The Movie Blog’s 2009 Summer Movie Forecast – What To See, Maybe See and Avoid

titleThe summer is my absolute favorite season of the movie year. It’s not necessarily when all the “best” movies come out into theaters, but generally speaking it’s certainly when all the most fun movies hit the screen. The big summer blockbusters, the little gems that studios think would fit in well with the big boys and just about everything in between.

However, with every great green lawn there are inevitably also a big bunch of weeds. The summer movie season is no exception, and a whole ton of crap gets dished out to us movie fans as well. Yes my international friends, the summer movie season is to be navigated cautiously and wisely… well… not really… but we do like to try to avoid the crap as much as possible.

The summer of 2009 doesn’t look like it’ll measure up to last summer, but there is some solid looking stuff nonetheless. So now I present to you our Summer 2009 Movie Forecast. What films you should watch for, what films you should watch out for (the crap) and what film you may or may not want to put on your viewing list.

THE SUMMER OF 2009 MUST SEE LIST

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen#1) TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN

Release Date: June 24th

Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel

Synopsis: “Decepticon forces return to Earth on a mission to take Sam Witwicky prisoner, after the young hero learns the truth about the ancient origins of the Transformers. Joining the mission to protect humankind is Optimus Prime, who forms an alliance with international armies for a second epic battle.”

Why you should watch for it:Because its the Trans-Fricking-Formers… that’s why. The first film was filled with flaws, no doubt and certainly no argument. However, it was also one of the most insanely entertaining summer films I’d ever seen. Michael Bay returns with what only looks bigger and better than ever Autobot vs Decepticon action. Hands down the #1 movie to look for this summer.

Up#2) UP

Release Date: May 29th

Starring: Christopher Plummer, Edward Asner, John Ratzenberger

Synopsis: “By tying thousands of balloon to his home, 78-year-old Carl Fredricksen sets out to fulfill his lifelong dream to see the wilds of South America. Right after lifting off, however, he learns he isn’t alone on his journey, since Russell, a wilderness explorer 70 years his junior, has inadvertently become a stowaway on the trip.”

Why you should watch for it: Pixar is simply the very best movie studio in the business. Each and every film they’ve put out had been a winner and they’ve produced the highest critically rated films the last 2 years in a row (Ratatouille and Wall-E). Early word on Up is that it could be their best film ever, which is hard to imagine. It’s not your typical summer blockbuster, but the name “Pixar” alone forces this film to rank high on your “to see” list this summer.

Star Trek#3) STAR TREK

Release Date: May 8th

Starring: Zachary Quinto, Chris Pine, Leonard Nimoy

Synopsis: “A chronicle of the early days of James T. Kirk and his fellow USS Enterprise crew members.”

Why you should watch for it: Summer was made for big Sci Fi movies like Star Trek… and hey… it’s Star Trek. I’ve had some major reservations and doubts about this re-boot of the franchise, but the various trailers have given a much more intense and broad scope to the film that I thought it would originally have. This movie has skyrocketed up the “anticipation” chart to our #3 spot.

Public Enemies#4) PUBLIC ENEMIES

Release Date: July 1st

Starring: Johnny Depp, Christian Bale, Marion Cotillard

Synopsis: “In the action-thriller Public Enemies, acclaimed filmmaker Michael Mann directs Johnny Depp, Christian Bale, and Academy Award® winner Marion Cotillard in the incredible and true story of legendary Depression-era bank robber John Dillinger (Depp), the charismatic bank robber whose lightning raids made him the number one target of J. Edgar Hoover’s fledgling FBI and its top agent, Melvin Purvis (Bale), and a folk hero to much of the downtrodden public.”

Why you should watch for it: A big gangster heist movies starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale and directed by Michael Mann. Don’t need many more reasons than that to place this movie high on the list. The trailers have looked amazing. Oh, and did we mention that it also has the 2008 Best Actress winner Marion Cotillard?

Terminator: Salvation#5) TERMINATOR SALVATION

Release Date: May 21st

Starring: Christian Bale, Sam Worthington

Synopsis: “Set in post-apocalyptic 2018, John Connor is the man fated to lead the human resistance against Skynet and its army of Terminators. But the future Connor was raised to believe in is altered in part by the appearance of Marcus Wright, a stranger whose last memory is of being on death row. Connor must decide whether Marcus has been sent from the future, or rescued from the past. As Skynet prepares its final onslaught, Connor and Marcus both embark on an odyssey that takes them into the heart of Skynet’s operations, where they uncover the terrible secret behind the possible annihilation of mankind.”

Why you should watch for it: One of the all time Sci Fi classics returns, and for the first time without Arnold as the big robotic warrior. The buzz and anticipation for this film took a drastic ans sudden swing upwards when Christian Bale was announced as the new John Connor (a lot of people thought the news was fake at the time). If anyone other than McG was directing I might have listed this even higher… but the #5 spot is still pretty high.

