Opening, 4/8/11

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.

Arthur [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Romance/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Russell Brand, Helen Mirren, Greta Gerwig, Luis Guzman, Nick Nolte, Jennifer Garner. Plot: irresponsible charmer Arthur Bach (Russell Brand) has always relied on two things to get by: his limitless fortune and the good sense of lifelong nanny Hobson (Helen Mirren) to keep him out of trouble. Now he faces his biggest challenge--choosing between an arranged marriage that will ensure his lavish lifestyle, or an uncertain future with the one thing money can't buy, Naomi (Greta Gerwig), the only woman he has ever loved. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Hanna [PG-13] 1 hr. 51 min. Action/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Cate Blanchett, Eric Bana, Jason Flemyng, Tom Hollander, Olivia Williams. Plot: raised by her father (Eric Bana), an ex-CIA man, in the wilds of Finland, Hanna's (Saoirse Ronan) upbringing and training have been all geared to making her the perfect assassin. Showing at:  Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Jane Eyre [PG-13] 2 hrs. Romance/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell, Holliday Grainger, Sally Hawkins, Tamzin Merchant, Imogen Poots, Judi Dench. Plot: romantic drama based on Charlotte Brontë's classic novel. Showing at:  Warren East.

Soul Surfer [PG] 1 hr. 46 min. Biographical drama Watch Preview Cast: Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt, AnnaSophia Robb, Carrie Underwood, Lorraine Nicholson, Kevin Sorbo, Jeremy Sumpter. Plot: the inspiring true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith. Showing at: Derby Plaza,  Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Your Highness [R] 1 hr. 42 min. Adventure/Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Danny McBride, James Franco, Natalie Portman, Zooey Deschanel, Justin Theroux, Toby Jones, Damian Lewis. Plot: two princes (McBride, Franco) on a daring mission to save their land, must rescue the heir apparent's fiancée (Deschanel) before their kingdom is destroyed. Showing at:   Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 4/7/11

Derby Plaza - Sucker Punch, Rango
Movie Machine -nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West -The Eagle, Black Swan, No Strings Attached
Starlite Drive-In - Open weekends only
Warren East 13th -Mars Needs Moms, Just Go With It, Gnomeo & Juliet, Hall Pass, Beastly, Unknown, Red Riding Hood
Warren Old Town -Sucker Punch, Limitless, Paul
Warren West 21st -Mars Needs Moms, The Grace Card, Hall Pass

The Company Men ***

John Wells directed this Drama. Watch Preview Cast: Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, Rosemarie DeWitt, Maria Bello, Craig T. Nelson. Rated R for language and brief nudity. Running time is one hour and forty-four minutes.

When corporate downsizing leaves three men (Affleck, Cooper and Jones) jobless, they are forced to re-define their lives as men, husbands, and fathers.

It's hard to imagine you can have a film with a quality cast and timely story and not have a commercial success, but such is showbiz these days. This has been sitting on a shelf for a year as the film company couldn't figure out how to draw an audience for it. The cast is absolutely first class and the story is based on the company downsizing we've grown used to seeing as a result of Wall Street greed. It holds your attention throughout and you feel as if you've seen a very good film when it's over. But, I've been in the business long enough to know you won't have any trouble finding a seat in the couple of weeks it will be here. Go figure! Theatre/Times.

Source Code ***

Duncan Jones directed this Action/Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga, Jeffrey Wright. Rated PG-13 for some violence including disturbing images, and for language. Running time is one hour and thirty-three minutes.

A decorated soldier (Jake Gyllenhaal) wakes up in the body of an unknown man and discovers he's part of a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train. A military officer (Farmiga) tries to talk him through the mission while he becomes increasingly concerned about saving the life of a fellow passenger (Monaghan).

Since the plot is supposedly based on manipulating quantum mechanics it's hard to determine whether or not any of it could actually happen. Throw that little problem aside, however, and you have a plot that moves right along with very competent and likeable actors and wraps up in the magic time of an hour and a half. There's plenty of action, several explosions and a budding romance which makes this the ideal date movie for almost any age group. Any size auditorium will be fine and this should also work well as a DVD. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 4/1/2011

MetaCritic indicates SOURCE CODE (74) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by THE COMPANY MEN (69), INSIDIOUS (53) and HOP (41). I saw two of them this week and and agree both were excellent.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of SOURCE CODE (***) and THE COMPANY MEN (***) will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 4/1/11

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.

The Company Men [R] 1 hr. 44 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, Kevin Costner, Tommy Lee Jones, Rosemarie DeWitt, Maria Bello, Craig T. Nelson. Plot: when corporate downsizing leaves three men (Affleck, Cooper and Jones) jobless, they are forced to re-define their lives as men, husbands, and fathers.Showing at:  Warren East.

