MSNBC - A multitude of choices at the multiplex  MSN Home  |  My MSN  |  
      Hotmail  |  Shopping  |  Money  |  People & ChatWeb Search:  


       MSNBC News 
           Alerts | Newsletters | Help 
       

            Entertainment
            Movies
            Music
            Television
            Gossip
            Shopping
            Lifestyle
            Test Pattern
            Horoscope
            Comics & Games
            Lottery
             
            News
            Business
            Sports
            Tech / Science
            Entertainment
            Health
            Travel
            Opinions
            Weather
            Local News
            Newsweek
            Today Show
            Nightly News
            Dateline NBC
            Meet the Press
            MSNBC TV
            News Video
            MSNBC Shopping
            Search MSNBC:

            Advanced Search




              RESOURCE GUIDE
            • Buy Life Insurance
            • Spring Home Decor
            • Yellow pages
            • expedia.com
            • Shopping
            • Small Business Tips

       

A multitude of choices at the multiplex
Spring offers sequels, potential blockbusters, family fun and more

      Warner Brothers
      Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint star in "Harry Potter and 
      the Prisoner of Azkaban."
By Paige Newman
MSNBC
Updated: 6:07 p.m. ET April  08, 2004Spring brings a welcomed end to the slow 
movie months of winter. Could things have gotten much worse than that fine 
weekend in January that brought us "The Big Bounce," "The Perfect Score" and 
"You Got Served"? That was a better sign than that pesky groundhog that we were 
in for a long winter. 
      advertisement

Thank goodness, then, that spring has finally arrived. The months of May and 
June are full of highly anticipated films. The sequels to “Shrek,” “Spider-Man” 
and “Harry Potter” as well as the return of the event film with “The Day After 
Tomorrow” and “Troy.” Will Brad Pitt be this year's Russell Crowe? Will people 
line up at the theaters to see a tidal wave hit New York City? Time and box 
office numbers will tell the tale.
Note: Dates are subject to change


“Godsend”

      Lions Gate


Starring: Robert De Niro, Greg Kinnear, Rebecca Romijn-Stamos, Cameron Bright
Director: Nick Hamm
The story: Take a bit of modern science — in the form of cloning — mix in a bit 
of “Rosemary’s Baby” and you just might get this thriller about a couple 
(Kinnear and Romijn-Stamos) who lose their young son (Bright) in an accident, 
then with the help of a stem-cell scientist (De Niro) have him reborn as a 
clone. In the tradition of “Frankenstein,” playing God this way doesn’t exactly 
lead to a happy ending.
What’s the buzz: While the idea of De Niro as a mad scientist type is appealing 
and he’s one of our best actors, let’s face it, the man does not always make the 
most compelling choices as far as film roles go (“Showtime” or “City by the Sea” 
anyone?). Still, we will keep our fingers crossed. Kinnear hasn’t quite 
convinced us that he’s the real deal yet. He made an interesting turn in “Auto 
Focus” but does this guy really have the acting chops? Here’s hoping this 
thriller is more “The Others” than “Cold Creek Manor.” 
Web site:http://www.godsendthemovie.com/
“Laws of Attraction”

      New Line Cinema


Starring: Pierce Brosnan, Julianne Moore, Parker Posey, Michael Sheen, Frances 
Fisher, Nora Dunn
Director: Peter Howitt
The story: Do opposites attract? Well, how about if they’re both divorce 
attorneys? Brosnan stars as the freewheeling Daniel while Moore plays the 
by-the-books Audrey. After a night of celebrating, they find themselves married 
to each other, and to avoid further embarrassment, they decide to pretend that 
the marriage was intentional and stay together. How much do you want to bet they 
end up falling in love? 
What’s the buzz: Brosnan’s most appealing role to date was the remake of “The 
Thomas Crown Affair,” a movie that seemed like a throwback to another time and 
one where he got to play opposite a smart actress (in that case Rene Russo), 
both of which lead us to believe Brosnan may be in his element here. Also, the 
prospect of Posey chewing some scenery as one of the divorcees is fairly 
delicious.
Web site:http://www.lawsofattractionmovie.com/
“Mean Girls”

      Paramount Pictures


Starring: Lindsay Lohan, Tina Fey, Lizzy Caplan, Rachel McAdams, Lacey Chabert, 
Daniel Franzese, Tim Meadows
Director: Mark S. Waters
The story: Lindsay Lohan stars as a girl who, after being home schooled in 
Africa, finds herself thrust into the cut-throat world of teen girls in high 
school. After she makes the mistake of dating the ex-boyfriend of the most 
popular girl in school, she finds out just how mean these girls can be. In turn, 
she learns that she can be just as nasty.
What’s the buzz: The thing that makes us think this film may just rise above the 
typical teen junk is that the script was written by “Saturday Night Live” head 
writer — and Weekend Update co-host — Tina Fey. Which means it will probably 
have a wicked sense of humor. That said, the wonderful “Heathers” throws a 
fairly large shadow, and this film will have to be fairly bold to outdo that 
’80s classic. 
Web site:http://www.meangirlsmovie.com/

“Envy”

