Last updated 18 September 2007 - 0345 GMT.
| Quick link to: Top Latest News New Releases (Newest) Births/Deaths/Marriages In Memoriam Last updated 18 September 2007 - 0345 GMT. |
2007 ReleasesJanuary |
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| 5 January: Happily N'Ever After, Freedom Writers, Home of the Brave, Code Name: The Cleaner
12 January: Primeval, Alpha Dog, Stomp the Yard, Tears of the Black Tiger 19 January: The Hitcher, The Dead Girl, The Italian, Alone with Her 26 January: Catch and Release, Smokin' Aces, Blood and Chocolate, Epic Movie, Seraphim Falls |
| February |
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| 2 February: The Messengers, Because I Said So, Factory Girl, Constellation, Raising Flagg, An Unreasonable Man
9 February: Hannibal Rising, Norbit, Breaking and Entering, Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others) 16 February: Ghost Rider, Bridge to Terabithia, Breach, Daddy's Little Girls, Music and Lyrics, Indigènes (Days of Glory), Orchestra Seats, Close to Home, The Last Sin Eater 23 February: The Abandoned, The Number 23, Reno 911!: Miami, The Astronaut Farmer, Starter for Ten, Gray Matters, Amazing Grace, Glastonbury |
| March |
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| 2 March: Wild Hogs, Zodiac, Black Snake Moan, Full of It, Two Weeks, Wild Tigers I Have Known
9 March: The Ultimate Gift, 300, The Host, Believe in Me, The Namesake, Maxed Out: Hard Times, Easy Credit and the Era of Predatory Lenders, Exterminating Angels 16 March: Premonition, Dead Silence, Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon, I Think I Love My Wife, The Wind That Shakes the Barley, Nomad, Tortilla Heaven 23 March: Reign Over Me, Pride, Shooter, The Hills Have Eyes II, TMNT, The Last Mimzy, First Snow, Offside, Colour Me Kubrick: A True...ish Story 30 March: Meet the Robinsons, The Lookout, Blades of Glory, Peaceful Warrior, Efter Brylluppet (After the Wedding), Live Free Or Die |
| April |
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| 6 April: Are We Done Yet?, Grindhouse, The Reaping, Firehouse Dog, The Hoax, Zwartboek (Black Book), The TV Set
13 April: Perfect Stranger, Disturbia, Pathfinder, Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters, Year of the Dog, Lonely Hearts, Redline, Slow Burn 20 April: Vacancy, Fracture, Hot Fuzz, In the Land of Women, The Valet, The Tripper, Stephanie Daley 27 April: The Invisible, Next, Kickin It Old Skool, The Condemned, Wind Chill, Jindabyne, Snow Cake, The Hip Hop Project, Diggers |
| May |
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| 4 May: Spider-Man 3, Lucky You, The Flying Scotsman, Waitress, Away from Her, Paris, je t'aime, Civic Duty, The Treatment
11 May: 28 Weeks Later..., Georgia Rule, Delta Farce, The Ex, Home of the Brave, The Salon, Blind Dating, Day Night Day Night 18 May: Shrek the Third, Once, Fay Grim, The Wendell Baker Story, Even Money, Severance 25 May: Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End, Bug, Angel-A, Papurika (Paprika), The Boss of It All, Nuovomondo (The Golden Door) |
| June |
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1 June: Mr. Brooks, Knocked Up, Rise: Blood Hunter, Gracie, Dnevnoi Dozor (Day Watch), Crazy Love, Pierrepoint 8 June: Surf's Up, Ocean's Thirteen, Hostel: Part II, La Vie en rose 15 June: Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, Nancy Drew, Fido, DOA: Dead or Alive, Eagle vs. Shark 22 June: 1408, Evan Almighty, A Mighty Heart, You Kill Me, Black Sheep, Broken English, September Dawn 29 June: Live Free or Die Hard (6/27), Ratatouille, Evening, Sicko, Vitus |
| July |
6 July: Transformers (7/2), License to Wed (7/3), Introducing the Dwights (7/4), Joshua 13 July: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (7/11), Captivity, Rescue Dawn, Interview, Talk to Me, My Best Friend, Drama/Mex PLEASE NOTE: I am discontinuing theOscarSite's coverage of new releases. Due to a broken computer, I got 6 weeks behind on releases, and it's too much work to catch up again. If you'd like me to reconsider, e-mail me at this address. If enough of you want me to continue this service, I'll start it up again. |
| Film scores and some plot descriptions from metacritic.com; other plot descriptions from the Internet Movie Database. |
 Happily N'Ever After (Lions Gate, 30) - The inhabitants of Fairy Tale Land (including Little Red Riding Hood, The Seven Dwarves, and Rapunzel) are threatened by evil-doers in an animated adventure that's only half as original as it sounds. Features the voices of Sigourney Weaver, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Freddie Prinze Jr., Patrick Warburton, Andy Dick, and George Carlin; directed by Paul J. Bolger. Freedom Writers (Paramount, 64) - A new teacher (Hilary Swank) at Wilson High School in Long Beach, California uses writing to turn a class of hardened kids into expressive, compassionate thinkers who, for once in their lives, consider life after high school. Richard LaGravenese directs a cast that also includes Imelda Staunton and Patrick Dempsey. Home of the Brave (MGM, 42) - Right at the end of their respective assignments in Iraq, four American soldiers look to complete a final mission, to bring medical supplies to a remote village. Ambushed, the unit suffers heavy losses, and the survivors are then forced to try and readjust to life at home. Directed by Irwin Winkler; featuring Samuel L. Jackson, Jessica Biel, Brian Presley, Christina Ricci, 50 Cent and Chad Michael Murray. Code Name: The Cleaner (New Line, 37) - Cedric The Entertainer and Lucy Liu star in this slight action-comedy about a janitor with amnesia who thinks he's a secret agent. At least he has the advantage of being able to forget that this movie exists. Les Mayfield directs.
Primeval (Touchstone, 33) - A news team (Dominic Purcell and Orlando Jones) is sent to South Africa to capture and bring home a legendary 25-foot crocodile. The stakes are raised even higher when a warlord targets them for death. Directd by Michael Katleman. Alpha Dog (Universal, 53) - When young, high-rolling pot dealer Johnny Truelove (Emile Hirsch) abducts the little brother of his business rival, he sets into motion a chain of events that soon spins wildly out of control. With the police and FBI on his trail, a father (Bruce Willis) works to keep his son from going to prison, or worse. With Justin Timberlake; directed by Nick Cassavetes. Stomp the Yard (Screen Gems, 45) - A young Los Angeleno (Columbus Short) avoids a juvenile hall sentence by enrolling at a black university in Atlanta. At school, he's wooed by two fraternities, both of which realize his street-dance moves are the key to winning the national stepshow competition. Sylvain White directs.
In limited release, look for Fah talai jone (Tears of the Black Tiger) [Magnolia (2000) 71] - A Thai homage to Spaghetti Westerns, in which a gunslinger and a society woman fall in love, much to the consternation of his gang and her father. Directed by Wisit Sasanatieng.
