Seth MacFarlane directed this Comedy. Watch Preview. Cast:
Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Giovanni Ribisi, Joel McHale, Seth
MacFarlane, Patrick Warburton, Jessica Stroup, Laura Vandervoort, Aedin Mincks. Rated R for crude and sexual content, pervasive language, and some drug use. Running time is one hour and forty-six minutes.
A grown man (Wahlberg) must deal with the cherished teddy bear (voice of MacFarlane) who came
to life as the result of a childhood wish... and has refused to leave
his side ever since. Now that he has a serious girlfriend (Kunis) his relationship with Ted needs to change. Meanwhile Ted has his own problem with a weird stalker (Ribisi) and his even weirder son (Mincks).
This film is laugh-out-loud funny as long as you aren't offended by continuous profane language. Interestingly, the 'live' Teddy bear is accepted as real by everyone in the film which makes the whole conceit even funnier. The cast do a fine job and production values are good. The film is a little too long but that's a minor problem. I watched this with a group of young adults and most of them were laughing throughout. I think 18-35 is the prime age for a comedy of this type and I would hesitate to recommend it to anyone much older. There's a funny, uncredited cameo by Ryan Reynolds you might want to watch for.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A larger auditorium will make this funnier as long as it's full of people. Theatres/Times.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Magic Mike **
Steven Soderbergh directed this Comedy/Drama. Watch Preview. Cast:
Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Cody Horn, Olivia
Munn, Matt Bomer, Riley Keough, Joe Mangianello, Kevin Nash, Adam
Rodriguez, Gabriel Iglesias. Rated R for pervasive sexual content, brief graphic nudity, language and some drug use. Running time is one hour and fifty minutes.
Inspired by his real life, the film follows Mike (Tatum) as he takes a young dancer called The Kid (Pettyfer) under his wing and schools him in the fine arts of partying, picking up women, and making easy money. All the while he's developing a relationship with The Kid's younger sister (Horn) and trying to negotiate an equity partnership with his boss (McConaughey).
I guess I'm out of step with the national reviewers on this one as I didn't find it nearly as entertaining as many of them did. The film starts well with some humorous bits that caused a few laughs but as the film continued I got bored since most of the action was repetitious. I found myself looking at my watch a lot, waiting for the film to end. I watched this with a small audience of women (I was the only male there) and I couldn't help but notice their laughter stopped about thirty minutes into the film, about the same time my interest began to wane. While the film is classed as a comedy I don't think that's accurate. It's far more a drama with only occasional bits of humor. A group of girls/women will find this moderately entertaining, but men not so much.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A theatre with above average sound will add to your experience. Theatres/Times.
Inspired by his real life, the film follows Mike (Tatum) as he takes a young dancer called The Kid (Pettyfer) under his wing and schools him in the fine arts of partying, picking up women, and making easy money. All the while he's developing a relationship with The Kid's younger sister (Horn) and trying to negotiate an equity partnership with his boss (McConaughey).
I guess I'm out of step with the national reviewers on this one as I didn't find it nearly as entertaining as many of them did. The film starts well with some humorous bits that caused a few laughs but as the film continued I got bored since most of the action was repetitious. I found myself looking at my watch a lot, waiting for the film to end. I watched this with a small audience of women (I was the only male there) and I couldn't help but notice their laughter stopped about thirty minutes into the film, about the same time my interest began to wane. While the film is classed as a comedy I don't think that's accurate. It's far more a drama with only occasional bits of humor. A group of girls/women will find this moderately entertaining, but men not so much.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A theatre with above average sound will add to your experience. Theatres/Times.
Moonrise Kingdom ***½
Wes Anderson directed this Comedy/Romance. Watch Preview. Cast: Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, Jared Gilman, Kara Hayward. Rated PG-13 for sexual content and smoking. Running time is one hour and thirty-four minutes.
Two twelve-year-olds fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness as a violent storm is brewing off-shore the island on which they live.
This is one of the more unusual films I've seen in awhile. It's a quirky comedy with few laughs but lots of chuckles and with pacing that keeps the plot moving plus a slightly off kilter view that keeps your interest high. The cast is first rate, including the two young actors, Hayward and Gilman, who are note perfect in their first movie roles. This is a higher rating than most of late and that's because; a: I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, and b: I can't imagine anyone not enjoying it. Unfortunately, I don't think it will be around long but you'll be sorry if you don't take the opportunity to see it.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin but it's worth staying through the credits for the excellent soundtrack music. The size of the auditorium will make very little difference. Theatres/Times.