Harry Potter#6) HARRY POTTER AND THE HALF BLOOD PRINCE

Release Date: July 15th

Starring: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Alan Rickman

Synopsis: “As Harry Potter begins his 6th year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he discovers an old book marked mysteriously “This book is the property of the Half-Blood Prince” and begins to learn more about Lord Voldemort’s dark past.”

Why you should watch for it: I was never a fan of the Harry Potter franchise until film 4, and then I liked film 5 even more and 6 looks like it could be the best one yet. This franchise has done a solid job with the continuity of the story and development of the characters over the years making Harry Potter an annual movie event for a young film going generation.

Funny People#7) FUNNY PEOPLE

Release Date: July 31st

Starring: Adam Sandler, Seth Rogen, Eric Bana

Synopsis: “When seasoned comedian George Simmons learns of his terminal, inoperable health condition, his desire to form a genuine friendship cause him to take a relatively green performer under his wing as his opening act.”

Why you should watch for it: If for no other reason, the fact that Judd Apatow is directing this. Judd’s name is attached to a LOT of movies… but remember, this is only the third one he’s actually directed. I’m also very happy to see Sandler do a drama/comedy since I’m sort of sick of his normal schtick in pure comedies, but love him in his dramatic roles. Add on top of that the fact that I think Eric Bana can do no wrong.

Wolverine#8) X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE

Release Date: May 1st

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Liev Schreiber, Ryan Reynolds

Synopsis: “Wolverine lives a mutant life, seeks revenge against Victor Creed (who will later become Sabertooth) for the death of his girlfriend, and ultimately ends up going through the mutant Weapon X program.”

Why you should watch for it: The X-Men franchise has not let me down yet (yes the 3rd one was the weakest of the bunch, but I still thought it was passable). Hugh Jackman is just a terrific performer and the trailers have looked surprisingly solid. Even buzz from the “leaked” version of the film has been much better than I anticipated. The movie may end up being bad… but it’s still the type of movie you wanna see in the summers.

My Sister's Keeper#9) MY SISTER’S KEEPER

Release Date: June 26th

Starring: Alec Baldwin, Cameron Diaz, Jason Patric

Synopsis: “Anna (Abigail Breslin) is not sick, but she might as well be. By age thirteen, she has undergone countless surgeries, transfusions, and shots so that her older sister Kate (Sofia Vassilieva) can somehow fight leukemia that has plagued her since childhood. The product of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), Anna was conceived as a bone marrow match for Kate-a life role that she has never challenged . . . until now. Like most teenagers, Anna is beginning to question who she truly is. But unlike most teenagers, she has always been defined in terms of her sister-and so Anna makes a decision that for most would be unthinkable, a decision that will tear her family apart and have perhaps fatal consequences for her sister she loves.”

Why you should watch for it: Damn, I’ve only cried in movies twice in my life… but this trailer and synopsis for the movie nearly made me loose it. Such a bold plot for a story, and the film looks just beautiful. Not a typical summer blockbuster obviously, but certainly one to see.

Inglorious Basterds#10) INGLORIOUS BASTERDS

Release Date: August 21st

Starring: Brad Pitt, Eli Roth, Diane Kruger

Synopsis: “In Nazi-occupied France during World War II, a group of Jewish-American soldiers known as “The Basterds” are chosen specifically to spread fear throughout the Third Reich by scalping and brutally killing Nazis. The Basterds soon cross paths with a French-Jewish teenage girl who runs a movie theater in Paris which is targeted by the soldiers.”

Why you should watch for it: The newest Quentin Tarantino film that is sure to be absolutely nuts with gore and violence… which is exactly what his fans are hoping to see out of this film. Throw Brad Pitt in as the commander of this rag tag bunch and you’ve got a potentially great summer flick.

The Boat That Rocked#11) THE BOAT THAT ROCKED

Release Date: August 28th

Starring: Philip Seymour Hoffman, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy

Synopsis: “”The Boat That Rocked” is an ensemble comedy in which the romance takes place between the young people of the ’60s and pop music. It’s about a band of rogue DJs that captivated Britain, playing the music that defined a generation and standing up to a government that, incomprehensibly, preferred jazz. The Count, a big, brash, American god of the airwaves; Quentin, the boss of Radio Rock — a pirate radio station in the middle of the North Sea that’s populated by an eclectic crew of rock and roll DJs; Gavin, the greatest DJ in Britain who has just returned from his drug tour of America to reclaim his rightful position; Dave, an ironic, intelligent and cruelly funny co-broadcaster; and a fearsome British government official out for blood against the drug takers and lawbreakers of a once-great nation.”

Why you should watch for it: Maybe the best and most interesting ensemble cast of any movie this summer. I mean come on… a movie set in the 60’s about a bunch of DJ’s illegally playing rock music from a boat in the sea? Who doesn’t want to see this?

