Summer Movie Scene Pt. 1

It's that time again, the summer movie season is upon up. On this, the final day of April, I thought I would begin my look at 10 reasons we should be excited about this summer's lineup. Part one (today) will look at May and June releases with Part Two (tomorrow) focusing on July and August releases. Though this summer doesn't look as well planned as some, there are still some films that could be diamonds in the rough.

Here's a look at the first five potential contenders:

1. Iron Man 2 — May 7
Starring: Robert Downey, Jr., Don Cheadle, Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johansson, and Mickey Rourke.
Quick Take: When the first "Iron Man" debuted in 2008, I was excited. The character seems perfectly suited to it's star — Downey, Jr. — and the film didn't disappoint. "Iron Man" also left its hero, Tony Stark, in a unique position as he outed himself to the world. The sequel picks up from there and shows how Stark continues to serve as Iron Man while the villains of the world paint a target on his back. This film should be a great way to kick off the summer.

2. Robin Hood — May 14
Starring: Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, and Mark Strong
Quick Take: A decade ago Crowe and director Ridley Scott teamed to give the world "Gladiator." Five years before that, Mel Gibson gave the world "Braveheart." This latest incarnation of "Robin Hood" appears to ride a fine line between those two films, with the obvious winners being the audience. Crowe is perfect in this type of role and Scott has shown his quality as a director, particularly in this genre, over the years. This could end up being the most complete summer epic.

3. MacGruber — May 21
Starring: Will Forte, Kristen Wiig, and Ryan Phillippe
Quick Take: This film, based on the SNL sketches that are a send up of MacGyver, looks like it might be one of the hidden gems of the summer. It's also possible all the film's funny moments are in the trailer. Either way, it's that kind of year. In the bonus column, Wiig has proven to be comedy gold of late.

4. The A-Team — June 11
Starring: Bradley Cooper, Liam Neeson, Sharlto Copley, and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson
Quick Take: A re-make of the classic 1980s TV show, this film is about four disgraced soldiers seeking redemption as mercenaries for hire. The first trailer looked cliche but the second trailer offered some promise. This film could be one of the biggest gambles of the summer, and it could also be one of the better action/comedy adventures.

5. Jonah Hex — June 18
Starring: Josh Brolin and Megan Fox
Quick Take: Based on the comic of the same name, the film follows a bounty hunter battling terrorists in the post Civil War era. One of the most unique concepts among films this summer, it could be the perfect summer adventure. Plus, the early visuals look amazing.

Also playing:

Unnecessary animated sequels: Shrek Forever After, May 21; Toy Story 3, June 18

Unnecessary sequels: Sex In The City 2, May 28; Get Him to the Greek, June 4

Unnecessary 1980s Remake: The Karate Kid, June 11

Unnecessary Adam Sandler Comedy: Grown Ups, June 25

Twilight Alert: Twilight Saga: Eclipse, June 30

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