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Here's a look at the new movies I took in this week!

Charlie St. Cloud

Starring: Zac Efron, Amanda Crew, Charlie Tahan, and Donal Logue

Synopsis: Efron is making a noble attempt to move away from his teen heart throb status and demonstrate his acting talent. "Charlie St. Cloud" is a big step away from "High School Musical" and "Hairspray," but it's not a big step forward. That's largely a result of the story. There are some flaws that are untenable with this film. It's like "Ghost" meets "The Sixth Sense" aimed at teens. There is a plot twist in this film that I find creepy, and a second plot twist that I find even creepier. It's hard to say that you don't see it coming, because I think the film telegraphs all its moves, but it is not a plot twist that sits right at the time and it gets worse the longer you think about it. That's a problem. Efron has an affable screen presence and does a decent job in the role here, but the material isn't strong. There are curious cameos from Kim Basinger and Ray Liotta. It's almost as if the filmmakers decided they needed a couple big names just to give the film some gravitas, but there didn't really have anything for them to do. Director Burr Steers, who directed Efron in "17 Again," does a nice job of capturing the beauty of the natural scenery in this film, but there just isn't much here. It isn't the kind of film you'll need, or want, to see more than once.

Rating: PG-13 for language including some sexual references, an intense accident scene and some sensuality.

Verdict: One star out of four.

Despicable Me

Starring the voice talents of: Steve Carrell, Jason Segel, and Russell Brand

Synopsis: It's been a big year for Carrell. He's taken the lead role in several high-profile comedies, he's the voice star of this cartoon, and his announcement that he's ending his time on "The Office" has rocked the comedy world. While he's been everywhere, and while there is no denying Carrell's talent, "Despicable Me" is another star vehicle that doesn't work. There are talented performers involved in the film and it has some cute moments, but it's just OK. There's not a lot to it. Additionally, it's one of those films that forces audiences to pay the 3D fee without getting any 3D bang for the buck. This is film that would be just as appealing on home video as in "3D" at the theater, which is a problem. It's predictable, mildly entertaining, and kind of a fluff film.

Rating: PG for rude humor and mild action.

Verdict: Two stars out of four.

The Other Guys

Starring: Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg

Synopsis: Buddy cop stories that mock the buddy cop formula are all the rage in 2010. Kevin Smith stepped up to the plate and struck out in February with "Cop Out," starring Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan. On the small screen, "The Good Guys" starring Bradley Whitford and Colin Hanks remains mildly entertaining but far from compelling. Now we have Ferrell and his comedic team taking a whack at the formula. They don't fare much better. There are moments of brilliance in "The Other Guys" and moments that are wholly forgettable. Unfortunately the movie is populated predominantly by the latter. Ferrell's performance is uneven, but then again so is his character. Wahlberg has some funny moments but his character sure screams a lot. There are a few funny site gags involving the fact Eva Mendes plays Ferrell's wife, but that's not enough to sustain a film. This is another comedy with lofty expectations that offers little in the way of originality. I do have to say I kind of enjoyed the off-beat comedy of Michael Keaton as the captain.

Rating: PG-13 for crude and sexual content, language, violence and some drug material.

Verdict: One star out of four.

Step Up 3D

Starring: Rick Malambri, Adam G. Sevani, Sharni Vinson, and Alyson Stoner

Synopsis: I have been critical of the recent 3D craze because, for the most part, the films being exhibited in 3D don't really use the medium for anything more than a jump in sales. "Step Up 3D" is the rare exception. Director Jon Chu shot the film in 3D and makes the most of the medium to enhance the visual presentation of this film. And it works to great effect. "Step Up 3D" is predictable and cheesy, but it's also a lot of fun. It's one of the craziest, most visually stunning films I've ever seen, and the 3D effect really helps add to the presentation. The film is mostly positive and displays an exuberance and passion for dance that really draws you into the character's world. It's fun, eye-popping, and a unique experience that can only be truly appreciated on the big screen. That is the best reason I can think of to pay the 3D up charge. This is one of the best hidden gems of the summer.

Rating: PG-13 for brief strong language.

Verdict: Three stars out of four.