Two twelve-year-olds fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness as a violent storm is brewing off-shore the island on which they live.
This is one of the more unusual films I've seen in awhile. It's a quirky comedy with few laughs but lots of chuckles and with pacing that keeps the plot moving plus a slightly off kilter view that keeps your interest high. The cast is first rate, including the two young actors, Hayward and Gilman, who are note perfect in their first movie roles. This is a higher rating than most of late and that's because; a: I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone, and b: I can't imagine anyone not enjoying it. Unfortunately, I don't think it will be around long but you'll be sorry if you don't take the opportunity to see it.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin but it's worth staying through the credits for the excellent soundtrack music. The size of the auditorium will make very little difference. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Moonlight Kingdom (84) is the best picture this week, followed by Magic Mike (70), Ted (58), and People Like Us
(53). I saw three of them and really enjoyed one. Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection wasn't made available for reviewers, basically because they never like his movies. 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 Moonlight Kingdom (***½), Magic Mike (**) and Ted (***) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
Roger Ebert review of Magic Mike.
James Berardinelli review of Moonlight Kingdom.
Not reviewed by national critics: Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection.
USA TODAY review of People Like Us.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY review of Ted.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My reviews of Moonlight Kingdom (***½), Magic Mike (**) and Ted (***) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
Roger Ebert review of Magic Mike.
James Berardinelli review of Moonlight Kingdom.
Not reviewed by national critics: Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection.
USA TODAY review of People Like Us.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY review of Ted.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Opening 6/29, 7/3/12
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 Friday 6/29
Magic Mike [R] 1 hr. 50 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Cody Horn, Olivia Munn, Matt Bomer, Riley Keough, Joe Mangianello, Kevin Nash, Adam Rodriguez, Gabriel Iglesias. Plot: inspired by his real life, the film follows Mike (Tatum) as he takes a young dancer called The Kid (Pettyfer) under his wing and schools him in the fine arts of partying, picking up women, and making easy money. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Moonrise Kingdom [PG-13] 1 hr. 34 min. Comedy/Romance Watch Preview Cast: Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, Jared Gilman, Kara Hayward. Plot: two twelve-year-olds fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness as a violent storm is brewing off-shore. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.
People Like Us [PG-13] 1 hr. 55 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Olivia Wilde, Michael Hall D’Addario, Philip Baker Hall, Mark Duplass, Michelle Pfeiffer. Plot: a twenty-something, fast-talking salesman (Pine) discovers he has a thirty-year-old sister (Banks) he never knew about. Showing at: Warren East, Warren West.
Ted [R] 1 hr. 46 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Giovanni Ribisi, Joel McHale, Seth MacFarlane, Patrick Warburton, Jessica Stroup, Laura Vandervoort. Plot: a grown man (Wahlberg) must deal with the cherished teddy bear who came to life as the result of a childhood wish... and has refused to leave his side ever since. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection [PG-13] 1 hr. 54 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Tyler Perry, Eugene Levy, Denise Richards, Doris Roberts, Danielle Campbell, Romeo Miller, Tom Arnold, John Amos, Marla Gibbs. Plot: the CFO (Levy) of an investment bank learns his firm has been operating a mob-backed Ponzi scheme – and he’s been set up as the fall guy. Facing criminal charges and death threats from the mob, he and his entire family are put under witness protection in the safest place a federal prosecutor can think of…his Aunt Madea's house. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.
Opening Tuesday 7/3
The Amazing Spider Man [PG-13] 2D/3D/IMAX 3D 2 hrs. 16 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan, Martin Sheen, Sally Field. Plot: the Peter Parker (Garfield) story beginning with him as an outcast high school-er, abandoned by his parents, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Leaving 6/28, 7/2/12
Derby Plaza - 6/28 Rock Of Ages, Men In Black 3; 7/2 Brave 3D, That's My Boy
Movie Machine - 6/28 Prometheus; 7/2 Rock Of Ages
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 6/28 Journey 2, Cabin In The Woods
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 6/28 Hysteria, Prometheus
Warren Old Town - 6/28 Rock Of Ages
Warren West 21st - 6/28 For Greater Glory, What To Expect When You're Expecting, Dark Shadows, Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Movie Machine - 6/28 Prometheus; 7/2 Rock Of Ages
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - 6/28 Journey 2, Cabin In The Woods
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - 6/28 Hysteria, Prometheus
Warren Old Town - 6/28 Rock Of Ages
Warren West 21st - 6/28 For Greater Glory, What To Expect When You're Expecting, Dark Shadows, Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Friday, June 22, 2012
BRAVE ***
Animated adventure. Watch Preview. Voices of: Kelly Macdonald, Emma Thompson, Billy Connolly, Julie Walters, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson, Robbie Coltrane. Rated PG for some scary action and rude humor. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.
