Goose on the Loose, Inglorious Bastards
August 28: Boat That Rocked, Final Destination Death Trip 3D, Halloween II
· Release dates subject to change; not all films will play in every market and/or every theatre.
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