July 23, 2004

New Releases 7/23/04

We have 3 new films to report this week. None of which have "Blockbuster" written on them. One wants to be a blockbuster, but the horrible early word may hinder it's chances. The second is a sequel based on an action flick that did modest box office. The third is an arthouse film based on a novel by John Irving. Will any of them stand a chance next to the juggernauts of Spider-Man 2 and I, Robot? Doubtful.

Catwoman. This movie, or at least the plans, languished in development hell ever since Batman Returns. There have been so many starts and stops on this project, it's a wonder it ever got made! Originally Michelle Pfeiffer was set to reprise the role, that sat around for awhile, then Ashley Judd was on board and it seemed set to go. Then Judd backed out and in comes Halle Berry, and the project starts to derail. The problem is, they did not respect the source material. They divorced Catwoman from the Gotham City setting, no mention of Batman, and they changed the characters name. That is a surefire way to alienate a lot of people who were excited about the project. They seem to want to coast on that absolutely ridiculous, yet hot on Berry costume. It may sound like I am completely down on this movie, but I just have lowered expectations, sure it looks bad, but when lowered expectations come into play, it is easier to enjoy. We'll see how it goes.

The Bourne Supremacy. The sequel to the 2002 hit The Bourne Identity returns Matt Damon to the action scene along with Franke Potente. This one looks good. It took me a long time before I saw the first film, should have watched it sooner, it is a really well made action thriller that didn't rely on special effects, but more real world based stunts, plus it made Damon an action star. Damon has the charisma and acting ability to pull of an action role realistically, mainly because he is an actor first, action performer second. I think this one is going to do well, it is receiving good early word, and seems poised to be a sleeper hit.

The Door in the Floor. This is the one I know the least about. What I do know is that it is based on a portion of "A Widow for One Year" by John Irving, and that it stars Jeff Bridges and Kim Basinger. The story concerns a couple who have lost their teenage sons and the way they are coping with the loss. I cannot really comment further, as I don't just want reiterate what the reviews say, as I am not familiar enough to expound on it. Although, I do hear that it is a very good film.

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