HOP [PG] 1 hr. 35 min. Live/Animated Comedy Watch Preview Cast: James Marsden, Russell Brand, Kaley Cuoco, Hank Azaria, Gary Cole, Elizabeth Perkins, David Hasselhoff, Chelsea Handler, Hugh Laurie. Plot: on the eve of taking over the family business, the son of the Easter Bunny leaves for Hollywood in pursuit of his dream of becoming a drummer. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Insidious [PG-13] 1 hr. 42 min. Horror Watch Preview Cast: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, Ty Simpkins, Barbara Hershey. Plot: a family, shortly after moving, discovers that dark spirits have possessed their home and their son has inexplicably fallen into a coma. Trying to escape the haunting and save their son, they move again only to discover it was not their house that was haunted. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Source Code [PG-13] 1 hr. 33 min. Action/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan, Vera Farmiga, Jeffrey Wright. Plot: a decorated soldier (Jake Gyllenhaal) wakes up in the body of an unknown man and discovers he's part of a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 3/31/11

Derby Plaza - Paul, Red Riding Hood, Mars Needs Moms
Movie Machine - Limitless, Red Riding Hood
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - The Rite, Harry Potter 7.1
Starlite Drive-In - Open weekends only
Warren East 13th - nothing
Warren Old Town - Battle: Los Angeles, Red Riding Hood, Hall Pass
Warren West 21st - King;s Speech, I Am Number Four, Just Go With It

Sucker Punch ½

Zack Snyder directed and co-wrote this Action/Fantasy. Watch Preview Cast: Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Abbie Cornish, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Jon Hamm, Oscar Isaac, Scott Glenn. Rated PG-13 for thematic material involving sexuality, violence and combat sequences, and for language. Running time is one hour and forty-nine minutes.

An epic action fantasy that takes us into the vivid imagination of a young girl (Browning) whose dream world provides the ultimate escape from her darker reality. Unrestrained by the boundaries of time and place, she is free to go where her mind takes her, and her incredible adventures blur the lines between what's real and what is imaginary. Novel, poster, soundtrack.

Based on the previews I wasn't expecting much from this film but never have my low expectations been so spectacularly achieved. I can see perhaps gamers might find this attractive but anyone else attending should consider taking a lot of illegal substances before doing so to make it even marginally palatable. The plot makes no sense and indeed, director Snyder has described it as being "Alice In Wonderland with machine guns." I viewed the Imax version and the sound was grossly loud with the surround sound being painfully strident in comparison to the dialogue. That will probably be corrected but no one's going to be able to do anything about the absence of a meaningful plot (how do steam powered zombies as soldiers strike you?). My opinion is that the older patrons who read my reviews will not care for this film at all. Theatres/Times. IMAX Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 3/25/2011

MetaCritic indicates DIARY OF A WIMPY KID 2 (52) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by SUCKER PUNCH (37). I only saw one of them this week and a 37 is way more than I'd give it.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My review of SUCKER PUNCH (½) will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 3/25/11

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.

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules [PG] 1 hr. 50 min. Family comedy Watch Preview Cast: Zachary Gordon, Robert Capron, Rachael Harris, Devon Bostick, Steve Zahn. Plot: in this sequel to 2010's surprise hit, based on the best-selling follow-up novel by Jeff Kinney, Greg and his older brother - and chief tormentor - Rodrick must deal with their parents' misguided attempts to have them bond. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Sucker Punch [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Action/Fantasy Watch Preview Cast: Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Abbie Cornish, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, Carla Gugino, Jon Hamm, Oscar Isaac, Scott Glenn. Plot: an epic action fantasy that takes us into the vivid imagination of a young girl whose dream world provides the ultimate escape from her darker reality. Unrestrained by the boundaries of time and place, she is free to go where her mind takes her, and her incredible adventures blur the lines between what's real and what is imaginary. Novel, poster, soundtrack. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 3/24/11

Derby Plaza - Battle: Los Angeles
Movie Machine - Battle: Los Angeles, Mars Needs Moms
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Little Fockers, Gulliver's Travels, The Fighter
Starlite Drive-In - Open weekends only
Warren East 13th - Biutiful, Cedar Rapids
Warren Old Town - The Adjustment Bureau
Warren West 21st - Battle: Los Angeles, Unknown

Limitless ***½

Neil Burger directed this Action/Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro, Abbie Cornish, Anna Friel, Tomas Arana, Andrew Howard. Rated PG-13 for thematic material involving a drug, violence including disturbing images, sexuality and language. Running time is one hour and forty-five minutes.

An unsuccessful writer's (Cooper) life is transformed by a top-secret "smart drug" that allows him to use 100% of his brain and become a perfect version of himself. His enhanced abilities soon attract shadowy forces (Howard) that threaten his new life.

 For those who like fast paced, intelligent films that give you no real clue where they're headed, this fits the bill quite nicely. Cooper plays a loser who is likable and who remains so after his intellect is enhanced. The pacing is very good, I didn't look at my watch once, and I never had a real feeling about how it all was going to end. This is definitely Cooper's picture, all of the other roles are very secondary to his. There's nothing in this film that requires a large theatre but you will probably become more involved if you watch it in one. Times/Theatres.

Paul **

Greg Mottola directed this Comedy adventure. Watch Preview Cast: Nick Frost, Simon Pegg, Seth Rogen, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Jane Lynch, Sigourney Weaver, Joe Lo Truglio, David Koechner, Blythe Danner, John Carroll Lynch. Rated R for language including sexual references, and some drug use. Running time is one hour and forty-four minutes.

Two sci-fi geeks' (Frost, Peg) pilgrimage takes them to America's UFO heartland. While there, they accidentally meet an alien (voice of Rogen) who brings them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever.

