Call this past weekend the calm before the storm. “Disturbia” held onto the top spot at the box office for the third straight weekend, pulling in a fairly meager $9 million. The top debut was the little hyped supernatural mystery movie that pulled in under $8 million, while the Nicolas Cage action pic “Next” did even worse, bringing in a little over $7 million. After Cage’s earlier box office success of “Ghost Rider” in February, it looked like he might be bouncing back as a draw at the ticket turnstiles. Well, I’m sure he’ll have another movie coming out in a couple of weeks or so to push this one out of people’s memories.
Of course, there will be plenty of noise at theaters this coming weekend, as the eagerly anticipated and subtly hyped (you might have heard a bit about it) “Spider-Man 3” swings onto the big screen. This marks the official (albeit early) arrival of the summer movie season, so let the records fall.
1. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $57.5 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “The Invisible”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $7.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
3. “Next”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $12.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Fracture”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $22.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
5. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $117.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
6. “Hot Fuzz”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $61.5 million)
(Budget -N/A)
7. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $130.5 million)
(Budget -N/A)
8. “Vacancy”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $13.8 million)
(Budget - $19 million)
9. “The Condemned”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $3.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.45 million)
(Worldwide gross - $47.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $431.0 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $224.5 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $200.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $156.4 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $151.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $139.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $130.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $117.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
9. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $109.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $88.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
Monday, April 30, 2007
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Superhero News
‘Incredible’ Ed
Having first snagged a director, Louis Leterrier (“The Transporter”), and a release date (June 13, 2008), “The Incredible Hulk” now has its star. And what a great selection it is.
Two-time Oscar nominee Edward Norton will play Bruce Banner, the Hulk’s alter ego, in the new film, with shooting set to begin this summer, according to Marvel Entertainment. Norton will be the second actor to take on the role in the past four years, after Eric Bana (“Munich”) starred in Ang Lee’s take on the Marvel comic book character. None of those associated with 2003’s “Hulk” are expected to be involved in this attempted relaunch of the character.
Whether the green guy will be a CG character, as in the previous movie, remains to be seen. Hopefully, it won’t involve painting Norton green while he parades around in torn clothing, or unleashing Lou Ferrigno out of mothballs.
Marvel and Universal Pictures recently inked a deal that will keep movies cranking out for quite some time, as 10 movies have been agreed upon, with “The Incredible Hulk” number two on the list. Number one is “Iron Man,” starring Robert Downey Jr., which is now filming.
More Web Slinging
Regardless of how much box office business “Spider-Man 3” does this summer (which should be a ton), it sounds like Sony Pictures and the Marvel superhero will be continuing their very profitable partnership. Sam Raimi, who has directed all three of the Spider-Man films said at an April 20 press junket that not only has “Spider-Man 4” been greenlit, but so has a fifth and sixth installment.
That said, the involvement of Raimi and stars Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst are by no means a sure thing. After all, they may be seeking to develop their careers beyond this franchise at some point. But then there’s that money issue – all that money that Sony will likely throw at them could have a tiny influence on their decision.
– MC
Having first snagged a director, Louis Leterrier (“The Transporter”), and a release date (June 13, 2008), “The Incredible Hulk” now has its star. And what a great selection it is.
Two-time Oscar nominee Edward Norton will play Bruce Banner, the Hulk’s alter ego, in the new film, with shooting set to begin this summer, according to Marvel Entertainment. Norton will be the second actor to take on the role in the past four years, after Eric Bana (“Munich”) starred in Ang Lee’s take on the Marvel comic book character. None of those associated with 2003’s “Hulk” are expected to be involved in this attempted relaunch of the character.
Whether the green guy will be a CG character, as in the previous movie, remains to be seen. Hopefully, it won’t involve painting Norton green while he parades around in torn clothing, or unleashing Lou Ferrigno out of mothballs.
Marvel and Universal Pictures recently inked a deal that will keep movies cranking out for quite some time, as 10 movies have been agreed upon, with “The Incredible Hulk” number two on the list. Number one is “Iron Man,” starring Robert Downey Jr., which is now filming.
More Web Slinging
Regardless of how much box office business “Spider-Man 3” does this summer (which should be a ton), it sounds like Sony Pictures and the Marvel superhero will be continuing their very profitable partnership. Sam Raimi, who has directed all three of the Spider-Man films said at an April 20 press junket that not only has “Spider-Man 4” been greenlit, but so has a fifth and sixth installment.
That said, the involvement of Raimi and stars Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst are by no means a sure thing. After all, they may be seeking to develop their careers beyond this franchise at some point. But then there’s that money issue – all that money that Sony will likely throw at them could have a tiny influence on their decision.
– MC
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Movie News Returns
In an attempt to get my movie news updates up and running, the DVD releases are taking a little time off, so apologies for that. It’s just that the news has been so lacking here in recent months, that a concerted effort needs to be made by me to start getting some little tidbits every couple of days or so. Hopefully, that will keep you coming back for more.
So take a look below for some interesting recent casting news and remember, there’s more where that came from. And no, I’m not plugged into any Hollywood connection feeding me this stuff. I just keep an eye out for this more than the average Joe or Jane.
