Opening in Wide release:
- Seven Pounds - Will Smith is an IRS agent with a secret who embarks on a journey of redemption by changing the lives of seven strangers. This is an intriguing looking movie, but the early reviews have not been good at all. And even after all the trailers I've seen, I'm still a little confused about what exactly Smith's character is doing, and why. Rated PG-13.
- The Tale of Despereaux - A tiny mouse with the courage of a knight in shining armor is the only one in the kingdom who can rescue a kidnapped princess. This movie looks beautifully animated, but the story probably won't exactly entertain older audiences like "WALL-E" and "Kung-Fu Panda" did. Still, it should be a solid movie for young kids. Rated G.
- Yes Man - Jim Carrey's life is radically transformed when he decides to live by one simple principle: say yes to everything and anything. Just like "Bruce Almighty," the more I've seen of this movie the funnier it looks. Add in supporting performances by Zooey Deschanel and Rhys Darby (aka Murray from "Flight of the Conchords"), and "Yes Man" is a movie I'll definitely see... though I'll probably wait for DVD. Rated PG-13.
Opening in Limited release:
- Nothing But the Truth - Kate Beckinsale is a political reporter under fire for uncovering a government scandal and revealing a covert CIA agent's identity. This is based on the true story of Valerie Plame, and the film definitely feels like one of those ripped-from-the-headlines movies in both the good sense (interesting story, topical issues) and the bad (self-righteousness, clunky-sounding "important" dialogue). Then again, last year there was a similar film released about the Robert Hanssen story called "Breach" that was excellent, so maybe this one will be good too. Rated R.
- Scott Walker: 30 Century Man - Documentary exploring the music and career of Scott Walker, one of the most influential and enigmatic figures in rock history. Considering that the film is filled with interviews with David Bowie, Brian Eno, Sting, Radiohead and a ton of other musicians, one would think that everybody would know about this guy who was apparently such a big influence on so many. So why don't know about him? Well, that's what this very interesting documentary is about. Not rated, and is probably okay for anyone who wants to see it.
- The Wrestler - Mickey Rourke is a washed-up former professional wrestler who gets a chance at getting back in the ring against an old nemesis. The newest film from Darren Aronofsky, the director of "Pi," "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Fountain." This has been one of the most celebrated movies of the year, and Rourke is the current favorite to win the Best Actor Oscar this year. Add to that the fact that Aronofsky is one of the best directors working today ("The Fountain" was one of the best movies I saw in '06), and I just can't wait to see this film. Rated R.
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