Upcoming Releases — February

Now diving into the second month of the New Year, there is a combination of action films, horror films, and romantic comedies coming soon to a theater near you.

Friday, February 3:

Woman in Black — This is the first post-"Harry Potter" role for Daniel Radcliffe. It is a horror film with a good supporting cast. It is nice to see Radcliffe stretching himself, and this looks like an above average genre picture to boot.

Chronicle — If "Woman in Black" looks above average, this goes the other way. This has a relative unknown cast and looks to have one of those hand-held, real footage feels. It looks like a group of teens finds something underground and develop powers. What starts as fun soon turns grim... for the audience that shells out to see it.

The Innkeepers — Another horror story, and another horror story that looks like it might leave you feeling flat. It takes place at a spooky inn and stars Sara Paxton, heroine of "Last House on the Left" and "Shark Night 3D." Hard to see how this would be a better choice than "Woman in Black."

"W/E" — Madonna's directorial debut, a story about the relationship that affected a kingdom. This looks like a full-length look at a sub plot from "The King's Speech" that offers a different look at history. Doubtless this won't match "The King's Speech" in pedigree and storytelling, but it could be an interesting pre-Valentine's Day film.

Big Miracle — This looks like the best family-friendly film of the month. An inspiring story and a quirky cast — Drew Barrymore and John Krasinski among them. You could see this film do quite well opposite the Super Bowl.

Friday, February 10:

Safe House — Few do chilling bad guys as well as Denzel Washington. After winning an Academy Award for "Training Day," it's nice to see him slip back into that familiar groove with this film. Playing opposite Ryan Reynolds is just the icing on the cake. This could be the best movie of the month.

The Vow — A depressing/romantic love story starring Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams. Yep, you guessed it, time for Valentine's Day. The film is about a woman who loses her memory and the husband who tries to help her remember their life and love together. Bring a Kleenex...

Journey 2 Mysterious Island — This looks like a fun family movie starring The Rock and Michael Caine. It probably won't be deep, but it's hard not to laugh at the trailers. It's a big year for Josh Hutcherson — who has a lead role in "The Hunger Games" in March. Not hard to figure out what this movie entails, but it still looks like a fun ride.

Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace — The worst "Star Wars" film returns to theaters, this time in 3D. If you're into novelty, head out to see this. If you want to send a Valentine's Day gift to George Lucas, go see this movie. If you're looking for quality, go see "Safe House."

Tuesday, February 14:

This Means War — It's a spy movie and a romantic comedy starring Chris Pine, Tom Hardy, and Reese Witherspoon. It's a good cast and a mildly amusing trailer. It will be cheesy, but it's Valentine's Day.

Friday, February 17:

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance — Why are we being subjected to this film? A few reasons. First, Nicholas Cage needs money. Second, there haven't been enough bombs so far this year. And, finally, something has to win a Golden Raspberry award, why not this?

Friday, February 24:

Wanderlust — A quirky comedy featuring Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston. The trailer is amusing and this looks like a classic Rudd comedy. Doubtless the subplot of the real-life romance between Aniston and Justin Theroux will dominate the pre-release press, but this still looks like a possible sleeper hit.

Good Deeds — A new Tyler Perry movie, but this looks a little darker than typical Perry fare. For his fans, this will be a can't miss. Doubtless the film will have an interesting message for audiences.

Gone — A new thriller starring Amanda Seyfried and Jennifer Carpenter. Could be interesting or it could be terrible. Hard to say based on the trailer. I remain skeptical.

Act of Valor — The most patriotic release of the new year, this is being touted for it's incredibly realistic depiction of Navy Seals. The film features a group of active-duty Navy Seals along with actors to tell a fictional story. If nothing else, it will be an interesting and unique cinematic experience.