The actions of skilled archer and impetuous daughter (voice of Kelly Macdonald) of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson) inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom.
Pixar generally makes very entertaining animated features and this is no exception. It's plot is aimed more at older teens and adults than children but that made it more interesting to me than most animated features. The voice of the daughter, Merida, will be instantly recognized by fans of Boardwalk Empire as she is the lead actress in that series. The story is more drama than comedy although there are humorous parts throughout. The pacing is fine and I never felt the need to look at my watch. Small children may find a couple of scenes rather scary but should find it enjoyable for the most part. I saw the 3D version and found it both comfortable and enjoyable to watch.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin although there is a short, meaningless bit at the very end that makes no sense. Screen size is relatively unimportant. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.
The actions of skilled archer and impetuous daughter (voice of Kelly Macdonald) of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson) inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom.
Pixar generally makes very entertaining animated features and this is no exception. It's plot is aimed more at older teens and adults than children but that made it more interesting to me than most animated features. The voice of the daughter, Merida, will be instantly recognized by fans of Boardwalk Empire as she is the lead actress in that series. The story is more drama than comedy although there are humorous parts throughout. The pacing is fine and I never felt the need to look at my watch. Small children may find a couple of scenes rather scary but should find it enjoyable for the most part. I saw the 3D version and found it both comfortable and enjoyable to watch.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin although there is a short, meaningless bit at the very end that makes no sense. Screen size is relatively unimportant. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter **½
Timur Bekmambetov directed this Supernatural thriller. Watch Preview. Cast:
Benjamin Walker, Dominic Cooper, Anthony Mackie, Mary Elizabeth
Winstead, Jimmi Simpson, Robin McLeavy, Alan Tudyk, Rufus Sewell. Rated R for violence throughout and brief sexuality. Running time is one hour and forty-five minutes.
Lincoln's mother is killed by a supernatural creature, which fuels his passion to crush vampires and their slave-owning helpers, resulting in the Civil War.
Alternate reality plots have long been part of the sci-fi genre, and they can be very interesting with the proper mix of history and imagination. This film does a good job of realizing that mix although the vampire element may be too much for some. The cast is fine but it's the production values that really shine. The CGI effects are top notch and are enhanced by some of the best live action 3D I've ever seen. The chase through the herd of stampeding horses for example is quite spectacular. I only wish this had been available in IMAX 3D as the regular 3D verges on being too dark for long spells, partially because of the 3D process itself and partially because so many of the scenes take place at night. Still, if you want to see what can be achieved when you're actually shooting live action 3D, rather than adding it as an afterthought, this is one to watch.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A larger screen will enhance the action although a smaller screen might be brighter. Your choice. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.
Lincoln's mother is killed by a supernatural creature, which fuels his passion to crush vampires and their slave-owning helpers, resulting in the Civil War.
Alternate reality plots have long been part of the sci-fi genre, and they can be very interesting with the proper mix of history and imagination. This film does a good job of realizing that mix although the vampire element may be too much for some. The cast is fine but it's the production values that really shine. The CGI effects are top notch and are enhanced by some of the best live action 3D I've ever seen. The chase through the herd of stampeding horses for example is quite spectacular. I only wish this had been available in IMAX 3D as the regular 3D verges on being too dark for long spells, partially because of the 3D process itself and partially because so many of the scenes take place at night. Still, if you want to see what can be achieved when you're actually shooting live action 3D, rather than adding it as an afterthought, this is one to watch.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A larger screen will enhance the action although a smaller screen might be brighter. Your choice. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Brave (68) is the best picture this week, followed by Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World (60), and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter
(42). I saw two of them and enjoyed both. 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 Brave (***) and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (**½) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
James Berardinelli review of Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter.