Pretty Boys Project
With their latest film together, “Ocean’s 13,” set to hit theaters June 8, stars George Clooney and Brad Pitt will be sharing the screen again quite soon.
Both have signed up for the Coen brothers’ next project, “Burn After Reading.” The story of the black comedy, written by Joel and Ethan Coen, centers around a CIA agent writing a tell-all book about his job and life, only to lose the disc containing it.
Clooney and Pitt’s exact involvement in the film is unknown at this time, but it will also co-star Oscar winner Frances McDormand, who happens to be Joel’s wife.
The movie will mark the third collaboration for Clooney and the Coens, after “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and “Intolerable Cruelty.”
LeBeouf’s On Board
20-year-old actor Shia LeBeouf’s having a pretty good April. He’s the star of “Disturbia,” a thriller that has been at the top of the box office the past two weekends; he just hosted “Saturday Night Live” last weekend; he’s starring in a huge movie coming this summer (“Transformers”); and he’s officially on board for “Indiana Jones 4,” set for worldwide release May 22, 2008.
LeBeouf is only the second actor that director Steven Spielberg and producer George Lucas have officially confirmed has signed up, besides Harrison Ford, of course. Those that are in various depths of discussions include Sean Connery, Ray Winstone and Cate Blanchett. Fingers are especially crossed for Connery and Blanchett, as that would make for a really great cast.
The movie’s official name is expected to be revealed sometime around Thanksgiving, at which time the film’s first trailer is set to debut, Lucas has reported. Shooting is set to begin in June, so more casting news will be coming on this soon.
Stay tuned next time for a bit of comic book movie news ...
– MC
So take a look below for some interesting recent casting news and remember, there’s more where that came from. And no, I’m not plugged into any Hollywood connection feeding me this stuff. I just keep an eye out for this more than the average Joe or Jane.
Pretty Boys Project
With their latest film together, “Ocean’s 13,” set to hit theaters June 8, stars George Clooney and Brad Pitt will be sharing the screen again quite soon.
Both have signed up for the Coen brothers’ next project, “Burn After Reading.” The story of the black comedy, written by Joel and Ethan Coen, centers around a CIA agent writing a tell-all book about his job and life, only to lose the disc containing it.
Clooney and Pitt’s exact involvement in the film is unknown at this time, but it will also co-star Oscar winner Frances McDormand, who happens to be Joel’s wife.
The movie will mark the third collaboration for Clooney and the Coens, after “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” and “Intolerable Cruelty.”
LeBeouf’s On Board
20-year-old actor Shia LeBeouf’s having a pretty good April. He’s the star of “Disturbia,” a thriller that has been at the top of the box office the past two weekends; he just hosted “Saturday Night Live” last weekend; he’s starring in a huge movie coming this summer (“Transformers”); and he’s officially on board for “Indiana Jones 4,” set for worldwide release May 22, 2008.
LeBeouf is only the second actor that director Steven Spielberg and producer George Lucas have officially confirmed has signed up, besides Harrison Ford, of course. Those that are in various depths of discussions include Sean Connery, Ray Winstone and Cate Blanchett. Fingers are especially crossed for Connery and Blanchett, as that would make for a really great cast.
The movie’s official name is expected to be revealed sometime around Thanksgiving, at which time the film’s first trailer is set to debut, Lucas has reported. Shooting is set to begin in June, so more casting news will be coming on this soon.
Stay tuned next time for a bit of comic book movie news ...
– MC
Monday, April 23, 2007
Box Office Report: April 20-22
It was a rather quiet weekend at the box office, as none of the newcomers were able to knock off “Disturbia,” last week’s champ, which pulled in another $13 million. “Fracture,” the courtroom thriller starring Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling, was the top debut with $11 million. Nothing else made too much of an impact, although the critically-lauded action-comedy “Hot Fuzz,” had the highest per screen average gross and should be expanding into more theaters next week.
“300” fell out of the top 10 for the first time since its debut several weeks ago, but is firmly in control as the top moneymaker on the worldwide chart.
1. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $13.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $43.8 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “Fracture”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
3. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $109.1 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
4. “Vacancy”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $7.6 million)
(Budget - $19 million)
5. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $118.4 million)
(Budget -N/A)
6. “Hot Fuzz”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $54.3 million)
(Budget -N/A)
7. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $43.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “In the Land of Women”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $4.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Perfect Stranger”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $38.7 million)
(Budget -N/A)
10. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $184.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $421.7 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $223.6 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $184.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $154.9 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $142.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $135.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $118.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $109.1 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
9. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $108.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $88.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
“300” fell out of the top 10 for the first time since its debut several weeks ago, but is firmly in control as the top moneymaker on the worldwide chart.
1. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $13.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $43.8 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “Fracture”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
3. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $109.1 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
4. “Vacancy”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $7.6 million)
(Budget - $19 million)
5. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $7.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $118.4 million)
(Budget -N/A)
6. “Hot Fuzz”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $54.3 million)
(Budget -N/A)
7. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $43.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “In the Land of Women”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $4.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Perfect Stranger”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $38.7 million)
(Budget -N/A)
10. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $2.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $184.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $421.7 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $223.6 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $184.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $154.9 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $142.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $135.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $118.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $109.1 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
9. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $108.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
10. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $88.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
Monday, April 16, 2007
Box Office Report: April 13-15
“Disturbia,” a thriller aimed as a younger update of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Window,” struck a chord with audiences, bringing in more than $20 million and easily snagging the top spot of the weekend box office. “Blades of Glory,” the number one film the previous two weekends, only dropped to second as no other debut movie made much of an impact.
