Fall 2007 Movie Preview (Part 2)

Shifting into October, there are Oscar-winning actors popping up all over the place, as some of the subject matter covered by these films grows noticeably more serious (with a few exceptions, to be sure). Still, there’s only a handful of these movies that look like they have real potential to be big box office hits.

At any rate, the following is the skinny on some of the more notable releases that October has to offer.

OCTOBER
“The Heartbreak Kid”
Starring Ben Stiller, Michelle Monaghan, Malin Akerman, Jerry Stiller, Rob Corddry
Directed by Bobby and Peter Farrelly
Most people won’t remember the 1972 comedy that this movie is a remake of, yet audiences will certainly remember the teaming of Stiller with the Farrelly brothers in “There’s Something About Mary.” The three will certainly be hoping for a repeat of that successful film, with Stiller playing a newlywed on his honeymoon who realizes his new wife isn’t exactly who he thought he married. Complicating matters more is his sudden infatuation with a woman (Monaghan) he befriends. (Oct. 5)
Official Web site

“Michael Clayton”
Starring George Clooney, Tom Wilkinson, Tilda Swinton, Sydney Pollack
Directed by Tony Gilroy
A corporate lawyer (Clooney) has a crisis of conscience when he’s assigned a case involving one of his firm’s own employees (Wilkinson), who the firm is very scared will start talking about some of its less than noble activities. Feel free to interject your own joke here about lawyers and consciences. (Oct. 5)
Official Web site

“We Own the Night”
Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Wahlberg, Eva Mendes and Robert Duvall
Directed by James Gray
The careers of Phoenix and Wahlberg are both pretty hot right now, and pairing them together in a tale of a New York City club manager caught in the middle of a struggle between mobsters and his cop-filled family sounds like a smart move. (Oct. 12)
Official Web site

“Elizabeth: The Golden Age”
Starring Cate Blanchett, Geoffrey Rush, Clive Owen, Samantha Morton, Abbie Cornish
Directed by Shekhar Kapur
Technically, this movie can qualify as a sequel as it tells the continuing story of Queen Elizabeth and brings back the director (Kapur) and top two stars (Blanchett and Rush). But this is also one of those rare sequels that has aspirations beyond making money, as 1998’s “Elizabeth” wracked up seven Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Picture. (Oct. 12)
Official Web site

“Reservation Road”
Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Connelly, Mira Sorvino
Directed by Terry George
Reteaming Phoenix with director George (“Hotel Rwanda” and “Ladder 49”), “Reservation Road” is based on a novel by John Burnham Schwartz that documents the impact of a fatal hit-and-run accident on two young couples. Clearly, there’s not going to be a lot of laughs in this one, so grab your tissues, folks. (Oct. 19, limited)
Official Web site: Not available

“Gone Baby Gone”
Starring Casey Affleck, Michelle Monaghan, Morgan Freeman, Ed Harris, John Ashton, Amy Ryan
Directed by Ben Affleck
Mock some of his decisions on acting roles if you will, but Ben Affleck has won an Oscar before (for co-writing “Good Will Hunting” with buddy Matt Damon). This time out, he’s co-written an adaptation of a Dennis Lehane (“Mystic River”) novel, and is even directing, with his younger brother, Casey, starring. With Freeman and Harris on board in support, this is a tough one to make fun of. (Oct. 19)
Official Web site

“Rendition”
Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Reese Witherspoon, Peter Sarsgaard, Alan Arkin and Meryl Streep
Directed by Gavin Hood
In what might be the best cast of the fall movie season (and that’s really saying something), Witherspoon stars as a mother whose husband is secretly taken into custody by the U.S. government for his possible terrorist connections. Gyllenhaal is a CIA agent in charge of the interrogation, while Arkin and Streep are bereaucrats involved in the case. Oscar-winner Hood (“Tsotsi”) directs this timely political thriller. (Oct. 19)
Official Web site

“Saw IV”
Starring Tobin Bell, Scott Patterson, Costas Mandylor, Betsy Russell, Lyriq Bent
Directed by Darren Lynn Bousman
Hmm, it’s about time for Halloween, which means it must also be time for ... another “Saw” movie. After three successful installments, does it really matter what the story’s about anymore? Expect a few laughs, a few tears and a little bit of blood shed. OK, maybe none of the two former and a lot of the latter. (Oct. 26)
Official Web site

“Things We Lost in the Fire”
Starring Halle Berry, Benicio Del Toro, David Duchovny, Omar Benson Miller, Alison Lohman, John Carroll Lynch
Directed by Susanne Bier
Since winning her Oscar for “Monster’s Ball” in 2001, Berry has been widely criticized for her film choices. But she might be onto something here, playing a woman struggling to cope after the death of her husband (Duchovny). She invites her husband’s troubled best friend (Del Toro) to stay with her and her kids in the hopes that they can heal each other’s pain.(Oct. 26)
Official Web site

Box Office Report: Aug. 24-26

It sustained a bit of a drop-off in business, as could be expected, but “Superbad” was good enough to hold onto the top spot at the box office over the weekend, taking in another $18 million. There was a trio of newcomers to the top 10, but none could crack the top three, with “Mr. Bean’s Holiday” taking fourth place, just shy of $10 million. That movie, starring Rowan Atkinson as the accident-prone nitwit, has already enjoyed a health overseas box office run, and is very close to the $200 million mark worldwide.

Speaking of worldwide, “Harry Potter” has supplanted “Spider-Man” for the second slot in the world charts, nearing $900 million. It likely will run out of steam before catching the third “Pirates of the Caribbean” sequel, but it’s an impressive accomplishment, nonetheless.

1. “Superbad”
(Weekend domestic gross - $18.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $68.6 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “The Bourne Ultimatum”
(Weekend domestic gross - $12.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $218.8 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Rush Hour 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $135.3 million)
(Budget - $140 million)
4. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $198.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “War”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $9.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “The Nanny Diaries”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $7.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $443.5 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
8. “Stardust”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $35.4 million)
(Budget - $70 million)
9. “Hairspray”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $131.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Invasion”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.5 million)
(Budget - $80 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $957.7 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $895.5 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
3. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $890.2 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $736.5 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $663.0 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $456.1 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Worldwide gross - $443.5 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
8. “Ratatouille”
(Worldwide gross - $348.5 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
9. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Worldwide gross - $348.4 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
10. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $301.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Fall 2007 Movie Preview (Part 1)

Well, after a summer packed full of sequels, big explosions and raucous comedies – not to mention the ever-escalating budgets of some of these movies, it’s time for some smaller, quieter and award-seeking entries for the fall film season. That’s not to say there won’t be some fun and just plain dumb movies sliding into theaters. Hollywood can’t make them all great, right?

Anyway, here’s a breakdown of some of the more notable releases that will be coming in September. October will be covered next week. Keep in mind, release dates are subject to change.