USA TODAY review of Brave.
Roger Ebert review of Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My reviews of Brave (***) and Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter (**½) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
James Berardinelli review of Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter.
USA TODAY review of Brave.
Roger Ebert review of Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Opening 6/22/12
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.
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter 2D/3D [R] 1 hr. 45 min.Supernatural thriller Watch Preview Cast: Benjamin Walker, Dominic Cooper, Anthony Mackie, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jimmi Simpson, Robin McLeavy, Alan Tudyk, Rufus Sewell. Plot: Lincoln's mother is killed by a supernatural creature, which fuels his passion to crush vampires and their slave-owning helpers. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Brave 2D/3D [PG] 1 hr. 30 min. Animated adventure Watch Preview Voices of: Kelly Macdonald, Emma Thompson, Billy Connolly, Julie Walters, Kevin McKidd, Craig Ferguson, Robbie Coltrane. Plot: the actions of skilled archer and impetuous daughter of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson) inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Starlite Drive-In, Warren East, Warren West.
Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World [R] 1 hr. 34 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Steve Carell, Keira Knightley, Connie Britton, Adam Brody, Rob Corddry, Gillian Jacobs, Derek Luke, Melanie Lynskey, T.J. Miller, Mark Moses, Patton Oswalt, William Petersen. Plot: two unlikely traveling companions' personal journeys accelerate, and their outlooks – if not the world's – brighten in this near-future drama when Earth is going to be obliterated by an asteroid. Showing at: Northrock 14?, Warren East, Warren West.
Leaving 6/21/12
Derby Plaza - Snow White And The Huntsman, Prometheus
Movie Machine - Men In Black
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - John Carter, Three Stooges, Wrath Of The Titans
Starlite Drive-In - Men In Black 3
Warren East 13th - What To Expect When You're Expecting, For Greater Glory, Hunger Games, Sound Of My Voice
Warren Old Town - Prometheus
Warren West 21st - Hunger Games
Movie Machine - Men In Black
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - John Carter, Three Stooges, Wrath Of The Titans
Starlite Drive-In - Men In Black 3
Warren East 13th - What To Expect When You're Expecting, For Greater Glory, Hunger Games, Sound Of My Voice
Warren Old Town - Prometheus
Warren West 21st - Hunger Games
Friday, June 15, 2012
Rock Of Ages ***
Adam Shankman directed this Rock musical. Watch Preview. Cast: Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti, Catherine
Zeta-Jones, Malin Akerman, Mary J. Blige, Alec Baldwin, Tom Cruise. Rated PG-13 for sexual content, suggestive dancing, some heavy drinking, and language. Run Time is two hours and three minutes.
The story of small town girl Sherrie (Hough) and city boy Drew (Boneta), who meet on the Sunset Strip while pursuing their Hollywood dreams.
I've never been a fan of rock music so I wasn't expecting to enjoy this film. Imagine my surprise when I found I was enjoying it very much. I don't know whether rock purists will feel that way since the songs are interpretations of the music by the cast rather than by the original artists, but I liked the film versions. Hough is the weakest member of the cast in that her voice is pretty much limited to C&W, where quality isn't all that important. But she does fine in the dancing and acting departments. The rest of the listed cast all sing, with Ackerman being much better than I would have expected and Cruise doing a top notch, outstanding job. Zeta-Jones is underused but it was nice to see her once again. While the film is slightly longer than I prefer, its energy propelled it nicely and I never felt the need to check my watch.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen and very good sound will add immensely to your enjoyment. Theatres/Times.
The story of small town girl Sherrie (Hough) and city boy Drew (Boneta), who meet on the Sunset Strip while pursuing their Hollywood dreams.
I've never been a fan of rock music so I wasn't expecting to enjoy this film. Imagine my surprise when I found I was enjoying it very much. I don't know whether rock purists will feel that way since the songs are interpretations of the music by the cast rather than by the original artists, but I liked the film versions. Hough is the weakest member of the cast in that her voice is pretty much limited to C&W, where quality isn't all that important. But she does fine in the dancing and acting departments. The rest of the listed cast all sing, with Ackerman being much better than I would have expected and Cruise doing a top notch, outstanding job. Zeta-Jones is underused but it was nice to see her once again. While the film is slightly longer than I prefer, its energy propelled it nicely and I never felt the need to check my watch.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen and very good sound will add immensely to your enjoyment. Theatres/Times.