      Dreamworks


Starring: Ben Stiller, Jack Black, Rachel Weisz, Amy Poehler, Ving Rhames, 
Christopher Walken
Director: Barry Levinson
The story: Black and Stiller star as life-long friends. After Black’s character 
invents Vapoorizer, a product that can make dog poo disappear — a concept that 
just screams wacky, and not necessarily in a good way — Stiller’s character gets 
crazy with envy. The always fun to watch Christopher Walken is on board as a 
drifter who fans the flames of Stiller’s jealousy. 
What’s the buzz: Black and Stiller are basically playing the same characters 
they always do, but it might be fun to see them in a movie together. The real 
reason to not write this movie off is Levinson. As he proved with the offbeat 
2001 comedy “Bandits,” (not to mention his great Baltimore trilogy, “Diner,” 
“Tin Men” and “Avalon” — all of which are worth owning on DVD), he has a way 
getting beyond a studio’s wacky high concept to an actual story and with 
characters who are genuinely funny. 
Web site:http://www.dreamworks.com/envy/
“Stroke of Genius”

      Warner Brothers


Starring: James Caviezel, Claire Forlani, Jeremy Northam, Aidan Quinn, Malcom 
McDowell
Director: Rowdy Herrington
The story: Hot off his role as Jesus in “The Passion of the Christ,” Caviezel 
stars as real-life golf legend Bobby Jones, the only player to ever win the 
Grand Slam of golf. Set in the 1920s, the film follows him from boyhood to his 
founding of the Augusta Golf Club as an adult. Forlani, who’s never done a good 
film other than a semi-decent turn in 1996’s “Basquiat,” co-stars as Jones’ 
wife.
What’s the buzz: Is it possible to make a really interesting movie about golf? 
“Legend of Bagger Vance” certainly doesn’t qualify. With a feel that’s very 
reminiscent of “The Natural,” we get the sense that this film will be a 
celebration of Jones rather than delving too deeply into his life. Still, 
Caviezel is the “it” actor of the moment, which makes us think this might be 
worth a look.
Web site:http://www.bjfilmllc.com/flash/sog_main.html
                    RELATED STORY
                  Five rising stars to watch out for





“Van Helsing”

      Universal Pictures


Starring: Hugh Jackman, Kate Beckinsale, Richard Roxburgh, David Wenham
Director: Stephen Sommers 
The story: Fresh from his starring turn in Broadway’s “The Boy from Oz,” Jackman 
stars as the Dr. Gabriel Van Helsing, based on the legendary foe of Count 
Dracula. In this version, not only does he take on Dracula, he also battles the 
Wolfman and Frankenstein’s monster. He teams up with Anna Valerious 
(Beckinsale), who comes from a long line of vampire fighters. 
What’s the buzz: This film looks promising. Sommers helmed both “The Mummy” and 
its sequel and knows his way around an action movie. Jackman has proved in the 
“X-Men” films that he has the charisma to rise above all the special effects and 
actually create a character. This will probably be the film that makes him a 
star. 
Web site:http://www.vanhelsing.net/
“New York Minute”

      Warner Brothers


Starring: Ashley Olsen, Mary-Kate Olsen, Eugene Levy, Andy Richter, Andrea 
Martin, Darrell Hammond
Director: Dennie Gordon
The story: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen play sisters who are so different from 
each other. One is an uptight overachiever and one is a wild punk rocker (yes, 
one of the Olsen twins is a punk rocker — don’t blame us, we didn’t write the 
screenplay). Eugene Levy is an overzealous truant officer who chases the girls 
all over New York City. 
What’s the buzz: Obviously, as part of “corporation Olsen” this film is going to 
make money, but it’s hard to imagine anyone who isn’t a teenage girl going 
anywhere near this film. Director Dennie Gordon also helmed “What a Girl Wants,” 
which means if you’re looking formula film starring the latest teen dream girl, 
he’s your man. Eugene Levy is always funny, but it seems a pity for him to waste 
his talents here. 
Web site:http://newyorkminutemovie.warnerbros.com/


“Troy”

      Warner Brothers


Starring: Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, Sean Bean, Diane Kruger, Peter 
O'Toole
Director: Wolfgang Petersen
The story: When Paris (Bloom) steals Helen (Kruger) away to Greece, Agamemnon 
(Brian Cox) decides in the name of family pride — not to mention greed — he is 
going to wage war on Troy and get Helen back. Achilles (Pitt) leads the Greek 
army, while Hector (Bana) leads the Trojans.
What’s the buzz: With Peterson (“Perfect Storm,” “Das Boot”) directing, the 
battle scenes here should be fairly amazing, especially those that take place on 
water. Pitt, however, seems about as comfortable as Tom Cruise does in period 
films — as in, not at all. Add in the accent and we’re really frightened. Here’s 
hoping Pitt proves us wrong. 
Web site:http://troymovie.warnerbros.com/