If you enjoyed Shaun Of The Dead or like SNL, this is a film that should appeal to you. It's not a big budget film but there are a few laughs in this mildly amusing tale. I suspect this will have more luck as a late show than as a regular feature and should be popular as a DVD. I especially enjoyed Wiig's fundamentalist Christian persona and her determination to use profanity and to fornicate (her words) after she discovered all she had been taught wasn't true. That may prove offensive to some but her attempts at profanity were some of the film's highlights. The writers, Frost and Pegg, have stuck snippets of E.T., Close Encounters Of The Third Kind, and Alien (including a visit by Sigourney Weaver) into the mix so Sci-Fans should feel right at home.There's no nudity I can recall but everything else that makes an R an R is present. Theatres/Tunes.

The Lincoln Lawyer ***½

Brad Furman directed this Crime drama. Watch Preview Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Marisa Tomei, Ryan Phillippe, Josh Lucas, John Leguizamo, Frances Fisher, Bob Gunton, Laurence Mason, Bryan Cranston, William H. Macy. Rated R for some violence, sexual content and language. Running time is one hour and fifty-nine minutes.

A slick, charismatic Los Angeles criminal defense attorney (McConaughey) who operates out of the back of his Lincoln Continental sedan unexpectedly lands the case of a lifetime: defending a rich Beverly Hills playboy (Ryan Phillippe) who is accused of attempted murder. However, what initially appears to be a straightforward case with a big money pay-off swiftly develops into a deadly match between two masters of manipulation.

I haven't cared much for McConaughey's films lately but this one is a pleasant exception. This is a good looking film featuring a lead actor with star power and secondary roles performed by experts. The pacing is good and while I thought this could have been a few minutes shorter, it kept me interested. While you expect a certain ending, you're never quite sure how the plot's going to get you there. No big screen effects but a big screen will add to your pleasure. Times/Theatres.

Worthwhile (or not), 3/18/2011

MetaCritic indicates THE LINCOLN LAWYER (64) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by LIMITLESS (58), BIUTIFUL (58), and PAUL (53). I watched all of them but BIUTIFUL and thought it was an above average week.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section at the blog to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of THE LINCOLN LAWYER (***½), LIMITLESS (***½), and PAUL (**) will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 3/18/11

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.

Biutiful [R] 2 hrs. 28 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Javier Bardem, Maricel Álvarez, Hanaa Bouchaib, Guillermo Estrella, Eduard Fernández, Cheikh Ndiaye, Diaryatou Daff, Taisheng Cheng, Jin Luo 2. Plot: a love story between a father who struggles to reconcile fatherhood, love, spirituality, crime, guilt and mortality amidst the dangerous underworld of modern Barcelona, and his children. Nominated for two Academy Awards. Showing at:  Warren East.

Limitless [PG-13] 1 hr. 46 min. Action/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro, Abbie Cornish, Anna Friel, Tomas Arana. Plot: an unsuccessful writer's life is transformed by a top-secret "smart drug" that allows him to use 100% of his brain and become a perfect version of himself. His enhanced abilities soon attract shadowy forces that threaten his new life. Showing at: Derby Plaza ?, Movie Machine, Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Lincoln Lawyer [R] 1 hr. 59 min. Crime drama Watch Preview Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Marisa Tomei, Josh Lucas, John Leguizamo, Frances Fisher, Bob Gunton, Laurence Mason, Bryan Cranston, William H. Macy. Plot: a slick, charismatic Los Angeles criminal defense attorney who operates out of the back of his Lincoln Continental sedan unexpectedly lands the case of a lifetime: defending a rich Beverly Hills playboy (Ryan Phillippe) who is accused of attempted murder. However, what initially appears to be a straightforward case with a big money pay-off swiftly develops into a deadly match between two masters of manipulation. Showing at: Derby Plaza ?,  Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Paul [R] 1 hr. 56 min.Comedy adventure Watch Preview Cast: Nick Frost, Simon Pegg, Seth Rogen, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Jane Lynch, Sigourney Weaver, Joe Lo Truglio, David Koechner, Blythe Danner, John Carroll Lynch. Plot: two sci-fi geeks' pilgrimage takes them to America's UFO heartland. While there, they accidentally meet an alien who brings them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever. Showing at: Derby Plaza ?, Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 3/17/11

Derby Plaza -
Movie Machine - Gnomeo And Juliet
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Chronicles Of Narnia, Tron
Starlite Drive-In - Open weekends only
Warren East 13th - Take Me Home Tonight, Drive Angry 3D, I Am Number Four
Warren Old Town - Take Me Home Tonight, Unknown, Just Go With It
Warren West 21st - Justin Bieber, Take Me Home Tonight, Gnomeo And Juliet

Battle: Los Angeles **½

Jonathan Liebesman directed this Sci-FiAction pic. Watch Preview Cast: Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriguez, Ramon Rodriguez, Bridget Moynahan, Ne-Yo, Michael Pena. Rated PG-13 for sustained and intense sequences of war violence and destruction, and for language. Running time is one hour and fifty-four minutes.

UFO sightings become a terrifying reality when Earth is attacked by unknown forces. As people everywhere watch the world's great cities fall, Los Angeles becomes the last stand for mankind in a battle no one expected.

If you're looking for an action film and don't want to be bothered with much else, this is your film. The action starts immediately and never really lets up until the final credits roll. The first forty-five minutes aren't very satisfying since you can't see what's going on because of all the smoke, and you don't get a good view of the invaders until you wade through the ¾ hour stretch. After that, it's all action, all the time. The cast is fine although Moynahan doesn't have much to do.  Eckhart does well although his role doesn't really call for much. The testosterone crowd will go for this but I don't see this as much of a date movie. The big screen and good sound will add to the impact. Theatres/Times.

