When so many movies are released each weekend and trailers often seem better than the movie itself, what should one do? In this precarious situation, we consult the The CineMagic 8-Ball (TM) to help us see through the nebulous marketing haze. Doing so just might save us all a disheartening trip to the cinema and spare us unnecessarily springing for $7 popcorn. See what the 8-Ball says about this week’s releases…
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Transplanted to Mars, a Civil War vet discovers a lush planet inhabited by 12-foot tall barbarians. Finding himself a prisoner of these creatures, he escapes, only to encounter a princess who is in desperate need of a savior. Over 100 years in the making and serving as inspiration for some of the greatest sci-fi films of all time, John Carter finally graces screens. Here’s hoping Andrew Stanton does right by the novel and makes a great transition into live action films.
The CineMagic 8-Ball says: “Signs point to WIN”
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After stretching the truth on a deal with a spiritual guru, literary agent Jack McCall finds a Bodhi tree on his property. Its appearance holds a valuable lesson on the consequences of every word we speak. People cite this as a revision of Liar Liar but I bet this has less than half the charm and delight that Jim Carey brought to that film. We love Eddie Murphy but there’s a reason this movie has been sitting around for a few years. You might be left just as speechless leaving the theater.
The CineMagic 8-Ball says: “Outlook not so good”
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Trapped inside her family’s lakeside retreat, a young woman finds she is unable to contact the outside world as events become increasingly ominous in and around the house. This remake of writer Gustavo Hernández‘ film of the same name goes for a new approach on the trapped-in-a-house horror flick. Elizabeth Olsen impressed many with Martha Marcy May Marlene but can she handle a film like this all by herself? Further is the “single take” angle a marketing gimmick or will it add value to the story?
The CineMagic 8-Ball says: “Results uncertain, go with your gut”
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Also opening this weekend in limited release are Jiro Dreams of Sushi, Salmon Fishing in the Yemen and Friends With Kids. At this moment, Jiro Dreams of Sushi has a 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes so that’s a good sign. But I’ll ask, you. What will you be seeing? Or if you’ve seen any of these already, we hope you’ll share your thoughts below.
