Opening 12/30/2011

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Nothing new opening this week. What you see is what you've got!

Leaving 12/29/2011

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - nothing
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Tower Heist
Warren Old Town - nothing
Warren West 21st - nothing

War Horse ***

Steven Spielberg directed this Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Emily Watson, David Thewlis, Peter Mullan, Niels Arestrup, Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Irvine, Benedict Cumberbatch, Toby Kebbell. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of war violence. Running time is two hours and twenty-six minutes.

About the remarkable friendship between a horse named Joey and a young man called Albert (Irvine), who tames and trains him. When they are forcefully parted, the film follows the extraordinary journey of the horse as he moves through WWI, changing and inspiring the lives of all those he meets.

This is obviously aimed at the family Christmas crowd and for the most part it succeeds. I wonder how smaller children will respond to the war scenes which at times are fairly intense, although nothing like Saving Private Ryan. In my estimation the film could just have easily been told in a shorter time but perhaps patrons feel like they're getting their moneys worth when it's this long. The only continuing link throughout is the horse, as he goes back and forth between the British and German armies depending on the circumstances at the time, with the human characters changing accordingly. Horse lovers and families will enjoy this the most. Fans of Gone With The Wind should appreciate the homage Spielberg makes at the end of the film. I doubt younger audiences will notice it.

A large screen will add to the film's impact. There are no additional scenes once the credits start. Theatres/Times.

The Darkest Hour 2D/3D *½

Chris Gorak directed thisSci-Fi film. Watch Preview. Cast: Emile Hirsch, Olivia Thirlby, Max Minghella, Rachael Taylor, Joel Kinnaman. Rated PG-13 for sci-fi action violence and some language. Running time is one hour thirty-nine minutes.

The story of five young people who find themselves stranded in Moscow, fighting to survive in the wake of a devastating alien attack.

I like sci-fi and this was OK, but it's not something I recommend spending your money on. The production values are fine, the film looks polished, but the plot is such you never really care what happens to the cast. I watched this with a younger crowd and none of them liked it. I doubt many of the older generations are going to be interested so I figure this film will be gone before many realize it was even here. It was filmed in Russia and in Berlin and has a definite European feel, which many find oft putting. I saw the 2D version so I can't tell you about the quality of the 3D.

The size of the screen will have no impact on your enjoyability. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. 3D  Theatres/Times. 2D Theatres/Times.

Girl With The Dragon Tattoo ***½

David Fincher directed this Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgård, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright, Yorick van Wageningen, Joely Richardson. Rated R for brutal violent content including rape and torture, strong sexuality, graphic nudity, and language. Running time is two hours and thirty-eight minutes.

Directed by David Fincher and starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, the film is based on the first novel in The Millennium Trilogy, which altogether have sold 50 million copies in 46 countries and become a worldwide
phenomenon. An investigative journalist (Craig) is hired to discover who killed a young girl decades earlier and is aided by a brilliant but troubled assistant (Rooney).

I really liked the 2009 Swedish version of this film so I was initially somewhat ambivalent about this version. As far as I'm concerned, this one is even better than the first, although there are some significant differences. Craig seems more realistic an an investigative journalist but I enjoyed Rapace more as Lisbeth. I don't think that's Mara's fault, rather her character has been changed this time around and I liked her better as she was before. The rest of the cast is first rate and the production values are top notch. I normally get restless in a film of this length but Fincher kept me intrigued throughout, no mean feat considering I already knew the plot. I  think that's because this isn't a remake of the original film but rather a revisualization of the novel, resulting in a somewhat different plot. Those who thought the original film was too sexually violent should know this one is slightly more graphic, although it didn't seem gratuitous to me. This is an extremely well made film although perhaps too dark for some during this season.

A large screen will be advantageous in appreciating the outdoor scenes although not imperative. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Theatres/Times.

Opening 12/21-25/2011

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Opening  Wednesday 12/21

Adventures Of Tintin2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 47 min. Family Watch Preview Cast: Jamie Bell, Andy Serkis, Daniel Craig, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Gad Elmaleh, Toby Jones, Mackenzie Crook. Plot: Tintin (Bell), is an intrepid young reporter whose relentless pursuit of a good story thrusts him into a world of high adventure along with the nefarious Red Rackham (Craig). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Girl With The Dragon Tattoo [R] 2 hrs. 38 min.Drama Watch Preview Cast: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgård, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright, Yorick van Wageningen, Joely Richardson. Plot: directed by David Fincher and starring Daniel Craig and Rooney Mara, the film is based on the first novel in The Millennium Trilogy, which altogether have sold 50 million copies in 46 countries and become a worldwide
phenomenon. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Opening Friday 12/23

My Week With Marilyn [R] 1 hr. 39 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Michelle Williams, Eddie Redmayne, Kenneth Branagh, Judi Dench, Julia Ormond, Dougray Scott, Zoe Wanamaker, Emma Watson, Toby Jones, Philip Jackson, Geraldine Somerville, Derek Jacobi, Simon Russell Beale, Dominic Cooper. Plot: a lowly film assistant (Redmayne) introduces Marilyn Monroe (Williams) to some of the pleasures of British life; an idyllic week in which he escorts a Monroe desperate to get away from her retinue of Hollywood hangers-on and the pressures of work. Showing at: Warren East.