Red Riding Hood *

Catherine Hardwicke directed this Romance/Fantasy/Horror film. Watch Preview Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Gary Oldman, Billy Burke, Shiloh Fernandez, Max Irons, Virginia Madsen, Julie Christie. Rated PG-13 for violence and creature terror, and some sensuality. Running time is one hour and forty minutes.

A beautiful young woman (Seyfried) is torn between two men (Fernandez, Irons), one of whom may be a werewolf.

This film is just silly. Teenage girls are probably the only potential audience. They got the fairy tale bit right, nothing seems real. They live in a mountain village in what looks like the middle ages, with livestock and chickens roaming everywhere. Yet, never is there a sign of mud, etc. Everything is pristine, including the white snow on the ground which is never soiled. It looks to be quite cold, but no one really dresses for it. You would think the villagers would have perished of pneumonia ages ago. The plot is not totally unreasonable for a horror film and they might have had a reasonable one if the setting wasn't so ludicrous. The wolf doesn't look too bad but is nothing to write to Grandma about. I hate to tell you this, but the ending looks like they've got a sequel in mind. Just keep that in mind if you're thinking of encouraging them by attending. Theatres/Times.

Cedar Rapids ***

Miguel Arteta directed this Comedy. Watch Preview Cast: Ed Helms, John C. Reilly, Sigourney Weaver, Anne Heche, Isiah Whitlock Jr.,Stephen Root, Kurtwood Smith, Alia Shawkat, Mike O\'Malley, Rob Corddry, Seth Morris. Rated R for crude and sexual content, language and drug use. Running time is one hour and twenty-seven minutes.

A naive  insurance agent (Ed Helms), is sent to represent his company at the annual insurance convention in Cedar Rapids. His boss (Stephen Root) insists he bring back the coveted convention award and it takes the help of new  friends (Reilly, Heche, Whitlock Jr.) to bring it all about.

This is an adult movie about frustrated and lonely insurance agents who meet once a year in Cesar Rapids to blow off a little steam and then forget about it (what happens in Cedar Rapids, stays in Cedar Rapids). You might think that plot would have very few laughs, but you'd be wrong. Helms is the lead, a "babe in the woods" whose sexual advancement is limited to having an affair with his seventh grade teacher. Reilly is excellent, as he always is, and the rest of the cast is note perfect. The plot isn't totally believable but it is most enjoyable to watch. There's nothing in this film requiring a big screen but you'll find it more enjoyable if you watch with a number of others. Theatre/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 3/11/2011

MetaCritic indicates RANGO (75) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by SOMEWHERE (67), THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU (58), BEASTLY (46), and TAKE ME HOME TONIGHT (42). I watched THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU and thought it was a terrific film .  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of CEDAR RAPIDS, RED RIDING HOOD, and BATTLE: LOS ANGELES will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 3/11/11

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.

Battle: Los Angeles [PG-13] 1 hr. 57 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Aaron Eckhart, Michelle Rodriguez, Ramon Rodriguez, Bridget Moynahan, Ne-Yo, Michael Pena. Plot: UFO sightings become a terrifying reality when Earth is attacked by unknown forces. As people everywhere watch the world's great cities fall, Los Angeles becomes the last stand for mankind in a battle no one expected. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Cedar Rapids [R] 1 hr. 27 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Ed Helms, John C. Reilly, Sigourney Weaver, Anne Heche, Stephen Root, Kurtwood Smith, Alia Shawkat, Mike O\'Malley, Rob Corddry, Seth Morris. Plot: a naive  insurance agent (Ed Helms), is sent to represent his company at the annual insurance convention in Cedar Rapids. Showing at:  Warren East.

Mars Needs Moms [PG] 1 hr. 28 min. Animated comedy Watch Preview Voices of: Seth Green, Dan Fogler, Elisabeth Harnois, Mindy Sterling, Kevin Cahoon, Joan Cusack. Plot: nine-year-old Milo (Seth Green) finds out just how much he needs his mom (Joan Cusack) when she's nabbed by Martians who plan to steal her mom-ness for their own young. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Red Riding Hood [PG-13] 1 hr. 40 min. Romance/Fantasy Watch Preview Cast: Amanda Seyfried, Gary Oldman, Billy Burke, Shiloh Fernandez, Max Irons, Virginia Madsen, Julie Christie. Plot: a beautiful young woman (Seyfried) is torn between two men, one of whom may be a werewolf. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 3/10/11

Derby Plaza - nothing
Movie Machine - Big Momma's, I Am Number Four, Just Go With It
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Country Strong, Season Of The Witch
Starlite Drive-In - Open weekends only
Warren East 13th - The Fighter, Black Swan, The Eagle, True Grit, Big Momma's, Rabbit Hole, Somewhere, Justin Bieber
Warren Old Town - I Am Number Four, Drive Angry 3D
Warren West 21st - The Roomate, True Grit, The Eagle, Big Momma's, Drive Angry 3D

The Adjustment Bureau ***½

George Nolfi wrote and directed this Romance/Thriller, based on a Philip K. Dick short story. Watch Preview Cast:  Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Anthony Mackie, John Slattery, Shohreh Aghdashloo, Michael Kelly, Terence Stamp. Rated PG-13 for brief strong language, some sexuality and a violent image. Running time is one hour and forty-five minutes.