SEPTEMBER
“3:10 to Yuma”
Starring Russell Crowe, Christian Bale, Peter Fonda, Gretchen Mol, Ben Foster, Dallas Roberts
Directed by James Mangold
Coming off the success of “Walk the Line,” director James Mangold is trying to help revive the western genre with this remake of the 1957 film of the same name. On board are two of today’s most committed and intense actors (Crowe and Bale), playing a murderous outlaw and the rancher who has to deliver him to justice, respectively. Western done well can be very successful (see “Unforgiven” and “Dances with Wolves”). However, those came out over 15 years ago. (Sept. 7)
Official Web site

“Shoot ‘Em Up”
Starring Clive Owen, Paul Giamatti, Monica Bellucci, Stephen McHattie
Directed by Michael Davis
In what could easily have fit in on the summer movie schedule, Owen stars in this wall-to-wall action pic about a reluctant protector of a woman (Bellucci) and her newborn baby. The great Giamatti gets his chance to sink his teeth into a villainous role, as he and his henchmen are out for blood. (Sept. 7)
Official Web site

“Eastern Promises”
Starring Viggo Mortensen, Naomi Watts, Vincent Cassel, Armin Mueller-Stahl
Directed by David Cronenberg
The star (Mortensen) and director (Cronenberg) of “A History of Violence” reunite in a tale of a group of Russian mobsters living in London and their involvement with a midwife (Watts). For those waiting for Cronenberg to step away from such intense dramatic material and make a hilarious comedy can keep on waiting. This is not that movie. (Sept. 14)
Official Web site

“The Brave One”
Starring Jodie Foster, Terrence Howard, Naveen Andrews, Nicky Katt, Mary Steenbergen
Directed by Neil Jordan
In some slight echoes of her Oscar-winning role in “The Accused,” Foster plays a victim of a brutal attack that kills her husband and leads to her desperate desire for vengeance. Few actresses can bring sensitivity and pure emotional intensity to a role like Foster, who will undoubtedly get some Oscar talk for this part. (Sept. 14)
Official Web site

“In the Valley of Elah”
Starring Tommy Lee Jones, Charlize Theron, Francis Fisher and Susan Sarandon
Directed by Paul Haggis
With its story involving the father (Jones) of a soldier seeking answers to his son’s mysterious disappearance, “Elah” is certainly not hurting for Oscar-winning talent. Jones, along with co-stars Theron and Sarandon have all won the gold guy, as has writer-director Haggis (“Crash”). (Sept. 14, limited)
Official Web site

“Good Luck Chuck”
Starring Dane Cook, Jessica Alba, Dan Fogler
Directed by Mark Helfrich
Another film that looks like a castoff from the summer movie season, “Chuck” tells the story of a ladies man (Cook) who has a knack as a quasi-good luck charm by sleeping with a woman, who then falls in love with and marries the next man she meets. He then meets and falls in love with a woman (Alba) with the hopes that he can avoid falling into the arms of another man. Is this based on a true story? (Sept. 21)
Official Web site

“The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”
Starring Brad Pitt, Casey Affleck, Sam Shepard, Mary-Louise Parker and Sam Rockwell
Directed by Andrew Dominik
Certainly consisting of the longest title of the year, “Jesse James” is the second western of the month, albeit one with a much more troubled journey to the screen. The film has evidently gone through a lot of different cuts, including some supervised by star and producer Pitt, who plays the legendary outlaw James. Affleck co-stars as a newcomer to the gang, who becomes obsessed with the thief. (Sept. 21, limited)
Official Web site

“The Kingdom”
Starring Jamie Foxx, Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Jeremy Piven, Danny Huston, Richard Jenkins
Directed by Peter Berg
Dealing with terrorism in post-9/11 isn’t the easiest task for films, but a good cast and strong studio support (the movie was reportedly moved by Universal Pictures from the spring to a higher profile fall spot) should help matters. A group of FBI operatives are sent into Saudi Arabia to investigate a terrorist attack, only to find themselves a target in the process. (Sept. 28)
Official Web site

“The Darjeeling Limited”
Starring Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, Jason Schwartzman and Angelica Huston
Directed by Wes Anderson
Having taken a few lumps from critics and audiences with “The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou,” writer-director Wes Anderson isn’t shying away from unusual pictures with his latest, focusing on three estranged brothers (Wilson, Brody and Schwartzman). They take a train journey through India hoping to reconnect, following the death of their father. Two Anderson movie vets (Wilson and Schwartzman) combined with an Oscar-winner (Brody) could be an intriguing combination. (Sept. 29, limited)
Official Web site

Fall 2007 Preview Cometh

OK, so you might have noticed a general dearth of updates on the site in recent weeks. Sorry about that, as other outside projects have been draining time from providing updates, such as reviews. I have still been seeing some movies on occasion, just not making the time to post reviews. I will try to do better.

But keep your eyes peeled for the annual fall movie preview, which will likely be coming in two installments – the first of which should be arriving by month's end. There's already looking like some good movie watching options ahead, but I'll let you judge for yourselves real soon.

Stay tuned ...

- MC

Box Office Report: Aug. 17-19

It’s proven to be a pretty good summer for Seth Rogen and Judd Apatow. Both have been involved in two hit movies (“Knocked Up” and “Superbad”), with Rogen starring in the former while co-starring and co-writing the latter. Apatow directed “Knocked Up” and was a producer on “Superbad,” which opened to $33.1 million over its opening weekend.
The only other major debut, “Invasion,” starring Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig, looks to be a clear flop, taking in just $6 million, good for fifth place. Warner Bros. did a terrible job in marketing the film, and has had the sci-fi flick sitting on the shelf for months. Guess it should have stayed there.

1. “Superbad”
(Weekend domestic gross - $33.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $33.1 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “Rush Hour 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $21.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $97.3 million)
(Budget - $140 million)
3. “The Bourne Ultimatum”
(Weekend domestic gross - $19.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $192.4 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
4. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $400.4 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
5. “Invasion”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $6.0 million)
(Budget - $80 million)
6. “Stardust”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $28.6 million)
(Budget - $70 million)
7. “Hairspray”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $121.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Underdog”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $31.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $872.8 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
10. “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $115.7 million)
(Budget - $85 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $956.2 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $890.2 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $872.8 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $736.4 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $660.2 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $456.1 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Worldwide gross - $400.4 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
8. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Worldwide gross - $338.2 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
9. “Ratatouille”
(Worldwide gross - $315.9 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
10. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $296.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Box Office Report: Aug. 10-12

While not raking in as much money as the opening weekend of its predecessor, “Rush Hour 3” was still strong enough to pull in nearly $50 million to take the top position at the box office. Still, it remains to be seen if the big-budgeted action sequel, yet another third in a series, can hold up in subsequent weekends. Maybe audiences are going to start to realize that wasn’t a whole lot to this franchise beyond its concept introduced in the first “Rush Hour.”