The Hangover#12) THE HANGOVER

Release Date: June 5th

Starring: Bradley Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis

Synopsis: “A Las Vegas-set comedy centered around three groomsmen who lose their about-to-be-wed buddy during their drunken misadventures, then must retrace their steps in order to find him.”

Why you should watch for it: Aside from the fact that for years I’ve thought Bradley Cooper has been a tragically under appreciated performer in Hollywood, this movie just looks flat out hilarious. Just a simple and great idea for a comedy… and the part in the trailer where the guy opens the car door right into the baby nearly made me spit my diet pepsi out through my nose. Can’t wait to see this one.

Julie and Julia#13) JULIE AND JULIA

Release Date: August 7th

Starring: Meryl Streep, Amy Adams, Jane Lynch

Synopsis: “The film follows Powell, a government employee who decides to cook her way through legendary cook Julia Child’s classic cookbook, “Mastering the Art of French Cooking” in one year’s time out of her small Queens kitchen. Powell blogs her daily experiences, gaining a loyal following along the way.”

Why you should watch for it: Ok, so I admit the fact that this movie has a strong base in blogging has influenced my anticipation level for this movie, but really it didn’t need it. The simple fact that Meryl Streep and Amy Adams are together again after both being nominated for Oscars in Doubt should make any film fan sit up and notice.

Year One#14) YEAR ONE

Release Date: June 19th

Starring: Jack Black, Michael Cera, Hank Azaria

Synopsis: “When a couple of lazy hunter-gatherers (Black and Cera) are banished from their primitive village, they set off on an epic journey through the ancient world running into Old Testament Biblical characters along the way.”

Why you should watch for it: I honestly couldn’t care less that Jack Black is in this (never disliked him, but never liked him either) and quite frankly I’ve lost interest in Michael “one character” Cera after seeing the dreadful Nick and Norah… but ladies and gentlemen… if Harold Ramis is directing a comedy, you’ve got to keep your eyes out for it. The genius who directed classics like Caddyshack, Groundhog day, Analyze This and Bedazzled (a tragically underrated comedy in my opinion) is capable of busting out a new classic any minute.

But not all the films coming out this summer look like ones you have to give a try. Some of them look ify, but could possibly have potential to be half decent if you want to try giving them a shot. These ones look like they could be hit or miss. Some of them will work, some of them will be horrible. You decide which ones you wanna roll the dice with:

THE SUMMER OF 2009 MAYBE SEE LIST

The Goods: The Don Ready StoryTHE GOODS; LIVE HARD – SELL HARD

Release Date: August 14th

Starring: Jeremy Piven, Ving Rhames, James Brolin

Synopsis: “Used-car liquidator Don Ready is hired by a flailing auto dealership to turn their Fourth of July sale into a majorly profitable event.”

Why you might want to see it: Honestly this one looks a bit lame to me, but with Will Ferrell and Adam McKay producing, you have to think it might be at least taking a shot at. Jeremy Piven is great too… so who knows..

When In RomeWHEN IN ROME

Release Date: August 7th

Starring: Kristen Bell, Josh Duhamel, Will Arnett

Synopsis: “Beth Harper (Bell) is a young, successful real estate agent … but she’s completely unlucky in love. However, when the New Yorker travels to Rome to see her newlywed sister, she impulsively steals some coins from a reputed fountain of love, and is then aggressively pursued by a band of wannabe lovers.”

Why you might want to see it: Ho hum… a standard looking romantic comedy clogging up the summer schedule. Still, Kristen Bell is one of the sexiest actresses in the business right now and I loved her in Forgetting Sarah Marshall… and the whole coins from the wishing well angle seems cute. Maybe..

Night at the Museum IINIGHT AT THE MUSEUM : BATTLE FOR THE SMITHSONIAN

Release Date: May 22nd

Starring: Ben Stiller, Amy Adams, Robin Williams

Synopsis: “When the lights go off the battle is on. Security guard Larry Daley infiltrates the Smithsonian Institute in order to rescue Jedediah and Octavius, who have been shipped to the museum by mistake.”

Why you might want to see it: A sequel to a film that wasn’t all that good in the first place. Not a lot of hope. Still, like the first it has an impressive cast line up and the original made more than a fortune at the boxoffice, so maybe they’ll put a little extra into this one.

the Brothers BloomTHE BROTHERS BLOOM

Release Date: May 29th

Starring: Adrien Brody, Mark Ruffalo, Rachel Weisz

Synopsis: “The Brothers Bloom are the best con men in the world, swindling millionaires with complex scenarios of lust and intrigue. Now they’ve decided to take on one last job – showing a beautiful and eccentric heiress the time of her life with a romantic adventure that takes them around the world.”

Why you might want to see it: Definitely a solid cast and Rain Johnson directs his follow up to the critically approved “Brick”. Not really sure when I only have this one on my “maybe” list since it seems to have a lot going for it… guess I just get a bad vibe from it. Certainly worth taking a chance on if you feel so inclined.