The Hitcher (Rogue Pictures, 30) - Collegiate couple Grace (Sophia Bush) and Jim (Zachary Knighton) hit the road for spring break, but their trip soon turns into a waking nightmare after encountering a mysterious hitchhiker (Sean Bean). Dave Meyers directs. The Dead Girl (First Look Pictures, 67) - The clues to a young woman's death come together as the lives of seemingly unrelated people begin to intersect. Karen Moncrieff wrote and directed this thriller that features Toni Collette, Brittany Murphy, Marcia Gay Harden, James Franco, Josh Brolin, Mary Steenburgen, Mary Beth Hurt and Piper Laurie. And, Stephen Frears' critically acclaimed The Queen (Miramax, 91) goes into wider release (from 344 to 1,586 screens) this weekend. Golden Globe winner Babel expands from 173 to 889 screens, and The Last King of Scotland moves from just 4 screens to 495.
In limited release, look for Italianetz (The Italian) (Sony Pictures Classics, 75) - Set in 2002, an abandoned 5-year-old boy living in a rundown orphanage in a small Russian village is adopted by an Italian family. This Russian release is directed by Andrei Kravchuk. Alone with Her (IFC Films, 62) - Invasion of privacy and domestic spying take on terrifying meaning in this unsettling tale of voyeurism. Colin Hanks stars as a young man with a secret obsession for a beautiful woman (Ana Claudia Talancon). Written and directed by Eric Nicholas.
Catch and Release (Columbia, 44) - Jennifer Garner attempts to rebuild her life after the death of her fiance, with pal Kevin Smith around to provide some comic relief. Susannah Grant directs. Smokin' Aces (Universal, 47) - Jeremy Piven, Ryan Reynolds, Ray Liotta and Ben Affleck head the cast of a stylish attempt at gangster comedy centering on a Vegas magician in trouble with the mob. Directed by Joe Carnahan. Blood and Chocolate (MGM, 35) - Vivian (Agnes Bruckner), a young werewolf, is chosen as the mate for the leader of her pack, Gabriel (Olivier Martinez), though she has feelings for a human. Her sense of alienation is heightened when a series of unexplained murders point to her as the killer -- a threat not only for her, but for her entire pack as well. This werewolf romance is based on the book by Annette Curtis Klause and directed by Katja von Garnier. Epic Movie (20th Century-Fox, 20) - The folks behind Scary Movie and Date Movie insist on returning with another collection of sub-SNL-caliber movie spoofs. Actually, we think it's the same folks; it's quite possible that at this point, these movies make themselves. Directed by Jason Friedberg & Aaron Seltzer.
And, in limited release, look for Seraphim Falls (Samuel Goldwyn, 62) - Liam Neeson, Pierce Brosnan, Angie Harmon and Anjelica Huston star in a revenge Western set at the end of the Civil War. David Von Ancken directs.
The Messengers (Columbia, 34) - The kids notice some spooky things about their new home when their parents relocate the family from the city to a remote North Dakota sunflower farm in this horror/suspense flick. Dylan McDermott and Penelope Ann Miller star;directed by horror fan favorites Oxide Pang Chun & Danny Pang for Sam Raimi's Ghost House Pictures. Because I Said So (Universal, 27) - Meddling mom Diane Keaton tries to find a man for unmaried daughter Mandy Moore in a comedy directed by Michael Lehmann. That's pretty much the best you can hope for during Super Bowl weekend.
In limited release, look for George Hickenlooper's Factory Girl (MGM, 47), a biopic about Edie Sedgwick, best known for her time spent with Andy Warhol during the 1960s before her drug overdose in 1971. Sienna Miller and Guy Pearce star. Constellation (Freestyle Releasing, 40) - Billy Dee Williams and Gabrielle Union star in a drama set in the South. At a funeral, the remaining family members try to get past the deceased's unrequited romance, which tore them all apart some forty years ago. Directed by Jordan Walker-Pearlman. Raising Flagg (Cinema Libre, xx) - When Flagg Purdy (Alan Arkin), a grizzled Mr. Fix It, raises the ire of his small town, he climbs into bed and refuses to leave, indicating that it's time for him to meet his maker. His antics cause his children to reluctantly flock to his bedside, where their doubts as to his dire condition lead to comic plots to roust their patriarch. Neil Miller directs. An Unreasonalbe Man (IFC Films, 74) - Politician, activist and seat-belt wearer Ralph Nader is profiled in a documentary directed by Henriette Mantel and Steve Skrovan.
Hannibal Rising (MGM, 35) - Gaspard Ulliel plays a much younger Hannibal Lecter in this prequel about the early life of the serial killer character made famous in The Silence of the Lambs. Peter Webber directs. Norbit (DreamWorks SKG, 27) - You know, we were starting to fear that there would never be another one of those annoying comedies in which Eddie Murphy plays multiple characters in the same scene. Thank you, Norbit.
In limited release, you can look for Breaking and Entering (The Weinstein Co., 56) - After his office is burgled and a series of seemingly random events begin to correlate, a distressed young architect (Jude Law) begins to re-evaluate the direction of his life. Written and directed by Anthony Minghella. Das Leben der Anderen (The Lives of Others) (Sony Pictures Classics, 89) - Set chiefly during the late 1980s, this German drama - written and directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck - traces the career of an East German secret police officer. It is Germany's nominated entry for the 2006 Foreign Language Film Award.
Ghost Rider (Sony, 27) - Superstar motorcycle stunt rider Johnny Blaze (Nicolas Cage) strikes a deal with the vile Mephistopheles (Peter Fonda) for the most precious of commodities, his immortal soul. Now Johnny Blaze is forever destined to ride night after night as the host to the powerful supernatural entity known as the Ghost Rider. Written and directed by Mark Steven Johnson. Bridge to Terabithia (Disney, 74) - Based on the popular Newberry Award-winning novel, this film is a fantasy/adventure story of friendship, family and the power of imagination. Directed by Gabor Csupo; features Josh Hutcherson, AnnaSophia Robb, Zooey Deschanel and Robert Patrick. Breach (Universal, 68) - Inspired by true events, here's a dramatic thriller set inside the halls of the FBI -- the gatekeeper of the nation's most sensitive and potentially volatile secrets. Following his success with the electrifying and acclaimed Shattered Glass, co-writer/director Billy Ray explores more deeply the disillusionment and questionable moral mentorship of a young idealist. Features Chris Cooper, Ryan Phillippe and Dennis Haysbert. Daddy's Little Girls (Lionsgate, 47) - There's no Madea -- or Tyler Perry -- in the writer-director's latest comedy, although the cast does feature "The Wire"'s Idris Elba. Music and Lyrics (Warner Bros., 60) - Lyricist Drew Barrymore serves as muse -- and love interest -- to washed-up pop musician Hugh Grant in a romantic comedy that may strike a chord (sorry!) with Valentine's Day moviegoers. Of course, for music and comedy, you could just stay home and watch "American Idol" instead. Written and directed by Marc Lawrence.
