1. Guardians of the Galaxy (Disney, 4,080 Theaters, 121 Minutes, Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and for some language): Warning! Just wanted to alert those of you who were planning to see this film this weekend: it’s is no longer at 100% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s at 90%. Don’t know if that will keep you from the theaters this week, but thought you should know that so you can make an informed decision.
I kid, of course. The almost overwhelmingly positive reviews is just what this film needs. It is the least commonly known Marvel property that they have ever made a film out of, so anything that can bring people in is a good thing.
Five criminals find themselves thrown by fate into saving the universe. Will the collection of killers and thieves find a way to work together or is life as we know it doomed?
2. Get On Up (Universal, 2,468 Theaters, 138 Minutes, Rated PG-13 for sexual content, drug use, some strong language, and violent situations): It might seem strange to see this type of film released this time of year. Musical biopics are sure fire Oscar bait and Oscar bait usually hits theaters in December.
However, this is directed by Tate Taylor, whose last film, The Help, was released on August 10, 2011, and scored four Academy Award nomination. Perhaps the studio is hoping this film will reach the same demographic and have the same success when nominations come in.
This film tells the story of legendary R&B musician James Brown from his rise from poverty to superstardom. Chadwick Boseman, who is become the go-to guy for bio pics, stars as Brown and he is joined by two ladies Taylor got Oscar nominations for–Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer, the latter winning the statue.