Drag Me To HellDRAG ME TO HELL

Release Date: May 29th

Starring: Alison Lohman, Justin Long, Lorna Raver

Synopsis: “A loan officer ordered to evict an old woman from her home finds herself the recipient of a supernatural curse, which turns her life into a living hell. Desperate, she turns to a seer to try and save her soul, while evil forces work to push her to a breaking point.”

Why you might want to see it: While it’s true that this flick seems to have “cheese” written all over it, and a disappointing PG-13 rating, the fact of the matter is Sam Raimi knows how to do horror. The premise is pretty creepy and I’ve always liked Alison Lohman..

Angels and DemonsANGELS & DEMONS

Release Date: May 15th

Starring: Tom Hanks, Ewan McGregor, Ayelet Zurer

Synopsis: “The Pope died and the conclave has been called for. 4 candidates were chosen. However, before the voting, the 4 candidates are killed one by one. The killer leaves clues that seems to say that he/she is from the Illuminati. Strangely though, the Illuminati was long thought to be extinct. Who is the mastermind? Who revived the Illuminati? What do they want?”

Why you might want to see it: I did not enjoy the first film (The Da Vinci Code) which I thought was slow and lacked the dramatic tension the book seemed to have. Still, it’s Tom Hanks and Ron Howard. That alone may make it worth the price of the ticket.

The Time Traveler's WifeTHE TIME TRAVELER’S WIFE

Release Date: August 14th

Starring: Eric Bana, Rachel McAdams, Ron Livingston

Synopsis: “This is the remarkable story of Henry DeTamble, a dashing, adventuresome librarian who travels involuntarily through time, and Clare Abshire, an artist whose life takes a natural sequential course. Henry and Clare’s passionate love affair endures across a sea of time and captures the two lovers in an impossibly romantic trap.”

Why you might want to see it: Not a lot of buzz or confidence being shown in the film by the studio doesn’t negate the fact that this story sounds interesting, and as I previously mentioned, in my eyes Eric Bana can do no wrong..

A Perfect GetawayA PERFECT GETAWAY

Release Date: August 14th

Starring: Timothy Olyphant, Milla Jovovich, Steve Zahn

Synopsis: “Two pairs of lovers (Zahn & Jovovich, Olyphant & Sanchez) on a Hawaiian vacation discover that psychopaths are stalking and murdering tourists on the islands.”

Why you might want to see it: Could be exciting if done right. The whole “being hunted by killers for no reason other than you’re there” thing has been done a lot, but sometimes works.

The Ugly TruthTHE UGLY TRUTH

Release Date: July 24th

Starring: Gerard Butler, Katherine Heigl, Kevin Connolly

Synopsis: “A romantically challenged morning show producer (Heigl) is reluctantly embroiled in a series of outrageous tests by her chauvinistic correspondent (Butler) to prove his theories on relationships and help her find love. His clever ploys, however, lead to an unexpected result.”

Why you might want to see it: The concept of a movie that perhaps shows that the opinions of male pigs and actually sometimes be… gasp… TRUE, is intriguing. Katherine Heigle and Gerard Butler make for an interesting on screen couple as well.

BrunoBRUNO

Release Date: July 10th

Starring: Sacha Baron Cohen

Synopsis: “Borat trickster Sacha Baron Cohen returns to the big screen to offer yet another stinging dose of sociopolitical satire in this comedy that finds him assuming the persona of gay fashionmonger Bruno, the self-proclaimed “voice of Austrian youth TV.” Originally conceived as part of Cohen’s cult television series Da Ali G Show, the character of Bruno offered a cleverly costumed Cohen the opportunity to highlight the absurdities of the fashion industry by interviewing unsuspecting fashion icons and other haute couture hangers-on.”

Why you might want to see it: Some will be surprised that I only have this on the “maybe” list, but as much as I loved Borat, I think the novelty has worn off and Bruno looks like nothing but Borat 2 just with a different accent. Still, Sacha Baron Cohen has delivered the goods before and therefore is probably worth a gamble.

In every family there is an ugly brother or nasty racist uncle. Well… the family of summer movies in 2009 appears to have its share of embarrassing cousins. Can’t say for certain if a movie is good or bad until after you’ve seen it, but you can usually take a good guess, and these following movies are probably ones to avoid. Those risking their ticket money on these films have no one to themselves to blame.

THE SUMMER OF 2009 AVOID LIST

Imagine ThatIMAGINE THAT

Release Date: June 12th

Starring: Eddie Murphy, Bobb’e J. Thompson, Thomas Haden Church

Synopsis: “A financial executive (Murphy) who can’t stop his career downspiral is invited into his daughter’s imaginary world, where solutions to his problems await.”

Why you should probably avoid it: It’s an Eddie Murphy family comedy. Do I really need to say anything more? Besides, the previews look just dreadful.

