As a less than stellar season of spring movies run their course, theaters across the country are gearing up for what looks to be one of the most promising summers in recent cinematic history.
With what seems to be the perfect blend of blockbuster smashes and charming smaller films, records are surely to be broken when fall comes our way.
Perhaps the biggest name being thrown around the summer stage is none other than the last installment of the uber successful “Harry Potter” series. Titled “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2,” the film concludes the iconic series as good versus evil finally square off when Harry gets his chance to face Lord Voldemort. Opening July 15, the film is expected to have a magical effect on the box office.
Not to be outdone, the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise releases its fourth installment on May 20. Hoping to be the first smash-success of the summer season, “Pirates” follows the famous Captain Jack Sparrow, played iconically by Johnny Depp, as he desperately searches for the fountain of youth.
If wands and swords aren’t your thing, then perhaps the comedic styles of “The Hangover Part II,” is a better fit. Capitalizing off the unexpected success of the franchise’s first movie, “The Hangover Part II,” follows its characters to Thailand as another one of the gang is set be married. While this film may have garnered some negative press after pulling its trailer from many different movie theaters, “The Hangover Part II” should have no problem raking in the dough.
Two other big-named sequels are set to release this summer as well: “Kung Fu Panda 2” and “Cars 2” both hope to repeat the successes of their original films, despite the hiatus that occurred between their first installments.
Just like any other summer, super-hero themed movies are in abundance this season. Long awaited films like “X-Men: First Class,” “Captain America” and “The Green Lantern” are all set to release this summer, while “Transformers 3” and “Thor” look to make their marks as well. With each film garnering its fair share of buzz, it would be a surprise to see even one of these films become a flop.
Justin Timberlake, who seems to be doing everything these days, plays the male lead in two seperate movies this summer. Alongside Cameron Diaz, Timberlake stars in “Bad Teacher,” a film that follows Diaz’ character as she struggles with the road bumps of teaching. Opposite Mila Kunis, Timberlake plays a laid-back friend in the romantic comedy “Friends with Benefits.” While his return to music may be in jeopardy, his reign in movies is far from being over.
Hoping to lure in the ladies, three films involving weddings are set to release as well. “Bridesmaids,” “Jumping the Broom” and “Something Borrowed” all involve ‘the big day.’ While “Bridesmaids” may be for those looking to get a laugh out of a wedding, “Jumping the Broom” focuses more on the family aspect of a wedding. Starring Kate Hudson, “Something Borrowed” is the actress’ first film after announcing her pregnancy to the public.
Two beloved children books, “Winnie the Pooh” and “Mr. Popper’s Penguins,” are set to open this summer as well. While “Winnie the Pooh” is no stranger to the big screen, Jim Carrey’s “Penguins” is being freshly adapted. The film follows the story of a man who finds himself in charge of a pack of penguins. Having worked with animals in his famous role as “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” Carrey should be a natural on screen.
Obviously, there is a plethora of movies to be released soon, all of which have promised to make major moves during the summer season. While the schedule may be a little daunting, moviegoers should rest easy knowing that this year’s selection of films, even though abundant, is the best Hollywood can offer.