A politician (Damon) discovers the relationship he's having with a ballerina (Blunt) is not supposed to be his future, and if he continues seeing her, bad things will happen to them both.

I've been looking forward to this film since I first saw the preview and I wasn't disappointed. The plot is different, the two lead characters are very good and have great chemistry, and I had no real idea how it was going to end. It does get a little slow in the middle but the pacing was fine for the rest. There are religious overtones to the film that may make for some interesting discussions for those so inclined, but I wouldn't class this as a religious film. It is foremost a thriller with some romance thrown in and I think thirty plus audiences will be well entertained.Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 3/4/2011

MetaCritic indicates RANGO (75) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by SOMEWHERE (67), THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU (58), BEASTLY (46), and TAKE ME HOME TONIGHT (42). I watched THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU and thought it was a terrific film .  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My review of THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 3/4/11

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.

The Adjustment Bureau [PG-13] 1 hr. 46 min. Romance/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Matt Damon, Emily Blunt. Plot: a politician discovers the relationship he's having with a ballerina is not supposed to be his future. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Beastly [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Fantasy/Romance Watch Preview Cast: Alex Pettyfer, Vanessa Hudgens, Neil Patrick Harris. Plot: an attractive, wealthy teenage boy is transformed into a hideous monster so he can find true love. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Rango [PG] 1 hr. 47 min. Animated/Adventure Watch Preview Voice of: Johnny Depp. Plot: a chameleon pretending to be a swashbuckling hero is forced to be one in order to protect a Western town. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren West.

Somewhere [R] 1 hr. 38 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Stephen Dorff, Elle Fanning. Plot: a privileged Hollywood actor re-examines his lifestyle after his 11-year-old daughter drops in for an extended stay. Showing at: Warren East.

Take Me Home Tonight [R] 1 hr. 37 min. Comedy/Drama Watch Preview Cast: Topher Grace, Anna Faris, Dan Fogler, Teresa Palmer. Plot: a college grad, his twin sister and their best friend ponder adulthood at a wild Labor Day weekend party. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 3/3/11

Derby Plaza - Big Momma's, Unknown, Justin Bieber
Movie Machine - Justin Bieber
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Megamind, The Tourist, Unstoppable
Starlite Drive-In - Open weekends only
Warren East 13th - The Roomate, No Strings Attached, Barney's Version
Warren Old Town - No Strings Attached, The Eagle, Big Momma's
Warren West 21st - Sanctum, No Strings Attached, The Roomate

Hall Pass **

Bobby Farrelly, Peter Farrelly directed this Comedy. Watch Preview Cast: Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikis, Jenna Fischer, Richard Jenkins, Christina Applegate, Alexandra Daddario, Stephen Merchant, Nicky Whelan, Larry Joe Campbell, Tyler Hoechlin. Rated R for crude and sexual humor throughout, language, some graphic nudity and drug use. Running time is one hour and forty-five minutes.

When two men (Owen Wilson, Jason Sudekis) begin to show signs of restlessness at home, their wives (Jenna Fischer, Christina Applegate) take a bold approach to revitalizing their marriages: granting them a "hall pass," one week of freedom to do whatever they want...no questions asked.

I can see where a younger audience seeing this with a large number of others might find this very funny on multiple occasions. I basically watched it alone, however, and was mostly embarrassed for the two guys rather than finding their pathetic attempts to 'score' that funny. The cast is fine although I personally enjoyed Fischer and Applegate more than Wilson and Sudekis. The R rating is well deserved and I should probably point out there is some 'up close and personal' male nudity some might find offensive. The older you are the less you will be entertained by this one.

Worthwhile (or not), 2/25/2011

MetaCritic indicates RABBIT HOLE (76) is the highest rated film for the week (of course, virtually no one here will see it), followed by HALL PASS (49), THE GRACE CARD (47) and DRIVE ANGRY 3D (0) coming in last since there are so few reviews available. I watched HALL PASS but wasn't overly impressed, although younger viewers may find it more to their liking.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My review of HALL PASS will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 2/25/11

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.

Drive Angry 3D [R] 1 hr. 44 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Nicolas Cage, William Fichtner, Amber Heard, Billy Burke, Simona Williams, Katy Mixon. Plot: a hardened felon becomes hell bent on stopping a vicious cult of fanatics who murdered his daughter and plan on sacrificing his infant granddaughter beneath a full moon. Showing at: Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Grace Card [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Michael Joiner, Michael Higgenbottom, Louis Gossett Jr., Joy Moore, Dawntoya Thomason, Rob Erickson, Cindy Hodge. Plot: when a man loses his son in an accident, years of bitterness and pain erodes his love for his family and leaves him angry with God... and everyone else. Showing at:  Warren West.

Hall Pass [R] 1 hr. 48 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikis, Jenna Fischer, Richard Jenkins, Christina Applegate, Alexandra Daddario, Stephen Merchant, Nicky Whelan, Larry Joe Campbell, Tyler Hoechlin. Plot: when two men (Owen Wilson, Jason Sudekis) begin to show signs of restlessness at home, their wives (Jenna Fischer, Christina Applegate) take a bold approach to revitalizing their marriages: granting them a "hall pass," one week of freedom to do whatever they want...no questions asked. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Rabbit Hole [PG-13] 1 hr. 32 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart, Dianne Wiest, Tammy Blanchard, Miles Teller, Giancarlo Esposito, Jon Tenney, Patricia Kalember, Julie Lauren, Sandra Oh. Plot: a vivid, hopeful, honest and unexpectedly witty portrait of a family searching for what remains possible in the most impossible of all situations. Showing at:  Warren East.