Looking at the worldwide charts, “300” now stands alone as the only non-summer movie release to have a spot in the top 10.

1. “Rush Hour 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $49.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $49.1 million)
(Budget - $140 million)
2. “The Bourne Ultimatum”
(Weekend domestic gross - $32.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $135.7 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $342.3 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
4. “Stardust”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $12.1 million)
(Budget - $70 million)
5. “Hairspray”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $108.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Underdog”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.35 million)
(Worldwide gross - $24.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $106.5 million)
(Budget - $85 million)
8. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $822.0 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
9. “No Reservations”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $35.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Daddy Day Camp”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $4.9 million)
(Budget - $150 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $954.7 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $890.1 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $822.0 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $733.1 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $631.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $456.0 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Worldwide gross - $342.3 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
8. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Worldwide gross - $325.8 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
9. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $285.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Ratatouille”
(Worldwide gross - $277.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)

Box Office Report: Aug. 3-5

Matt Damon grabbed the top spot at the box office for the second time this summer (“Ocean’s Thirteen” being the first), as “The Bourne Ultimatum” fought its way to an easy victory over the weekend, pulling in nearly $70 million. That makes it easily the biggest opener of the film series, a rarity in the world of sequels.

Last week’s number one, “The Simpsons Movie” fell to second, earning $25.1 million, or about 66 percent less than its first weekend. Still, it’s pulled in more than $235 million worldwide, so it would seem far from sad news for the Simpson clan.

1. “The Bourne Ultimatum”
(Weekend domestic gross - $69.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $69.3 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
2. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Weekend domestic gross - $25.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $235.8 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
3. “Underdog”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $93.7 million)
(Budget - $85 million)
5. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $771.0 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “Hairspray”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $90.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “No Reservations”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $24.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Transformers”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $591.4 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
9. “Hot Rod”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $5.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Bratz”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $4.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $951.8 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $889.8 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $771.0 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $727.1 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $591.4 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $456.0 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Worldwide gross - $308.8 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
8. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $279.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $252.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $240.1 million)
(Budget - $130 million)

Box Office Report: July 27-29

With 18 years on the TV screen under its belt, “The Simpsons” made a smashing debut on the big screen, taking in $74 million over the weekend, destroying its competition in the process. Its studio, 20th Century Fox, has been aggressively marketing the film for months and is raking in the dough as “Simpsons” fans, both die-hard and casual, made their way to theaters.

The other major debuts, “No Reservations” and “I Know Who Killed Me” debuted in 5th and 9th place, respectively. The pathetic finish of the latter, starring Lindsey Lohan, had to be a real thorn in the side for Sony Pictures, which had the misfortune of having its star getting booked into jail and then taking another trip to rehab a mere week or so before the film’s debut in theaters. That’s probably not quite the PR campaign the studio was hoping for.

1. “The Simpsons Movie”
(Weekend domestic gross - $74.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $74.0 million)
(Budget - $75 million)
2. “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”
(Weekend domestic gross - $19.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $72.5 million)
(Budget - $85 million)
3. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Weekend domestic gross - $17.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $698.9 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
4. “Hairspray”
(Weekend domestic gross - $15.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $63.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “No Reservations”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $63.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Transformers”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $535.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
7. “Ratatouille”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $217.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $285.1 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
9. “I Know Who Killed Me”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $3.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Who’s Your Caddy?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $2.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $947.5 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $889.0 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $718.6 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $698.9 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $535.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $456.0 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Worldwide gross - $285.1 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
8. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $275.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $252.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $238.0 million)
(Budget - $130 million)

Movie Review: "Hot Fuzz"

Starring Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jim Broadbent, Edward Woodward, Timothy Dalton
Directed by Edgar Wright
Official Web site

Having built up a healthy-sized cult following with the success of “Shaun of the Dead,” a send-up and homage to zombie movies popularized by George Romero, among others, actor Simon Pegg and director Edgar Wright have teamed up again to even greater results with “Hot Fuzz.” Skewering any number of American action movies, including “Bad Boys II” and “Point Break,” the film generates plenty of laughs while delivering a fair amount of bang for the buck. It’s a movie that works equally well in the comedy and action departments.

Pegg and Wright collaborated on the script that brings a standout London cop to a sleepy, tiny town of Sandford, where the police department actually responds to calls involving an escaped goose. Nicholas Angel (Pegg in a winning performance) is transferred to Sandford by his superiors simply because he’s too good at his job. His arrest rate is so high, it’s making the rest of the department look bad by comparison.

Predictably, Angel isn’t an ideal fit for Sandford, where crime seems to be nonexistent and the local police department seems overly complacent. Teamed up with Danny (Nick Frost, another “Shaun of the Dead” alumnus), the son of police Inspector Frank Butterman (Jim Broadbent), Angel quickly becomes bored and frustrated by the lack of activity. He also seems a bit hesitant at what to make of the seemingly odd behavior of some of the townspeople, including Tom Weaver (Edward Woodward), the head of a neighborhood watch group and the former James Bond himself, Timothy Dalton, playing an egotistical grocery store owner.

However, things don’t stay quiet for long, as some of the townspeople start dying off, in what at the least could be described as some very coincidental “accidents.” But through the work of Angel and the action movie-obsessed Danny, the pieces of a more sinister plot that connects the deaths together begins to form.

While the laughs come at the viewer pretty consistently throughout the first two-thirds of the picture, it’s in the film’s last act that the movie really cranks up the action. At that point, it makes fun of and accurately becomes a high-octane action movie, complete with endless supplies of bullets blazing out of guns, where seemingly everybody is a threat, including a shotgun-toting grandma.

The primary reason that “Hot Fuzz” and “Shaun of the Dead” work is because Pegg and Wright both obviously have a passion and love for the very movies at which they are poking fun. They know the landscape on which they’re walking very well, thus giving them confidence at having some good-natured ribbing at the genre’s expense. The audience becomes the beneficiary of the fun, as anyone who has ever seen an action movie will instantly recognize some of the clichés being rolled out. The movie does probably go on a bit longer than necessary and the violence quotient is definitely intensified in the last half hour or so. Then again, by that point, you might be too busy laughing to notice or care.

Grade: A-
(Rated R for violent content including some graphic images, and language.)

Box Office Report: July 20-22

In what became one of the truly competitive weekends of the summer, the top three films of the weekend box office finished within less than $7 million from each other, with “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry” climbing on top with $34.2 million. Close behind was “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” getting $32.5 in its second weekend, while the musical “Hairspray” finished strong as well, with $27.5 million.

The worldwide chart saw a little shuffling on the list, as more of the summer movies are supplanting the spring standouts.