In limited release, look for Indigènes (Days of Glory) (IFC Films, 85) - 1943. The young North Africans had never stepped foot on French soil but because France was at war, Said, Abdelkader, Messaoud and Yassir enlisted in the French Army, along with 130,000 other "indigenous soldiers," to liberate the "fatherland" from the Nazi enemy. These heroes that history forgot won battles in Italy, Provençe and the Vosges before finding themselves alone to defend an Alsatian village against a German battalion. Written and directed by Rachid Bouchareb; Algeria's candidate for Best Foreign Language Film. Fauteuils d'orchestre (Orchestra Seats) (ThinkFilm, xx) - A young woman (Cécile De France) arrives on Paris's fabled Avenue Montaigne and lands a job at a top bistro, where her effortless nature and engaging presence transfixes the restaurant's eccentric clientele. Co-written and directed by Danièle Thompson. Karov La Bayit (Close to Home) (IFC First Take, 68) - Mirit (Neama Shendar) and Smadar (Smadar Sayar) are two Israeli female soldiers who form a tentative bond after they narrowly survive a bomb explosion. Reassigned to lighter duties, the two women's actions and decisions illuminate very personal responses to the idea of compulsory army service. Co-written and co-directed by Vardit Bilu and Dalia Hagar. The Last Sin Eater (Fox, 37) - This religious drama set in 1850's Appalachia is directed by Michael Landon Jr.
The Abandoned (After Dark Films, 42) - An adopted woman (Anastasia Hille) returns to her native Russia to visit the family farm she never knew. Once there, her guide soon disappears, and a man on a course similar to hers soon appears -- leading her to begin to unravel a nightmarish family secret. This Spanish horror film from first-time filmmaker Nacho Cerdà was one of the standouts during Horrorfest last November. The Number 23 (New Line Cinema, 25) - Joel Schumacher directs Jim Carrey and Virginia Madsen in a conspiracy thriller that sounds like a cross between Stranger than Fiction and The Da Vinci Code, as a man encounters a mysterious book that appears to be about his own life. It's a shame the film's title also comes close to describing its Metascore. Reno 911!: Miami (Fox, 49) - This feature-film expansion of the Comedy Central "Cops" spoof finds the deputies in Miami Beach for a police convention. Finally, the lieutenant's shorts might come in handy. Directed by Ben Garant. The Astronaut Farmer (Warner Bros., 57) - When astronaut Billy Bob Thornton is forced to retire to save his family's farm, he brings his dreams of space with him, and decides to build his own rocket. This Polish brothers drama also stars Virginia Madsen and features Tim Blake Nelson and Bruce Dern.
In limited release, you can look for Starter for Ten (Picturehouse Entertainment, 70) - Set in 1985, working-class student Brian Jackson (James McAvoy) navigates his first year at Bristol University. His desire to prove his intelligence, coupled with his attraction to a fellow student (Alice Eve), finds him desperate to be a member of Bristol's "University Challenge" team -- competitors part of the long-running quiz show that pits institutions of higher education against another. Tom Vaughan directs. Gray Matters (Yari Film Group, 33) - This debut comedy from writer-director Sue Kramer finds a woman -- and her brother -- falling for the same girl. Heather Graham stars. Amazing Grace (Roadside Attractions, 65) - In 18th century England, William Wilberforce (Ioan Gruffudd) maneuvers his way through Parliament, endeavoring to end slavery in the empire -- a mission that puts him at odds with some of the most powerful men of the time, including the king. Directed by Michael Apted, the film also features Albert Finney. Glastonbury (ThinkFilm, 54) - Julien Temple has amassed over three decades of footage of the outdoor concert. The only potential downside? Literally watching rock 'n' roll flame out, as you move from David Bowie during his ascension to, say, a Coldplay ballad. Other featured acts include Björk, Billy Bragg and James Brown.
Wild Hogs (Touchstone, 27) - John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, and William H. Macy deal with their mid-life crises by forming a biker gang. No, really. Walt Becker directs. Zodiac (Paramount/Warner Bros., 77) - The latest dark thriller from David Fincher is based on the true story of the infamous "Zodiac Killer" who may have murdered dozens of people in the Bay Area in the 1970s. Robert Downey Jr. and Jake Gyllenhaal star. Black Snake Moan (Paramount Vantage, 52) - If "Snake" is in the title, then Samuel L. Jackson can't be far behind. In this drama, he stars as a blues guitarist who falls for sex addict Christina Ricci. Written and directed by Craig Brewer.
And, in limited release before wider roll-outs, you can look for Full of It (New Line Cinema, 33) - This teen comedy centers on a high schooler who gets more than he bargained for after his constant lying leads to popularity. Directed by Christian Charles. Two Weeks (MGM, 44) - Four siblings return home to their mother's house for what they think are the last few days of her life. When she hangs on, they find themselves trapped -- together -- for two weeks. Sally Field stars. Written and directed by Steve Stockman. Wild Tigers I Have Known (IFC First Take, 61) - Writer-director Cam Archer's visually-rich coming-of-age feature (which screened at last year's Sundance) centers on a 13-year-old boy who develops his first crush... on the new boy in school.
The Ultimate Gift (20th Century-Fox, 49) - When his wealthy grandfather dies, trust fund baby Jason Stevens (Drew Fuller) anticipates a big inheritance. Instead, his grandfather has devised a crash course on life with twelve tasks -- or "gifts" -- designed to challenge Jason in improbable ways, sending him on a journey of self-discovery and forcing him to determine what is most important in life: money or happiness. Directed by Michael O. Sajbel, the film also features James Garner, Abigail Breslin, Lee Meriwether and Brian Dennehy. 300 (Warner Bros., 53) - Based on the epic graphic novel by Frank Miller, 300 is a ferocious retelling of the ancient Battle of Thermopylae in which King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and 300 Spartans fought to the death against Xerxes and his massive Persian army. Facing insurmountable odds, their valor and sacrifice inspire all of Greece to unite against their Persian enemy, drawing a line in the sand for democracy. Zack Snyder directs.
In limited release, look for The Host (Magnolia Pictures, 85) - Utilizing state-of-the-art special effects, this Korean import is both a creature-feature thrill ride and a poignant human drama. Directed by Joon-Ho Bong. Believe in Me (IFC Films, xx) - Set in Oklahoma in the mid-1960's, this is the story of a young man whose dreams of coaching boys high school basketball are derailed when the school board assigns him to the girls' basketball team instead. The girls and the coach eventually earn each other's trust, and despite the opposition of the conservative town, learn how to play to win. Written and directed by Robert Collector. The Namesake (Fox Searchlight, 82) - Spanning two generations, two clashing cultures and two very different ways of life that crash into each other only to become lovingly intertwined, Mira Nair's film is ultimately about the imminently relevant question: what does it mean to be an American family? Maxed Out: Hard Times, Easy Credit and the Era of Predatory Lenders (Magnolia Home Entertainment, 77) - James Scurlock's film takes viewers on a journey deep inside the American style of debt, where things seem fine as long as the minimum monthly payment arrives on time. With coverage that spans from small American towns all the way to the White House, the film shows how the modern financial industry really works, explains the true definition of "preferred customer" and tells us why the poor are getting poorer while the rich keep getting richer. Hilarious, shocking and incisive, Maxed Out paints a picture of a national nightmare which is all too real for most of us. Les Anges exterminateurs (Exterminating Angels) (IFC First Take, 56) - From Jean-Claude Brisseau, the writer-director who scandalized France with 2002's Choses secrètes (Secret Things), comes a film about a filmmaker (Frédéric van den Driessche) who holds a series of boundary-pushing auditions for his project about female pleasure. It will shock you, make you think and turn you on.