Hysteria **½
Tanya Wexler
directed this Romantic comedy. Watch Preview. Cast:
Maggie Gyllenhaal, Hugh Dancy, Jonathan Pryce, Rupert Everett, Ashley
Jensen, Sheridan Smith, Felicity Jones, Gemma Jones, Anna Chancellor. Rated R for sexual content. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.
Based on the surprising truth of how Mortimer Granville (Dancy) came up with the world's first electro-mechanical vibrator in the name of medical science (and to stop his hand muscles from continually cramping).
This is a very Victorian version of a romantic comedy...very little romance with just a touch of humor. I'm partial to British comedies and while this isn't the funniest one I've seen it does have its moments. I have no idea why Gyllenhaal was chosen for her part. She's a fine actress but she seems a bit out of place with the rest of the all British cast and her name recognition in the U.S. isn't such that she will provide much additional draw here. I'm a little surprised this has an R rating as the sexuality is more implied than shown. If you like BBC productions you should find this worth your while.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin although there is a slide show of how vibrators have looked through the decades while the credits are running. Screen size and sound are relatively unimportant. Theatre/Showtimes.
Based on the surprising truth of how Mortimer Granville (Dancy) came up with the world's first electro-mechanical vibrator in the name of medical science (and to stop his hand muscles from continually cramping).
This is a very Victorian version of a romantic comedy...very little romance with just a touch of humor. I'm partial to British comedies and while this isn't the funniest one I've seen it does have its moments. I have no idea why Gyllenhaal was chosen for her part. She's a fine actress but she seems a bit out of place with the rest of the all British cast and her name recognition in the U.S. isn't such that she will provide much additional draw here. I'm a little surprised this has an R rating as the sexuality is more implied than shown. If you like BBC productions you should find this worth your while.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin although there is a slide show of how vibrators have looked through the decades while the credits are running. Screen size and sound are relatively unimportant. Theatre/Showtimes.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Sound Of My Voice (67) is the best picture this week, followed by Hysteria (53), Rock Of Ages (48) and That's My Boy (24). I saw two of them and enjoyed both. This is a week where the national critics reviews will not correlate with attendance, and in fact have a good chance of being reversed. 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 Rock Of Ages (***) and Hysteria (**½) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE review of Hysteria.
PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER review of Rock Of Ages.
Roger Ebert review of Sound Of My Voice.
USA TODAY review of That's My Boy.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My reviews of Rock Of Ages (***) and Hysteria (**½) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
THE AUSTIN CHRONICLE review of Hysteria.
PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER review of Rock Of Ages.
Roger Ebert review of Sound Of My Voice.
USA TODAY review of That's My Boy.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Opening 6/15/12
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.
Hysteria [R] 1 hr. 35 min. Romantic comedy Watch Preview Cast: Maggie Gyllenhaal, Hugh Dancy, Jonathan Pryce, Rupert Everett, Ashley Jensen, Sheridan Smith, Felicity Jones, Gemma Jones, Anna Chancellor. Plot: based on the surprising truth of how Mortimer Granville came up with the world's first electro-mechanical vibrator in the name of medical science. Showing at: Warren East.
Sound Of My Voice [R] 1 hr. 25 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Brit Marling, Christopher Denham, Nicole Vicius, Avery Pohl. Plot: Peter (Christopher Denham) and Lorna (Nicole Vicius), a journalist and his girlfriend, get pulled in while they investigate a cult whose leader (Brit Marling) claims to be from the future. Showing at: Warren East.