On the worldwide charts, “300” has now passed the $400 million mark, throwing down a legitimate challenge for most of the upcoming summer movies. Impressively, “Mr. Bean’s Holiday,” following the latest exploits of the goofy creation of comedian Rowan Atkinson, has managed to pull in more than $120 million on overseas receipts alone. It’s not set to debut in the U.S. until August.
1. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $22.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $23.9 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $13.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $95.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
3. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $12.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $97.6 million)
(Budget -N/A)
4. “Perfect Stranger”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $20.1 million)
(Budget -N/A)
5. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $35.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Pathfinder: Legend of the Ghost Warrior”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $14.4 million)
(Budget - $45 million)
7. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $170.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “The Reaping”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $32.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “300”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $404.5 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
10. “Grindhouse”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $19.8 million)
(Budget - $67 million)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $404.5 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $221.9 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $170.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $153.1 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $131.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $124.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $104.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $97.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $95.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
10. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $87.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
On the worldwide charts, “300” has now passed the $400 million mark, throwing down a legitimate challenge for most of the upcoming summer movies. Impressively, “Mr. Bean’s Holiday,” following the latest exploits of the goofy creation of comedian Rowan Atkinson, has managed to pull in more than $120 million on overseas receipts alone. It’s not set to debut in the U.S. until August.
1. “Disturbia”
(Weekend domestic gross - $22.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $23.9 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
2. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $13.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $95.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
3. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $12.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $97.6 million)
(Budget -N/A)
4. “Perfect Stranger”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $20.1 million)
(Budget -N/A)
5. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $35.3 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Pathfinder: Legend of the Ghost Warrior”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $14.4 million)
(Budget - $45 million)
7. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $170.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “The Reaping”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $32.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “300”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $404.5 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
10. “Grindhouse”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $19.8 million)
(Budget - $67 million)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $404.5 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $221.9 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $170.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $153.1 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $131.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Mr. Bean’s Holiday”
(Worldwide gross - $124.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $104.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Worldwide gross - $97.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $95.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
10. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $87.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Summer Movie Preview 2007 – Part 1
Sequels are all over the place this summer movie season, which begins early again this year, with none other than “Spider-Man 3” swinging into theaters May 4. Most summers, it would look to be the odds-on favorite to win the box office crown. But at the end of May comes Captain Jack Sparrow, as the third “Pirates of the Caribbean” movie seeks to make it back-to-back years as the box office champ, coming off the record-breaking success of last summer’s sequel.
It’s shaping up to be a real clash of the titans in May, with the third “Shrek” sequel (are you sensing a trend here?) also poised to pull in big numbers. Everybody in the wake of these three will need to hold on tight, as it could be a bumpy ride. That’s not to say there isn’t any competition, as there’s plenty out there that extends well beyond May. But because of that, this first part will just focus on May and June.
So get out those calendars, and start making plans. People have got a lot of movie watching to do over the next few months. Those poor people in Hollywood are depending on your generosity.
MAY
“Spider-Man 3”
Starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, Bryce Dallas Howard, James Cromwell, Rosemary Harris
After the huge success of the first two films, there’s no denying this has the opportunity to be the biggest of the three, with the principal cast and crew returning for the web slinger’s latest adventure. Spidey (Maguire) is dealing with two new villains, Sandman (Church) and Venom (Grace), as well as a changing suit that brings out a darker, more vengeful side of him. Getting an early jump on the competition this summer could mean really big box office receipts. (May 4)
Official Web site
“Lucky You”
Starring Eric Bana, Drew Barrymore, Robert Duvall, Debra Messing
What an apt name for a movie that gets to open the same weekend as “Spider-Man.” Warner Bros. is obviously seeing this movie as counter programming to the superhero, but why this movie was plucked from its original fall release date to land here is a mystery. For what it’s worth, Bana stars as a professional poker player who runs into his estranged father (Duvall) and falls in love with a singer (Barrymore) while out in Las Vegas. (May 4)
Official Web site
“28 Weeks Later”
Starring Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner, Harold Perrineau, Catherine McCormack, Imogen Poots, Idris Elba, Mackintosh Muggleton
A sequel to the hit film, “28 Days Later,” this movie takes place, well, as the title suggests, 28 weeks after the aftermath of the deadly virus that struck Great Britain. The war against the virus has been declared won and refugees from the country begin to return. But it’s not long before the virus makes its way back too. The original’s director, Danny Boyle, is back as an executive producer, but the directing reins have been passed over to Juan Carlos Fresnadillo. (May 11)
Official Web site
“Georgia Rule”