We Bought A Zoo [PG] 1 hr. 50 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Matt Damon, Scarlett Johansson, Thomas Haden Church, Patrick Fugit, Elle Fanning, John Michael Higgins. Plot: an amazing and true story about a single dad (Damon) who decides his family needs a fresh start, so he and his two children move to the most unlikely of places: a zoo. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Opening Sunday 12/25

The Darkest Hour 2D/3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 29 min.Sci-Fi Watch Preview Cast: Emile Hirsch, Olivia Thirlby, Max Minghella, Rachael Taylor, Joel Kinnaman. Plot: the story of five young people who find themselves stranded in Moscow, fighting to survive in the wake of a devastating alien attack. Showing at: to be announced

War  Horse [PG-13] 2 hrs. 26 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Emily Watson, David Thewlis, Peter Mullan, Niels Arestrup, Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Irvine, Benedict Cumberbatch, Toby Kebbell. Plot: about the remarkable friendship between a horse named Joey and a young man called Albert (Irvine), who tames and trains him. When they are forcefully parted, the film follows the extraordinary journey of the horse as he moves through WWI, changing and inspiring the lives of all those he meets. Showing at: to be announced

Leaving 12/20/2011

Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - Arthur Christmas, Twilight: Breaking Dawn 1
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - The Help, 50/50, The Three Musketeers, The Smurfs, Contagion
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Happy Feet 2, Puss In Boots, Jack And Jill
Warren Old Town - Twilight: Breaking Dawn 1, Hugo, Immortals
Warren West 21st - Tower Heist, Puss In Boots, Happy Feet 2

Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows ***

Guy Ritchie directed this Mystery. Watch Preview. Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Noomi Rapace, Jared Harris, Eddie Marsan, Stephen Fry, Rachel McAdams. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and some drug material. Running time is two hours and nine minutes.

When the Crown Prince of Austria is found dead, the evidence, as construed by Inspector Lestrade (Eddie Marsan), points to suicide. But Sherlock Holmes  (Downey Jr.) deduces that the prince has been the victim of murder—a murder that is only one piece of a larger and much more portentous puzzle, designed by Professor Moriarty (Harris).

This a good film but with a couple of flaws that keep it from a better rating. The story is pretty weak, which is surprising for a Holmes film. It looks more like a large number of action scenes barely held together by a plot. The two leads are good together and there is some enjoyable repartee between them. Some of the location scenes and sets are quite spectacular and production values are quite good throughout. Director Ritchie likes the "up close and quick cut" technique which younger audiences seem to appreciate but which I personally think makes it hard at times to figure out what's going on. Holmes and Downey Jr. fans will find this enjoyable but it isn't as good as could be hoped for.

This will be best enjoyed on a large screen with good sound. The soundtrack is quite impressive and very good theatre sound will enhance it. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Theatres/Times.

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol ***½

Brad Bird directed this Action film.Watch preview Cast: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Josh Holloway, Michael Nyqvist, Vladimir Mashkov, Lea Seydoux, Anil Kapoor. Rated PG-13 for sequences of intense action and violence. Running time is two hours and thirteen minutes.

IMF is shut down when it's implicated in a global terrorist bombing plot. Ghost Protocol is initiated and Ethan Hunt (Cruise) and his rogue new team must go undercover to clear their organization's name and save the world from nuclear disaster.

If you're looking for a good story with good special effects and good acting, here's your film. I would have been happier if it had been thirty minutes shorter but the pacing is good so it isn't as bad as you'd think. All of the cast acquit themselves well with Cruise being a solid performer in his role (even if he does run like a cartoon character). Those suffering from acrophobia will have to shut their eyes for a few minutes but the view is quite stunning for those who choose to watch. Scenes were done on location in several countries so the location shots are quite realistic. Action fans are not likely to find much better this holiday season.

This is currently only showing in IMAX and the large screen is used effectively. When it moves to regular engagements you will enjoy this more on a larger screen. There are no additional scenes once the credits start.
Theatre/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 12/16/2011

MetaCritic indicates YOUNG ADULT and MISSION IMPOSSIBLE (73) are tied as the best of the new films this week, followed by SHERLOCK HOLMES (53), with  CHIP-WRECKED (26) trailing. I watched two of this week's  new films.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of SHERLOCK HOLMES (***) and MISSION IMPOSSIBLE (***½) will be posted at 4:30 p.m. Friday. Until then, here are national reviews of all the films.

The  Globe & Mail review of  CHIP-WRECKED.
Roger Ebert review of MISSION IMPOSSIBLE.
Los Angeles Times review of  SHERLOCK HOLMES.
Miami Hearld review of  YOUNG ADULT.