Leaving, 2/24/11

Derby Plaza - The Roomate
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Faster, Due Date
Starlite Drive-In - Opens March 4
Warren East 13th - The Dilemma, Green Hornet, Sanctum
Warren Old Town - nothing
Warren West 21st - The Rite, The Mechanic, Green Hornet, Sanctum

I Am Number Four ***

D.J. Caruso directed this Sci-Fi/Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Alex Pettyfer, Timothy Olyphant, Teresa Palmer, Dianna Agron, Kevin Durand, Callan McAuliffe. Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and for language. Running time is one hour and fifty minutes.

An extraordinary teen (Alex Pettyfer) is a fugitive on the run from ruthless enemies sent to destroy him. He falls for a pretty high school girl (Dianna Agron) to the dismay of the man guarding him (Timothy Olyphant) Based on the book by Pittacus Lore.

Make no mistake, this film is aimed at a teen/twenty audience. Still, it's good Sci-Fi and I personally found it very enjoyable. Most of the cast is relatively unknown, unless you're a fan of GLEE (Agron), but there were no weak links as far as I'm concerned. There's a fair amount of action and some good CG effects and a plot that's realistic for a Sci-Fi film and reasonably fast paced so boredom is never a problem. The ending is clearly a lead-in to a sequel and I for one an hoping there will be one...I found this one to be that entertaining. Theatres/Times  Imax Times  

Unknown **

Jaume Collet-Serra directed this Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Liam Neeson, Diane Kruger, January Jones, Aidan Quinn, Bruno Ganz, Frank Langella. Rated PG-13 for some intense sequences of violence and action, and brief sexual content. Running time is one hour and fifty-three minutes.

Dr. Martin Harris (Liam Neeson) awakens after a car accident in Berlin to discover that his wife (January Jones) suddenly doesn't recognize him and another man (Aidan Quinn) has assumed his identity.

This is  a very entertaining film that will keep you involved throughout with the plot antics and numerous action sequences. It should have a higher rating but, to me, the ending was so ridiculous I couldn't bring myself to go any higher. If it isn't necessary to you that the plot resolution makes sense, this will provide a couple of hours of entertainment. Unfortunately, that isn't me so I recommend if you're going to see it, leave about five minutes before the film is over and make up your own ending...it will probably make more sense than the one you'll see if you stay. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 2/18/2011

MetaCritic indicates BARNEY'S VERSION (67) is the highest rated film for the week (of course, virtually no one here will see it), followed by UNKNOWN (57), I AM NUMBER FOUR (37) and BIG MOMMAS: LIKE FATHER LIKE SON (30) coming in last. I watched UNKNOWN and FOUR and liked the latter much better than did the national reviewers.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of UNKNOWN and I AM NUMBER FOUR will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 2/18/11

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.

Barney's Version [R] 2 hr. 12 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Paul Giamatti, Dustin Hoffman, Rosamund Pike, Minnie Driver, Rachelle Lefevre, Scott Speedman, Bruce Greenwood. Plot: a seemingly ordinary man (Giamatti) lives an extraordinary life spaning three decades and two continents, and includes three wives, one outrageous father and a dangerously dissolute best friend. Based on the book by Mordecai Richler. Showing at: Warren East.

Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son [PG-13] 1 hr. 48 min. Comedy Watch Preview Cast: Martin Lawrence, Brandon T. Jackson, Jessica Lucas, Faizon Love, Emily Rios, Portia Doubleday, Michelle Ang. Plot: FBI Agent Turner is joined by his teenage stepson as they go undercover at an all-girls performing arts school after the boy witnesses a murder. Posing as Big Momma and as hefty coed Charmaine, they must find the murderer before he finds them. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

I Am Number Four [PG-13] 1 hr. 50 min. Sci-Fi/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Alex Pettyfer, Timothy Olyphant, Teresa Palmer, Dianna Agron, Kevin Durand, Callan McAuliffe. Plot: an extraordinary teen (Alex Pettyfer) is a fugitive on the run from ruthless enemies sent to destroy him. Based on the book by Pittacus Lore. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Unknown [PG-13] 1 hr. 47 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Liam Neeson, Diane Kruger, January Jones, Aidan Quinn, Bruno Ganz, Frank Langella. Plot: Dr. Martin Harris (Liam Neeson) awakens after a car accident in Berlin to discover that his wife (January Jones) suddenly doesn't recognize him and another man (Aidan Quinn) has assumed his identity. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 2/17/11

Derby Plaza - King's Speech, Green Hornet, Sanctum
Movie Machine - Yogi Bear, Tangled
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - How Do You Know, Life As We Know It
Starlite Drive-In - Opens March 4
Warren East 13th - Another Year, Tangled, The Mechanic, The Rite, The Illusionist
Warren Old Town - The Roomate, Sanctum, The Mechanic, The Rite
Warren West 21st - 127 Hours, The Dilemma, Black Swan, The Fighter

Just Go With It *

Dennis Dugan directed this Romantic comedy. Watch Preview Cast: Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Nicole Kidman, Brooklyn Decker, Dave Matthews, Bailee Madison. Rated PG-13 for frequent crude and sexual content, partial nudity, brief drug references and language. Running time is one hour and fifty-six minutes.

