Upcoming Releases — September

With the summer season over, it's an odd mix of films in September. And, in addition to being an odd mix, there are at least three major releases every week. So it's a packed schedule.

Friday, September 7:
The Words — Hard to know what to make of this drama. Bradley Cooper is an excellent actor, as is Jeremy Irons. Though the context is different, this story idea feels a little familiar. Could be an interesting exploration.

The Cold Light of Day — This movie has Bruce Willis in it. It's also gone completely under the radar. That makes me think it's probably not as good as its description.

Bachelorette — This comedy has a nice cast, but it's also already been released on iTunes, so it will be interesting to see what the Box Office yield is. Could be an interesting comedy.

Hello I Must Be Going — This is a comedy, of sorts, that could be interesting but has an odd premise. It doesn't have a ton of buzz going for it either, so it's either a hidden gem or a quirky release to be buried in early September.

Friday, September 14:
The Master — Paul Thomas Anderson is an incredible filmmaker. His last major release, "There Will Be Blood," was a masterpiece. This film looks like, at least in part, it's a veiled attack on Scientology. They claim it isn't, but the trailer says otherwise. This is a strong award season contender. I love Phillip Seymour Hoffman, and he looks to shine in this film.

Resident Evil: Retribution — By now we know what we're getting with these films. It will be good action, a marginal plot, and a lot of cool effects. These films aren't deep, but I kind of enjoy them. Plus, this is one of the few film franchises that I will pay to see in 3D.

Finding Nemo 3D — This is a classic Pixar film re-released in 3D. If you loved this film, and love 3D, it's time to get excited.

Liberal Arts — This is an independent romantic comedy with Josh Radnor ("How I Met Your Mother") and Elizabeth Olsen. Could be kind of fun.

Arbitage — An independent film with Richard Gere and Susan Sarandon.

10 Years — This film, about a high school reunion, stars Channing Tatum and a good cast. It looks like it could be some light fun.

Stolen — This action film, from director Simon West ("The Expendables 2"), features Nicholas Cage. Be afraid, be very afraid — unless you're looking for Razzie nominees.

Friday, September 21:
Dredd 3D — This is a re-make, of sorts, of "Judge Dredd," the Sylvester Stallone sci-fi action feature from the 1990s. This one looks ultra serious and it's in 3D. In gambling terms, for me, this is a stay away.

End of Watch — This gritty police drama has been flying under the radar a bit, but it's got a good cast led by Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Pena. Could be an interesting, gritty drama.

The House At The End of the Street — This one makes me feel uneasy. Not because of the content (though it's a horror movie), but because I think Jennifer Lawrence is a great young actress and this film looks like cheesy crap. This is like every ridiculous horror movie over the past 10 years. Lawrence deserves better.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower — Could be a fun independent movie. Plus, this is the first post-"Harry Potter" role for Emma Watson.

Friday, September 28:
Looper — This looks like a promising sci-fi action film starring Bruce Willis and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. Could be an excellent film toward the end of the month.

Trouble With The Curve — I love Clint Eastwood, and though he didn't direct this film, it feels promising. He stars as an aging baseball scout trying to bond with his adult daughter (Amy Adams). The addition of Justin Timberlake, who is a sneaky good actor, could make this even better.

Hotel Transylvania — Looks like a kind of fun animated feature with an excellent voice cast that includes Adam Sandler, Steve Buscemi, and Andy Samberg.

Won't Back Down — This looks like a fun movie inspired by a true story. We need to start paying attention to what's happening with public education in this country, and this movie shines a light on that. Great cast too, led by Maggie Gyllenhaal and Viola Davis.