1. “I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry”
(Weekend domestic gross - $34.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $34.2 million)
(Budget - $85 million)
2. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Weekend domestic gross - $32.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $559.2 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
3. “Hairspray”
(Weekend domestic gross - $27.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $27.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Transformers”
(Weekend domestic gross - $20.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $453.6 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
5. “Ratatouille”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $195.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $241.4 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “License to Wed”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $38.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “1408”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $68.9 million)
(Budget - $25 million)
9. “Evan Almighty”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.56 million)
(Worldwide gross - $98.2 million)
(Budget - $175 million)
10. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $152.1 million)
(Budget - $30 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $940.1 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $888.4 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $701.6 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $559.2 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
5. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $456.0 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
6. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $453.6 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
7. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $269.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $252.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Worldwide gross - $241.4 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
10. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $233.6 million)
(Budget - $130 million)

Box Office Report: July 13-15

As the final book in the franchise is looming, Harry Potter showed he’s still magical at the box office, as “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix” got off to a very strong start, taking in $77.1 million in its opening weekend. It also has already surpassed the $300 million mark in worldwide grosses.

Last week’s number one, “Transformers” easily snagged second place, with $37 million and is approaching $400 million in worldwide receipts. Most of the remaining top 10 simply slipped down a spot, with several solid hits emerging among them.

1. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Weekend domestic gross - $77.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $332.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
2. “Transformers”
(Weekend domestic gross - $37.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $370.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
3. “Ratatouille”
(Weekend domestic gross - $18.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $160.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $194.4 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
5. “License to Wed”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $30.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “1408”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.93 million)
(Worldwide gross - $62.1 million)
(Budget - $25 million)
7. “Evan Almighty”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $92.2 million)
(Budget - $175 million)
8. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $145.0 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
9. “Sicko”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $15.8 million)
(Budget - $9 million)
10. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $262.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $929.4 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $885.8 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $679.3 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $455.6 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $370.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix”
(Worldwide gross - $332.7 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
7. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $262.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $251.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $228.7 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
10. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $225.2 million)
(Budget - $130 million)

Movie Review: "Curse of the Golden Flower"

Starring Chow Yun Fat, Gong Li, Jay Chou, Lie Ye, Chen Jin, Ni Dahong, Li Man, Qin Junjie
Directed by Zhang Yimou
Official Web site

Having created impressive historical epics such as “House of Flying Daggers” and “Hero,” director Zhang Yimou certainly knows how to craft tales with incredible visual flair. But unlike those previous two films, “Curse of the Golden Flower” is much more style over substance. Ultimately, the story, nor the characters that inhabit it, are worth getting worked up about.

Chow Yun Fat and Gong Li star as the emperor and empress of a seriously dysfunctional family in 928 A.D. China. By the time the story begins, the royal couple’s marriage is already a fairly lifeless entity. Both are in the midst of betrayals – she’s cheating on him, while he’s trying to slowly poison her to death. Meanwhile, the family’s three sons are caught up in their parents’ power struggle, with at least two of them eyeing a chance at the throne. Never mind the fact that one of them is the very person with whom the empress is having her affair (I told you the family’s dysfunctional).

Throw in an attempted military coup within the palace walls, and you’ve got the ingredients to a compelling story. Unfortunately, the individual parts simply don’t add up to a satisfying whole. Part of the problem is that with such a troubled family at its core, there needs to be somebody worth rooting for amidst all the soap opera-ish developments. But alas, this is not the case, as every family member is either underdeveloped or simply despicable (in some cases, both).

The normally charismatic Chow Yun Fat seems too reigned in here, portraying an emperor who has seemingly long since given up hope in his family’s redemption. With the exception of a swordfight with one of his sons in the early portions of the film, he’s given little to do. While Chow Yun Fat seems to underplay his role, Gong Li tends to go the other direction here, playing up the melodramatic aspects of a woman descending into madness. Still, she looks pretty great doing so.

In fact, all of the sets and costume design are sensational, as colors practically leap off the screen. Likewise, some of the action sequences, most of which are filled in the film’s busy third act, are very eye-catching, complete with excellent cinematography. However, there is an overreliance on CGI during the climactic battle scenes that tends to distract and reduce the human drama taking place. Of course, with such an unlikeable clan at its core, the eventual outcome of the family’s infighting seems irrelevant. As there’s really no one to root for, there’s little reason to care who survives. In the end, you’ll probably just be glad to not have to spend the holidays with this family.

Grade: C-
(Rated R for violence.)

Box Office Report: July 6-8

A movie that was released, appropriately enough, right in time for the Fourth of July fireworks, caused some of its own at the box office, taking in more than $70 million for its opening weekend. Counting up its worldwide grosses, the movie has already surpassed $260 million, allowing director Michael Bay to more easily forget the box office failure of his last film, “The Island.”

The only other major new release, “License to Wed” managed to snag the fourth place position, but was torn apart by critics and will likely have a short stay on the charts.

1. “Transformers”
(Weekend domestic gross - $70.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $262.5 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
2. “Ratatouille”
(Weekend domestic gross - $29.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $119.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
3. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Weekend domestic gross - $17.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $122.1 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
4. “License to Wed”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $19.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “Evan Almighty”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $83.9 million)
(Budget - $175 million)
6. “1408”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $54.8 million)
(Budget - $25 million)
7. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $136.1 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
8. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $206.9 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
9. “Sicko”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.9 million)
(Budget - $9 million)
10. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $250.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $911.1 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $884.4 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $642.5 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $454.2 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
5. “Transformers”
(Worldwide gross - $262.5 million)
(Budget - $150 million)
6. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $250.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $250.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $228.5 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
9. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $206.9 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
10. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $184.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Movie Review: "Ocean's Thirteen"

Starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, Ellen Barkin and Al Pacino
Directed by Steven Soderbergh
Official Web site

It’s good to be back in Las Vegas.

At least that’s what the cast and crew (and subsequently, the audience) should be saying about “Ocean’s Thirteen,” the caper film franchise starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and company.

After a very entertaining stint in Vegas in 2001’s “Ocean’s Eleven,” its 2004 sequel turned off some critics and fans with its European sojourn and overly self-pleased tone. But now the gang is back in Sin City with a movie that, while not as fun and fresh as the first film, still steps lively and is quite enjoyable to watch.

The motivation for Danny Ocean (Clooney) and his crew this time around is pure revenge, as compatriot Reuben Tishkoff (Elliott Gould) finds himself ruthlessly squeezed out of his co-ownership in a dazzling new hotel/casino on the Vegas Strip. He suffers a heart attack due to the betrayal by partner Willy Bank (Al Pacino, in good villainous form here) and is hospitalized. Ocean sees the move by Bank as an affront to his entire gang, and after getting rebuffed by the businessman in a face-to-face meeting, he sets out to administer some payback.