Starring Jane Fonda, Lindsay Lohan, Felicity Huffman, Dermot Mulroney, Cary Elwes, Garrett Hedlund
It seemed like much of this movie’s previous publicity centered around problems the producers were having with Lohan and her partying lifestyle. A stint in rehab later and all seems to be OK, right? Well, who knows for real? But having a couple of Oscar winners (Fonda and Huffman) in the cast sure can’t hurt the film’s credibility. And Lohan is no acting slouch, given the right material. (May 11)
Official Web site
“Shrek the Third”
Starring the voice of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, Justin Timberlake, Julie Andrews, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Cheri O’Teri, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Amy Sedaris, John Krasinski, Ian McShane
Don’t get me wrong. I’ve really enjoyed the “Shrek” movies, but doesn’t it seem like the cast size is becoming increasingly huge. I mean, look at the size of the cast above. Still, that’s some impressive vocal talent at the service of a story that finds Shrek (Myers) seeking a suitable heir to the throne, while Princess Fiona (Diaz) has to unite the kingdom from an attempted coup from the jilted Prince Charming (Everett). As the first real family-oriented picture of the summer, big business is a foregone conclusion.(May 18)
Official Web site
“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
Starring Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Geoffrey Rush, Chow Yun-Fat, Stellan Skarsgård, Bill Nighy, Jack Davenport, Kevin R. McNally and Jonathan Pryce
Following on the heels of the colossal success of last summer’s “Pirates” sequel, Disney is positioning itself to try and capture the top box office grosser again this year, in the midst of some heavy competition in May. But it’s hard to underestimate the sea legs of Captain Jack (Depp) at this point, after such an impressive run less than 12 months ago. A quick return on their investment was a primary reason why the film’s producers shot the sequels back-to-back.(May 25)
Official Web site
JUNE
“Knocked Up”
Starring Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jay Baruchel, Jonah Hill, Jason Segel, Martin Starr
Writer/director Judd Apatow’s follow-up to 2005’s hit, “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” has one of that film’s stars (Rogen) playing a immature slacker whose one-night stand with a young journalist (Heigl) leads to her unexpected pregnancy. She decides to give the guy a chance to be a father, forcing both of them to quickly grow up and learn about each other. OK, so the story’s central plot isn’t groundbreaking. Still, Apatow has shown the ability to mine laughter and find depth in seemingly shallow stories before. (June 1)
Official Web site
“Mr. Brooks”
Starring Kevin Costner, Demi Moore, Dane Cook, William Hurt, Marg Helgenberger, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Danielle Panabaker
Costner’s getting all bloodthirsty here, playing a successful businessman and loving father, who also has a bit of a secret hobby – he kills people. Complete with a sinister alter ego (Hurt), Brooks runs into problems when an amateur photographer (Cook) witnesses one of his crimes, while a relentless detective (Moore) starts putting the pieces together. After many years of portraying good guys on screen, it could be interesting to see Costner only pretending to play another one here. (June 1)
Official Web site
“Ocean’s 13”
Starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, Ellen Barkin, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Eddie Jemison, Shaobo Qin, Carl Reiner, Elliot Gould and Al Pacino
While a fair number of viewers were put off by “Ocean’s 12,” the gang is back where it belongs for this sequel (Las Vegas), taking on a ruthless casino owner (Pacino) who double crosses one of their own. Steven Soderbergh directs again, with Clooney, Pitt, Damon and Co. looking to recapture that fun Sin City vibe they had in the original. (June 8)
Official Web site
“Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
Starring Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Michael Chiklis, Julian McMahon, Kerry Washington, Andre Braugher
The first “Fantastic Four,” while technically a box office hit, wasn’t a huge hit with audiences or critics. So this one might be the key to determining whether this is really a film franchise or just a couple of expensive and mediocre movies. The title villain has come to earth to destroy it, while the foursome’s arch-nemesis, Dr. Doom (McMahon), has emerged from captivity. Surprise, surprise, surprise! (June 15)
Official Web site
“Nancy Drew”
Starring Emma Roberts, Josh Flitter, Max Thieriot, Rachael Leigh Cook and Tate Donovan
Not that I have anything against Nancy, but how does she get a big screen version of her character before the Hardy Boys? Those guys were awesome! But, back to Ms. Drew (Roberts), she heads out to Hollywood with her father (Donovan) on a business trip, only to stumble over a long-unsolved crime. (June 15)
Official Web site
“Evan Almighty”
Starring Steve Carell, Morgan Freeman, Lauren Graham, John Goodman, John Michael Higgins, Jimmy Bennett, Wanda Sykes, Jonah Hill
Ditching Jim Carrey, God (Freeman) turns to Evan Baxter (Carell, reprising his role from “Bruce Almighty”) as his next subject to appear before, instructing Evan to build an ark. Evan, who has just recently been elected as a congressman, feels compelled to comply, despite his family and co-workers befuddlement. Carell is a hot commodity right now and while the entire sequel’s cast, save for him and Freeman, is new, this could be a solid hit. (June 22)
Official Web site
“Live Free or Die Hard”
Starring Bruce Willis, Justin Long, Maggie Q, Timothy Olyphant, Jeffrey Wright, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jonathan Sadowski
Some of you will know this better as “Die Hard 4,” but the filmmakers don’t like putting numbers behind these sequels, evidently (see “Die Hard with a Vengeance”). Still, all you need to know is Willis is back as John McClane, ready to trip up the plans of another dastardly villain. This time, he’s got the guy from those Apple computer ads (Long) helping him out. But sorry, there’s no PC in sight. A dozen years after the last sequel, is there enough gas left in this vehicle’s tank? (June 27)
Official Web site
“Ratatouille”
Starring the voices of Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano, Brian Dennehy, Peter Sohn, Peter O'Toole, Brad Garrett, Janeane Garofalo, Will Arnett, Julius Callahan, James Remar, John Ratzenberger, Teddy Newton, Tony Fucile, Jake Steinfeld, Brad Bird, Laurent Spelvogel
Looking to continue it’s stellar track record at the box office, Pixar Animation returns with another original concoction, this one surrounding around a group of rats and a gourmet restaurant in Paris. Well, it’s not what you’d consider a slam dunk of a concept. Actually, it sounds a bit unsanitary. But judging that this is coming from Pixar and director Brad Bird (“The Incredibles”), you’ve got to be willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. But why use such a tough name for kids (and some adults) to pronounce? (June 29)
Official Web site
It’s shaping up to be a real clash of the titans in May, with the third “Shrek” sequel (are you sensing a trend here?) also poised to pull in big numbers. Everybody in the wake of these three will need to hold on tight, as it could be a bumpy ride. That’s not to say there isn’t any competition, as there’s plenty out there that extends well beyond May. But because of that, this first part will just focus on May and June.