Opening 12/16/2011

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Alvin And The Chipmunks: Chip-Wrecked [G] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Jason Lee, David Cross, Jenny Slate, Justin Long, Matthew Gray Gubler, Jesse McCartney, Amy Poehler, Anna Faris, Christina Applegate. Plot: the vacationing Chipmunks and Chipettes are turning a luxury cruise liner into their personal playground, until they become 'chipwrecked' on a remote island. As the 'Munks and Chipettes try various schemes to find their way home, they accidentally discover their new turf is not as deserted as it seems. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol IMAX Only [PG-13] 2 hrs. 13 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Paula Patton, Josh Holloway, Michael Nyqvist, Vladimir Mashkov, Lea Seydoux, Anil Kapoor. Plot: IMF is shut down when it's implicated in a global terrorist bombing plot. Ghost Protocol is initiated and Ethan Hunt (Cruise) and his rogue new team must go undercover to clear their organization's name. Showing at: Warren West.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game Of Shadows 2 hrs. 9 min. Mystery Watch Preview Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, Noomi Rapace, Jared Harris, Eddie Marsan, Stephen Fry, Rachel McAdams. Plot: when the Crown Prince of Austria is found dead, the evidence, as construed by Inspector Lestrade (Eddie Marsan), points to suicide. But Sherlock Holmes  (Downey Jr.) deduces that the prince has been the victim of murder—a murder that is only one piece of a larger and much more portentous puzzle, designed by Professor Moriarty (Harris). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Young Adult [R] 1 hr. 34 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson, Patton Oswalt, Elizabeth Reaser. Plot: a recently divorced writer (Theron) returns to her small hometown to relive her glory days and attempt to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart (Wilson). Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 12/15/2011

Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - The Muppets, Happy Feet 2, Jack And Jill
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - nothing
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Take Shelter, J. Edgar, Immortals, In Time
Warren Old Town - Tower Heist
Warren West 21st - Immortals, In Time, J. Edgar

New Year's Eve **½

Garry Marshall directed this Romantic Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Jon Bon Jovi, Abigail Breslin, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Robert De Niro, Josh Duhamel, Zac Efron, Hector Elizondo, Katherine Heigl, Ashton Kutcher, Seth Meyers, Lea Michele, Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Pfeiffer, Til Schweiger, Hilary Swank, Sofia Vergara. Rated PG-13 for language including some sexual references. Running time is one hour and fifty-eight minutes.

Intertwining stories of various singles and couples told amidst the pulse and promise of New York City on the most dazzling night of the year.

If you read many of the national reviews you would think this was one of the worst films ever made. To be sure I've seen far better. But I'm guessing most couples who watch this will find it an enjoyable couple hours of entertainment. Its weakness stems from the fact there is no real star,  but rather a number of vignettes, each with a star or two on screen for a short time before moving on to the next one. They all coalesce satisfactorily by the time the film ends but none of them have much development. Still, that keeps the story from dragging and  most will not be dissatisfied at the conclusion.

The size of the screen has little to do with the film's enjoyability. There are several outtakes shown once the credits start. Theatres/Times.

The Descendents ***

Alexander Payne directed and co-wrote this Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Beau Bridges, Robert Forster, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Nick Krause, Amara Miller, Mary Birdsong, Rob Huebel, Patricia Hastie. Rated R for language including some sexual references. Running time is one hour and fifty-five minutes.

An indifferent husband and father (Clooney) of two girls (Woodley, Miller) is forced to re-examine his past and embrace his future when his wife suffers a boating accident off Waikiki.

Well, this will take the Ho, Ho, Ho out of your holidays. I know some have called it a comedy but I certainly didn't find much humor at all. That doesn't mean it's not a good film, it is...but you're not going to be doing much laughing so you should be aware of that before you head out thinking you're in for a warm, fuzzy holiday pic. The  cast is excellent, especially Clooney and the eldest daughter, Woodley. Even the daughter's boyfriend, Sid (Krause), managed to win me over, which was no mean feat considering his character. The film was shot in Hawaii so the scenery is as gorgeous as you'd imagine. The pacing is good so even though this is a fairly serious drama it never bogs down. Those interested in family interaction and excellent acting will find this worth their while. I'd also be surprised if Clooney doesn't get an Oscar nomination for this role.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. A large screen will make little difference in your enjoyment. As for sound...the film is packed with Hawaiian music and I'd have been just as happy if I hadn't been able to hear it so well. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 12/9/2011

MetaCritic indicates TAKE SHELTER (85) is the best of the new films this week, closely followed by THE DESCENDANTS (84), with THE SITTER (44) and NEW YEAR'S EVE (24) trailing. I watched two of this week's  new films.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of THE DESCENDANTS (***) and NEW YEAR'S EVE (**½) will be posted at 4:30 p.m. Friday. Until then, here are national reviews of all the films.

Miami Hearld review of THE DESCENDANTS.
Roger Ebert review of NEW YEAR'S EVE.
USA Today review of THE SITTER.
Chicago Tribune review of TAKE SHELTER.

Opening 12/9/2011

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

New Year's Eve [PG-13] 1 hr. 58 min. Romantic Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Halle Berry, Jessica Biel, Jon Bon Jovi, Abigail Breslin, Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, Robert De Niro, Josh Duhamel, Zac Efron, Hector Elizondo, Katherine Heigl, Ashton Kutcher, Seth Meyers, Lea Michele, Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Pfeiffer, Til Schweiger, Hilary Swank, Sofia Vergara. Plot: intertwining stories told amidst the pulse and promise of New York City on the most dazzling night of the year. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Descendents [R] 1 hr. 55 min. Drama/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Beau Bridges, Robert Forster, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Nick Krause, Amara Miller, Mary Birdsong, Rob Huebel, Patricia Hastie. Plot: an indifferent husband and father of two girls is forced to re-examine his past and embrace his future when his wife suffers a boating accident off Waikiki. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.

Take Shelter [R] 2 hr. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Michael Shannon, Jessica Chastain, Shea Whigham, Katy Mixon, Kathy Baker. Plot: a man begins to have terrifying dreams he keeps to himself, channeling his anxiety into obsessively building a storm shelter in his backyard. His seemingly inexplicable behavior concerns and confounds those closest to him. Showing at:  Warren East.