Of course, Ocean’s crew is much too smart to just get back at someone through violence, so they set in motion a plan to hit Bank where it will really hurt him – in the pocketbook and his reputation. Their primary focus is to take out the state-of-the-art security system installed at The Bank (named after, well, you get it), in an attempt to allow the casino players to have the advantage over the house, for once. This strategy is aided by the fact that the team has found a way to rig a number of the casino games via loaded dice, card shuffling machines and more.

The ingenious, albeit rather farfetched plan, is laid out in fast-talking scenes filled with intricate detail that challenges audiences to keep up. Whether it’s Ocean and his right-hand man, Rusty Ryan (Pitt) discussing the seemingly impregnable security system with an associate (Eddie Izzard) or the plan to destroy Bank’s string of coveted Five Diamond Awards for his hotel, the revenge plot is presented in tightly edited sequences. It certainly helps that the script is crafted by Brian Koppelman and David Levien, a pair certainly familiar with the world of gambling, having written “Rounders,” a 1998 movie also starring Damon.

Much like the first two films, “Ocean’s Thirteen” has style to spare and is beautifully shot and directed by Steven Soderbergh (who also serves here as cinematographer under the name “Peter Andrews”). If anything, the film’s maybe a bit too cool for its own good, as there’s little suspense or sense of danger in the gang’s plan. You won’t necessarily know how they’re going to be able to pull it off every step of the way – you just know that they will.

So while a little edginess to the proceedings might have made it work a bit better, when you’re in the hands of skilled pros like this star-studded cast (which also includes Don Cheadle, Andy Garcia, Bernie Mac and Ellen Barkin), it gets a little hard to complain much. For the pure bang for your entertainment buck, hanging with these guys for a couple of hours hardly seems like a gamble at all.

Grade: B+
(Rated PG-13 for brief sensuality.)

Box Office Report: June 29-July 1

After eight weeks of sequels ruling at the top of the box office heap, “Ratatouille,” the latest offering from the clever minds at Pixar, ended the streak, pulling in $47 million over the weekend. It actually held off another sequel, with the fourth in the “Die Hard” series, “Live Free or Die Hard,” coming in second place, with more than $33 million.

And after a huge head start, “Spider-Man 3” was surpassed over the weekend on the worldwide charts, as “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” surpassed $900 million, and is looking likely to become the overall box office champ for the summer, if not the year. Of course, there’s still the second half of 2007 to come, but $900 million will be a very hard figure to beat.

1. “Ratatouille”
(Weekend domestic gross - $47.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $47.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2. “Live Free or Die Hard”
(Weekend domestic gross - $33.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $88.2 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Evan Almighty”
(Weekend domestic gross - $15.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $66.2 million)
(Budget - $175 million)
4. “1408”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $42.0 million)
(Budget - $25 million)
5. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $175.3 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
6. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $123.3 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
7. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $227.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $905.4 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
9. “Sicko”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $4.5 million)
(Budget - $9 million)
10. “Evening”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $3.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $905.4 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $882.6 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $576.1 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $452.6 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $249.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $228.2 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $227.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $184.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $175.3 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
10. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $158.6 million)
(Budget - $60 million)

Box Office Report: June 22-24

The number has now hit eight weeks and counting for sequels to dominate the box office top spot, as this time it was “Evan Almighty” snagging the position, pulling in a decent, but hardly spectacular $31.2 million. When factoring the comedy’s huge $175 million budget, it will really have its work cut out to try and recoup its costs over the long haul – especially when you figure this picture won’t have a huge appeal overseas.

By contrast, the much smaller and less hyped horror/thriller “1408” pulled in more than $20 million, nearly recouping its fairly modest budget in one weekend.

1. “Evan Almighty”
(Weekend domestic gross - $31.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $37.0 million)
(Budget - $175 million)
2. “1408”
(Weekend domestic gross - $20.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $20.6 million)
(Budget - $25 million)
3. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Weekend domestic gross - $20.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $159.0 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
4. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $192.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $110.9 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
6. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $873.0 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
7. “Surf’s Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $53.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Shrek the Third”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $479.0 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
9. “Nancy Drew”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $17.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “A Mighty Heart”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $3.9 million)
(Budget - $16 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $879.1 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
2. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $873.0 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $479.0 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $452.5 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $247.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $228.2 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Worldwide gross - $192.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $184.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Worldwide gross - $159.0 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
10. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $158.6 million)
(Budget - $60 million)

Movie Review: "Breach"

Starring Chris Cooper, Ryan Phillippe, Laura Linney, Caroline Dhavernas, Gary Cole, Dennis Haysbert, Kathleen Quinlan
Directed by Billy Ray
Official Web site

Having carved out an impressive resume of supporting performances in highly regarded films such as “Seabiscuit,” “Adaptation” and “American Beauty,” it’s good to see the under appreciated actor Chris Cooper get the rare opportunity to tackle a leading role in “Breach,” portraying a double agent of the FBI who spent years fooling everybody, including himself.

Based on a true story, the perfectly cast Cooper plays Robert Hanssen, a 25-year veteran of the FBI, who would spend much of that career selling secrets to the Russians, both during and after the Cold War. His years of betrayal are widely considered the largest and most costly security breach in American intelligence history.

Obviously, anybody who is capable of being such an effective mole for so long, has to be an expert in deception. And Cooper plays Hanssen as a cold, calculated, yet devout Catholic, who seems to almost be trying to point out the flaws in the U.S. intelligence agencies through his damaging actions.

Although Hanssen is the driving force in the movie, the story is told through the eyes of FBI operative Eric O’Neill (Ryan Phillippe), who is recruited by the bureau to serve as Hanssen’s assistant. Told by his FBI contact (Laura Linney) to be the eyes and ears of their ongoing investigation into Hanssen’s activities, O’Neill isn’t initially aware of just how widespread and damaging the case has become. Early on, he believes the FBI just wants to bust Hanssen on being a sexual deviant. It’s only as he gets closer to Hanssen, even developing admiration and respect for the veteran agent, that he learns the true depth of his duplicity.

Portraying an agent who has spent years staying at least one step ahead of his colleagues, Cooper dominates most every scene he is in. Whether it’s with a cold, icy stare or verbally dressing down his new assistant, Cooper shows a person who is not trusting by nature (and for good reason). Ironically, that building of trust with O’Neill helped lead to his downfall and eventual capture by authorities in 2001.

Director Billy Ray (who made 2003’s “Shattered Glass,” a superior movie also involving a deceptive character at its center) does a good job at building the tension of the growing investigation. Yet, the movie, billed as a thriller, is mostly short on thrills. Also, a subplot involving the strain the investigation is placing on O’Neill and his wife (Caroline Dhavernas) doesn’t really do much but distract from the film’s primary focus.

However, when the film puts the spotlight on Cooper is when its at its strongest. Cooper’s eyes suggest a man who is realizing his career is coming to an end – and not just because he’s nearing retirement age. Hanssen’s capture doesn’t even seem to come as a surprise to him. Rather, it seems to be more of an inevitability.