So get out those calendars, and start making plans. People have got a lot of movie watching to do over the next few months. Those poor people in Hollywood are depending on your generosity.
MAY
“Spider-Man 3”
Starring Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Thomas Haden Church, Topher Grace, Bryce Dallas Howard, James Cromwell, Rosemary Harris
After the huge success of the first two films, there’s no denying this has the opportunity to be the biggest of the three, with the principal cast and crew returning for the web slinger’s latest adventure. Spidey (Maguire) is dealing with two new villains, Sandman (Church) and Venom (Grace), as well as a changing suit that brings out a darker, more vengeful side of him. Getting an early jump on the competition this summer could mean really big box office receipts. (May 4)
Official Web site
“Lucky You”
Starring Eric Bana, Drew Barrymore, Robert Duvall, Debra Messing
What an apt name for a movie that gets to open the same weekend as “Spider-Man.” Warner Bros. is obviously seeing this movie as counter programming to the superhero, but why this movie was plucked from its original fall release date to land here is a mystery. For what it’s worth, Bana stars as a professional poker player who runs into his estranged father (Duvall) and falls in love with a singer (Barrymore) while out in Las Vegas. (May 4)
Official Web site
“28 Weeks Later”
Starring Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner, Harold Perrineau, Catherine McCormack, Imogen Poots, Idris Elba, Mackintosh Muggleton
A sequel to the hit film, “28 Days Later,” this movie takes place, well, as the title suggests, 28 weeks after the aftermath of the deadly virus that struck Great Britain. The war against the virus has been declared won and refugees from the country begin to return. But it’s not long before the virus makes its way back too. The original’s director, Danny Boyle, is back as an executive producer, but the directing reins have been passed over to Juan Carlos Fresnadillo. (May 11)
Official Web site
“Georgia Rule”
Starring Jane Fonda, Lindsay Lohan, Felicity Huffman, Dermot Mulroney, Cary Elwes, Garrett Hedlund
It seemed like much of this movie’s previous publicity centered around problems the producers were having with Lohan and her partying lifestyle. A stint in rehab later and all seems to be OK, right? Well, who knows for real? But having a couple of Oscar winners (Fonda and Huffman) in the cast sure can’t hurt the film’s credibility. And Lohan is no acting slouch, given the right material. (May 11)
Official Web site
“Shrek the Third”
Starring the voice of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, Justin Timberlake, Julie Andrews, John Cleese, Eric Idle, Cheri O’Teri, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph, Amy Sedaris, John Krasinski, Ian McShane
Don’t get me wrong. I’ve really enjoyed the “Shrek” movies, but doesn’t it seem like the cast size is becoming increasingly huge. I mean, look at the size of the cast above. Still, that’s some impressive vocal talent at the service of a story that finds Shrek (Myers) seeking a suitable heir to the throne, while Princess Fiona (Diaz) has to unite the kingdom from an attempted coup from the jilted Prince Charming (Everett). As the first real family-oriented picture of the summer, big business is a foregone conclusion.(May 18)
Official Web site
“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
Starring Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Geoffrey Rush, Chow Yun-Fat, Stellan Skarsgård, Bill Nighy, Jack Davenport, Kevin R. McNally and Jonathan Pryce
Following on the heels of the colossal success of last summer’s “Pirates” sequel, Disney is positioning itself to try and capture the top box office grosser again this year, in the midst of some heavy competition in May. But it’s hard to underestimate the sea legs of Captain Jack (Depp) at this point, after such an impressive run less than 12 months ago. A quick return on their investment was a primary reason why the film’s producers shot the sequels back-to-back.(May 25)
Official Web site
JUNE
“Knocked Up”
Starring Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jay Baruchel, Jonah Hill, Jason Segel, Martin Starr
Writer/director Judd Apatow’s follow-up to 2005’s hit, “The 40-Year-Old Virgin” has one of that film’s stars (Rogen) playing a immature slacker whose one-night stand with a young journalist (Heigl) leads to her unexpected pregnancy. She decides to give the guy a chance to be a father, forcing both of them to quickly grow up and learn about each other. OK, so the story’s central plot isn’t groundbreaking. Still, Apatow has shown the ability to mine laughter and find depth in seemingly shallow stories before. (June 1)
Official Web site
“Mr. Brooks”
Starring Kevin Costner, Demi Moore, Dane Cook, William Hurt, Marg Helgenberger, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Danielle Panabaker