      Sony Pictures


“Breakin’ All the Rules”
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Morris Chesnutt, Gabrielle Union, Jennifer Esposito, Peter 
MacNicol
Director: Daniel Taplitz
The story: Jamie Foxx stars as a man, who after being dumped by his model 
girlfriend, writes a “how to” book on breaking up, which becomes a best seller. 
In attempting to help his best friend (Chesnutt) with his girlfriend (Union), 
Foxx inadvertently falls for her. 
What’s the buzz: The cast here is appealing. Foxx is reliable for laughs and as 
he proved in “Ali” and “Any Given Sunday,” he’s also a talented actor. You may 
remember Morris Chesnutt from his first film, “Boyz in the Hood.” Union 
continues to be just the cusp on really hitting it big — she does seem to get 
stuck playing a lot of thankless girlfriend roles. 
Web site:http://sonypictures.com/movies/breakinalltherules/
“Carandiru”

      Sony Pictures Classics


Starring: Caio Blat, Gero Camilo, Milton Goncalves, Nelson Machado
Director: Hector Babenco
The story: Based on the real-life experiences of Dr. Drauzio Varella, who worked 
in the Sao Paulo House of Detention in Brazil for 12 years, this film tells the 
prisoners’ stories through the doctor’s eyes, leading up to a massacre that took 
the lives of 111 men. The film is in Portuguese and was an official selection in 
the 2003 Cannes Film Festival.
What’s the buzz: Babenco is best known for directing “Kiss of the Spider Woman” 
and “Ironweed.” Like Terrence Malick, Babenco doesn’t make many films, so when 
he does they are definitely worth a look. 
Web site: http://www.sonyclassics.com/carandiru/
“Coffee and Cigarettes”

Starring: Bill Murray, Cate Blanchett, RZA, Steve Buscemi, Iggy Pop, Tom Waits, 
Alfred Molina, Roberto Benigni, Steven Wright, Joie Lee, Cinqué Lee, Joe Rigano, 
Vinny Vella, Vinny Vella Jr., Renée French, E.J. Rodriguez, Alex Descas, Isaach 
de Bankolé, Meg White, Jack White, Steve Coogan, GZA, Bill Rice, Taylor Mead
Director: Jim Jarmusch
The story:  From the director of “Night on Earth” and “Ghost Dog” comes this 
collection of vignettes featuring a multitude of actors, musicians and 
personalities discussing topics like caffeinated popsicles, Paris in the 1920s 
and the use of nicotine as an insecticide. Different people are paired up for 
conversation. Iggy Pop talks with Tom Waits. The Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA and GZA chat 
with Bill Murray. Alfred Molina talks with Steve Coogan. 
What’s the buzz: Jarmusch’s best films (“Mystery Train,” “Stranger than 
Paradise”) usually revolve around interesting conversation; with this new film 
he’s simply removed the pretense of plot. The centerpiece of the film is the 
talented Cate Blanchett in duel roles conversing with herself. We’re officially 
intrigued. 
Web site:http://www.coffeeandcigarettesmovie.com/



      Dreamworks


“Shrek 2”
Starring: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas, John 
Lithgow, John Cleese, Julie Andrews, Rupert Everett, Jennifer Saunders
Director: Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, Conrad Vernon
The story: In this installment (and you have to believe there will be more 
“Shrek” sequels to come), Shrek (Myers) and Fiona (Diaz) go home to meet Fiona’s 
parents (Cleese and Andrews), who aren’t happy to find that she’s an ogre, and 
are even less happy to learn that she’s married to Shrek. They enlist the help 
of Puss ’n Boots (Banderas), Fairy Godmother (Saunders) and Prince Charming 
(Everett) to set things right. Larry King is also on board as an Ugly Stepsister 
(that alone may get us into the theater). 
What’s the buzz: The story sounds intriguing, but the directing and writing 
teams are new to the “Shrek” experience, which may make a difference. The 
addition of Banderas, Cleese and Andrews sounds promising, though, and who 
wouldn’t want to give “Shrek” a second chance? Web site:http://www.shrek2.com/
“The Clearing”

      Fox Searchlight


Starring: Robert Redford, Willem Dafoe, Helen Mirren, Alessandro Nivola
Director: Pieter Jan Brugge
The story: Redford stars as a wealthy executive who’s kidnapped by a former 
employee (Dafoe). His wife (Mirren) works with the FBI to get him back. As each 
of them struggles separately to come back together, they begin to reassess their 
marriage. Nivola co-stars as Redford and Mirren’s son.
What’s the buzz: Redford seems to choose very safe projects that never turn out 
to be super interesting (“The Last Castle,” “The Horse Whisperer”) — it would be 
nice to see him branch out a bit. The writer and director both make their debuts 
with this film. This film marks the first time a movie starring Redford was an 
official entry at the Sundance Film Festival. The man may support independent 
film, but he doesn’t seem to star in too many of them.
Web site:http://www.foxsearchlight.com/theclearing/


“Raising Helen”