Premonition (MGM, 27) - Sandra Bullock stars in a thriller about a housewife who foresees her husband's death -- and then tries to prevent it. As for Sandra Bullock, we don't foresee her career moving upward from here. Mennan Yapo directs. Dead Silence (Universal, 34) - This no-name (unless you count Donnie Wahlberg) thriller finds townsfolk -- including a new bride -- dying as a result of a curse of a long-dead mad ventriloquist. If you like horror films with spooky dolls, this one's for you. Co-written and directed by James Wan. Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (Anchor Bay Entertainment, 66) - This horror mockumentary follows a slasher-wannabe as he attempts to become the next Jason or Freddy. (And speaking of Freddy, Robert Englund co-stars.) Co-written and directed by Scott Glosserman. I Think I Love My Wife (Fox Searchlight, 51) - This remake turns Eric Rohmer's 1972 French-language drama L'Amour l'aprés-midi into a less-cerebral comedy, with Chris Rock writing, directing and starring as a happily married man who is seduced by another woman. The Wind That Shakes the Barley (IFC First Take, 82) - Two brothers, who were formerly going in separate directions, align themselves during Ireland's bid for independence from Britain. The treaty that marks the end of the war, however, ultimately turns Irishman against Irishman, and brother against brother. Ken Loach directs Paul Laverty's screenplay. Nomad (The Weinstein Co., 53) - In war-torn 18th century Kazakhstan, the region's tribes learn that a child will soon be born with the power to unite the country, and defend it from invaders. Tortilla Heaven (Archangel Entertainment, 22) - The town of Falfurrias, New Mexico is turned upside down by an apparent miracle: the appearance of Jesus Christ's face on one of local restaurateur Isidor's hand-made tortillas. Written and directed by Judy Hecht Dumontet.
Reign Over Me (Sony, 62) - Don Cheadle helps his depressed former college roommate (Adam Sandler) move on after the death of his family in the 9/11 attacks in this uplifting drama from writer-director Mike Binder. Pride (Lionsgate, 57) - Terrence Howard stars in the story of the man who started Philadelphia's first African-American swim team in 1973. Directed by Sunu Gonera. Shooter (Paramount, 50) - Antoine Fuqua's action-thriller stars Mark Wahlberg as a former Marine who is framed for assassinating the President. The Hills Have Eyes II (Fox Atomic, 34) - Just as Wes Craven's 1977 film was remade in 2006, his 1985 sequel now gets the remake treatment. This time, a group of National Guard soldiers encounter some nasty mutants in the desert. Martin Weisz directs. TMNT (Warner Bros., 37) - This fourth big-screen Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles adventure (and first that is fully computer-animated) isn't really a sequel, but is -- dare we say it -- a reinvention of the franchise, drawing on the original comics as its inspiration. Directed by Kevin Monroe. The Last Mimzy (New Line, 62) - TV's Rainn Wilson co-stars in this family sci-fi adventure about a young brother and sister who begin to develop special powers after uncovering some mysterious toys. Directed by Robert Shaye.
In limited release, look for First Snow (Yari Film Group, 60) - Stranded after an accident outside a desolate town, Jimmy Starks (Guy Pearce) visits a fortune teller (J.K. Simmons) to pass the time, but soon learns that his days are numbered. At first skeptical, Jimmy's world begins to unravel as the psychic's visions come true. Co-written (with Hawk Ostby) and directed by Mark Fergus. Offside (Sony Pictures Classics, 85) - A smart comedy illustrating the fight for women's rights in Iran. In Tehran, a group of young girls desperate to watch a big football match at Azadi Stadium decide to dress as boys in order to sneak into the event where women are not allowed. Co-written and directed by Jafar Panahi. Colour Me Kubrick: A True...ish Story (Magnolia, 44) - John Malkovich stars as the notorious Stanley Kubrick imposter Alan Conway. Brian W. Cook directs.
Meet the Robinsons (Buena Vista, 53) - Disney's latest CGI family comedy is set in the future, where two kids must save the world from the nefarious Bowler Hat Guy. Stephen J. Anderson is at the helm. The Lookout (Miramax, 73) - Joseph Gordon Levitt, Matthew Goode and Jeff Daniels star in a bank heist thriller that marks the first time behind the camera for accomplished screenwriter Scott Frank. Blades of Glory (Paramount, 52) - This figure-skating comedy boasts a great cast, headed by Will Ferrell and Jon Heder and including Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, Jenna Fischer, Rob Corddry and Craig T. Nelson (as, naturally, a coach). Written by Jeff and Joel Cox; directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck.
In limited release, look for Peaceful Warrior (DFJ Productions, 40) - Collegiate gymnast Dan Millman (Scott Mechlowicz) strikes up a friendship with Socrates (Nick Nolte), an older man who becomes the athlete's mentor and opens his mind to a new way of living and thinking. Directed by Victor Salva. Efter Brylluppet (After the Wedding) (IFC Films, 74) - Sweeping, yet entirely intimate, this film is a shattering portrait of a family struggling with the fragility of life and the search for connection, healing, and forgiveness. Susanne Bier co-wrote and directed Denmark's nominee for last year's Best Foreign Language Film. Live Free Or Die (THINKFilm, xx) - Taking its title from the state motto of New Hampshire, Live Free or Die is a deadpan comedy about a clueless, aspiring criminal named John "Rugged" Rudgate (Aaron Stanford). Written and directed by Gregg Kavet and Andy Robin.
Are We Done Yet? (Revolution, 37) - Ice Cube returns for more family comedy in this sequel to 2005's Are We There Yet? Steve Carr directs. Grindhouse (Genius Prod., 77) - This anthology of exploitation horror pairs hour-long featurettes from Quentin Tarantino ("Death Proof") and Robert Rodriguez ("Planet Terror"), and also includes a selection of fake movie trailers. Rose McGowan and Freddy Rodríguez star. The Reaping (Warner Bros., 36) - Hilary Swank stars in a supernatural thriller about a small Southern town that appears to be experiencing the ten Biblical plagues. Wasn't Katrina bad enough? Directed by Stephen Hopkins. Firehouse Dog (20th Century-Fox, 45) - Hollywood's top canine star gets lost during a commercial shoot and eventually finds his way to a firehouse (where he becomes a star all over again) in this kid-friendly comedy directed by Todd Holland.