Costner’s getting all bloodthirsty here, playing a successful businessman and loving father, who also has a bit of a secret hobby – he kills people. Complete with a sinister alter ego (Hurt), Brooks runs into problems when an amateur photographer (Cook) witnesses one of his crimes, while a relentless detective (Moore) starts putting the pieces together. After many years of portraying good guys on screen, it could be interesting to see Costner only pretending to play another one here. (June 1)
Official Web site
“Ocean’s 13”
Starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, Ellen Barkin, Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Eddie Jemison, Shaobo Qin, Carl Reiner, Elliot Gould and Al Pacino
While a fair number of viewers were put off by “Ocean’s 12,” the gang is back where it belongs for this sequel (Las Vegas), taking on a ruthless casino owner (Pacino) who double crosses one of their own. Steven Soderbergh directs again, with Clooney, Pitt, Damon and Co. looking to recapture that fun Sin City vibe they had in the original. (June 8)
Official Web site
“Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
Starring Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Michael Chiklis, Julian McMahon, Kerry Washington, Andre Braugher
The first “Fantastic Four,” while technically a box office hit, wasn’t a huge hit with audiences or critics. So this one might be the key to determining whether this is really a film franchise or just a couple of expensive and mediocre movies. The title villain has come to earth to destroy it, while the foursome’s arch-nemesis, Dr. Doom (McMahon), has emerged from captivity. Surprise, surprise, surprise! (June 15)
Official Web site
“Nancy Drew”
Starring Emma Roberts, Josh Flitter, Max Thieriot, Rachael Leigh Cook and Tate Donovan
Not that I have anything against Nancy, but how does she get a big screen version of her character before the Hardy Boys? Those guys were awesome! But, back to Ms. Drew (Roberts), she heads out to Hollywood with her father (Donovan) on a business trip, only to stumble over a long-unsolved crime. (June 15)
Official Web site
“Evan Almighty”
Starring Steve Carell, Morgan Freeman, Lauren Graham, John Goodman, John Michael Higgins, Jimmy Bennett, Wanda Sykes, Jonah Hill
Ditching Jim Carrey, God (Freeman) turns to Evan Baxter (Carell, reprising his role from “Bruce Almighty”) as his next subject to appear before, instructing Evan to build an ark. Evan, who has just recently been elected as a congressman, feels compelled to comply, despite his family and co-workers befuddlement. Carell is a hot commodity right now and while the entire sequel’s cast, save for him and Freeman, is new, this could be a solid hit. (June 22)
Official Web site
“Live Free or Die Hard”
Starring Bruce Willis, Justin Long, Maggie Q, Timothy Olyphant, Jeffrey Wright, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Jonathan Sadowski
Some of you will know this better as “Die Hard 4,” but the filmmakers don’t like putting numbers behind these sequels, evidently (see “Die Hard with a Vengeance”). Still, all you need to know is Willis is back as John McClane, ready to trip up the plans of another dastardly villain. This time, he’s got the guy from those Apple computer ads (Long) helping him out. But sorry, there’s no PC in sight. A dozen years after the last sequel, is there enough gas left in this vehicle’s tank? (June 27)
Official Web site
“Ratatouille”
Starring the voices of Patton Oswalt, Ian Holm, Lou Romano, Brian Dennehy, Peter Sohn, Peter O'Toole, Brad Garrett, Janeane Garofalo, Will Arnett, Julius Callahan, James Remar, John Ratzenberger, Teddy Newton, Tony Fucile, Jake Steinfeld, Brad Bird, Laurent Spelvogel
Looking to continue it’s stellar track record at the box office, Pixar Animation returns with another original concoction, this one surrounding around a group of rats and a gourmet restaurant in Paris. Well, it’s not what you’d consider a slam dunk of a concept. Actually, it sounds a bit unsanitary. But judging that this is coming from Pixar and director Brad Bird (“The Incredibles”), you’ve got to be willing to give them the benefit of the doubt. But why use such a tough name for kids (and some adults) to pronounce? (June 29)
Official Web site
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Stay Tuned
Sorry for the lack of updates on the site lately. Between a recent illness, doing taxes and a busy work schedule, the updates have fallen by the wayside a bit.
But try to maintain your patience and check back soon. Hopefully, by the weekend's end, you'll see the first of a two-part Summer Movie Preview, along with movie news (an aspect of the site that has been sorely lacking – but I plan to change that). After all, we're coming up on the traditional busy season for movies, so I've got to step up my game to reflect that trend.