      Touchstone Pictures


Starring: Kate Hudson, John Corbett, Joan Cusack, Felicity Huffman, Helen 
Mirren, Abigail Breslin, Spencer Breslin, Hayden Panettiere, Hector Elizondo
Director: Garry Marshall
The story: After her sister and brother-in-law die in a car accident, Helen 
(Hudson) is tasked with raising their three kids. But can she balance her career 
as a modeling assistant in the world of high fashion with her new role as 
guardian? Corbett co-stars as a local pastor who woos Helen. Cusack plays 
Hudson’s older sister, who heckles her sister’s parenting skills along the way. 
What’s the buzz: It’s hard not to be wary of a comedy that begins with a death, 
but if it worked for “Finding Nemo,” it could work here. Marshall (“Pretty 
Woman,” “Runaway Bride”) is the king of the lightweight, heart-warming comedy. 
There probably won’t be any surprises here; if the precocious kid quotient is 
kept to a minimum, this could be watchable.
Web site:http://raisinghelen.movies.go.com/


“The Day After Tomorrow” 

      20Th Century Fox


Starring: Dennis Quaid, Jake Gyllenhaal, Sela Ward, Emmy Rossum, Arjay Smith
Director: Roland Emmerich
The story: Global warming and atmospheric changes come to a head in this film 
about the dramatic (read: special-effects laden) coming of a new ice age. Quaid 
stars as the climatologist who sees the disaster coming. Gyllenhaal co-stars as 
his son, who is trapped in New York. Quaid must try to reach his son, going 
north, as the rest of humanity heads south, searching for warmer climes. Ward is 
on board as Quaid’s wife.
What’s the buzz: Are we ready in this post-9/11 world to see our cities 
destroyed on film?  Yes, yes we are. Roland Emmerich is still looking to redeem 
himself for “Godzilla” and to show that “Independence Day” was no fluke. Special 
effects here look pretty impressive. This movie looks to be a monster hit at the 
box office.
Web site:http://www.thedayaftertomorrow.com/index.php
“Soul Plane” 

      Mgm


Starring: Kevin Hart, Tom Arnold, K.D. Aubert, Mo'Nique, Sommore, Loni Love, 
Snoop Dogg, Method Man
Director: Jessy Terrero
The story: A broad comedy about an “airline with soul,” this is the story of a 
man (Hart) who wins $600 million in a lawsuit and decides to launch his own 
airline, N.W.A, specially directed at African American passengers. Snoop Dogg 
plays the pilot. Tom Arnold plays the father of a white family that accidentally 
gets booked on N.W.A.’s maiden flight.
What’s the buzz: Though Snoop Dogg has proved to be very funny in roles where he 
can basically play himself, Tom Arnold is enough to keep us away from this film. 
Does anyone really want to watch two hours of Tom Arnold? 
Web site:http://www.soulplane.com/
“The Mother” 

      Sony Pictures Classics


Starring: Anne Reid, Daniel Craig, Cathryn Bradshaw, Steven Mackintosh
Director: Roger Michell
The story: From the director of “Notting Hill” and “Changing Lanes” comes this 
British drama about a woman (Reid), who, after the sudden death of her husband, 
decides to stay in London with her children and ends up having an affair with a 
much younger man (Craig, most recently seen in “Sylvia” as Ted Hughes).
What’s the buzz: A very good screenwriter like Hanif Kureishi (“My Beautiful 
Laundrette,” “Sammy and Rosie Get Laid”) means that, at the very least, the 
writing here should be top-notch. Michell, beyond the films mentioned above, 
also directed a really great version of Jane Austen’s “Persuasion,” which may 
make him the perfect man to tell a love story. 
Web site:http://www.sonyclassics.com/comingsoon.php?filmid=48&page=1
“Saved!” 

      United Artists


Starring: Jena Malone, Mandy Moore, Macaulay Culkin, Patrick Fugit, Heather 
Matarazzo, Eva Amurri, Martin Donovan, Mary Louise Parker
Director: Brian Dannelly
The story: A dark comedy/coming-of age film about a girl (Malone) who during her 
senior year in a Christian high school, gets pregnant and finds herself 
ostracized by all her friends. Moore plays her devout best friend. Culkin is on 
board as Moore’s wheelchair-bound brother, who’s trying to convert the Jewish 
Amurri to Christianity. Fugit (“Almost Famous”) plays a skateboarding 
missionary. 
What’s the buzz: Producer (and R.E.M. singer) Michael Stipe described this film 
in Variety as being “like those monster vampire high school kind of movies, only 
here the monsters are Jesus-freak teenagers.” That’s enough to make us think 
this isn’t your standard teen comedy. Malone continues to do solid work; this 
could be a breakout role for her. 
Web site:http://www.savedmovie.com/


“Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”

      Warner Brothers


Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Gary Oldman, David 
Thewlis, Peter Best, David Bradley, Julie Christie, Robbie Coltrane
Director: Alfonso Cuaron
The story: It’s Harry’s (Radcliffe) third year at Hogworth’s Academy. This year, 
he, Hermine (Watson) and Ron (Grint) delve into the mystery of Sirius Black 
(Oldman), an escaped prisoner from Azkaban Fortress, a wizard’s prison. What 
Harry doesn’t realize is that Black escaped to look for him. Michael Gambon 
takes on the role of Dumbledore, following Richard Harris’ death. Emma Thompson 
joins the cast as Professor Sylvia Trelawney.
What’s the buzz: With the director of “Y Tu Mama Tabien” helming the latest 
Harry installment, you may think that this is the erotic Harry-undergoes-puberty 
episode, but don’t count on it. Cuaron also directed a beautiful version of the 
children’s story “The Little Princess” so this isn’t new territory for him. 
There is the pressing question about Radcliffe: Is he getting to old to play 
Harry?
Web site:http://azkaban.warnerbros.com/
“Mindhunters”