The ProposalTHE PROPOSAL

Release Date: June 19th

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen

Synopsis: “A pushy boss forces her young assistant to marry her in order to keep her Visa status in the U.S. and avoid deportation to Canada.”

Why you should probably avoid it: It just flat out looks terrible. I like Ryan Reynolds very much, I like Bullock, but I just can’t see how this one doesn’t end up as a Razzie nominee.

The Ghost Of Girfriends PastGHOSTS OF GIRLFRIENDS PAST

Release Date: May 1st

Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Michael Douglas

Synopsis: “A bachelor is haunted by the ghosts of his past girlfriends at his younger brother’s wedding.”

Why you should probably avoid it: Everyone knows that I think Matthew McConaughey is a very underrated actor… when he’s not doing crap like this that is. Did you read the synopsis? Have you seen the trailer? Is there anyone on the planet that has any hope at all that this will end up being more than a 2/10?

G.I. Joe: The Rise Of CobraG.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA

Release Date: August 7th

Starring: Dennis Quaid, Channing Tatum, Marlon Wayans

Synopsis: “An elite military unit comprised of special operatives known as G.I. Joe, operating out of The Pit, takes on an evil organization led by a notorious arms dealer.”

Why you should probably avoid it: Aside from Transformers 2, there is no other movie that I SHOULD be more excited about, but just about everything we’ve seen from G.I. Joe has been one apparent bad decision after another. From the character selection, to the choice of director to the cast (aside from Dennis Quaid who just rules), nothing has been done right with this movie. Is there a chance it could pull it off? Sure, there’s a chance… but I wouldn’t bet my ticket money on it.

Land Of The LostLAND OF THE LOST

Release Date: June 5th

Starring: Will Ferrell, Danny McBride, Anna Friel

Synopsis: “On his latest expedition, Dr. Rick Marshall (Ferrell) is sucked into a space-time vortex alongside his research assistant (Friel) and a redneck survivalist (McBride). In this alternate universe, the trio make friends with a primate named Chaka (Taccone), their only ally in a world full of dinosaurs and other fantastic creatures. Can they all make it back to our world alive, and if so: Will Dr. Marshall can go from zero to hero with his discoveries?”

Why you should probably avoid it: I was thrilled to see how great Step Brothers was, because quite frankly I had grown tired of Will Ferrell. Sadly… Land of the Lost looks like a giant step backwards. Not once did I grin during the trailers, nor what does anything about the film look even remotely promising. Definitely one to avoid this summer.

Dance FlickDANCE FLICK

Release Date: May 22nd

Starring: Who freaking cares?

Synopsis: “Street dancer Thomas Uncles is from the wrong side of the tracks, but his bond with the beautiful Megan White might help the duo realize their dreams as the enter in the mother of all dance battles.”

Why you should probably avoid it: As a member of the human race I’m offended these stupid modern spoof movies exist. They all suck and the fact that some people go to see them probably make alien races observing our planet think we’re a species deserving of being wiped out.

Next Day AirNEXT DAY AIR

Release Date: May 8th

Starring: Donald Faison, Mike Epps, Wood Harris

Synopsis: “Two inept criminals are mistakenly delivered a package of cocaine and think they’ve hit the jackpot, triggering a series of events that changes ten people’s lives forever.”

Why you should probably avoid it: I’m a big Donald Faison fan and have been waiting for him to get a significant break on the big screen, but not in a project like this one. I see nothing remotely redeemable about this project and plan to avoid it like a country music fan from an education.

They Came From UpstairsTHEY CAME FROM UPSTAIRS

Release Date: July 31st

Starring: Ashley Tisdale, Robert Hoffman, Andy Richter

Synopsis: “When Tom, Jake, and friends discover that the Aliens mind control guns do not work on kids, it is up to them to save their parents and the rest of the world from the invasion all before bed time.”

Why you should probably avoid it: Many of these kid centric movies hold a lot of potential to be cute and surprisingly good. I just don’t think this is one of them… at all.

BandslamBANDSLAM

Release Date: August 14th

Starring: Gaelan Connell, Alyson Michalka, Vanessa Hudgens

Synopsis: “A new kid in town assembles a fledgling rock band — together, they achieve their dreams and compete against the best in the biggest event of the year, a battle of the bands.”

Why you should probably avoid it: I’m imagining a horse thats been poked with sticks all day… then I imagine standing behind that horse and having its huge powerful leg buck back and kicking me in the crotch… and I still prefer that vision than the idea of watching this movie.

GooseGOOSE ON THE LOOSE

Release Date: August 21st

Starring: Chevy Chase, Kari Matchett, James Purefoy

Synopsis: “A grieving young boy (Morrow) looks to protect his new best friend, a talking goose, from his school principal (Chase), who’s fattening up the bird for a Christmas cook-off.”

Why you should probably avoid it: Aside from the fact that it looks stupid as hell… this movie was finshed over 3 years ago. That’s right… it’s been sitting on a shelf for three years. Wow… the studio must have a lot of confidence in this one.