The Sitter [R] 1 hr. 22 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Jonah Hill, Sam Rockwell, Max Records, Kevin Hernandez, Landry Bender, J.B. Smoove, Method Man. Plot: a college student, suspended for the semester and living back at home with his single mom, has a night to remember when he gets talked into baby-sitting the eccentric kids next door. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 12/8/2011

Derby Plaza - Puss In Boots, Happy Feet Two, Immortals
Movie Machine - Puss In Boots
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Crazy Stupid Love, Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Skin I Live In, Like Crazy, Happy Feet Two
Warren Old Town - Anonymous, Arthur Christmas
Warren West 21st - Ides Of March, Moneyball

Worthwhile (or not), 12/2/2011

MetaCritic indicates THE SKIN I LIVE IN (70) is the best of the new films this week, followed by ANONYMOUS (50). I didn't watch either. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

While I didn't watch anything this week, I did select reviews for the two new films:

Washington Post review of ANONYMOUS.
Roger Ebert review of THE SKIN I LIVE IN.

Opening 12/2/2011

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Anonymous [PG-13] 2 hrs. 26 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Rhys Ifans, Vanessa Redgrave, Joely Richardson, David Thewlis, Xavier Samuel, Sebastian Armesto, Rafe Spall, Edward Hogg, Jamie Campbell Bower, Derek Jacobi. Plot: set in the political snake-pit of Elizabethan England, "Anonymous" speculates on an issue that has for centuries intrigued academics and brilliant minds, namely: who was the author of the plays credited to William Shakespeare? Showing at: Warren Old Town.

The Skin I Live In [R] 1 hr. 57 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Antonio Banderas, Elena Anaya, Marisa Paredes, Jan Cornet, Roberto Álamo, Blanca Suárez. Plot: since his wife was burned in a car crash, Dr. Robert Ledgard (Antonia Banderas), an eminent plastic surgeon, has been interested in creating a new skin with which he could have saved her. After twelve years, he manages to cultivate a skin that is a real shield against every assault. Showing at:  Warren East.

Leaving 12/1/2011

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Johnny English Reborn, Seven Days In Utopia
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Martha Marcy May Marlene
Warren Old Town - J. Edgar, Jack And  Jill
Warren West 21st - nothing

Hugo ***½

Martin Scorsese directed this Family Fantasy. Watch Preview. Cast: Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Kingsley, Jude Law, Ray Winstone, Christopher Lee, Helen McCrory, Richard Griffiths, Frances de la Tour, Emily Mortimer, Michael Stuhlbarg. Rated PG for mild thematic material, some action/peril and smoking. Running time is two hours and seven minutes.

The story of an orphan boy (Butterfield) living a secret life in the walls of a Paris train station. With the help of an eccentric girl (Moretz), he searches for the answer to a mystery linking the father (Law) he recently lost, the ill-tempered toy shop owner (Kingsley) living below him and a heart shaped lock, seemingly without a key. All the while he must avoid the clutches of the station Inspector (Cohen).

I can't remember the last time I was so impressed by the sheer quality of a film. The story is interesting, the production values are superb and the acting is top notch. It does have in my opinion one flaw, and it's the reason I didn't give it four stars. For most audiences the pacing is too slow resulting in a film at least twenty minutes too long. For that reason I have a hard time thinking children won't be bored, which is too bad considering the subject matter. Adults, however, who love a well made film shouldn't miss this one.

I watched the 2D version but this was made as a 3D film and considering its quality I'm betting the 3D version will look great. Auditorium size will  make no  difference in the film's enjoyability. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 11/25/2011

MetaCritic indicates HUGO (80) is the best of the new films this week, followed by THE MUPPETS (76), LIKE CRAZY (70), and in last place, ARTHUR CHRISTMAS (68). I've seen one of these and thought it was great. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My review of HUGO (***½) will be posted later today. In the meantime, here's an assortment of national reviews:

Roger Moore review of ARTHUR CHRISTMAS.
Rolling Stone review of HUGO.
Roger Ebert review of LIKE CRAZY.
James Berardinelli review of THE MUPPETS.

Opening 11/23/2011

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Arthur Christmas 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 39 min. Animated Comedy Watch Preview Voices: James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Jim Broadbent, Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Ashley Jensen. Plot: at last reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child's question: 'So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night? Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Hugo 2D/3D [PG] 2 hrs. 02 min. Family Fantasy Watch Preview Cast: Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Moretz, Sacha Baron Cohen, Ben Kingsley, Jude Law, Ray Winstone, Christopher Lee, Helen McCrory, Richard Griffiths, Frances de la Tour, Emily Mortimer, Michael Stuhlbarg. Plot: the story of an orphan boy living a secret life in the walls of a Paris train station. With the help of an eccentric girl, he searches for the answer to a mystery linking the father he recently lost, the ill-tempered toy shop owner living below him and a heart shaped lock, seemingly without a key. Showing at:  Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Like Crazy [PG-13] 1 hr. 30 min. Romantic Drama Watch Preview Cast: Anton Yelchin, Felicity Jones, Jennifer Lawrence, Charlie Bewley, Alex Kingston, Oliver Muirhead, Chris Messina, Finola Hughes, Ben York Jones, Jamie Thomas King. Plot: a British college student (Felicity Jones) falls for her American classmate (Anton Yelchin) and they embark on a passionate and life-changing journey only to be separated when she violates the terms of her visa. Showing at:  Warren East.