In limited release, look for The Hoax (Miramax, 77) - Lasse Hallström directs this biopic about the man who famously fabricated Howard Hughes' biography in the early 1970s. Richard Gere stars as Clifford Irving, supported by Alfred Molina, Hope Davis, Marcia Gay Harden, Stanley Tucci and Eli Wallach. Zwartboek (Black Book) (Sony Pictures Classics, 68) - Set during the end of WWII, this is the story of a Dutch Jewish girl who narrowly survives the war in Holland. She joins the resistance to find out who betrayed her family after all of them were killed in an attempt to reach the liberated south. On the short list for last year's Foreign Language Film nominations; Paul Verhoeven co-wrote and directed. The TV Set (THINKFilm, 63) - This hair-raising comedy of art and compromise follows an idealistic writer (David Duchovny) as he tries to navigate his TV pilot down the mine-laden path from script through production to the madness of prime-time scheduling -- all while trying to stay true to his vision. Along the way he has to juggle the agendas of a headstrong network president (Sigourney Weaver), volatile young stars, a pregnant wife and an ever-optimistic personal manager.
Perfect Stranger (Sony, 35) - Halle Berry, Bruce Willis, and Giovanni Ribisi star in a thriller about an investigative reporter who enters the shady and mysterious world of online dating while she tracks down her friend's murderer... because, clearly, everyone looking for love online is an obsessive, homicidal maniac. Directed by James Foley. Distubia (DreamWorks SKG, 62) - This Rear Window>-esque thriller focuses on a teenager under house arrest who begins to suspect that his neighbor is a serial killer. D.J. Caruso directs. Pathfinder (20th Century-Fox, 28) - This bloody Viking epic is a remake of a 1987 Norwegian film. Directed by Marcus Nispel.
Aqua Teen Hunger Force Colon Movie Film for Theaters (First Look Int'l, 55) - With a title only Borat could love, the Adult Swim trio of talking food items make the jump to the large screen for the first time. You may be familiar with their promotional campaign. (We're looking at you, Boston.) Written and directed by Matt Maiellaro & Dave Willis.
In limited release, you can look for Year of the Dog (Paramount Vantage, 74) - Writer/actor Mike White makes his directorial debut with this comedy about a secretary (Molly Shannon) who undergoes a major life transformation after the death of her dog. Lonely Hearts (Clickstar, 58) - John Travolta, Salma Hayek, Jared Leto, and James Gandolfini star in a period thriller about the true exploits of the "Lonely Hearts Killers," a couple who killed at least a dozen victims in the 1940s. Redline (Chicago Releasing, 24) - A group of wealthy men organize drag race competitions for their amusement. Nice work if you can get it. Directed by Andy Cheng. Slow Burn (DEJ Productions, 35) - This sexy, stylish thriller stars Ray Liotta as a big-city district attorney with his eye on the mayor's office and a big problem on his hands. Written and directed by Wayne Beach.
Vacancy (Screen Gems, 59) - A car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, leaving the driver and his new wife to seek refuge at an isolated hotel, and you know the rest... slashy slashy! Luke Wilson and Kate Beckinsale star. Directed by Nimród Antal. Fracture (New Line, 69) - Anthony Hopkins and Ryan Gosling star in a thriller about a district attorney who seeks a high-profile conviction against a man who shot his own wife. Gregory Hoblit directs. Hot Fuzz (Rogue Pictures, 81) - In this action-packed comedy from the makers of Shaun of the Dead, Nicholas Angel (Simon Pegg) is the finest police officer London has to offer, with an arrest record 400% higher than any other officer on the force. He's so good, he makes everyone else look bad. As a result, Angel's superiors send him to a place where his talents won't be quite so embarrassing -- the sleepy and seemingly crime-free village of Sandford. A small village is about to get some big city justice. Co-written by Pegg with Edgar Wright, who also directs.
In limited release, look for In the Land of Women (Warner Bros., 40) - A TV writer (The "O.C."'s Adam Brody) returns home to Michigan to care for his ailing grandmother, but is drawn into the lives of members of a family living across the street, in this dramedy directed by Jonathan Kasdan. La Doublure (The Valet) (Sony Pictures Classics, 77) - When billionaire Pierre Levasseur (Daniel Auteuil) is snapped by a papparazzo with Elena, his dazzling, supermodel mistress (Alice Taglioni), he tries to avoid a catastrophic divorce by coming up with an outrageous lie. Written and directed by Francis Veber. The Tripper (Coquette Prods., xx) - A serial killer who's obsessed with Ronald Reagan targets a bunch of hippies who are heading to the Redwood Forest for a weekend-long concert. Co-written and directed by David Arquette. Stephanie Daley (Regent Releasing, 76) - This film weaves two parallel journeys into a sublime masterpiece about the absolute nature of truth. Forensic psychologist Lydie Crane (Tilda Swinton) is assigned to the case of 16-year-old Stephanie Daley (Amber Tamblyn), who has been accused of concealing her pregnancy and murdering her newborn on arrival. Written and directed by Hilary Brougher.
The Invisible (Hollywood Pictures, 36) - This supernatural thriller -- a remake of a Swedish film -- centers on a teen boy who enters a ghost-like state after being attacked, and who must then find his own killer. David S. Goyer directs Justin Chatwin, Margarita Levieva and Marcia Gay Harden. Next (Paramount, 42) - Lee Tamahori's thriller is based on a short story by Philip K. Dick about a magician (Nicolas Cage) who can see five minutes into the future. Here, he's called upon by the government to help prevent a terrorist attack in Los Angeles. (Jack Bauer must have been off that day.) Also features Julianne Moore and Jessica Biel. Kickin It Old Skool (Yari Film Group, 18) - Jamie Kennedy stars in a comedy about a kid who enters a coma after a freak breakdancing accident in the mid 1980s... and awakens 20 years later to a whole new world. Directed by Harvey Glazer. The Condemned (Lions Gate, 23) - World Wrestling Entertainment superstar Steve Austin stars as Jack Conrad, a death-row prisoner in a corrupt Central American prison who is "purchased" by a wealthy television producer to take part in an illegal reality game show. Brought to a desolate island, Conrad finds himself trapped in a fight to the death against nine other condemned killers from all corners of the world. Co-written and directed by Scott Wiper.
In limited release, look for Wind Chill (TriStar, 51) - While sharing a ride home for the holidays, two college students (Emily Blunt and Ashton Holmes) become stranded on a stretch of road with a deadly history. Directed by Gregory Jacobs. Jindabyne (Sony Pictures Classics, 67) - Laura Linney and Gabriel Byrne star in an Australian drama based on a Raymond Carver short story (which was also featured in the movie Short Cuts) about a group of fishermen who discover the body of a girl in a river. Ray Lawrence directs. Snow Cake (IFC, 54) - An ex-con (Alan Rickman) deals with the emotional aftermath of an accident resulting in the death of a teenage girl he picked up as a hitchhiker (Carrie-Anne Moss) -- an event that leads to a relationship with the girl's autistic mother (Sigourney Weaver). Directed by Mark Evans. The Hip Hop Project (THiNKFilm, 66) - Matt Ruskin's documentary on Chris 'Kazi' Rolle, a once-homeless New York City man who has blossomed into a mentor for the city's youth who want to express themselves through their love of hip-hop. Diggers (Magnolia Pictures, 66) - Paul Rudd stars in a period dramedy about clam diggers in the Hamptons during the 1970s. Katherine Dieckmann directs.