Ultimately, Cooper’s performance is the glue that holds the picture together. Too bad it will likely be forgotten, come Oscar nomination time.

Grade: B
(Rated PG-13 for violence, sexual content and language.)

Box Office Report: June 15-17

Hmm, whattya know? Another sequel takes the top spot at the box office. This marks seven weeks in a row that a sequel has pulled off that feat. This time, it was a strong debut from “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,” pulling in more than $58 million, surpassing most expectations. The first film was a decent hit, but didn’t indicate a sure thing for a sequel. However, the early success of this one could signal a green light for a third flick in the series.

Meanwhile, “Pirates” is rapidly gaining on “Spider-Man 3” for the biggest worldwide money maker, as both have surpassed the $800 million mark.

1. “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
(Weekend domestic gross - $58.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $91.7 million)
(Budget - $130 million)
2. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Weekend domestic gross - $19.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $140.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
3. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $14.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $92.2 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
4. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Weekend domestic gross - $12.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $822.6 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
5. “Surf’s Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $40.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Shrek the Third”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $406.7 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
7. “Nancy Drew”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $6.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Hostel Part II”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $15.2 million)
(Budget - $10.2 million)
9. “Mr. Brooks”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $24.4 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
10. “Spider-Man 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $874.2 million)
(Budget - $258 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $874.2 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
2. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $822.6 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
3. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $450.3 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $406.7 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $245.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $227.8 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $183.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $158.5 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
9. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $149.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $145.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Movie Review: "Deliver Us From Evil"

Directed by Amy Berg
Official Web site

Taking on a wide ranging and controversial subject such as pedophilia in the clergy is the bold subject matter covered in writer-director Amy Berg’s quietly devastating documentary, “Deliver Us From Evil.” But rather than attempt to bite off more than she can chew, Berg manages to find an entry point into the topic through a defrocked priest now living in Ireland, who was convicted of child molestation more than 20 years ago.

As one would expect, Berg is able to interview some victims of the priest, who recount the moments in their life when everything changed for them. But amazingly, Oliver O’Grady, the perpetrator of the crimes, discusses some of his nefarious activities that took place over his many years serving the Catholic Church.

O’Grady now lives a free life in his homeland of Ireland, where he was deported after serving seven years of a 14-year sentence in a California prison. For his part, O’Grady seems to show little, if any, remorse for the crimes he committed. He understands that the wrong that he’s done has devastated many lives, but still believes that perhaps if he and the victims came together again, there could be a “reconciliation.” He suggests this in one sequence where he decides to write some of his victims, inviting them to come visit him as a way for them to heal and move on. Naturally, the victims see the invitation in quite a different light.

The juxtaposition of the victims and the priest is compelling enough subject matter, but the documentary delves deeper into why O’Grady (and likely many priests similar to him) are allowed to continue ministering at other parishes. In O’Grady’s situation, when reports of alleged sexual misconduct (all involving children) came to light among the church hierarchy, he was simply repeatedly moved from one California parish to another. The parishioners were none the wiser of the decisions made by church leaders, with current L.A.-based Cardinal Roger Mahony bearing the brunt of the film’s criticism. The documentary stops short of saying the church was complicit in the actions of O’Grady, but certainly lays out a compelling case that it turned a blind eye to the crimes – and turned its back on the victims.

Aside from deposition testimony, in which Mahony repeatedly said he couldn’t recall certain events taking place, the church leaders are absent from the proceedings. That's because the church declined to participate in the making of the film.

There’s no documented total number of victims presented here, as O’Grady himself isn’t even certain. Chillingly, a portion of his interview takes place near a neighborhood park where children are playing. This is happening as O’Grady describes what kind of children he’s attracted to.

The outrage that viewers are likely to feel about how a serial sex offender is free to roam the streets is best expressed through Maria and Bob Jyono, a soft spoken elderly couple, whose daughter was repeatedly raped by O’Grady for several years. Describing O’Grady back in the 1970s as a very cordial and caring man, it becomes clear that the families of the children he violated were also victims. They were duped by a person of authority and responsibility who hid a monster inside himself.

A scene where the generally stoic Bob becomes overcome by his rage and sense of betrayal by O’Grady is devastatingly powerful, as is a later scene where he bluntly states his belief that there is no God. To people like the Jyonos, the church’s silence on the well documented problem, which has continued for many years, presents them with a seemingly impossible dilemma. If they can’t turn to God and the church for answers and healing of the pain that has been wrought against them, where do they turn?

It’s an answer that not even this well made and smartly presented documentary can provide.

Grade: A
(Not rated, but contains language and sexual themes.)

Box Office Report: June 8-10

Yet another third entry in a film franchise, “Ocean’s Thirteen,” took over the box office reigns over the weekend, pulling in just over $36 million. The total puts the movie, starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt and Matt Damon, on a par with the openings of the first two “Ocean’s” films, which all fell within the $35 million to $40 million range on opening weekend.

No other film debuting over the weekend managed to get higher than fourth place, with yet another CG family-oriented flick featuring animals, “Surf’s Up,” pulling in under $18 million.

1. “Ocean’s Thirteen”
(Weekend domestic gross - $36.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $64.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Weekend domestic gross - $21.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $746.4 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
3. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $19.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $65.9 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
4. “Surf’s Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $17.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $19.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “Shrek the Third”
(Weekend domestic gross - $15.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $335.5 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
6. “Hostel Part II”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $8.7 million)
(Budget - $10.2 million)
7. “Mr. Brooks”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $18.8 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
8. “Spider-Man 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $863.3 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
9. “Waitress”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $12.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $523,504)
(Worldwide gross - $86.7 million)
(Budget - $20 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $863.3 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
2. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $746.4 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
3. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $445.7 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $335.5 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $243.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $227.4 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $183.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $158.3 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
9. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $147.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $145.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Movie Review: "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End"

Starring Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Bill Nighy, Stellan Skarsgard, Chow Yun-Fat, Jack Davenport, Jonathan Pryce
Directed by Gore Verbinski
Official Web site

Well, if you thought the last adventure of Captain Jack Sparrow and Co. was overly stuffed with a busy storyline, too many characters and just went on too long, you’ll likely feel the same about “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.”

Coming in at a bloated running time of nearly three hours, there’s still quite a bit to like about this second sequel to the 2003 hit film. But it would seem the sea legs of this film franchise are getting a bit shaky.

The movie is directed once again by Gore Verbinski, whose role seems more fitting as master of ceremonies over a three-ring circus, judging by the huge cast and busy action sequences. Screenwriters Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio have been on board the franchise since the beginning, but have made the mistake of simply expanding the cast too much. When you add in the varied motivations, double and triple crosses that take place among some characters, the audience is left to throw up its hands in resignation.