      Mark Mainz / Getty Images file


Starring: Val Kilmer, LL Cool J, Christian Slater, Eion Bailey, Will Kemp, Jonny 
Lee Miller
Director: Renny Harlin
The story: While learning to hunt serial killers, a group of FBI trainees 
discover that there’s a killer in their midst during a training exercise on a 
remote island. Now the trick is figuring out who the killer is. Kilmer stars as 
the agents’ trainer.  
What’s the buzz: It’s hard to believe, looking at Renny Harlin’s list of credits 
that he was ever considered a “hot” director. He directed the weakest “Die Hard” 
sequel: the second, “The Adventures of Ford Fairlane,” and the impossibly bad 
“Cutthroat Island.” His only “good” movie was 1993’s “Cliffhanger.” On the 
positive side, the screenwriter, Wayne Kramer, wrote the indie hit “The Cooler.”
Web site: NA


“The Chronicles of Riddick”

      Universal


Starring: Vin Diesel, Judi Dench, Thandie Newton, Karl Urban, Colm Feore, Linus 
Roache, Keith David, Alexa Davalos
Director: David Twohy
The story: This sequel to the 2000 release “Pitch Black,” once again stars 
Diesel as anti-hero Richard D. Riddick. In a story that takes place five years 
after the original feature, Lord Marshal (Feore) leads a gang of Necromongers 
who are wrecking havoc on the planet Helion. Dench co-stars as Aereon, a member 
of the Elemental race who helps Riddick discover more about his origins. Davalos 
is on board as the grownup version of Kyra from the first film. Will Riddick be 
able defeat the Necromongers? 
What’s the buzz: You’ve got to appreciate the combination of Vin Diesel and Judi 
Dench. Was “Pitch Black” really popular enough to warrant a sequel? Vin Diesel 
is much more popular than he was in 1990; that should put fans in the seats. 
Let’s hope you didn’t have to see the first film to understand the sequel.  
Web site:http://www.thechroniclesofriddick.com/
“Garfield: The Movie”

      20Th Century Fox


Starring: Bill Murray, Breckin Meyer, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Debra Messing, Brad 
Garrett
Director: Peter Hewitt
The story: Bill Murray provides the voice of the CGI-created cat in this 
live-action film that chronicles how Odie came into John’s (Meyer) life and how 
he was subsequently abducted. It’s up to Garfield to track down the pooch. 
Hewitt co-stars as Garfield’s veterinarian. 
What’s the buzz: Gollum really raised the bar for CGI characters and this 
cartoonish-looking cat really doesn’t live up to that standard. While Murray’s 
attitude seems just right for the cynical fat cat, the fact that this script was 
written by “Cheaper by the Dozen” scribe Joel Cohen does seem like a bit of a 
bad sign. Peter Hewitt is probably best known for directing “Bill & Ted’s Bogus 
Journey.”
Web site:http://www.garfieldmovie.com/home.html
“The Stepford Wives”

      Paramount Pictures


Starring: Nicole Kidman, Matthew Broderick, Roger Bart, Glenn Close, Faith Hill, 
Bette Midler, Christopher Walken, Mike White, Lisa Masters, Jon Lovitz
Director: Frank Oz
The story: Kidman and Broderick star as a couple who move into a suburb where 
all the wives seem just a bit “robotic.” Midler co-stars as the one other woman 
in the neighborhood who still seems normal. Though the original film was rather 
a straight sci-fi thriller, this remake is more of a dark comedy, complete with 
musical numbers from Midler, Hill and Kidman. 
What’s the buzz: According to Entertainment Weekly, Midler and Walken both 
clashed with director Oz (“Bowfinger,” “Dirty Rotten Scandals”) on the set, 
which may not bode well. However, Oz and screenwriter Paul Rudnick did 
successfully team for the film “In & Out.” It will be interesting to see what 
kind of chemistry, if any, Kidman and Broderick cook up; undoubtedly, she had to 
pull out those low-heeled shoes she used to wear when she was married to Tom 
Cruise. 
Web site:http://www.stepfordwivesmovie.com/
“Napolean Dynamite”

      Fox Searchlight Pictures 


Starring: Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez, Jon Gries, Aaron Ruell, Tina Majorino, 
Haylie Duff
Director: Jared Hess
The story: The story of a quirky teenager in Idaho (Heder) who loves to dance 
and lives by the way of the ninja. Napolean lives with Uncle Rico (Gries) is a 
former high-school football star who has shady business dealings and his brother 
Kip (Ruell), an uber-nerd, who’s just looking for love on the Internet. This 
film tells the story of how Napolean helps fellow outsider Pedro (Ramirez) run 
for high school president. Hilary Duff’s sister Haylie appears in the film.
What’s the buzz: This film was one of the more popular entries at this year’s 
Sundance Film Festival. Hess also wrote and directed the short it was based on, 
“Peluca,” which screened at the 2003 Slamdance Festival.
Web site: NA