Halloween 2H2: HALLOWEEN 2

Release Date: August 28th

Starring: Malcolm McDowell, Scout Taylor-Compton, Tyler Mane

Synopsis: “Following the aftermath of Michael Myers’ murderous rampage through the eyes of the sister he hunted.”

Why you should probably avoid it: The first Rob Zombie Halloween film (which he made only 3 years after saying it was pathetic for directors to make remakes) was just not very good and there is no reason to expect that this one will be any different.

Final Destination: Death Trip 3DFINAL DESTINATION: DEATH TRIP 3D

Release Date: August 28th

Starring: Krista Allen, Nick Zano, Mykelti Williamson

Synopsis: “Nick and some friends head to the racetrack for the weekend to watch a car race. , when the terrifying accident flys into the audience at 180 mph. People will splatter and be ripped apart, one girl gets her head knocked off by a flying tire, massive explosions, and eventually the entire stadium collapses onto the rest of the audience. Then main character “Nick” discovers it was just a vision that’s about to happen, and he gets himself and about 12 other people ejected from the stadium. But Death returns to finish off the survivors, with the freak accidents being more brutal than ever.”

Why you should probably avoid it: This is the exact same movie we’ve seen multiple times already from this poor horror franchise. No evidence to suggest the trend will change.

These lists represent the majority of the films opening up this summer. However, there are a handful more movies opening as well that I just can’t fit into the Go, Avoid or Maybe lists. Films that I just can’t seem to form an advanced opinion on. Here they are:

THE REST OF THE SUMMER OF 2009

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs
Opens July 1st
Like the first one. Hated the second one. Haven’t seen enough to really have an opinion on the third yet.

I Love You Beth Cooper
Opens July 10th
Hayden Panettiere from Heroes is a smoking little hottie for sure… but can she act? Not sure, and this one seems like something I’ve seen a dozen time in the last 3 years… but the trailer was cute.

All Good Things
Opens July 24th
It seems like a decent enough story with a decent enough cast… but I loathe Kirsten Dunst as an actress

G-Force
Opens July 24th
3D animated hamsters are NOT G-FORCE!!!!!! I’m very bitter they stole this name from Battle of the Planets. Kids movie… might be cute.

The Orphan
Opens July 24th
Don’t like the look of this one too much, but movies about evil kids do spook me a little bit.

Battle For Terra
Opens May 1st
A sci-fi animated film, but not done by Pixar. Also have my doubts that the studio has much confidence in it considering they’re opening it against Wolverine on the same day.

The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3
Opens June 12
Director Tony Scott – Good. Denzel Washington – Good. John Travolta – WTF?!?!?!

My Life In Ruins
Opens June 5th
Nia Vardalos hasn’t had much success since her amazing “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”. She returns to Greece for this one… let’s see if it gives her any more luck.

Shorts
Opens August 7th
Director Robert Rodriguez returns to the kid genre… this one about a magic rock. Ummm… ok.

District 9
Opens August 14th
Director Neill Blomkamp’s (the guy who was going to direct the now defunct Halo movie) first feature. It’ll be interesting to see how this one works.

Post Grad
Opens August 21
A very timely movie with the economy the way it is, a lot of people are moving back in with their families.

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So there you have it folks, the Summer of 2009 movie forecast. Which ones are you most looking forward to? Which one do you think will surprise people the most?

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58 thoughts on “The Movie Blog’s 2009 Summer Movie Forecast – What To See, Maybe See and Avoid

  1. I am going to see:
    I. TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN
    II. TERMINATOR SALVATION
    III. STAR TREK
    IV. X-MEN ORIGINS: WOLVERINE
    V. G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA

  2. another Btw here John, take Angels & Demons off your maybe list, put it on must see! It had way more action then Da Vinci code and it was edge of your seat and had a wonderful twist

  3. The only things I would have changed on that list was make Night of the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian in a must see this year. The first one was very good and I have no doubts for the second one. The second thing I would change is GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra be in the maybe see list. When your a nerd, you don’t look at the cast list and director, you just go and hope to living hell they didn’t rape your childhood characters.

  4. This summer looks a bit weak to me.
    Here is my top 5 list of movies that I would like to see…
    1. Public Enemies
    2. The Taking of Pelham 123
    3. Star Trek
    4. The Brothers Bloom
    5. Funny People

    I am sure I might check out other movies like Inglorious Bastards, Transformers 2, and Terminator Salvation but I am not looking forward to them.

  5. I can’t believe that you didn’t include 500 days of summer with Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt in your must see list. It’s the one I’m must looking forward to.

  6. your lists rockz! good reference….i’m a movie lover so i might also watch those that are not in your top lists…btw, my sister’s keeper is from a book written by jodi picoult so its not actually an original “bold plot for a story” film….and as always, its better to read the book (heard that the film kinda changed the “twist” from the book)

  7. 1) Up – my most anticipated film of the year, even more than Avatar. I don’t think any other film in the line-up will have the ability to move me emotionally the way this will.