Rock Of Ages [PG-13] 2 hrs. 6 min. Rock musical Watch Preview Cast: Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Malin Akerman, Mary J. Blige, Alec Baldwin, Tom Cruise. Plot: the story of small town girl Sherrie (Hough) and city boy Drew (Boneta), who meet on the Sunset Strip while pursuing their Hollywood dreams. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
That's My Boy [R] 1 hr. 56 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Leighton Meester, James Caan, Eva Amurri, Susan Sarandon, Milo Ventimiglia, Will Forte, Colin Quinn, Todd Bridges, Vanilla Ice, Ian Ziering. Plot: while still in his teens, Donny (Adam Sandler) fathered a son, Todd (Andy Samberg), and raised him as a single parent until his 18th birthday. After not seeing each other for years, Todd’s world comes crashing down on the eve of his wedding when an uninvited Donny suddenly shows up. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Leaving 6/14/12
Derby Plaza - The Avengers
Movie Machine - Snow White And The Huntsman
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Safe
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - Chernobyl Diaries, Dark Shadows, Battleship, The Dictator
Warren Old Town - What To Expect When You're Expecting, Dark Shadows, The Avengers
Warren West 21st - Chernobyl Diaries, Battleship
Movie Machine - Snow White And The Huntsman
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Safe
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - Chernobyl Diaries, Dark Shadows, Battleship, The Dictator
Warren Old Town - What To Expect When You're Expecting, Dark Shadows, The Avengers
Warren West 21st - Chernobyl Diaries, Battleship
Friday, June 08, 2012
Prometheus ***
Ridley Scott directed this Sci-Fi Drama. Watch Preview. Cast: Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, Charlize Theron. Rated R for sci-fi violence including some intense images, and brief language. Running time is two hours and four minutes.
A team of scientists and explorers goes on a journey that tests their physical and mental limits and leads them to a distant world, where they search for the answers to our most profound questions and to life's ultimate mystery. Once they arrive, however, they determine their destination is not what they hoped for.
I've been a Sci-Fi fan most of my life so this was a film I was really looking forward to. It is a beautifully made film with stunning effects but with significant plot problems. I'm not sure whether those problems were just sloppiness or whether they're designed to lead us into multiple sequels, or both. And, I really can't delve into them here without spoiling the movie for you. Either way, you're going to leave with a lot more questions than answers, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The cast is more than adequate, with Rapace being the one the plot revolves around. Production values are superb. This is a very easy film to view as it doesn't employ the fast-cut technology so many films these days use. I saw the IMAX version and if you want to see really good 3D, I highly recommend it.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. You should attend the largest screen possible for maximum impact. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.
A team of scientists and explorers goes on a journey that tests their physical and mental limits and leads them to a distant world, where they search for the answers to our most profound questions and to life's ultimate mystery. Once they arrive, however, they determine their destination is not what they hoped for.
I've been a Sci-Fi fan most of my life so this was a film I was really looking forward to. It is a beautifully made film with stunning effects but with significant plot problems. I'm not sure whether those problems were just sloppiness or whether they're designed to lead us into multiple sequels, or both. And, I really can't delve into them here without spoiling the movie for you. Either way, you're going to leave with a lot more questions than answers, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The cast is more than adequate, with Rapace being the one the plot revolves around. Production values are superb. This is a very easy film to view as it doesn't employ the fast-cut technology so many films these days use. I saw the IMAX version and if you want to see really good 3D, I highly recommend it.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits start. You should attend the largest screen possible for maximum impact. 2D Theatres/Times. 3D Theatres/Times. IMAX 3D Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Prometheus (63) is the best picture this week closely followed by Madasgascar 3 (62). I saw one of them and enjoyed it. 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 Prometheus (***) will be on the site at 3:30 a.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
James Berardinelli review of Madasgascar 3.
NEW YORK TIMES review of Prometheus.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Prometheus (***) will be on the site at 3:30 a.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
James Berardinelli review of Madasgascar 3.
NEW YORK TIMES review of Prometheus.
Monday, June 04, 2012
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.
Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted [PG-13] 2D/3D 1 hr. 33 min. Animated Watch Preview Voices Of: Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, Jada Pinkett Smith, Sacha Baron Cohen, Cedric The Entertainer, Andy Richter, Frances McDormand, Jessica Chastain, Martin Short, Bryan Cranston. Plot: the animals are still fighting to get home to their beloved Big Apple and of course, King Julien, Maurice and the Penguins are all along for the comedic adventure. Their journey takes them through Europe where they find the perfect cover: a traveling circus, which they reinvent – Madagascar style. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.
Prometheus [R] 2D/3D 2 hrs. 4 min. Sci-Fi Drama Watch Preview Cast: Noomi Rapace, Michael Fassbender, Guy Pearce, Idris Elba, Logan Marshall-Green, Charlize Theron. Plot: a team of scientists and explorers goes on a journey that tests their physical and mental limits and strands them on a distant world, where they will discover the answers to our most profound questions and to life's ultimate mystery. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.