“Around the World in 80 Days”

      Walt Disney Pictures


Starring: Jackie Chan, Steve Coogan, Cecille de France, Jim Broadbent, Kathy 
Bates, John Cleese
Director: Frank Coraci
The story: Steve Coogan (“24 Hour Party People”) stars as Phileas Fogg, an 
inventor who bets Lord Kelvin (Broadbent) that he can circumnavigate the globe 
in 80 days, using transportation modes including a hot-air balloon, elephants, 
boats, trains and more. Jackie Chan co-stars as Fogg’s sidekick, Passepartout, 
who must make it to China to return a jade Buddha that was stolen from his 
family. The governor of California makes a cameo appearance. Owen and Luke 
Wilson make cameo appearances as the Wright Brothers.
What’s the buzz: It’s hard to believe that the rather creaky 1956 version of 
this story starring David Niven won the best picture Oscar. It’s even harder to 
think that this brightly colored, CGI-filled, Jackie Chan-infused remake will be 
much more than a pleasant diversion for the kids.  
Web site:http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/80days/


“The Darkness”

      Dimension Films


Starring: Anna Paquin, Stephan Enquist, Iain Glen, Lena Olin, Giancarlo Giannini
Director: Jaume Balaguero
The story: A family moves into a house with a dark and horrifying past that 
threatens the current occupants. Paquin (“The Piano,” “X2”) stars as the 
daughter who tries to find out the house’s terrible secret. Olin (“Chocolat,” 
“Alias”) plays her mother. 
What’s the buzz: This film was originally set for release in August 2002 until 
Dimension films pulled it from the schedule. Which begs the question: How come? 
The director, Balaguero, is known primarily for a very stylized Spanish-language 
horror film (“The Darkness” is in English), “The Nameless.” Since Dimesion 
didn’t release this straight to video, perhaps it means the company realized it 
had something good and scary on its hands. Let’s hope.
Web site:http://movies.fantasticfactory.com/darkness/
“Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story”

      20Th Century Fox


Starring: Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor, Rip Torn, Julie Gonzalo, 
Stephen Root, Chris Williams, Gary Cole, Jason Bateman
Director: Rawson Thurber
The story: Stiller and Vaughn star in this story of a group of social misfits 
who enter a dodgeball contest in Las Vegas to save their local gym. Cole and 
Bateman play the World Dodgeball Championships announcers. 
What’s the buzz: Though the concept seems humorous, hasn’t this country hit its 
Stiller saturation point yet? With “Envy,” “Starsky & Hutch” and “Along Came 
Polly” — all released this year — we must be getting close. What's particularly 
strange about Stiller's character in this film is that he seems to be using the 
same accent as he did for his character in “Zoolander.” Vaughn (“Old School”) 
always seems more comfortable in comedy than in drama (anyone who's seen the 
“Psycho” remake knows this), which bodes well. Writer-director Thurber makes his 
feature film debut with this film.
Web site:http://www.dodgeballmovie.com/
“The Intended”

      Ifc Films


Starring: Tom Janet McTeer, Olympia Dukakis, David Bradley, JJ Feild, Brenda 
Fricker
Director: Kristian Levring
The story: Set in 1924, this is the story of a 40-year-old woman (McTeer) who 
travels with her young lover (Feild) to an ivory post deep in Malaysian jungle. 
Unfortunately, the post is run by a greedy ivory trader (Fricker), the head of a 
very dysfunctional family, who takes an instant dislike to the couple. With the 
advent of some bad weather, the tension between the family and the couple takes 
a murderous turn.
What’s the buzz: You may remember McTeer from her Oscar-nominated performance in 
the small 1999 film, “Tumbleweeds” (she won the Golden Globe that year). Levring 
is part of the Dogme 95 crowd (though this film doesn’t follow those strict 
guidelines). This film was originally set for release last spring, before IFC 
pulled it from their schedule. 
Web site: NA
“The Terminal”

      Fred Prouser / Reuters file


Starring: Tom Hanks, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stanley Tucci, Chi McBride, Diego 
Luna, Barry "Shabaka" Henley, Kumar Pallana, Zoe Saldana, Eddie Jones, Jude 
Ciccolella, Kevin Weisman
Director: Steven Spielberg
The story: In this romantic comedy, Hanks stars as a refugee fleeing a war in a 
small European country. When his nation suddenly ceases to exist, he finds 
himself stuck in a New York airport terminal with a passport that’s no longer 
valid, unable to officially enter the United States. Zeta-Jones co-stars as the 
flight attendant who wins his heart.
What’s the buzz: The combination of Hanks and Spielberg, who teamed for “Saving 
Private Ryan” and “Catch Me if You Can,” tends to produce good films. Spielberg 
casts Hanks in roles that are more interesting than the nice-guy roles he 
normally plays. We’ll be curious to see if Hanks can pull off the Eastern 
European accent.
Web site: NA


“The Door in the Floor”