    2) Star Trek – because I already know it rocks.

    3) Transformers 2 – I don’t I’m going to like it very much but I know I will be in awe of it on that IMAX screen.

    4) Public Enemies – I’m fine with the way it looks. At least it doesn’t come off as ‘The Untouchables 2’.

    5) Harry Potter 6 – those trailers, those lovely looking trailers.

    6) Bruno – I stupidly missed Borat in theatres. I won’t miss this.

    7) Terminator: Salvation – we’ve always been promised one full movie of future war and we’re getting it.

    8) Angles & Demons – I’m a sucker but I love Tom Hanks and Ron Howard and stupidly believe this has to be better than the last one.

    9) G.I.Joe – simple devotion to the source material but I do believe this will be the big bomb of the summer.

    1. bandslam should definely BE in the avoid list, it’s just a waste of time, it doesn’t seem interesting nor oringinal nor even a film!XD
      that list is really well made btw…

  8. I like the list and agree more or less.

    The films I am looking forward to are:

    Public Enemies, The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3, maybe the Hangover and Inglorious Basterds.

  9. What about “Whatever Works” ? Where do you place that one? As for me, It is in my number one, I am a huge Larry David fan Lets face it, this summer looks pretty weak.

  10. WHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! bandslam and they came from upstairs are this summer’s MUST SEE movies!!! u idiiioooooottttssss!! there’s ashley tisdale and vanessa hudgens in them!! HOW DARE YOU!!! stupid losers!!

  11. hey where does the movie 9 fall in your list, I do realise that we are tal;lking about summer movies here and 9 is being released 9-9-09 but I’m intrigued about the people involved. Timur, burton. The trailer looked good but I’m worried about the director, his only other directing has been a short film called 9 and something called the hang nail in 1999. Anyway whats your take on the film?

  12. You should put Halloween 2 on the maybe list, the trailers looks ten times better than the original Halloween 2 from 1981. Zombie did a good job on the first , but the old one was better. Only the second from 1981 sucked , and this one i dont think it will. A 3 star movie it will be.

    Year One just looks like Analyze That [ Not the good This one ]. Of the looks of it , Year One is going to be a comedy with to much trying jokes than succesfull jokes. Just like Analyze That.

    I think you guessed wrong on this one John. The Boat that Rocked is a solid comedy, i already see it in theaters in our country. Shame that it flopped, but Blade Runner also did :}

  13. cool list.

    Has anyone seen any reviews for Terminator Salvation? Any advance screening reviews??? Find it strange that no sneak reviews are out. Hope this does not indicate anything negative.

  14. Wow, your watch list is almost perfect. I would drop Transformers Harry Potter completely and bring Bastards up just under or possibly before Wolverine and you nailed it on the head.

    Though I don’t think G.I. Joe should be on the avoid list. The trailer looked good and it could possibly be a fun flick. I would be more willing to see it then Transformers but I would look at reviews first.

  15. G-Force
    Opens July 24th
    3D animated hamsters are NOT G-FORCE!!!!!! I’m very bitter they stole this name from Battle of the Planets. Kids movie… might be cute.

    I think their Guinea Pigs. Which is what the G stands for in G-Force. Guinea Pig Force. That doesn’t make the movie good, but explains why they stole the name for this awful movie.

  16. I agree with Transformers 2 at the top of the list. I’m not as excited for Inglorious Basterds since I ead the script, but still stoked for it.

    my top 5 is:

    1. Transformers 2
    2. Terminator Salvation
    3. Star Trek
    4. Public Enemies (OK…it’s growing on me)
    5. UP
    (Maybe Inglorious Basterds in there somewhere because let’s face it, it looks awesome

  17. 1) Inglorious Basterds

    2) The Hurt Locker

    3) Terminator: Salvation

    4) Public Enemies

    5) Star Trek

    That’s my top 5 I want to see. Don’t know if The Hurt Locker will see a wide release in my area of Western PA though. All 15 John listed still look terrific!

  18. I laughed at the poster for Goose on the Loose.

    I might end up watching most of these if my local theater gets them.

    (local theater just now got hold of “The Knowing”)

    1. Fags and Hippies are cool just like John’s list(and leave the fag jokes for school so little kids can kill themselves from your insensitivity).

      Remember TMB is an opinion based virtual periodical.

      Hey, why is Star Trek lower than Up? LOL.

  19. My list would look like this:

    1)Terminator Salvation (This is my alltime favourite series…I’ve loved every film in the franchise)

    2)Transformers 2 (always loved a great action film…this one looks badass)

    3)UP (I just look forward to next PIXAR films…they are simply the best!)

    4)Ice Age 3 (I seriously hope John will regret not putting this film on his must see list…It will rock!)

