Upcoming Releases — July

July is right around the corner, summer is entering its third month at the theaters, and a few more blockbusters are set for release. Here's a look at what's coming this next month.

Wednesday, July 2:
Tammy — Melissa McCarthy is a talented actress, and this movie looks like a great vehicle to exploit her unique brand of comedy. McCarthy co-wrote the screenplay with her husband, who also directed this film. So far this summer has been better for outrageous comedy than for action, and this seems like it continues that trend.

Earth to Echo — A couple years ago J.J. Abrams offered "Super 8," a movie that reminded us of "ET" and focused on kids having adventures. This seems to be in that vein, but also with a nod to hand-held, found footage films. The trailer is confusing, but this might appeal to younger moviegoers.

Deliver Us From Evil — Director Scott Derrickson has found a niche. With films like "The Exorcism of Emily Rose" and "Sinister," he is offering a brand of horror/ghost story with religious undertones. This feels like more of the same, but could be a well done thriller.

America — This documentary from the same man that made the hit piece documentary on President Obama a few years ago imagines what the would would look like if the Americans lost the Revolutionary War and our country never came into being. Not sure this is the kind of movie that we really need to see…

Friday, July 11:
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes — When the "Planet of the Apes" prequel came out a few summers back, I was skeptical. After all, the last time the "Apes" franchise was re-booted, it didn't work. But "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" turned out to be a fun and fascinating film. This newest installment picks up a few years after the events of that first film, and it looks to build on the story. This could be one of the under-the-radar hits of summer.

The Fluffy Movie — This is based on the comedy stylings of Gabriel Iglesias. For fans of his stand up, this will be a summer treat.

And So It Goes — This romantic comedy from Rob Reiner features Diane Keaton and Michael Douglas. It's strong summer counter programming for the more seasoned crowd of moviegoers.

Friday, July 18:
Sex Tape — Cameron Diaz and Jason Segel, and their on-screen chemistry, was the best part of the comedy "Bad Teacher." Now they're back, this time paired in a film that — judging by the trailer — has a more hilarious set up. I have high hopes that this will be a little comedy gold in mid-July.

The Purge: Anarchy — Last summer's film "The Purge" introduced a lot of fascinating social ideas and commentary. It also laid the groundwork for an idea with a lot of possibilities. It succeeded at the Box Office, and now it's born again with a new story exploring different facets of the idea of an annual Purge. Hopefully this is as thought-provoking and well made.

Planes: Fire and Rescue — It's been a hard summer for animated films. Pixar doesn't have an entry this year, and animated features have been few and far between. Through two months just one film — "How to Train Your Dragon 2" — has been released. This follow up to last year's moderately successful "Planes" should help fill a summer niche for younger audiences.

Friday, July 25:
Lucy — It hasn't been a banner year for summer action films. "Lucy" isn't a high profile film, but it has a comic book feel without being beholden to a comic book. Scarlett Johansson has proved her ability to play the action hero, so this could be a nice summer entry.

Hercules — The Rock takes on the titular role here, and the trailers seem to play on his obvious physical talents. Not sure this looks like a good movie, but it will probably have some good action sequences.

Step Up: All In — This is the fifth installment in the dance movie franchise if you're counting. This one returns a few fan favorites — such as Adam G. Sevani's Moose. It takes the action to the "ultimate" dance competition in Las Vegas. There is a certain light entertainment value and charm to these films, especially when they get it right.

Wish I Was Here — Zach Braff made his mark on "Scrubs," but he showed his talent with "Garden State." I was a big fan of that film, so I can't wait to see what he does with his latest indie dramedy feature, "Wish I Was Here." It looks like the kind of gem that you wait for during these long, loud, glitzy summer months.