The Muppets [PG] 1 hr. 50 min. Family Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Jason Segel, Amy Adams, Chris Cooper, Rashida Jones, Alan Arkin, Jack Black, Billy Crystal, Zach Galifianakis, Kathy Griffin, Ricky Gervais, Emily Blunt, Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, Walter. Plot: on vacation in Los Angeles, Walter, the world's biggest Muppet fan, and his friends Gary (Jason Segel) and Mary (Amy Adams) from Smalltown, USA, discover the nefarious plan of oilman Tex Richman (Chris Cooper) to raze the Muppet Theater and drill for the oil recently discovered beneath the Muppets' former stomping grounds. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Leaving 11/22/2011

Derby Plaza - Tower Heist
Movie Machine - Immortals
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - The Thing, Cars 2, Dream House
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - Real Steel, Moneyball, Footloose, Paranormal Activity 3, Courageous, Harold & Kumar 3D
Warren Old Town - Puss In Boots, Harold & Kumar 3D
Warren West 21st - Courageous, Real Steel, Harold & Kumar 3D, Footloose, Paranormal Activity 3

Happy Feet Two **

George Miller directed this Animated feature. Watch Preview. Voices: Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hank Azaria, Alecia Moore (P!nk), Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Sofia Vergara, Common, Hugo Weaving, Magda Szubanski, Anthony LaPaglia, Richard Carter, Benjamin "Lil P-Nut" Flores, Jr. Rated PG for some rude humor and mild peril. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

Sequel to the Academy Award winning animated hit returns to Antarctica in 3D.

Frankly, I don't see much purpose for this sequel. It's not as entertaining as the first although small children will probably like it well enough. I watched the 3D version but I didn't find  it compelling enough to recommend you pay extra for  it. The only reason I'm giving it two stars is because it had one of my favorite Puccini arias in one of the scenes, but I'm just guessing that won't thrill too many others.

Screen/auditorium size is not important to enjoyability. There are no additional scenes once the credits start and those are extremely difficult to read anyway. 3D Theatres/Times. 2D Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 **

Bill Condon directed this Romance/Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Kellan Lutz, Jackson Rathbone, Elizabeth Reaser, Nikki Reed, Billy Burke. Rated PG-13 for disturbing images, violence, sexuality/partial nudity and some thematic elements. Running time is one hour and 57 minutes.

Bella's marriage results in a pregnancy that poses a threat to both the wolf pack and vampire coven.

This didn't do much for me but then I'm the wrong age and gender for its intended audience. I found it surprisingly emotionless although none of the leads are known for their acting ability. The whole "baby is killing her" schtick went by the wayside once you saw her. She looked like a normal, average sized infant to me. There was hardly any action from the wolf pack other than some growling and the vampire coven was nice to the point of boring. Teen age girls will care nothing about these comments but adults should be aware this is not worth waiting in line for.

A big screen will make little difference to your enjoyability. There is one additional scene that gives something of a preview for next year's sequel after the credits start.  Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 11/18/2011

MetaCritic indicates MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE (76) is the best of the new films this week, followed by HAPPY FEET TWO (50), and in last place, TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1 (45). I've seen two of the three and thought they were OK but not great. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of HAPPY FEET  TWO and TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1 will be posted at 4:30 pm today. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see below:

Chicago Tribune review of HAPPY FEET TWO.
Washington Post review of MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE.
Entertainment Weekly review of TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN PART 1.

Opening, 11/18/11

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Happy Feet Two 2D, 3D, IMAX 3D [PG] 1 hr. 43 min. Animated Watch Preview Voices: Elijah Wood, Robin Williams, Hank Azaria, Alecia Moore (P!nk), Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Sofia Vergara, Common, Hugo Weaving, Magda Szubanski, Anthony LaPaglia, Richard Carter, Benjamin "Lil P-Nut" Flores, Jr. Plot: sequel to the Academy Award winning animated hit returns to the magnificent landscape of Antarctica in 3D. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Martha Marcy May Marlene [R] 1 hr. 42 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Elizabeth Olsen, Christopher Abbott, Brady Corbet, Hugh Dancy, Maria Dizzia, Julia Garner, John Hawkes, Louisa Krause, Sarah Paulson. Plot: psychological thriller about a young woman (Elizabeth Olsen) rapidly unraveling during her attempt to reclaim a normal life after fleeing from a cult and its charismatic leader (John Hawkes). Showing at: Warren East.

Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 [PG-13] 1 hr. 58 min. Romance/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner, Peter Facinelli, Ashley Greene, Kellan Lutz, Jackson Rathbone, Elizabeth Reaser, Nikki Reed, Billy Burke. Plot: Bella's unborn child poses a threat to both the wolf pack and vampire coven. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 11/17/11

Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - Tower Heist, Paranormal Activity 3, Real Steel
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - I Don't Know How She Does It, Warrior, Captain America
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Ides  Of March, 50/50, The Way, Rum Diary, Margin Call
Warren Old Town - Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas
Warren West 21st - Moneyball, The Three Musketeers

Worthwhile (or not), 11/11/2011

MetaCritic indicates J. EDGAR (59) is the best of the new films this week, followed by IMMORTALS (43), and in last place, JACK AND JILL (24). I've been a little under the weather this week and haven't seen any of them. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

Sorry, no reviews from me this week. But I haven't forgotten you, see the reviews below:

Philadelphia Inquirer review of J. EDGAR.
New York Times review of JACK AND JILL.
USA Today review of  IMMORTALS.