    5)Harry Potter 6 (I’ve seen all the prvious versions…so i’ll keep up the trend)

    6)Public Enemies (The cast is fantastic…that is enough for me)

    7)Night at the Museum 2 (liked the first one…so lets see how this spans out. Besides i’m a big fan of Amy Adams)

  20. i dont know but fuck number 13..replace it gi joes….cant really argue cause the pics of it look like the pre pics of when transformers was getting the ” oh hell no!”. i think sometimes u get the notion in your head that a movie is gonna suck so u kinda hate on it….its cool i think we all do it…but really dennis quaid is a stud and marlon wayons is funny…if u are looking for a “oscar monie” im sure there will be a better front runner then julia child biopic….btw kudo’s on making the first miss movie a eddie murphy movie…just watched RAW and man has he become a sell out.

  21. I’ve heard that Bruno is HILARIOUS. I’m really interested in that one.

    Public Enemies is my most anticipated flick of teh summer. I am dying to see that, although the digital camerawork looks flat-out fugly in the trailer.

    Of course, Transformers 2. I can’t wait for John’s review. John, do you think you can round up the guys for another roundtable like you did with the first one?

  22. the brothers bloom looks like a great time….my boo rachel weiz is in it and i loved brick to death…and it has a cowboy bebop feel to me cant wait.

    transformers and wolverine will be seen so i can nerd out with some popcorn and turn my brain off….

    public enemy is my only other must-see on the list. everything else looks like a maybe, spur of the moment and eventually on dvd. this looks like an interesting summer indeed

  23. It’s cool that you put up a list! I blog about movies I’ve seen and frankly the recent ones haven’t been that good… like Observe and Report.. ugh… so it definitely makes me look forward to the summer lineup.

    The summer movies seem pretty interesting now that you brought it up– I always have a tendency to forget about them once I walk out of the theatre!

    I wanna watch UP! in 3D, Land of the Lost, The Ugly Truth (YES!) and Bruno…

    Now I’m gettin’ jittery for more sunshine and fresher films!

    But while we’re waiting for those to come out, why not check out a FREE short open source FILM available on http://moviepals.org ? It’s called Jathia’s Wager and the rest of the site talks about the novel idea of collaborative film making! The film’s about a young man living in an isolated community where he will have to choose his own fate– whether or not to remain human.

  24. Hey John. Have you heard anything about that Mulan movie being made?

    And your list is pretty good. A lot of films I want to see on both of your lists, interestingly. So your def right, the Summer is an awesome time for the big budget films.

  25. My big four:

    1) Public Enemies
    *huge Michael Mann fan. I think this film might be his biggest hit in his directing career. With the leads being Depp and Bale, I don’t think folks will really avoid it, let’s put it that way. Birth of the FBI. Gangsters, thieves and period piece. Could be one of the few summer movies that has Oscar buzz as well.

    My butt is in the front row opening night full price.
    A typhoon could hit the theatre I would still be there.

    2) Terminator Rise Of The Machines.

    Future War didn’t appeal to me. Now it does.

    3) Wolverine.

    No brainer.

    4) Star Trek.

    5) Transformers.

    6) The Hurt Locker

    7) Drag Me To Hell

    8) Ice Age 3

    9) Up

    The rest of the summer has been cancelled to to bailouts and overall lack of interest. I might be on the bubble with Final Destination 3 and H2, but I think if I see Tekken first my brain cells would be burned out by then.

  26. Theater Worthy:
    1) Star Trek (ever since seeing the teaser of enterprise under construction I’ve had highest hopes for this)
    2) Transformers 2 (Original transformers was my favorite movie that year. This will rock but can’t possibly top the jaw dropping wow factor of first)
    3) Harry Freeking Potter
    4) Wolverine

    Rental:
    1) Up (Incredibles is still pinnacle of Pixar)
    2) Terminator (can’t get as excited about Bale since his rant. I’m turning into my old man)
    3) GI Joe. It’s worth a dollar from Redbox.

  27. this might not have to do with this topic but i was wondering if you were ever going to do another movie blog uncut podcast again john i really like listening to them or watching them come on man bring them back

  28. I agree with most of what you have on the list. I strongly disagree with My Sister’s Keeper being on your must see list. It’s an amazing premise for a movie (I haven’t read the book the movie is adapted from), but after seeing the trailer it looks over-acted and like it’s just going through every movie cliche in the playbook.

    I also disagree with The Proposal, it looks like an above average rom-com, I’m not saying it will be great, but simply a cut above the standard genre fodder. I may be jaded in my opinion because I’m a big fan of Ryan Reynolds and to a lesser extent Sandra Bullock.

    Thanks for the list, really has me geared up for the summer movie season.

  29. ones i want to see:

    transformers revenge of the fallen
    terminator salvation
    harry potter and the half blood prince
    night at the museum battle for the smithsonian
    gi joe rise of cobra
    land of the lost

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