      Focus Features


Starring: Jeff Bridges, Kim Basinger, Mimi Rogers, Bijou Phillips, Jon Foster
Director: Tod Williams
The story: Based on the first third of the John Irving novel, “A Widow for One 
Year,” this film tells the story of a famous book author (Bridges) whose two 
sons were killed in a freak accident. He hires an assistant (Foster), who bears 
an uncanny resemblance to one of the sons and ends up having an affair with 
Bridges’ wife (Basinger).
What’s the buzz: The story sounds a bit more “made for TV movie” than feature 
film, but you can never count out Bridges (“Seabiscuit,” “The Contender”), who 
is one of the most underrated actors around, turning in solid performances 
nearly every time out. Basinger, on the other hand, hasn’t had a good role since 
her Oscar-winning turn in “L.A. Confidential.” 
Web site:http://www.thedoorinthefloor.com


“The Notebook”

      New Line Cinema


Starring: James Garner, Gena Rowlands, Joan Allen, Ryan Gosling, Rachel McAdams, 
James Marsden
Director: Nick Cassavetes
The story: Based on the best selling novel by Nicholas Sparks, this sweeping 
love story is about a couple (Gosling and McAdams) who fall in love but are 
separated by World War II. When they meet again after the war, McAdams is 
engaged to Marsden. Garner stars as the older version of Gosling who reads from 
the story from notebooks to  Rowlands, the older version of McAdams. Allen 
co-stars as McAdams mother.
What’s the buzz: There is a trio of good young actors here in McAdams (“Mean 
Girls”), Gosling (“Murder by Numbers”) and Marsden (“X2”). Allen, Garner and 
Rowlands also bring a lot of talent to this film. Cassavetes (“John Q,” “She’s 
So Lovely”) is the son of John Cassavetes and Gena Rowlands. He hasn’t made a 
truly good film yet, but perhaps this will be his breakthrough.
Web site:http://www.thenotebookmovie.com/
“Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow”

      Paramount


Starring: Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Angelina Jolie, Casey Affleck, Bai Ling, 
Giovanni Ribisi, Omid Djalili
Director: Kerry Conran
The story: Paltrow plays reporter Polly Perkins and Jude Law plays Sky Captain 
in this ultra-stylized story about their search for missing scientists and the 
quest to stop the evil Dr. Totenkopf, who may be trying to destroy the earth. 
Helping them are Jolie, the commander of an all-female amphibious squadron, and 
Affleck, technical genius.
What’s the buzz: The L.A. Times reports that writer-director Cornan developed a 
technology that allowed him to shoot the entire film against a blue screen and 
fill in the background later. This allowed him to work on the backgrounds 
separately in advance of shooting. A mix of black and white and color, this film 
is reported to have a rollicking, 1940s, “Indiana Jones” feel. 
Web site:http://www.skycaptain.com/home.html
“White Chicks”

      Sony Pictures


Starring: Shawn Wayans, Marlon Wayans, Maitland Ward, Anne Dudek, Jaime King, 
Brittany Daniel, Busy Philipps
Director: Keenan Ivory Wayans
The story: From the makers of “Scary Movie” comes this story of two disgraced 
FBI agents (the Wayans brothers) who go deep undercover, dressing up as hotel 
heiresses, the Wilton sisters, and infiltrating their world.
What’s the buzz: This twist on “Some Like it Hot” definitely wins the prize as 
the silliest premise for a movie we’ve come across this spring. Will this 
fish-out-of-water concept provide enough laughs to sustain an entire movie? We 
have our doubts. Screenwriter Xavier Cook was previously a writer for “Mad TV” 
and here makes his feature film debut.
Web site:http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/whitechicks/
“Before Sunset”

      Warner Independent Pictures


Starring: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
Director: Richard Linklater
The story: Set nine years after their long night together in Vienna, captured in 
the film “Before Sunrise,” Jesse (Hawke) and Celine (Delpy) meet again while 
Jesse is in Paris promoting his latest novel that just happens to be about the 
night they spent together.
What’s the buzz: It’s fairly bold for Linklater to wait this long (the first 
film came out in 1995) to make a sequel to this chatty romance. And even bolder 
in this age of special-effects-laden fare to believe that audiences will turn 
out for a film that is proudly all talk. Still, we’re intrigued, primarily 
because Delpy and Hawke were so compelling in the first film, and also to see 
how those characters have changed all these years later.
Web site: NA
“De-Lovely”

      United Artists


Starring: Kevin Kline, Ashley Judd, Jonathan Pryce, Angie Hill, Keith Allen, 
John Barrowman
Director: Irwin Winkler
The story: Kline stars as Cole Porter, who looks back on his life as if it were 
one of his staged productions, complete with musical numbers like “Anything 
Goes” and “Night and Day.” Judd co-stars as his wife Linda. Just to ensure that 
at least some of the songs will be on key, Winkler has loaded the deck by 
casting Natalie Cole, Elvis Costello, Diana Krall, Alanis Morissette, Robbie 
Williams and Sheryl Crowe in supporting roles.
What’s the buzz: After the success of “Chicago,” it seemed like we were due for 
a flood of musicals, but that flood is more like a trickle. Can “De-Lovely” 
repeat “Chicago's” success?  “Gangs of New York” scribe Jay Cocks penned the 
screenplay. Director Winkler (“Life as a House,” “The Net”), is better known as 
a producer, and hasn’t directed a really good film to date.
Web site:http://www.delovelymovie.com/home.php
“Two Brothers”

