Upcoming Releases — February

January is nearly gone, so it's time to look ahead to the new movies coming our way in February. And, as per usual, the Valentine's Day weekend includes a romantic film and one you probably wouldn't expect.

Friday, February 1:
Warm Bodies — This looks like an intriguing film. It plays on the current zombie craze, but it takes things in a new direction. Namely, this is an interesting romantic comedy twist on the whole zombie movement. The trailer is engrossing and amusing, so let's hope the movie offers that same vibe.

Bullet to the Head — Sylvester Stallone starring in a movie from Walter Hill. If this were 1988, we'd all be excited. But it's 2013. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Stallone may still be trying to star in big action films, but it just doesn't work anymore. Nothing about this trailer works...

Stand Up Guys — An interesting pairing for Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, and Alan Arkin — a trio who've all won Academy Awards. This movie looks like an interesting piece from a few guys who recognize what age/stage of life they're in and are trying to find projects accordingly.

Friday, February 8:
Identity Thief — I think the trailer for this movie really says it all. Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy are great comedic talents, so I have high hopes for this film being funny. Between this and "The Heat," it could be a big spring for McCarthy.

Side Effects — This could be the last feature from director Steven Soderberg. He says it is, but only time will tell. It looks like a solid and engrossing drama featuring his new collaboration buddy — Channing Tatum — and Rooney Mara, in her first major release since "The Girl With The Dragon Tatoo." Looks like it could be an interesting and engrossing drama.

Thursday, February 14:
A Good Day to Die Hard — In 1988, Bruce Willis brought the iconic character of John McClane to life in "Die Hard." We've never forgotten about the salty New York City cop who has a habit of stumbling into gun play. In this the fifth — yes fifth — outing in the franchise, McClane is in Russia, for some reason, fighting terrorists alongside his grown son. This might not be the same movie it was two decades ago, but it's hard not to get a little excited for another "Die Hard" movie. Unless, of course, you're a lady looking for a romantic Valentine's Day film. In that case...

Safe Haven — From author Nicholas Sparks. That's really all you need to know. That, and bring some Kleenex. This one stars Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough. It's probably got some rough, emotional spots and lot of romantic moments too.

Beautiful Creatures — Another in the line of heir-apparents to the "Twilight" void in theaters. This one is about a forbidden love and witches. Enjoy tweens!

Escape From Planet Earth — And for the kiddos, an animated feature about aliens. This one has the voice talents of Brendan Fraser and Sarah Jessica Parker. Given the dearth of family-friendly programming released so fat this year, this will be a welcome addition for parents.

Friday, February 22:
Snitch — A hardcore action film starring The Rock. The trailers look pretty good and this could be a nice action drama. Looks a little more gritty than some of the Rock's recent fare.

Dark Skies — Um, this looks awful. It's a combination of a haunted house film and an alien invasion film. I don't know what else to say other than, instead, you might want to see "Die Hard" again.