Opening, 11/11/11

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Immortals 2D, 3D [R] 1 hr. 50 min.Fantasy adventure Watch Preview Cast: Henry Cavill, Stephen Dorff, Isabel Lucas, Freida Pinto, Luke Evans, Kellan Lutz, John Hurt, Mickey Rourke. Plot: as a power-mad king razes ancient Greece in search of a legendary weapon, a heroic young villager rises up against him. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

J.Edgar [R] 2 hrs. 17 min. Biographical drama Watch Preview Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Watts, Judi Dench, Armie Hammer, Josh Lucas, Ken Howard. Plot: ss the face of law enforcement in America for almost fifty years, J. Edgar Hoover (DiCaprio) was feared and admired, reviled and revered. But behind closed doors, he held secrets that would have destroyed his image, his career and his life. Showing at: Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Jack And Jill [PG] 1 hr. 31 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Adam Sandler, Katie Holmes, Al Pacino. Plot: a successful advertising executive (Adam Sandler) in Los Angeles with a beautiful wife and kids, dreads one event each year: the Thanksgiving visit of his identical twin sister Jill (also Adam Sandler). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 11/10/11

Derby Plaza -Courageous
Movie Machine - In Time, Footloose
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Killer Elite, Our Idiot Brother, Apollo 18
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Three Musketeers, Dolphin Tale
Warren Old Town - The Rum Diary, In Time, Paranormal Activity 3
Warren West 21st -Dolphin Tale, 50/50, Paranormal Activity 3, The Rum Diary

Tower Heist **

Brett Ratner directed this Action comedy. Watch Preview. Cast: Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe, Casey Affleck, Stephen Henderson, Judd Hirsch, Michael Pena, Alan Alda. Rated PG-13 for language and sexual content. Running time is one hour and forty-four minutes.

After the workers (Stiller, Sidibe,  Affleck) at a luxury Central Park condominium discover the penthouse billionaire (Alda) has stolen their retirement, they plot the ultimate revenge: a heist to reclaim what he took from them.

This had the potential to be an enjoyable caper film but dropped the ball in so many places it turns out not to have either action or comedy. There's all sorts of potential, from the cast to an intriguing plot. But nothing works quite right and by the time you reach the ending you're more than ready to leave. There's much better fare coming for the holidays so I'd save my money for them.

 There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. I don't think either a large screen or a large crowd are going to be of much benefit for this one. Theatres/Times.

Margin Call ***

J.C. Chandor wrote and directed this Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Zachary Quinto, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell, Demi Moore, Stanley Tucci. Rated R for language. Running time is one hour and forty-seven minutes.

Set in the high-stakes world of the financial industry, the key players at an investment firm scramble to save their company during one perilous 24-hour period in the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis.

I don't know how much actual truth there is in this plot but it sure feels like it could be true, enough so you're going to be mad when it's over. The first class cast takes us through the realization that selling bundled toxic mortgages isn't going to work out as planned. But, it's what they do once they discover the problem that will make you wonder why none of them are in jail. This isn't entertainment in the usual sense but the cast and pacing keep you interested throughout and may provide some background on our country's current financial mess. Theatre/Times.

There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. Any size screen and auditorium will suffice since there won't be much in the way of audience reaction. Theatre/Time.

Worthwhile (or not), 11/4/2011

MetaCritic indicates MARGIN CALL (75) is the best of the new films this week, followed by TOWER HEIST (59), and in last place, A VERY HAROLD AND KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS (57). I've seen two of these and found one enjoyable and the other not so much. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of MARGIN CALL (***) and TOWER HEIST (**) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below:

Miami Herald review of MARGIN CALL.
Philadelphia Inquirer review of TOWER HEIST.
USA Today review of A VERY HAROLD AND KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS.

Opening 11/4/11

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Margin Call [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, Jeremy Irons, Zachary Quinto, Penn Badgley, Simon Baker, Mary McDonnell, Demi Moore, Stanley Tucci. Plot: set in the high-stakes world of the financial industry, the key players at an investment firm scramble to save their company during one perilous 24-hour period in the early stages of the 2008 financial crisis. Showing at:  Warren East.

Tower Heist [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Action comedy Watch Preview Cast: Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Matthew Broderick, Téa Leoni, Gabourey Sidibe, Casey Affleck, Stephen Henderson, Judd Hirsch, Michael Pena, Alan Alda. Plot: after the workers at a luxury Central Park condominium discover the penthouse billionaire has stolen their retirement, they plot the ultimate revenge: a heist to reclaim what he took from them. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

A Very Harold And Kumar 3D Christmas [R] 1 hr. 30 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: John Cho, Kal Penn, Paula Garcés, Danneel Harris, Tom Lennon, Danny Trejo, Elias Koteas, Eddie Kaye Thomas, David Krumholtz, Patton Oswalt, Neil Patrick Harris. Plot: after six years of growing apart, Harold Lee (John Cho) and Kumar Patel (Kal Penn) have replaced each other with new friends and are preparing for their respective Yuletide celebrations. but reluctantly embark on another ill-advised journey through New York City. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 11/3/11

Derby Plaza - Footloose, Real Steel, The Three Musketeers
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Shark Night, Don't Be Afraid Of The Dark, Straw Dogs
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for the winter
Warren East 13th - The Mighty Macs, The Thing, The Big Year, Johnny English Reborn
Warren Old Town - The Three Musketeers, Real Steel
Warren West 21st - The Mighty Macs, The Big Year, The Thing, The Ides Of March, Johnny English Reborn

In Time **½

Andrew Niccol directed this Sci-Fi Thriller. Watch Preview. Cast: Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried, Cillian Murphy, Vincent Kartheiser, Alex Pettyfer, Johnny Galecki. Rated PG-13 for violence, some sexualty and partial nudity, and strong language. Running time is one hour and forty-nine minutes.