A plastic surgeon (Sandler), romances a much younger schoolteacher (Decker) and pays no romantic attention to his attractive assistant (Aniston).

An attractive cast is completely sabotaged by a very unattractive script. I've never found Sandler to be very amusing and he continues to be unamusing here. Aniston does well but continues to select films that just aren't very entertaining. Decker isn't a bad actress for a model and Kidman is fine, but what's she doing in this mess?  The pic is easily thirty minutes too long which exacerbates the lameness of the plot. No doubt this is supposed to be your Valentine movie but I don't think anyone's going to be in a very good mood after struggling through it. Your best bet is to see if Cactus Flower is on NetFlicks and watch it, since that s what this film is based on. Theatres/Times.

Worthwhile (or not), 2/11/2011

MetaCritic indicates THE ILLUSIONIST (83) is the highest rated film for the week (of course, virtually no one here will see it), followed by THE EAGLE (55), GNOMEO AND JULIET (53), JUSTIN BIEBER (50) and JUST GO WITH IT (33) coming in last (as well it should). Unfortunately, I saw the last one and you should definitely save your money.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of JUST GO WITH IT will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 2/11/11

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.

The Eagle [PG-13] 1 hr. 54 min. Adventure Watch Preview Cast: Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Donald Sutherland, Mark Strong, Tahar Rahim. Plot: in 140 AD, two men - master (Tatum) and slave (Bell) - venture beyond the edge of the known world on a dangerous and obsessive quest for a golden eagle emblem. Showing at: Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Gnomeo And Juliet [G] 1 hr. 24 min. Animated comedy Watch Preview Voices of: James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Michael Caine, Maggie Smith, Jason Statham, Patrick Stewart, Ashley Jensen, Stephen Merchant, Matt Lucas, Jim Cummings, Julie Walters, Richard Wilson, Ozzy Osbourne, Dolly Parton, Hulk Hogan. Plot: Shakespeare's revered tale gets a comical, off-the-wall makeover showcasing both classic and original songs by Elton John.  Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren West.

Justin Bieber: Never Say Never [G] 1 hr. 45 min. Music Watch Preview Cast: Justin Bieber. Plot: biopic that will include performances from his 2010 concert tour. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren West.

Just Go With It [PG-13] 1 hr. 57 min. Romantic comedy Watch Preview Cast: Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Nicole Kidman, Brooklyn Decker, Dave Matthews, Bailee Madison. Plot: a plastic surgeon, romances a much younger schoolteacher. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Movie Machine, Northrock 14 ?, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Illusionist [PG] 1 hr. 20 min.Animated family drama Watch Preview Plot: a stage entertainer encounters an innocent young girl, who will change his life forever. Showing at: Warren East.

Leaving, 2/10/11

Derby Plaza -No Strings Attached, The Rite, The Mechanic
Movie Machine - The Dilemma, Green Hornet, Narnia: Dawn Treader
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Get Low, Secretariat, Red
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for winter
Warren East 13th - Blue Valentine, Little Fockers, Yogi Bear, Tron Legacy, Harry Potter 7.1, Country Strong
Warren Old Town - The Dilemma
Warren West 21st - Tangled, The Way Back, Harry Potter 7.1, Little Fockers, Yogi Bear, Narnia: Dawn Treader

The Roommate *½

Christian E. Christiansen directed this Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Leighton Meester, Minka Kelly, Cam Gigandet, Aly Michalka, Danneel Harris, Frances Fisher, Billy Zane. Rated PG-13 for violence and menace, sexual content, some language and teen partying. Running time is one hour and thirty-three minutes.

A deranged college freshman (Leighton Meester) becomes obsessed with her new roommate (Minka Kelly).

Take a couple of TV series actresses plus a paltry eight million dollars plus the basic plot of Single White Female and this is what you get. They've kept the rating at PG-13 so the intended audience of teens can legally attend but that means there's no nudity, not much profanity and not a lot of thrills, either. The production values are fine and the cast does what it can with the plot but this is basically a TV movie of the week with a theatrical release. If you're a fan of the leads, they don't embarrass themselves so you may enjoy this one. Otherwise, save your money.

Sanctum **

Alister Grierson directed this Action/Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Richard Roxburgh, Rhys Wakefield, Ioan Gruffudd, Alice Parkinson, Dan Wyllie. Rated R for language, some violence and disturbing images. Running time is one hour and forty-nine minutes.

A team of underwater cave divers goes on a treacherous expedition to the largest, most beautiful and least accessible cave system on Earth. When a tropical storm forces them deep into the caverns, they must fight raging water, deadly terrain and creeping panic as they search for an unknown escape route to the sea.

I saw this film in IMAX 3D so my review is predicated on that. If you're looking for a couple of hours of enjoyable escapism, give this film a wide berth. There's nothing enjoyable about it and I kept looking at my watch hoping it would soon be over. In the trade, this is known as a downer...there's not a happy moment in this film. Also, if you're the least bit claustrophobic, don't even think about going to this...you'll never last. There is some stunning photography and this is easily the best 3D I've ever seen. Everything looked natural and the glasses never got tiring, which is unusual for me. But unless you're going for the ultimate 3D or you're a spelunker at heart, there's just nothing here for the usual moviegoer.