Leaving 6/7/12
Derby Plaza - Battleship, What To Expect When You're Expecting, Dark Shadows
Movie Machine - Battleship, Dark Shadows
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - The Artist
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - The Lucky One, Think Like A Man, Band Of Misfits
Warren Old Town - The Avengers, The Dictator
Warren West 21st - Chimpanzee, The Lucky One, The Dictator
Movie Machine - Battleship, Dark Shadows
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - The Artist
Starlite Drive-In -
Warren East 13th - The Lucky One, Think Like A Man, Band Of Misfits
Warren Old Town - The Avengers, The Dictator
Warren West 21st - Chimpanzee, The Lucky One, The Dictator
Friday, June 01, 2012
Snow White And The Huntsman ***
Rupert Sanders directed this Fantasy/Adventure. Watch Preview. Cast:
Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, Chris Hemsworth, Sam Claflin, Ray
Winstone, Ian McShane, Bob Hoskins, Toby Jones, Eddie
Marsan, Stephen Graham, Ray Winstone, Lily Cole, Sam Spruell, Liberty
Ross, Noah Huntley. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and brief sensuality. Running time is two hours and seven minutes.
Snow White (Kristen Stewart) is the only person in the land fairer than the evil queen (Charlize Theron), who is out to destroy her in order to achieve immortal beauty. What the wicked ruler doesn't know is the young woman threatening her reign has been training in the art of war with the huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) dispatched to kill her.
I've been looking forward to this film since first seeing the previews. The CGI effects looked as if they'd be amazing and who doesn't like to look at Charlize Theron. I'm happy to tell you both the special effects and Theron were indeed amazing. The story on the other hand has been padded with too many unnecessary sub-stories resulting in a running time longer than necessary. And then there's Stewart. I realize she's currently Hollywood's highest grossing actress but would it hurt her to emote just a little? Oh, there was an occasional smile and even a laugh, but if she had just half of Theron's ability it would have helped move the film along a bit faster. The most interesting special effect among a multitude was making regular height actors appear to be little people (McShane, Hoskins, etc.). I think most will find this a pleasant couple of hours at the movies and worth the price of admission.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen and good sound will enhance your enjoyment. Theatres/Times.
Snow White (Kristen Stewart) is the only person in the land fairer than the evil queen (Charlize Theron), who is out to destroy her in order to achieve immortal beauty. What the wicked ruler doesn't know is the young woman threatening her reign has been training in the art of war with the huntsman (Chris Hemsworth) dispatched to kill her.
I've been looking forward to this film since first seeing the previews. The CGI effects looked as if they'd be amazing and who doesn't like to look at Charlize Theron. I'm happy to tell you both the special effects and Theron were indeed amazing. The story on the other hand has been padded with too many unnecessary sub-stories resulting in a running time longer than necessary. And then there's Stewart. I realize she's currently Hollywood's highest grossing actress but would it hurt her to emote just a little? Oh, there was an occasional smile and even a laugh, but if she had just half of Theron's ability it would have helped move the film along a bit faster. The most interesting special effect among a multitude was making regular height actors appear to be little people (McShane, Hoskins, etc.). I think most will find this a pleasant couple of hours at the movies and worth the price of admission.
There are no additional scenes once the final credits begin. A large screen and good sound will enhance your enjoyment. Theatres/Times.
Worthwhile (or not)
MetaCritic indicates Bernie (75) is the best movie this week, followed by Snow White And The Huntsman (56) and For Greater Glory
(36). I saw one of the
three and enjoyed it. 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 Snow White And The Huntsman (***) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
MIAMI HERALD review of Bernie.
BOSTON GLOBE review of For Greater Glory.
USA TODAY review of Snow White And The Huntsman.
Check out Monday's Opening section to see the previews and synopses.
My review of Snow White And The Huntsman (***) will be on the site at 4:30 p.m. Here are national reviews of this week's new films:
MIAMI HERALD review of Bernie.
BOSTON GLOBE review of For Greater Glory.
USA TODAY review of Snow White And The Huntsman.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
About Me
- Wichita, KS, United States
- I've spent most of my adult life in film exhibition management, from which I've retired. As a result of my work I've seen thousands of movies over the years and maintain a strong interest in movies and theatres.
Live Traffic
