Summer Movie Preview
Published on 16 May 2012 in News
Matt Wiley (author)
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Matt Wiley (author)
Matt Wiley
A University of South Florida alumnus with a Bachelor's degree in magazine journalism. When not covering news in New Tampa and Wesley Chapel for the Neighborhood News, he also is a USF St. Pete graduate student, working towards his Master's degree in journalism studies. He spends his free time skateboarding around Tampa, searching for that perfect brew. editorialdept@ntneighborhoodnews.comhide
Cue the lights and grab some popcorn as a barrage of superheroes, aliens, rock stars, foul-mouthed teddy bears, animated zoo animals and cub scouts bring something for everyone to theaters this summer.
Action Movie Previews
For those seeking that perfect summer blockbuster, there’s a lot of action coming your way this summer.
The Avengers
The Avengers
The Avengers (PG-13, in theaters)
They’ve finally assembled. Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Hawkeye and Black Widow come together to battle Thor’s angry brother and, from the reviews so far, is smart, funny and full of non-stop action sequences that don’t disappoint.
Prometheus
Prometheus
Prometheus (R, June 8)
Ridley Scott delivers his prequel to the Alien saga with the story of a voyage to find earth’s origins. Of course, nothing goes to plan and the astronauts find themselves fighting for their lives on a distant planet. The trailer offers a preview of some stunning visuals and a step into another world.
The Amazing Spiderman
The Amazing Spiderman (PG-13, July 3)
Web-slinging its way into theaters is another adaptation of Spiderman, this time starring Social Network co-star Andrew Garfield as he battles Rhys Ifans as the Lizard while trying to win the heart of Gwen Stacy, played by Emma Stone. The previous trilogy hasn’t yet started growing cobwebs, so it should be interesting to see how this reboot does so soon after Sam Raimi’s take on the comic.
The Dark Knight
The Dark Knight Rises (PG-13, July 20)
Christopher Nolan’s Batman finale finally makes its way into theaters, and from the last trailer for it, looks like it has the potential to steal the show this summer. However, after the late Heath Ledger’s post-humous Oscar-winning performance as the Joker, it will be interesting to see if the Bat’s latest nemesis, Bane (played by Tom Hardy) will live up to audience expectations. The film also features Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine and Anne Hathaway.
The Expendables
The Expendables 2 (R, Aug. 17)
In the trailer, Arnold Schwarzenegger carries a big gun and exclaims, “I’m back!” If that’s not enough, the film also stars pretty much every action star, ever. Even Chuck Norris and Jean-Claude Van Damme get their hands dirty in the sequel, written and directed by Rambo himself, Sylvester Stallone.
Comedy Previews
For those looking for laughs, there is plenty to chuckle about in theaters this summer.
Men in Black III
Men In Black III (PG-13, May 25)
Will Smith travels back in time to save his partner played by both Tommy Lee Jones and Josh Brolin, who absolutely nails a younger Jones’ impersonation in the trailer. The film hopes to get a better reception than its less-than-impressive previous outing. Hopefully, the audience won’t want to be neuralized afterwards.
Moonrise Kingdom
Moonrise Kingdom (PG, May 25)
Wes Anderson’s latest bizarre tale features two young kids who decide to run away together, leaving the town’s kooky residents and scouts to form a search party. The film stars Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray and Frances McDormand.
Rock of Ages
Rock of Ages (PG-13, June 15)
Based on the Broadway musical, Rock of Ages is a musical that follows two young people trying to make it in 1987 Los Angeles. Tom Cruise plays a rock star. Alec Baldwin owns a nightclub. Catherine Zeta-Jones plays a religious leader against the music. Add that to the 80s songs soundtrack and you’ve got yourself a good time in the theater.
Ted
Ted (R, July 13)
Seth McFarlane, creator of Family Guy, makes his movie debut as Mark Walhberg’s dirty-talking, pot-smoking teddy bear that sounds like Peter Griffin. Mila Kunis co-stars as Wahlberg’s disapproving girlfriend who wants Ted in the trashcan.
The Watch
The Watch (R, July 27)
Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn and Jonah Hill are part of the Neighborhood Watch and discover an alien invasion that is taking place while making the rounds. Did I mention the stars and the rating? Enough said.
The Campaign
The Campaign (Not yet rated, August 10)
Will Ferrell and Zack Galafianakis battle for a seat in North Carolina’s Congress as the only two names on the ballot. Both comedy geniuses flex their funny bones as caricatures of politicians during a presidential election year.
Kids Movie Previews
And don’t forget about the kids! There’s plenty for them, too, this summer.
Madagascar 3
Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted (PG, June 8)
Everyone’s favorite zoo-escapees return, only this time they’re stuck in Europe on their way back to the Big Apple and join a railroad circus. Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, Cedric the Entertainer, Sacha Baron Cohen and Sherri Shepherd return.
Ice Age 4: Continental Drift
Ice Age 4: Continental Drift (PG, July 13)
The Ice Age critters are hanging on for survival, literally, this time on an iceberg, as the world melts around them. Could this be the last chapter before extinction? Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary and Queen Latifah once again bring the characters to life.
With so many big movies hitting theaters this blockbuster season, the challenge will be picking which ones to see. One thing’s for sure; summer will be one wild ride for movies. Be sure to check these out at our local theaters, such as the Muvico Starlight 20 on Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. or the Cobb Theatre in the Grove at Wesley Chapel.
What movie are you most looking forward to watching? Let us know in the comments section below!
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