Spider-Man 3 (Sony, 60) reunites the cast (Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, et al.) and filmmakers (Sam Raimi - director; Sam Raimi, Ivan Raimi & Alvin Sargent - story & screenplay) from the first two blockbuster adventures for a web of secrets, vengeance, love, and forgiveness. The only other film to challenge Spidey in a wide opening release this week is Lucky You (Warner Bros., 50), a romantic drama set in Vegas that pairs Drew Barrymore as an aspiring young singer and Eric Bana as a high-stakes poker player. Co-written by Curtis Hanson & Eric Roth, directed by Hanson.
In limited release, look for The Flying Scotsman (MGM, 49) - Based on a true story, this film illustrates the story of Scottish cyclist Graeme Obree's (Jonny Lee Miller) triumph over adversity. Douglas Mackinnon directs. Waitress (Fox Searchlight, 72) - This sweet, sassy and delicious slice of life tale reveals the power of friendship, motherhood and the willingness to take a chance. Written and directed by Adrienne Shelly, who was murdered last November in her Manhattan apartment, just days after completing the film. Away from Her (Lions Gate, 88) - This beautiful yet unconventional story of a couple (Julie Christie and Gordon Pinsent) coming to grips with the onset of memory loss is adapted from celebrated author Alice Munro's short story "The Bear Came Over the Mountain" by director Sarah Polley. The film also features Michael Murphy and Olympia Dukakis. Paris, je t'aime (First Look Int'l, 62) - Various aspects of Paris are revealed through vignettes directed by 21 different directors. Civic Duty (Freestyle Releasing, 48) - When an Islamic graduate student (Khaled Abol Naga) moves in next door to an American accountant (Peter Krause), the accountant's life becomes filled with suspicion of post 9/11 terrorist activities. Jeff Renfroe directs. The Treatment (New Yorker Films, 49) - Based on Daniel Menaker's novel, this film captures all of the wit and mystery of Jake Singer's (Chris Eigeman) epic journey through the realms of psychoanalysis (administered by Ian Holm) and mature love in contemporary New York City. Directed by Oren Rudavsky.
28 Weeks Later... (Fox Atomic, 78) - Danny Boyle returns as producer only (with director duties falling this time to Juan Carlos Fresnadillo) for this sequel to the 2003 zombie/virus thriller 28 Days Later, which is set -- you guessed it -- about half a year after the original. Georgia Rule (Universal, 25) - Call it "chick flick," "counterprogramming," or whatever you like; all we know is that three generations of women are bonding on an Idaho farm. Jane Fonda, Lindsay Lohan, and Felicity Huffman star; Garry Marshall directs. Delta Farce (Lions Gate, 17) - Three buddies accidentally find themselves in the U.S. Army and then accidentally find themselves defending a Mexican village from attack (they think it's Iraq, you see) in this soldier comedy. Unfortunately, the stars are Larry the Cable Guy, Bill Engvall and DJ Qualls, not Bill Murray and Harold Ramis. Directed by C.B. Harding.
In limited release, you might find one of these films opening near you: The Ex (Weinstein Co., 33) - NBC stars Zach Braff and Amanda Peet lead in a comedy (originally scheduled to be released in 2006 with the name "Fast Track") about a 30-something slacker who is forced to take a job when his pregnant wife quits hers. The pressures at work and at home are bridged when Braff discovers his new co-worker (Jason Bateman) has a history with his wife. Directed by Jesse Peretz, the film also features Mia Farrow and Charles Grodin. Home of the Brave (MGM, 42) - Right at the end of their respective assignments in Iraq, four American soldiers look to complete a final mission, to bring medical supplies to a remote village. Ambushed, the unit suffers heavy losses, and the survivors are then forced to try and readjust to life at home. Written by Mark Friedman and featuring Samuel L. Jackson, Jessica Biel, Brian Presley, Christina Ricci, 50 Cent, Chad Michael Murray, Joyce M. Cameron and Victoria Rowell, it's directed by Irwin Winkler. The Salon (The Bigger Picture, 27) - As a feisty salon owner (Vivica A. Fox) fights to save her business from foreclosure, she falls for the lawyer (Darrin Dewitt Henson) who represents the city's interest in her building. Mark Brown adapted Shelley Garrett's play and directes. Blind Dating (Samuel Goldwyn Films, xx) - Danny (Chris Pine) is a a handsome young man who happens to be blind. And a virgin. Can he overcome a sweetly meddling older brother (Eddie Kaye Thomas) and the fact that the one woman (Anjali Jay) he's mutually interested in is locked in her upcoming arranged marriage? Directed by James Keach. Day Night Day Night (THiNKFilm, 59) - In this award-winning film (Cannes, Woodstock, Montréal, Independent Spirit Awards, Chicago Int'l Film Festival) written and directed by Julia Loktev, a 19-year-old girl (Luisa Williams) prepares to become a suicide bomber in Times Square.
Shrek the Third (Paramount, 57) - Expect more green food and green consumer goods on store shelves this summer as the movie that spawned a million marketing tie-ins returns with the third of many installments. Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy return, joined by first-timers like Amy Sedaris and Justin Timberlake. Directed by Chris Miller & Raman Hui. Once (Fox Searchlight, 87) - A modern day musical set on the streets of Dublin. Featuring Glen Hansard from the Irish band "The Frames," the film tells the story of a street musician and a Czech immigrant during an eventful week as they write, rehearse and record songs that reveal their unique love story. Written and directed by John Carney.
Look for these films in limited release: Fay Grim (Magnolia, 52) - Writer-director Hal Hartley returns to the characters from Henry Fool, following Fay (Parker Posey), a single mom from Queens who is afraid her 14-year-old son (Liam Aiken) will grow up to be like his father, Henry, who has been missing for years. Also features Jeff Goldblum. The Wendell Baker Story (THiNKFilm, 44) - Smart, sweet, hip, and engaging, this film celebrates the precipitous fall and rise of an oxymoronic movie hero - a winning loser who follows his own path. Baker, a lovable con man with high ambitions and low energy (Luke Wilson), likes to dream and scheme about tomorrow, without paying any attention to the realities of today. He embarks on a great comic misadventure that in a sometimes roundabout, but always entertaining, way, leads straight to happy endings. Luke Wilson wrote the screenplay and co-directs with brother Andrew Wilson. Also featured are Seymour Cassel, Kris Kristofferson, Owen Wilson, Harry Dean Stanton, Mathew Greer and Grant James. Even Money (Yari Film Group, 34) - A ferociously compelling drama that follows the lives of nine individuals as their fates become increasingly entwined in a web of addiction and gambling, culminating at one critical moment where their lives will be lost or reclaimed. Mark Rydell directs a cast that includes Kim Basinger, Danny DeVito, Kelsey Grammer, Ray Liotta and Forest Whitaker. Severance (Magnolia, 64) - Working 9-to-5 is a real killer, but teambuilding holidays can sometimes be even worse. Forget office politics, only the smartest will survive this bloody office outing. Christopher Smith co-wrote and directed this Germany/UK release.
Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Buena Vista, 50) - Johnny Depp, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley and Geoffrey Rush are joined by newcomers Chow Yun-Fat and Keith Richards (yes, that Keith Richards) for this third installment of the popular action series. ("Popular" might be an understatement, as the second film grossed more than $1 billion worldwide.) Once again, Gene Verbinski is at the helm. Challenging Pirates 3 nationwide this weekend is Bug (Lions Gate, 61) - William Friedkin's minimalist thriller -- set in a seedy motel (and based on the play by Tracy Letts) -- centers on a lonely waitress and a hallucinating Gulf War veteran. Ashley Judd and Harry Connick Jr. star.
In limited release, look for Angel-A (Sony Pictures Classics, 29) - Luc Besson's black-and-white romance traces the relationship of two seemingly down-on-their luck Parisians played by Rie Rasmussen and Jamel Debbouze. Papurika (Sony Pictures Classics, 81) - Satoshi Kon's artsy, futuristic anime thriller takes place in a world where therapists use a machine to enter their patients' dreams. The Boss of It All (IFC Films, 72) - A rare comedy for Danish writer-director Lars von Trier, this film centers on an IT company owner who must hire an actor to stand in for his fictitious company president while he attempts to sell the company. Nuovomondo (The Golden Door) (Miramax, 72) - Singer Charlotte Gainsbourg stars in a turn-of-the-century drama about a Sicilian family that emigrates to the United States through Ellis Island. Written and directed by Emanuele Crialese.
Mr. Brooks (MGM, 44) - Kevin Costner gets a rare bad-guy role -- successful businessman by day, murderer by night -- in a thriller that also stars William Hurt, Demi Moore, and Dane Cook. Co-written and directed by Bruce A. Evans. Knocked Up (Universal, 85) - A one-night stand turns into a life-long relationship -- thanks to an unexpected pregnancy -- in Judd Apatow's follow-up to The 40-Year-Old Virgin. Katherine Heigl, Seth Rogen, Paul Rudd, and many of your other favorite Apatow Players star. Rise: Blood Hunter (Samuel Goldwyn, xx) - After she wakes up in a morgue and discovers she's now one of the undead, reporter Sadie Blake (Lucy Liu) hunts for the people responsible for her death and rebirth. Written and directed by Sebastian Gutierrez. Gracie (Picturehouse, 52) - Davis Guggenheim's 1970s-era drama chronicles the true story of the teenage girl who blazed the trail for women's soccer leagues. At least it gives Andrew Shue a chance to demonstrate his twin "talents" of acting and soccer.
Scheduled for limited release: Day Watch (Fox Searchlight, 64) - The second installment of a trilogy based on the best-selling sci-fi novels of Sergei Lukyanenko, Day Watch (Dnevnoi Dozor) revolves around the conflict and balance maintained between the forces of light and darkness -- the result of a medieval truce between the opposing sides. The novel was adapted by Timur Bekmambetov, who also directs. Crazy Love (Magnolia Pictures, 70) - Dan Klores' documentary tells the astonishing story of the obsessive roller-coaster relationship of Burt and Linda Pugach, which shocked the nation during the summer of 1959. Pierrepoint: The Last Hangman (IFC Films, 75) - Timothy Spall gives a devastating performance in the true-life story of Albert Pierrepoint, Britain's most notorious hangman, who sends hundreds of prisoners to their deaths from 1934 to 1956 -- while moonlighting as a grocery deliveryman and keeping his other life a secret from his wife (Juliet Stevenson). Directed by Adrian Shergold.
Surf's Up (Sony, 64) - Jeff Bridges and Shia LaBeouf head the voice cast for this computer-animated comedy about surfing penguins. We knew penguins were "in," but did it have to come to this? Ash Brannon and Chris Buck co-direct. Ocean's Thirteen (Warner Bros., 63) - What are the odds of getting even? Danny Ocean (George Clooney) and the gang would have only one reason to pull off their most ambitious and riskiest casino heist -- to defend one of their own. But they're going to need more than luck on their side to break The Bank (Al Pacino). Steven Soderbergh is once again at the helm for this third in his series. Hostel: Part II (Lionsgate, 46) - While studying art in Rome for the summer, three young American women (Lauren German, Heather Matarazzo, & Bijou Phillips) are lured away to a Slovakian hostel by a model from their class. Soon they will experience the grim reality their weekend getaway has in store. Eli Roth wrote and directed this follow-up to his first Hostel (2005), which grossed over $47 million in the US. La Vie en rose (Picturehouse, 60) - A swirling, impressionistic portrait of an artist who regretted nothing, writer-director Olivier Dahan's film stars Marion Cotillard as the legendary French icon Edith Piaf.
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (20th Century-Fox, 45) - Marvel's first family of superheroes, The Fantastic Four, meets their greatest challenge yet. The enigmatic, intergalactic herald, The Silver Surfer, comes to Earth to prepare for its destruction. Tim Story directs Ioan Gruffudd, Jessica Alba, Chris Evans, Michael Chiklis, Julian McMahon, Kerry Washington, Andre Braugher, and Laurence Fishburne.
Nancy Drew (Warner Bros., 36) - For generations of fans worldwide, the name Nancy Drew is synonymous with adventure. This young amateur detective has a mind of her own, a passion for solving mysteries and a reputation foe getting into - and out of - some very scary situations. This summer, Nancy Drew moves to the West Coast and enrolls in Hollywood High, where she is faced with a fresh set of challenges and her most baffling case yet. Co-written and directed by Andrew Fleming; Emma Roberts stars as the sleuthing teen. Fido (Roadside Attractions, 69) - When his mom brings home a zombie servant (Jan Skorzewski), Timmy (K'Sun Ray) discovers a new best friend and names him Fido. Sometimes, it takes a dead man to teach us all what it means to be alive. Co-written and directed by Andrew Currie. DOA: Dead or Alive (The Weinstein Co./Dimension Films, 38) - Based on Tecmo's best-selling "Dead or Alive" videogame franchise, this film features four beautiful women who begin as rivals in a secret invitational-only martial arts contest, but find themselves teaming up with one another against a sinister force. Corey Yuen directs.
In limited release, look for Eagle vs. Shark (Miramax, 33) - From New Zealand comes a wickedly offbeat love story - a funny, fractured romance between two total misfits, woven into an all-consuming quest for revenge, and shot through with the strange, sweet hilarity of the human condition. Written and directed by Taika Cohen.
1408 (Dimension Films, 64) - John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson star in an adaptation of Stephen King's short story about a horror novelist forced to deal with some real-life frights. Mikael Häfström directs. Evan Almighty (Universal, 37) - Costing a reported $250 million, this sequel to Bruce Almighty may be the most expensive comedy ever filmed. And that's without Jim Carrey's salary (he doesn't return). Steve Carell, Lauren Graham and John Goodman star; Morgan Freeman is God (but we all knew that). Tom Shadyac directs Steve Oedekerk's story and screenplay. A Mighty Heart (Paramount Vantage, 74) - Angelina Jolie stars as the widow of slain Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl (Dan Futterman) in Michael Winterbottom's topical drama.