Stay tuned ...
– MC
But try to maintain your patience and check back soon. Hopefully, by the weekend's end, you'll see the first of a two-part Summer Movie Preview, along with movie news (an aspect of the site that has been sorely lacking – but I plan to change that). After all, we're coming up on the traditional busy season for movies, so I've got to step up my game to reflect that trend.
Stay tuned ...
– MC
Monday, April 09, 2007
Box Office Report: April 6-8
Holding strong in its second weekend, “Blades of Glory” held off a quartet of newcomers, including a high-profile release from directors Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino. To the surprise of industry insiders, “Grindhouse” failed to start a fire at the box office, pulling in under $12 million over the weekend, far short of projections. Granted, the Easter weekend isn’t the best time to debut a action-packed, violent concoction featuring zombies and a murderous motorist, but audiences seemed disinterested in what amounts to a double feature for the price of one. And critical response was largely quite positive, so I guess the moviegoing public just wanted some lighthearted entertainment, judging by the top three finishers.
Also, see below for the debut of the top worldwide grossers of the year – a chart that is currently being run away with by “300.” It’s a mark that likely won’t be challenged until the summer movies are unleashed into theaters, beginning with “Spider-Man 3” next month.
1. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $22.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $67.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
2. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $16.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $61.4 million)
(Budget -N/A)
3. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $14.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $18.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Grindhouse”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.6 million)
(Budget - $67 million)
5. “The Reaping”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $12.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “300”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $321.6 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $160.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Shooter”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $38.2 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
9. “TMNT”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $56.3 million)
(Budget - $34 million)
10. “Firehouse Dog”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $5.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $321.6 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $215.2 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $160.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $143.7 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $123.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $100.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $87.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Hannibal Rising”
(Worldwide gross - $71.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Epic Movie”
(Worldwide gross - $71.2 million)
(Budget -N/A)
10. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $67.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
Also, see below for the debut of the top worldwide grossers of the year – a chart that is currently being run away with by “300.” It’s a mark that likely won’t be challenged until the summer movies are unleashed into theaters, beginning with “Spider-Man 3” next month.
1. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $22.5 million)
(Worldwide gross - $67.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
2. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $16.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $61.4 million)
(Budget -N/A)
3. “Are We Done Yet?”
(Weekend domestic gross - $14.3 million)
(Worldwide gross - $18.5 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Grindhouse”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $11.6 million)
(Budget - $67 million)
5. “The Reaping”
(Weekend domestic gross - $10.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $12.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “300”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $321.6 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
7. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $6.6 million)
(Worldwide gross - $160.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Shooter”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.9 million)
(Worldwide gross - $38.2 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
9. “TMNT”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $56.3 million)
(Budget - $34 million)
10. “Firehouse Dog”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.8 million)
(Worldwide gross - $5.1 million)
(Budget - N/A)
2007 Year-To-Date
1. “300”
(Worldwide gross - $321.6 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
2. “Ghost Rider”
(Worldwide gross - $215.2 million)
(Budget - $110 million)
3. “Wild Hogs”
(Worldwide gross - $160.2 million)
(Budget - N/A)
4. “Norbit”
(Worldwide gross - $143.7 million)
(Budget - $60 million)
5. “Music and Lyrics”
(Worldwide gross - $123.7 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Bridge to Terabithia”
(Worldwide gross - $100.8 million)
(Budget - N/A)
7. “The Host”
(Worldwide gross - $87.6 million)
(Budget - N/A)
8. “Hannibal Rising”
(Worldwide gross - $71.4 million)
(Budget - N/A)
9. “Epic Movie”
(Worldwide gross - $71.2 million)
(Budget -N/A)
10. “Blades of Glory”
(Worldwide gross - $67.9 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Movie Review: "Blades of Glory"
Starring Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, William Fichtner, Jenna Fischer and Craig T. Nelson
Directed by Will Speck and Josh Gordon
Official Web site
For anyone who’s seen the trailer or heard the concept behind the latest Will Ferrell movie, they should be well prepared for what’s to follow as the movie unspools on screen: 93 minutes of ridiculous characters, outlandish situations, predictable outcomes and, if all goes well, a healthy dose of laughter. “Blades of Glory” is certainly more than up to the task of the first three items in that list. But while the film lags a bit in the laughter department, the comedically gifted cast keeps the rather thin premise on its feet. Or from falling through the ice. (Use your own skating analogy, if you wish.)
Following in the tradition of his cocky, chauvinistic jerk characters he created in “Anchorman” and “Talladega Nights,” Ferrell’s latest is Chazz Michael Michaels, a figure skating superstar whose talents are just barely greater than his ego. Never mind the fact that Ferrell’s body type (shown in true flabby form here) would hardly be the kind that could produce a gifted skater – it’s all part of the joke, after all.
The chief rival for Michaels is Jimmy MacElroy (Jon Heder), a much more classically trained skater, who was plucked from an orphanage at a young age by a calculated billionaire (William Fichtner) and engineered into one of the world’s best at his sport. Outfitted with outrageous skating costumes which seem like only a slight exaggeration of the sport’s actual fashion sense, MacElroy and Michaels arrive on a collision course at a competition where they prove that the podium is not big enough for them both. The resulting brawl leads to them being banned from singles competition by a board largely consisting of former actual U.S. skating champions (Nancy Kerrigan, Peggy Fleming, Dorothy Hamill and Brian Boitano are all among the many skaters making largely ineffectual cameos, save for Sacha Cohen’s).