In a future where time is literally money, the only way to stay alive is to earn, steal, or inherit more time. A man (Timberlake) lives life a minute at a time, until a windfall of time gives him access to the world of the wealthy, where he teams up with a beautiful young heiress (Seyfried) to destroy the corrupt system, while being relentlessly chased by a Time Keeper (Murphy).

Once you get past the silliness of the plot, this is a reasonably entertaining film. Timberlake is OK although not yet a top class actor. Seyfried is fine and Murphy is intently menacing. The story moves right along and there  are few slow spots. Though futuristic, there are no obvious cgi effects although the film does make it seem like all vehicles are battery powered. Since in this future, all currency is time, it's interesting to see how the dialogue about people having too little or too much time mirrors our current dialogues about wealth and poverty. This is not a memorable film but it will pass the time for sci-fi or Timberlake fans.

A larger screen will add to the film's impact. There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/28/11

MetaCritic indicates THE WAY (65) is the best of the new films this week, followed by PUSS IN BOOTS (63), IN TIME (61) and in last place, THE RUM DIARY (58). I've seen one of these and found it enjoyable. Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My review of IN TIME (**½) will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

Variety review of PUSS IN BOOTS.
USA Today review of THE RUM DIARY.
Chicago Tribune review of IN TIME.
Roger Moore review of THE WAY.

Opening 10/28/11

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

In Time [PG-13] 1 hr.50 Min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Justin Timberlake, Amanda Seyfried, Cillian Murphy, Vincent Kartheiser, Alex Pettyfer, Johnny Galecki. Plot: in a future where time is literally money, the only way to stay alive is to earn, steal, or inherit more time. A man (Timberlake) lives life a minute at a time, until a windfall of time gives him access to the world of the wealthy, where he teams up with a beautiful young heiress (Seyfried) to destroy the corrupt system. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Puss in Boots 2D, 3D, IMAX 3D [PG] Animated Watch Preview Voices: Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Zach Galifianakis, Billy Bob Thornton, Amy Sedaris. Plot: the true story of The Cat, The Myth, The Legend... The Boots. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Rum Diary [R] 2 hrs. 02 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Johnny Depp, Aaron Eckhart, Amber Heard, Michael Rispoli, Richard Jenkins, Giovanni Ribisi, Marshall Bell. Plot: based on the debut novel by Hunter S. Thompson, "The Rum Diary" tells the increasingly unhinged story of an itinerant journalist (Johnny Depp). Showing at: Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Way [R] 2 hrs. 01 min Drama Watch Preview Cast: Martin Sheen, Emilio Estevez, Yorick van Wageningen, Deborah Kara Unger, James Nesbitt. Plot: an American doctor (Sheen) comes to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to collect the remains of his adult son, killed in the Pyrenees in a storm while walking The Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of Saint James. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving 10/27/11

Derby Plaza - The Thing, Dolphin Tale, The  Big Year
Movie Machine - The Thing, Dolphin Tale
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Colombiana, Fright Night, Zookeeper, Harry Potter 7.2
Starlite Drive-In - LAST WEEKEND FOR THE SEASON
Warren East 13th - Contagion, The Thing, The Lion King,  Abduction, Dream House
Warren Old Town - Footloose, Moneyball, The Thing
Warren West 21st - The Thing, The Help, Contagion, Abduction

The Three Musketeers 2D, 3D **½

Paul W.S. Anderson directed this Action film. Watch Preview Cast: Logan Lerman, Milla Jovovich, Matthew Macfadyen, Ray Stevenson, Luke Evans, Mads Mikkelsen, Gabriella Wilde, Juno Temple, Orlando Bloom, Christoph Waltz. Rated PG-13 for sequences of adventure action violence. Running time is one hour and fifty minutes.

Hot-headed young D'Artagnan (Logan Lerman) joins forces with three rogue Musketeers (Matthew MacFadyen, Luke Evans and Ray Stevenson) to must stop the evil Richelieu (Christoph Waltz) and face off with Buckingham (Orlando Bloom) and the treacherous Milady (Milla Jovovich).

I had an enjoyable time watching this film. But,  make no mistake, this is no classic. I'm betting you'll have forgotten about this one ten minutes after you leave the theatre, but there's a good chance you'll have fun while you're there. This plays more like a rollicking light comedy than a serious drama. There's plenty of swashbuckling action but it's always the tongue-in-cheek kind rather than the blood and guts type. I watched the 3D version since this was actually filmed in that process rather than being converted from 2D. You can easily tell the difference and if you enjoy the 3D experience this is worth the extra money for a change. I didn't see or hear anything really offensive and would have no problem taking any of my grandchildren to see it. This should also make a good date or couples movie.