Here's what you might find in limited release: You Kill Me (IFC Films, 64) - While drying out on the west coast, an alcoholic hit man (Ben Kingsley) befriends a tart-tounged woman (Téa Leoni) who might just come in handy when it's time for him to return to Buffalo and settle some old scores. Directed by John Dahl. Black Sheep (Genius Products, 64) - Terrified of sheep and dosed up on therapy, Henry Oldfield (Nathan Meister) returns to his family's farm to sell out his older brother Angus (Peter Feeney), unaware that something baaaaad is going on: Angus' reckless genetic engineering program. When a pair of inept environmental activists release a mutant lamb from Angus' laboratory onto the farm, thousands of sheep are turned into bloodthirsty predators, thanks to creature effects from Richard Taylor's Weta Workshop. Written and directed by New Zealand's Jonathan King. Broken English (Magnolia Pictures, 63) - Tired of the singles scene, thirty-something Manhattanite Nora Wilder (Parkey Posey) impulsively flies to Paris to see if the initial connection she made with Julien (Melvil Poupaud) might be more than just another failed romance. Written and directed by Zoe R. Cassavetes, the film also features her mom, Gena Rowlands. September Dawn (Black Diamond Pictures, xx) - In this fictional take on the Mountain Meadows Massacre, a group of settlers en route to California encounter a Mormon sect in southern Utah; the massacre that follows results in the deaths of 120 people, before it is covered up by prominent religious leaders. Co-written and directed by Christopher Cain, the film features Jon Voight, Lolita Davidovich, and (one of our all-time favorite actors) Terence Stamp as Brigham Young.
Live Free or Die Hard (20th Century-Fox, 69) - Unless you want the last thing you hear in life to be "Yippee-ki-yay, mother......", you don't mess with John McClane's family. This time around, the doomed baddie is a computer terrorist who proves he's no genius when he kidnaps McClane's daughter. Len Wiseman directs Mark Bomback's script that features Bruce Willis, Timothy Olyphant and Justin Lang.
Ratatouille (Buena Vista, 95) - Welcome to a entirely new and original world where the unthinkable combination of a rat and a 5-star gourmet restaurant come together for the ultimate fish-out-of-water tale. Brad Bird (creator of 2004's The Incredibles) writes and directs this animated film that features the voices of Ian Holm, Lou Romano, Brian Dennehy, Peter O'Toole and Janeane Garofalo.
Evening (Focus Features, 51) - Here's a deeply emotional film that illuminates the timeless love that binds mother and daughter -- seen through the prism of one mother's life as it crests with optimism, navigates a turning point, and ebbs to its close. Vanessa Redgrave stars with daughter Natasha Richardson and Toni Collette; directed by Lajos Koltai.
Sicko (The Weinstein Co./Lionsgate, 74) - Michael Moore's new documentary sets out to investigate the American healthcare system. Sticking to his tried-and true one-man approach, Moore sheds lights on the complicated medical affairs of individuals and local communities.
In limited relase, from Switzerland comes Vitus (Sony Pictures Classics, 59) - Vitus [played by Fabrizio Borsani (age 6) & Teo Gheorghiu (age 12)] is a boy who almost seems to be from another planet: he has hearing like a bat, he plays piano like a virtuoso and studies encyclopaedias at the age of five. It's no wonder his parents begin to anticipate a brilliant future for him. They want Vitus to become a pianist. However, the child prodigy prefers to play in his eccentric grandfather's workshop. He dreams of flying and of a normal childhood. Ultimately, with one dramatic leap, Vitus takes control of his own life. Co-written and directed by Fredi M. Murer.
Transformers (DreamWorks SKG, 62) - Instead of old school animation and impromptu musical numbers, the Decepticons and Autobots now do battle on Earth in a live-action pic. Here's to hoping Michael Bay's CG-fest won't blow a circuit. License to Wed (Warner Bros., 30) - Robin Williams plays a spastic priest who tries to break-up an engaged couple (Mandy Moore & John Krasinski) by putting them through the riggers of his ludicrous marriage-prep course, when really he could have just let the lame jokes of the script drive the kids to splitsville. Directed by Ken Kwapis.
In limited release, look for Introducing the Dwights (a.k.a. Clubland) (Warner Independent Pictures, 49) - The shy son (Khan Chittenden) of an aging comedienne (Brenda Blethyn) tries to find a balance between his demanding home life, his new girlfriend (Emma Booth), and his mother's second chance at fame. Cherie Nowlan directs. Joshua (Fox Searchlight, 70) - The arrival of a newborn girl causes the gradual disintegration of the Cairn family; particularly for 9-year-old Joshua (Jacob Kogan), an eccentric boy whose proper upbringing and refined tastes both take a sinister turn. Co-written and directed by George Ratliff.
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Warner Bros., 74) - Harry returns for his fifth year of study at Hogwarts only to discover that much of the wizarding community has been led to believe that the story of the teenager's recent encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort is a lie, putting Harry's integrity in question. David Yates directs. Captivity (AfterDark Films, xx) - A young celebrity (Elisha Cuthbert) gets ruffied at a club and ends up kidnapped by a psycho of the "it puts the lotion on its skin" variety (Pruitt Taylor Vince). One question -- where was her bodyguard? Directed by Roland Joffe.
In limited release, look for Rescue Dawn (MGM, 77) - Based on the true story of an American pilot, Dieter Dengler (Christian Bale) is shot down during a top-secret mission. Taken hostage, he endures unimaginable conditions at the hands of cruel captors in a makeshift POW camp. Dengler's iron will to survive guides him and fellow prisoners in a meticulously planned, death-defying escape, only to discover the harsh realities of an unforgiving jungle beyond the camps walls. Written and directed by Werner Herzog. Interview (Sony Pictures Classics, xx) - Steve Buscemi (who also writes and directs) plays a respected journalist who bellyaches about the fluff piece he's assigned. Turns out his editor wants him to interview the beautiful Katya (Sienna Miller), which would require many hours spent in her sexy, exotic presence. Oh the humanity! Talk to Me (Focus Features, xx) - Based on the true story of a shock jock with a message, Kasi Lemmons directs this story of Ralph Waldo "Petey" Greene Jr. (Don Cheadle), the soul voice of the 60's who became a legend just "telling it like it is." Mon meilleur ami (My Best Friend) (IFC Films, 66) - François (Daniel Auteuil) needs a best friend A.S.A.P. There's only one problem, he's a total jerk. Can a kind-hearted cabbie (Dany Boon) teach him how to be friendly without feeling his sting? This French import from 2006 is written and directed by Patrice Leconte. Drama/Mex (IFC Films, xx) - Sex and messed-up people in Acapulco -- couldn't be any worse than License to Wed. Gerardo Naranjo writes and directs.
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