Worthwhile (or not), 2/4/2011

MetaCritic indicates ANOTHER YEAR (80) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by SANCTUM (42) and THE ROOMATE (0) coming in last as it evidently wasn't screened. I saw the last two and think neither one is worth the time or money.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

My reviews of SANCTUM and THE ROOMATE will be posted after 4:30 p.m. today (Friday).

Opening, 2/4/11

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.

Another Year [PG-13] 2 hr. 9 min. Drama Watch Preview Cast: Jim Broadbent, Lesley Manville, Ruth Sheen, Peter Wight, Oliver Maltman, David Bradley, Karina Fernandez, Martin Savage, Michele Austin, Phil Davis, Stuart McQuarrie, Imelda Staunton. Plot: a happily married, middle-aged couple is visited by a number of friends who use them as confidants. Showing at:  Warren East.

The Roommate [PG-13] 1 hr. 32 min. Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Leighton Meester, Minka Kelly, Cam Gigandet, Aly Michalka, Danneel Harris, Frances Fisher, Billy Zane. Plot: a deranged college freshman (Leighton Meester) becomes obsessed with her new roommate (Minka Kelly). Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Sanctum [R] 1 hr. 49 min.Action/Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Richard Roxburgh, Rhys Wakefield, Ioan Gruffudd, Alice Parkinson, Dan Wyllie. Plot: a team of underwater cave divers goes on a treacherous expedition to the largest, most beautiful and least accessible cave system on Earth. When a tropical storm forces them deep into the caverns, they must fight raging water, deadly terrain and creeping panic as they search for an unknown escape route to the sea. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 2/3/11

Derby Plaza -The Dilemma, Country Strong
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Buried, The Next Three Days
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for winter
Warren East 13th - The Tourist, The Way Back, Season Of The Witch
Warren Old Town - Black Swan, The Green Hornet, True Grit
Warren West 21st - Season Of The Witch, Tron: Legacy

The Mechanic **½

Simon West directed this Action film. Watch Preview. Cast: Jason Statham, Ben Foster, Donald Sutherland, Christa Campbell. Rated R for strong brutal violence throughout, language, some sexual content and nudity. Running time is one hour and thirty-two minutes.

When the mentor and close friend (Sutherland) of an elite assassin (Statham) is murdered, his next assignment is making sure those responsible pay for it. The friend's son (Foster) insists on helping out.

Statham is back in form as the taciturn, professional killer. The film opens well and ends well but wanders a lot during the middle parts. Still, you go to a film like this looking for action, not necessarily plot, and that's what you get here. Foster adds some interest in a role as the unlikeable son but he's such a wild card you know it's not going to work out. Action fans will enjoy this, but if you require a strong plot I'd skip this one.

The Rite **

Mikael Håfström directed this  Psychological Thriller. Watch Preview Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue, Alice Braga, Ciaran Hinds, Rutger Hauer. Rated PG-13 for disturbing thematic material, violence, frightening images, and language including sexual references. Running time is one hour and fifty-two minutes.

A skeptical seminary student (Colin O'Donoghue) is introduced to the darker side of his faith by an unorthodox priest (Anthony Hopkins), uncovering the devil's reach in one of the holiest places on Earth.

This is a mild exorcism pic with a very good cast. There are limited CG effects that are put to good use. While unsettling at times  I wouldn't class this film as being particularly scary. No screaming out loud or jumping up from your seat and heading for the exit bits. To my way of thinking it would have been better if attempts weren't made to assure you this was real and that it should be taken at face value. From that viewpoint, it was far from convincing. Hopkins is always worth watching but this is nowhere close to being one of his better flms.

Worthwhile (or not), 1/281/2011

MetaCritic indicates BLUE VALENTINE (81) is the highest rated film for the week, followed by THE MECHANIC (49) and THE RITE (38). I saw the last two and pretty much agree with the national ratings.  Check out the MetaCritic website for additional comments on each film. Check out Monday's Opening section below to see the previews and synopses.

Opening, 1/28/11

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.

Blue Valentine [R] 1 hr. 54 min. Romantic Drama Watch Preview Cast: Ryan Gosling, Michelle Williams, Mike Vogel, John Doman, Maryann Plunkett. Plot: flooded with romantic memories of their courtship, Dean(Gosling) and Cindy (Williams) use one night to try and save their failing marriage. Showing at:  Warren East.

The Mechanic [R] 1 hr. 40 min. Action Watch Preview Cast: Jason Statham, Ben Foster, Donald Sutherland, Christa Campbell.  Plot: when the mentor and close friend (Sutherland) of an elite assassin (Statham) is murdered, his next assignment is making sure those responsible pay for it. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

The Rite [PG-13] 1 hr. 54 min. Psychological Thriller Watch Preview Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Colin O'Donoghue, Alice Braga, Ciaran Hinds, Rutger Hauer. Plot: skeptical seminary student (Colin O'Donoghue) is introduced to the darker side of his faith by an unorthodox priest (Anthony Hopkins), uncovering the devil's reach in one of the holiest places on Earth. Showing at: Derby Plaza, Northrock 14, Warren East, Warren Old Town, Warren West.

Leaving, 1/27/11

Derby Plaza -True Grit, Little Fockers, Yogi Bear, Chronicles Of Narnia
Movie Machine - nothing
Northrock 14 -
Palace West - Burlesque, The Social Network, Despicable Me
Starlite Drive-In - Closed for winter
Warren East 13th - Made in Dagenham, How Do You Know
Warren Old Town - The Fighter
Warren West 21st - nothing