      Universal Pictures


Starring: Guy Pearce, Christian Clavier, Jean-Claude Dreyfus, Philippine 
Leroy-Beaulieu
Director: Jean-Jacques Annaud
The story: From the director of “The Bear,” comes this story of two tiger cubs, 
one shy, the other bold, in the ruins of Angor Wat, Cambodia, who become 
separated and taken into captivity. One becomes a circus performer while the 
other is used for sport. Guy Pearce (“Momento,” “The Time Machine”) co-stars as 
an adventurer who first finds the cubs. 
What’s the buzz: Anyone who saw the beautiful film “The Bear,” which did an 
incredible job of telling the story from the bear’s point of view will probably 
want to check out this movie. “The Bear” was one of those rare films that seemed 
equally suitable for adults and children. Annaud also directed the film “The 
Lover” and just seems to have a way with quiet, elegant storytelling. 
Web site:http://www.twobrothersmovie.net/


“Spider Man 2”

      Warner Brothers


Starring: Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Rosemary Harris, J.K. 
Simmons, Alfred Molina, Brooke Adams, Dylan Baker, Elizabeth Banks, Bruce 
Campbell
Director: Sam Raimi
The story: Maguire, Dunst and Franco reprise their roles in this sequel that 
features Spidey (Maguire) facing off against Dr. Otavius (Molina), who has four 
extra steel-like appendages. Gillies co-stars as J. Johan Jameson’s (J.K. 
Simmons) astronaut son John, who is Mary Jane’s (Dunst) new love interest. Bruce 
Campbell fans take note; the actor once again appears, this time as a “snooty 
usher.”
What’s the buzz: Michael Chabon, the novelist who wrote “Wonder Boys” and “The 
Adventures of Kavalier and Clay,” penned the screenplay for this sequel. It’s 
his first foray into screenwriting and we can’t wait to see what this writer, 
who obviously loves comic books, comes up with. Raimi (“A Simple Plan,” “The 
Evil Dead”) is back on board for the sequel. 
Web site:http://spiderman.sonypictures.com/
 © 2004 MSNBC Interactive
              MORE FROM MOVIES
            Movies Section Front
            • Get your kicks• Newsweek: Jennifer Garner: the good girl• 
            'Passion' reclaims No. 1 spot at box office• Spring movie guide• 
            Five rising stars to watch out for• Change of pace for Cuthbert• 
            'Kill Bill — Vol. 3'? Could be, says Tarantino• Man pleads guilty to 
            movie screener piracy• Movies Section Front 



                  • 9/11 panel turns focus to FBI
                  • Bush to talk Iraq, terrorism
                  • U.S. copter crashes in Iraq
                  • WP: SEC readying AOL charges
                  • Israeli president a terror target?

       EDITOR'S CHOICE
                  • Victoria's Secret dropping show
                  • Newsweek: Emerging quagmire?
                  • Diary of the Mars rover
                  • The Master's finale
                  • The Daily Diversion



advertisement
      Original Soundtrack - Cold Mountain - Original Soundtrack
      $19.98 Sale $12.99
      $1.40 S&H! For a complete description of this product, please click the 
      product image.
      Overstock.com
      70% off your favorite brands
            More from movies
            • Cooper: The living dead will never die
            • Ventre: Selling product or selling out?
            • Ariano: Fame far from fleeting for many celebrities
            • Terenzi: Why aren't Stiller and Wilson always funny?
            • Diers: ‘The Passion’ of the PR publicists


            SPRING MOVIES

            • A multitude of choices
            Spring offers sequels, potential blockbusters, family fun and more. 
            By Paige Newman


      Live Vote
            What upcoming movie are you looking forward to most?


            "Van Helsing"

            "Troy"

            "The Day After Tomorrow"

            "Spider Man 2"

            "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban"

            "The Terminal"


            Vote to see results


      Live Vote
            What upcoming movie are you looking forward to most?   * 97893 
            responses


            "Van Helsing"
            12% 

            "Troy"
            25% 

            "The Day After Tomorrow"
            6% 

            "Spider Man 2"
            23% 

            "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban"
            33% 

            "The Terminal"
            1% 

            Not a scientifically valid survey. Click to learn more.


advertisement
Shopping on MSN


Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

$39.99
EBgames.com

More Video Games


Cover | News | Business | Sports | Tech/Science | Entertainment | Travel | 
Health | Opinions | Weather | Local News
Newsweek | Today Show | Nightly News | Dateline NBC | Meet the Press | MSNBC TV
About MSNBC.com | Newsletters | Search | Help | News Tools | Jobs | Contact Us | 
Terms and Conditions | Privacy
© 2004 MSNBC.com   Try MSN Internet Software for FREE!

         MSN Home  |  My MSN  |  Hotmail  |  Shopping  |  Money  |  People & 
      Chat  |  SearchFeedback  |  Help  

        © 2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved. Terms of Use 
      Advertise TRUSTe Approved Privacy Statement GetNetWise Anti-Spam Policy