In fact, instead of trying to follow all the twisted logic of the plot, the “Pirates” films, particularly the last two, work better when just letting yourself be swept along by the action. That, and enjoying the work of the great Johnny Depp, back as the selfish, egotistical, but charismatic Captain Jack. After being taken down in the last film to Davy Jones’ Locker as punishment for his debt to the squid-faced villain, Jack is eventually rescued by his crew, along with notables Will Turner (Orlando Bloom), Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) and Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush).

His rescue is largely for the goal of assembling a meeting of the world’s pirate lords, as they must decide how to deal with the strengthening British forces, led by the heartless Cutler Beckett (Tom Hollander), who seek to wipe them out. That one sentence description is, unfortunately, a lot more straightforward than the movie ultimately plays out the scenario. The pirates gathering, although a bit too raucous (one could make that argument for much of the film), is certainly energetic and features a tongue-in-cheek cameo by Keith Richards, playing none other than Captain Jack’s dad.

This sets the stage for an action-packed, special effects-laden third act that throws everything but the kitchen sink into the fray. The fact that it works at all is a credit to Verbinski and the talented F/X artists.

Depp and Rush have a number of entertaining scenes together, and certainly have their roles down pat. The Will and Elizabeth romance subplot is again dutifully brought out, but to little effect. That’s not really a criticism of the actors, who do their best, but more to the lack of realistic dramatic conflict between the two. The fact that Knightley is looking entirely too pretty here, compared to the grungy and (one would assume) smelly pirates she shares the screen with, actually serves as a distraction.

The rousing action sequences along with the good dose of humor thrown in along the way helps make the long voyage more enjoyable. But despite the possible sequel set up that takes place after the closing credits, it’s probably best these pirates dock their ships.

Grade: B-
(Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of action/adventure violence and some frightening images.)

Box Office Report: June 1-3

Much like “Spider-Man 3” and “Shrek the Third” did in their second weekends, the third “Pirates” movie took a steep tumble in overall grosses compared to its debut, pulling in $44.2 million over the weekend. Still, that number was good enough to hold the top spot at the box office. Only the solid $30.7 million debut from “Knocked Up” posed any challenge, as every other debut was well off the pace.

On the worldwide stage, “Pirates” has taken over the second spot, as it chases “Spider-Man 3” for what will likely be bragging rights to highest grosser of the year. Of course, some heavyweights still loom in the coming weeks, but none may present a worldwide appeal such as these two films have shown.

1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Weekend domestic gross - $44.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $628.2 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Knocked Up”
(Weekend domestic gross - $30.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $30.7 million)
(Budget - $30 million)
3. “Shrek the Third”
(Weekend domestic gross - $28.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $286.6 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
4. “Mr. Brooks”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $10.0 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
5. “Spider-Man 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $845.7 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
6. “Waitress”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $9.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Gracie”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $1.4 million)
(Budget - $9 million)
8. “Bug”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $6.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “28 Weeks Later”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $40.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $85.7 million)
(Budget - $20 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $845.7 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
2. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $628.2 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
3. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $441.8 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $286.6 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $241.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $225.7 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $181.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $158.1 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
9. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $146.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $145.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Box Office Report: May 25-28

Incorporating an unparalleled worldwide marketing plan, the third chapter of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” series sailed into theaters everywhere over the Memorial Day weekend, taking down the holiday weekend box office record with it.

The film took in nearly $140 million over the four-day period, and more than $150 million, counting the Thursday night previews. The previous record of $122.9 million was set just last year by “X-Men: The Last Stand.”

“At World’s End” is also off to a big start on the worldwide market, taking in more than $400 million on a gazillion movie screens. It, along with “Spider-Man 3” and “Shrek the Third” now make up three of the top four worldwide grossers for the year. “Shrek” will likely move up the charts, once it opens in more foreign markets.

1. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Weekend domestic gross - $139.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $404.0 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
2. “Shrek the Third”
(Weekend domestic gross - $67.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $239.3 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
3. “Spider-Man 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $18.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $808.6 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
4. “Bug”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.02 million)
(Worldwide gross - $4.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “Waitress”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.01 million)
(Worldwide gross - $6.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “28 Weeks Later”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $35.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.43 million)
(Worldwide gross - $83.7 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
8. “Georgia Rule”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.41 million)
(Worldwide gross - $18.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Fracture”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.65 million)
(Worldwide gross - $54.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.59 million)
(Worldwide gross - $238.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $808.8 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
2. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $440.2 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
3. “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
(Worldwide gross - $404.0 million)
(Budget - $300 million)
4. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $239.3 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $238.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $224.8 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
7. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $178.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $158.0 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
9. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $146.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $144.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)

Movie Review: "Little Children"

Starring Kate Winslet, Jennifer Connelly, Patrick Wilson, Gregg Edelman, Noah Emmerich, Jackie Earle Haley, Phyllis Somerville
Directed by Todd Field
Official Web site

Deservedly snagging her fifth Oscar nomination in what has become a very impressive young career, Kate Winslet’s performance in “Little Children” practically defines restless yearning. As Sarah Pierce, a housewife stuck in an apparently loveless marriage who also is far from the most confident or competent mother around, Winslet crafts an indelible performance.

Director Todd Field, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Tom Perrotta, based on Perrotta’s novel, captures the complexities of suburban American life in a seemingly almost effortless manner. In much the same way that “American Beauty,” a similarly themed tale of suburban dissatisfaction did, Field ‘s drama manages to throw in a dose of satire into the proceedings of a neighborhood that only on the surface looks like a good place to live.

As the film opens, the neighborhood is dealing with the return of Ronnie McCorvey (Jackie Earle Haley, in a memorable and fearless performance), a convicted sex offender recently released from prison. He moves back in with his mother (Phyllis Somerville), a loving and protective woman who has to deal with concerned residents, who are only further agitated by the anti-Ronnie actions of an overzealous ex-cop (Noah Emmerich).

Ronnie’s first appearance in the movie doesn’t come in for quite a while, but when he makes an unwanted appearance at the public pool, the result is akin to a shark dropping in for a visit. Among the visitors at the pool that same day are Sarah and Brad (Patrick Wilson), who is himself a bit of an aimless father, having failed the Bar exam twice while married to a successful documentary filmmaker (Jennifer Connelly, giving a good performance in an underwritten role). He and Sarah strike up a friendship that almost seems to inevitably lead to a romantic connection, as both ponder their increasing marital difficulties.

Sarah certainly seems to have good reason to believe her marriage is on the rocks, as her husband Richard (Gregg Edelman) seems more interested in visiting sexually explicit Web sites than spending time with his family. She begins spending more and more time with Brad, as both begin taking greater risks in the relationship, including a getaway weekend that demonstrates their passion for each other, yet also shows an irresponsibility to their families.