The movie fast forwards more than three years later, with neither Michaels nor MacElroy happy with their life’s current direction. Leave it to a stalker of MacElroy’s (Nick Swardson) to bring up a loophole that would allow both men to continue their professional skating careers, albeit in pairs competition. Out of sheer desperation and because, well, frankly the story requires it, Michaels and MacElroy grudgingly decide to become the first male professional pairs skating team, working under MacElroy’s former coach (a game Craig T. Nelson, essentially playing the straight man).
Naturally, things don’t go smoothly at first, as both show a hesitation to work together and deal with all the touching required. Their first competition demonstrates the audience’s uncertainty on how to react to the new pairing, until the two’s showmanship and willingness to throw caution to the wind wins them over. Ferrell’s facial expressions during this sequence as he tries to maintain a cool exterior are pretty priceless.
The new team’s success is a thorn in the side of the reigning pairs champion team, Stranz and Fairchild Van Waldenberg (Will Arnett and Amy Poehler), who are quite the jealous sibling duo, choosing to use their little sister (Jenna Fischer) as a wrench to throw in the strengthening Michaels-MacElroy machine. Playing a possibly incestuous, definitely weird brother-sister combo, Arnett and Poehler (who are married in real life) offer fine support in the film, in addition to the more predictable character arcs of Ferrell and Heder’s characters.
So yes, the movie does suffer from some predictability problems, including the second act breakup of the pair, and the subsequent and inevitable reconciliation in the third act. But there’s still quite a few laughs that help keep the movie from falling into tedium, with a quite funny extended chase sequence between Ferrell and Arnett that starts out very swift and athletic, only to later come to an almost complete standstill, as each struggles to move on their skates.
While the end result isn’t as wholly satisfying as some of Ferrell’s other work, possibly because the stories and characters are becoming a bit too familiar, it still mostly delivers the laughs audiences are looking for. Still, since his early days on “Saturday Night Live,” Ferrell seems to be an actor who takes his comedy seriously – even when the movie itself is seriously stupid. And so it is with “Blades of Glory.”
Grade: B
(Rated PG-13 for crude and sexual humor, language, a comic violent image and some drug references.)
Monday, April 02, 2007
Box Office Report: March 30-April 1
As expected, “Blades of Glory,” starring Will Ferrell and Jon Heder as rival figure skaters who decide to team up as the first male professional pairs skating team, took the top spot at the box office over the weekend, bringing in $33 million. It marks Ferrell’s second biggest opening, only trailing “Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby.” (Look for a review of it later in the week.)
Last week’s champ, “TMNT,” took a large plunge into fourth place, and is expected to be the lowest grossing of all the movies featuring the crime fighting turtles. This past weekend concludes the first quarter of the year (already?!), meaning the worldwide box office chart will return next week for the first time since last December.
1. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $33.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $33.0 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
2. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $25.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $25.2 million)
(Budget -N/A)
3. “300”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $308.1 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
4. “TMNT”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $43.0 million)
(Budget - $34 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $146.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Shooter”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $28.4 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
7. “Premonition”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $44.5 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
8. “The Hills Have Eyes 2”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $16.0 million)
(Budget - $15 million)
9. “Reign Over Me”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.83 million)
(Worldwide gross - $13.9 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
10. “The Last Mimzy”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.81 million)
(Worldwide gross - $16.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
Last week’s champ, “TMNT,” took a large plunge into fourth place, and is expected to be the lowest grossing of all the movies featuring the crime fighting turtles. This past weekend concludes the first quarter of the year (already?!), meaning the worldwide box office chart will return next week for the first time since last December.
1. “Blades of Glory”
(Weekend domestic gross - $33.0 million)
(Worldwide gross - $33.0 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
2. “Meet the Robinsons”
(Weekend domestic gross - $25.1 million)
(Worldwide gross - $25.2 million)
(Budget -N/A)
3. “300”
(Weekend domestic gross - $11.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $308.1 million)
(Budget - $65 million)
4. “TMNT”
(Weekend domestic gross - $9.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $43.0 million)
(Budget - $34 million)
5. “Wild Hogs”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.7 million)
(Worldwide gross - $146.9 million)
(Budget - N/A)
6. “Shooter”
(Weekend domestic gross - $8.4 million)
(Worldwide gross - $28.4 million)
(Budget - $61 million)
7. “Premonition”
(Weekend domestic gross - $5.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $44.5 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
8. “The Hills Have Eyes 2”
(Weekend domestic gross - $4.2 million)
(Worldwide gross - $16.0 million)
(Budget - $15 million)
9. “Reign Over Me”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.83 million)
(Worldwide gross - $13.9 million)
(Budget - $20 million)
10. “The Last Mimzy”
(Weekend domestic gross - $3.81 million)
(Worldwide gross - $16.0 million)
(Budget - N/A)
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