New In Theaters - February 11th, 2011

THE EAGLE

Starring: Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Donald Sutherland, 
Mark Strong & Tahar Rahim

Directed by Kevin Macdonald for distribution by Focus Features

The Plot: A Roman prince (Tatum) and his slave (Bell) embark on a dangerous quest to recover a storied artifact long ago lost by his father after a failed crusade that led to the disappearance of 5,000 soldiers.

The Final Word: I honestly don’t see the appeal of period pieces, but the movie studios love them despite how must it costs to recreate the era. The difference here is that Focus Features is has always marched to the beat of their drum and done so to great success, so it stands to reason this could be a success. I just don’t see Tatum’s star power being enough to drive in audiences. While he is on the cusp of breaking through, he may need another solid or two to appeal audiences outside of the “Step Up” demo.

GNOMEO & JULIET

Starring: (voices) James McAvoy, Emily Blunt, Michael Caine, 
Jason Statham, Maggie Smith, Ashley Jensen, Patrick Stewart, 
Ashley Jensen & Ozzy Osbourne.

Directed by Kelly Asbury for distribution by Touchstone.

The Plot: The classic tale of Romeo & Juliet re-invented with garden gnomes.

The Final Word: Seriously despite the way the premise sounds; don’t brush this movie off. Kids will love it, but adults may also get a kick out of it. With music legend Elton John as the driving force behind it and a who’s who of A-listers lending their voices, the movie deserves a chance. Even more intriguing is that John’s songbook will be front and center throughout the movie, along with a few new originals.

JUST GO WITH IT

Starring: Adam Sandler, Jennifer Aniston, Nicole Kidman,
 Brooklyn Decker & Dave Matthews.

Directed by Dennis Dugan for distribution by Columbia (Sony)

The Plot: A shallow plastic surgeon (Sandler) who uses a white lie to meet women, must turn to his loyal assistant (Aniston) for help after his latest conquest (Decker) questions his honesty.

The Final Word: Adam Sandler has definitely had a few misses in his career, but with romantic comedies he seems to deliver every time. Timed perfectly to coincide with Valentine’s Day weekend, Sandler enlists Jennifer Aniston and recent “Sports Illustrated” cover girl Brooklyn Decker, in his latest collaboration with director Dennis Dugan. When you have a successful formula that has yet to let you down, you really should “just go with it.”

JUSTIN BIEBER: NEVER SAY NEVER

Starring: Justin Bieber

Directed by Jon Chu for distribution by Paramount

The Plot: The true story of Justin Bieber’s rise to fame as told through home movies and 3D concert footage.

The Final Word: The other week I wrote that “Sanctum” was a “a rare example of a time where the use of 3D is not only justified, but will more than likely enhance the overall viewing experience;” I can’t say the same thing in this case. This all comes down to dollars and cents and Paramount knows “the Bieb” equals huge profits.


Previewed next week: Big Momma's: Like Father, Like Son, I Am Number Four & Unknown