As promised, “Cars 2” made its way to the box office finish line.The Pixar extravaganza earned $66.1 million in its first week to beat out the early summer competition, including “Bad Teacher” with Cameron Diaz and to push “Green Lantern” to third place.
“Cars 2” is good but not Pixar's finest, and it drags a bit — even for the children — in the middle of the film.
There is enough momentum this Fourth of July weekend to give “Cars” some competition in the form of robots cruising through the streets of Chicago.“Transformers: Dark of the Moon” opened Wednesday to big crowds, big raves and $42.3 million. Directed by Michael Bay, the third installment deals with the return of the Decepticons who, with government control, hope to eradicate the Autobots, who hope to save the world in light of what Apollo 11 astronauts found on the moon. Yes, none of this makes any sense, but it does not matter when 3-D robots are re-created on the screen right before your eyes and come to life with Shia LaBeouf at the helm. All of this is happening without the help of Megan Fox, but instead with the able assistance of Victoria’s Secret model Rosie Huntington-Whitely. John Turturro, who lends his voice to “Cars 2,” also stars, as does Oscar winner Frances McDormand and the incomparable John Malkovich.
Do I like this movie? Of course I do, because what is not to like? Incredible scenery, amazing special effects and a third installment that actually works. Bravo and enjoy your holiday weekend, not to mention all that popcorn.
Also opening this weekend is the sublime and almost lame “Larry Crowne,” starring Academy Award winners Julia Roberts and Tom Hanks. Here, Hanks plays a Navy veteran who is a little down on his luck, returning to community college and falling for his speech professor. It is sweet and nice, and no 3-D glasses are required, but the tameness is a little dulling to the senses. Both actors deserve better.
Disney kids fans will love seeing their star and possible Justin Bieber love interest Selena Gomez on the big screen. “Monte Carlo” stars Gomez herself along with Andie MacDowell as three women descend on Paris and by chance wind up in Monte Carlo where they learn a little about life and love and possibly a gambling table or two. Big sigh.
Speaking of sequels and future installments, I had no idea there was a “Mission Impossible 4” on the horizon. Much to my surprise, it is named “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.” Sneak previews were just released this week, and Tom Cruise is reportedly strong and better than ever. Brad Bird, of “The Incredibles,” is at the helm of this film, and as a reviewer I must admit that when Cruise gives himself to a project, he does it full throttle and works with the stuntmen, and leaves nothing to chance. Judging by the preview, this next “Mission Impossible” looks as if it could be a contender
Felipe needs to see the movies she comments on. She also shouldn't comment on other reviews she hasn't read. Transformers did not get "Rave" reviews, it got horrible reviews. Ebert said it was the worst experience he ever had in a movie theater. It got a 36% on Rotten Tomatoes. To inform others, you need to be informed.
Posted by: Arnold | July 11, 2011 at 10:21 AM