Field and Perrolta’s screenplay is fairly astute in drawing interesting characters, yet doesn’t make judgments against them. One perfect example is with Ronnie, who, as an ex-con, isn’t drawn as a villain, as that would be too easy. Instead, moments of humanity are included in the role, making the viewer both disturbed and saddened by some of the situations he finds himself in. A sequence that follows a date Ronnie has with another troubled woman (Jane Adams) is particularly emotionally complex.

With so many characters packed into the script, the film seems to have some difficulty coming to a satisfactory stopping point for some of the storylines. If anything, the movie’s probably stretched in too many directions. Still, with such a good cast at his disposal, it’s hard to fault Field for wanting to give his actors some time to shine.

“Little Children” seems less interested in giving its characters a successful conclusion to their stories, than in just shaking up their existence. The fact that Sarah and Brad have their worlds shaken a bit might mean their kids won’t be the only ones to mature as the years go by.

Grade: A-
(Rated R for strong sexuality and nudity, language and some disturbing content.)

Movie Review: "Rocky Balboa"

Starring Sylvester Stallone, Burt Young, Antonio Tarver, Geraldine Hughes, Milo Ventimiglia, Tony Burton
Directed by Sylvester Stallone
Official Web site

It’s been a long 30-year journey for Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) to come to a point where he can finally leave the ring behind in peace. But with the sixth (and hopefully) final installment in the “Rocky” series, Stallone invigorates the franchise with heart – something that had become quite elusive in the previous few attempts.

As writer, director and star of “Rocky Balboa,” Stallone is largely successful in stripping the noise and silly theatrics that had plagued the films ever since Mr. T started chewing the scenery in “Rocky III.” He does so by returning the movie to its roots, on the streets of Philadelphia, where Rocky helps run an Italian restaurant named, appropriately enough, Adrian’s. It’s only one of the many reminders that Rocky has of his wife, who passed away from cancer a few years ago.

However, brother-in-law, Paulie (Burt Young), is still around and as moody as ever, feeling guilt over how poorly he treated his deceased sister. Rocky still frequently visits his wife’s grave, but has trouble connecting with their son (Milo Ventimiglia), who feels covered by the heavy shadow of his famous father everywhere he goes.

Rocky even finds the possibility of love coming back into his life, thanks to the budding friendship with a bartender (Geraldine Hughes), who he decides to help out. Thankfully, Stallone doesn’t let the picture get too weighed down by its various subplots, as he knows full well it’s the boxing that most wish to see.

Putting Stalone’s age aside (he’s 60), suspension of disbelief has to be employed to a large degree that someone old enough to be his opponent’s father could stand toe to toe with him in a boxing ring for 10 rounds. But dang if Stallone doesn’t appear to be in peak physical condition. The training and boxing sequences don’t even kick in until well past the hour mark, but Stallone has done a commendable job to that point of painting some brief character portraits, while providing a halfway plausible reason for him to get back into the ring.

The boxing match pitting Rocky against the heavyweight champion Mason “The Line” Dixon (played by real-life boxer Antonio Tarver) is well filmed and feels like an authentic HBO boxing broadcast. Stallone explains in a making-of featurette that he was able to get such footage by piggybacking on an HBO pay-per-view boxing telecast that was to be held at the same time and location. They just simply got permission to go on beforehand and use the same crowd. How’s that for movie magic?

After six films in the series, there’s certainly precious little to surprise audiences with. But what is a bit surprising is that Stallone is able to wring any emotions at all out of a franchise that looked dead in the water when “Rocky V” fizzled with fans and critics in 1990. So let it be known that yes, Rocky gets to retire on better terms this time in what very well could (and should) be the last time the Italian Stallion walks out of the ring.

Grade: B
(Rated PG for boxing violence and some language.)

Box Office Report: May 18-20

To no surprise, “Shrek the Third” ruled at the box office over the weekend, ending the two week reign of “Spider-Man 3” on the charts. The Dreamworks computer animated film pulled in an impressive $121.6 million, making it the third largest weekend opening ever, only behind the aforementioned “Spider-Man 3” and last summer’s “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest.”

Speaking of “Pirates,” the third bow for Captain Jack steers its way into theaters, beginning with Thursday night screenings, likely making it a short stay at the top for the big green ogre. Now whether these two pics have got the legs to keep up with the torrid pace set by Spidey should be known in the next few weeks.

1. “Shrek the Third”
(Weekend domestic gross - $121.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $136.4 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
2. “Spider-Man 3”
(Weekend domestic gross - $29.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $748.9 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
3. “28 Weeks Later”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $25.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Georgia Rule”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.75 million)
(Worldwide gross - $13.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.73 million)
(Worldwide gross - $79.9 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
6. “Fracture”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $44.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Delta Farce”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $6.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “The Invisible”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $19.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Hot Fuzz”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.29 million)
(Worldwide gross - $70.9 million)
(Budget -N/A)
10. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $1.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $130.5 million)
(Budget - $61 million)

2007 Year-To-Date
1. “Spider-Man 3”
(Worldwide gross - $748.9 million)
(Budget - $258 million)
2. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $439.7 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $232.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $224.8 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
5. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $175.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $157.9 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
7. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $145.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $144.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Shrek the Third”
(Worldwide gross - $136.4 million)
(Budget - $160 million)
10. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $130.5 million)
(Budget - $61 million)

Who Asked For It?

Give Me A ‘Break’
Any movie fans out there remember “Point Break,” the action-packed, borderline silly flick about a gang of bank robbers/surfers, who are infiltrated by an FBI agent/ex-football quarterback? Did you see it being set up for a sequel at its conclusion? No? Well, me neither.

But leave it to Hollywood to come up with the bright idea to greenlight a sequel that nobody was asking for. Peter Iliff, who co-wrote the first film’s script, will write and direct “Point Break 2,” which will be set in Southeast Asia, according to Variety. No official casting has been announced, but don’t go expecting a Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze reunion for this. For one thing, Swayze’s character, Bodhi, was supposedly killed at the end of the first film. Of course, “Point Break” co-star Gary Busey could always use the work. Oh wait, I think he was killed in it too. Well, tough break.

Anyway, the pic should be hitting movie screens sometime in late 2008, a mere 17 years after the original. Sounds like a hit to me.


A Bite of Tyson
Well, you know it had to be coming eventually.
A documentary chronicling the sad but true life story of boxer Mike Tyson has been announced.

The film will involve lots of honest insight from Tyson himself, who has been interviewed at length by director James Toback. Whether it’s his rise to the top of the heavyweight boxing ranks to his stint in jail and eventual collapse of his marriage and career, it should be in the documentary. Tyson is even on board as one of the producers, although one would question if he really even has any money left to actually put any into the film.

All that’s left now is the eventual dramatization of his train wreck of a life on the big screen. As for the documentary, the film is expected to be finished in the fall, with a release date and distributor unannounced at this time.