There are no additional scenes once the credits start. A large theatre will add to your enjoyment. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D  Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not) 10/21/11

MetaCritic indicates PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3 (61) is the best of the new films this week, followed by THE MIGHTY MACS (45), JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN (44) and in last place, THE THREE MUSKETEERS (34). I've seen one of these and found it enjoyable if not memorable . Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film.

Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.

My review of  THE THREE MUSKETEERS (**½)  will be available today (Friday) at 4:30 p.m. If you can't wait that long for reviews, see the reviews below.

Boxoffice Magazine review of  JOHNNY ENGLISH REBORN.
Roger Ebert review of THE MIGHTY MACS.
USA Today review of PARANORMAL ACTIVITY 3.
Empire Magazine review of THE THREE MUSKETEERS.

Opening 10/21/11

For Wichita show times select a theatre at the end of each synopsis. For most other cities, select any theatre below a synopsis or review and enter other town/state below "Change Location", press enter. Next times, just press change. Friday times appear Wednesdays.

Johnny English Reborn [PG] 1 hr. 42 min. Comedy/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Rowan Atkinson, Gillian Anderson, Dominic West, Rosamund Pike, Daniel Kaluuya. Plot: the most unlikely intelligence officer in Her Majesty's Secret Service (Atkinson) must stop a group of international assassins before they eliminate a world leader and cause global chaos. Showing at:  Warren East, Warren West.

The  Mighty Macs [G] 1 hr. 50 min. Sports Drama Watch  Preview Cast: Carla Gugino, David Boreanaz, Marley Shelton, Ellen Burstyn. Plot: hired as the coach of tiny Immaculata College, a woman's (Gugino)  challenges are as imposing as the big-school teams her Macs will face. There is no gymnasium, no fan support, and no money. To top it off, she may not even have enough players for a team! Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East,  Warren West.

Paranormal Activity 3 [PG-13] 1 hr. 24  min.  Supernatural Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Katie Featherston, Sprague Grayden, Lauren Bittner. Plot: in 1988, two young sisters (Featherston, Grayden)  befriend an invisible entity who inhabits their home. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Three Musketeers 2D, 3D [PG-13] 1 hr. 51  min.  Action Watch Preview Cast: Logan Lerman, Milla Jovovich, Matthew Macfadyen, Ray Stevenson, Luke Evans, Mads Mikkelsen, Gabriella Wilde, Juno Temple, Orlando Bloom, Christoph Waltz. Plot: hot-headed young D'Artagnan (Logan Lerman) joins forces with three rogue Musketeers (Matthew MacFadyen, Luke Evans and Ray Stevenson) to must stop the evil Richelieu (Christoph Waltz) and face off with Buckingham (Orlando Bloom) and the treacherous Milady (Milla Jovovich).  Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving 10/20/11

Derby Plaza -  Moneyball, Dream House

Movie Machine - Moneyball

Northrock 14 -

Palace West - 30 Minutes Or Less, Spy Kids 4, Cowboys & Aliens

Starlite Drive-In - open weekends only

Warren East 13th - Drive, The Help, Killer Elite, Higher Ground

Warren Old Town - What's Your Number, Dream House, 50/50

Warren West 21st - What's Your Number, Killer Elite, The  Lion King, Dream House, Abduction

Footloose ***

Craig Brewer wrote and directed this Musical. Watch Preview. Cast:Kenny Wormald, Julianne Hough, Andie MacDowell, Dennis Quaid, Miles Teller. Rated PG-13 for some teen drug and alcohol use, sexual content, violence and language. Running time is one hour and fifty-three minutes.

Delivers a new take of the 1984 classic film. A newcomer (Kenny Wormald) challenges a town's ban on loud music and dancing, revitalizing the town and falling in love with the minister's troubled daughter (Julianne Hough) in the process.

Fans of the original will probably see no reason to watch this new version but for the younger crowd it does use a new cast  of fresh faces to tell the same basic story. Wormald is fine and Hough is very good. She appears to have a  bright future in the movies as well as her singing and dancing careers. The pacing is fine and there are no particularly slow parts. The music and dance routines are just what you'd expect and  were  very enjoyable.

The size of the auditorium is not important for this film. There are no additional scenes once the end credits begin. Theatres/Times.

The Thing **½

Matthijs van Heijningen Jr. directed this Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, Jonathan Lloyd Walker, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Eric Olsen, Ulrich Thomsen, Paul Braunstein, Trond Espen Selm, Jorgen Langhelle. Rated R for strong creature violence and gore, disturbing images, and language. Running time is one hour and forty-three minutes.

A Norwegian scientific team stumbles across an extraterrestrial ship buried in the ice and discovers an organism that seems to have died in the crash eons ago. When a simple experiment frees the alien from its frozen prison, a paleontologist (Winstead) must join the crew's pilot (Edgerton) to keep it from killing them off one at a time. Serves as a prelude to John Carpenter's classic 1982 film of the same name.

Featuring a cast of relative unknowns, this film depends on cgi effects to keep you involved. That worked pretty well for me. This is a film you'll forget about shortly after leaving but it does keep you interested while it's showing. The cgi effects are pretty gross at times so those with weak stomachs may not want to watch. I don't know that we needed a prequel to the Carpenter film but sci-fi/thriller fans should find this acceptable.

A large screen will add to the film's impact as will the screaming of a large audience. Don't be in a rush to leave when the credits start, there are several action sequences mixed into those credits. Theatres/Times.