Summer Movie Schedule: Blockbusters & Beyond
As requested, here are the movies on my summer schedule, by release date. Of course there will be some glaring omissions (i.e. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian), as a wide variety of other films will be released between now and July, but I’ve weeded through the coming attractions to select the ones which will earn my $10+.
Click on the hyperlink in each paragraph to view the trailer in a new window.
SPEED RACER
May 9
Because it was directed by the Wachowski brothers, the geniuses behind the Matrix trilogy. Because the trailer is visually stunning. And because Matthew Fox (Dr. Jack Shephard on Lost) is Racer X.
INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL
May 23
Because the theme song alone conjures up a rare rush of childhood joy.
SEX AND THE CITY
May 30
Because I watched every episode of the television series, and it will be a guilty pleasure afternoon of estrogen among a sea of summer testosterone.
THE HAPPENING
June 13
Because M. Night Shyamalan is one of the only contemporary directors who creates films that actually scare me. And because it co-stars Zooey Deschanel.
THE INCREDIBLE HULK
June 13
Because it has to be better than Ang Lee’s recent version. And because this one stars Edward Norton.
WALL-E
June 27
Because it’s a Pixar production. End of story.
WANTED
June 27
Because Angelina Jolie + James McAvoy = H O T. And because it looks like a kick-ass action movie.
HANCOCK
July 2
Because it’s Will Smith and Fourth of July weekend. And because it co-stars Jason Bateman and Charlize Theron (who were hysterical together when she guest-starred on Arrested Development).
THE DARK KNIGHT
July 18
Because director Chris Nolan has revitalized the Batman franchise. Because Christian Bale is the perfect man for the bat suit. And because Heath Ledger is absolutely mesmerizing in the new trailer.
MAMMA MIA!
July 18
Because I grew up listening to Abba. Because the stage adaptation was great. Because Meryl Streep plays the matriarch, and she’s never looked better. And because it will be fun; a necessary, therapeutic alternative after experiencing The Dark Knight.
THE X-FILES: I WANT TO BELIEVE
July 25
Because this date has been circled on my calendar since it was announced. Because ten years ago I gathered twenty friends to go see the first installment on opening night. Because before Lost, this was my obsession and favorite show of all time. Because my cats are named Mulder and Scully. And because I heart Gillian Anderson almost more than Kate Winslet.
So…which summer films are you looking forward to the most? Any that aren’t on this list?