Equality of the sexy

I'm a big proponent of gender equality on film.

Yet, while most cinematic chicks drop top and trou at the slightest suggestion, male stars take a lot longer to get out of their skivvies. (The exception being shirtless wonder Matthew McConaughey.)

That's why I was gratified to see two sterling examples of male nudity on the silver screen recently -- with nary a female nipple or derriere in sight.

In "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story," mock rocker Dewey Cox (John C. Reilly) holds an entire phone conversation with an extra's ... ahem ... member in plain sight.

Wide-angle shots of star Jason Segel's nude torso -- both front and back -- bookend "Forgetting Sarah Marshall."

It's done for comic effect, obviously, but the result is two-fold.

At first, we get a guilty, gross-out pleasure from the sight of Segel in his birthday suit. By the end of the movie, when Segal is embracing his fully clothed co-star (Mila Kunis), his nudity seems downright blasé.

Both of these examples come to us from producer Judd Apatow and pals. That's right -- the same guys that brought you a pale, slightly bloated Will Ferrell in his tighty-whities.

Apatow's message is clear: For men, nudity means vulnerability. It means comedy.

Amd while we might giggle at Kathy Bates in a hot tub ("About Schmidt") or Eddie Murphy in a female fat suit ("Norbit"), few women on film get laughs when they slip off their sundresses.

It sounds more like a wistful sigh.

-- Sarah L.

"Highway to the danger zone"

First, a prologue:

"On March 3, 1969 the United States Navy established an elite school for the top one percent of its pilots. Its purpose was to teach the lost art of aerial combat and to insure that the handful of men who graduated were the best fighter pilots in the world. They succeeded. Today, the Navy calls it Fighter Weapons School. The flyers call it: TOP GUN."

Cue Kenny Loggins' "Danger Zone." It's time for "Top Gun."

Inspired by Ehud Yonay's 1983 article on elite fighter pilots in California, "Top Gun" follows the adventures of Maverick (Tom Cruise), an up-and-coming pilot whose ego often gets in the way of his common sense.

With wingman Goose (Anthony Edwards) by his side and rival Iceman (Val Kilmer) watching his every move, Maverick aims to proves he's the hottest Navy flyer in the air.

Oh yeah, and there's a cute civilian instructor (Kelly McGillis) to woo.

Some moviegoers may not care for "Top Gun's" politics, or its less-than-subtle undertones of homoeroticism. (Quentin Tarantino discusses the subject brilliantly in "Sleep With Me.")

But let's face it, people.

This is a classic flick -- a high-flying action movie with a killer soundtrack, made when Tom Cruise was still sane and Kelly McGillis was the hottest chick in a flight jacket.

There's also a Central Coast connection: McGillis got her start at the Great American Melodrama in Oceano.

To paraphrase a quote from the film: "Top Gun," you can be my wingman any time.

"Top Gun" screens tonight at the Fremont theater, 1025 Monterey St. in San Luis Obispo.

The movie starts at 7:30 p.m., following a half-hour of trivia and prizes. Tickets are $7.50.

-- Sarah L.

("Top Gun" DVD cover courtesy of Movieweb.com)

Movies on a smaller scale

February is a busy month for movie lovers.

We cram into theater after packed theater, eagerly absorbing the year’s best films in anticipation of that giant circus-cum-popularity contest known as the Oscars. By the actual awards ceremony rolls around, we can barely keep our glazed eyes open.

If you’re weary of big-budget bonanzas like “Atonement” and “There Will Be Blood,” try a few of SLO County’s less frenzied screenings.

No Joan Rivers. No Gucci. We promise.

On Wednesday, take a peak into the life of William Randolph Hearst.

The Cambria Film Society will screen "The Cat's Meow," about the newspaper magnate and silent film star Charlie Chaplin, vying for the affection of the same woman.

That screening is 7 p.m. at the Theatre at the Old Grammer School, 1350 Main St. in Cambria. Tickets are $3. Call 927-8190 to learn more.

Also on Wednesday, head to Templeton for a potluck dinner and HopeDance magazine’s screening of “Two Angry Moms.” The documentary chronicles Amy Kalafa and Susan Rubin’s mission to get school districts to serve fresh, healthy foods.

Dinner starts at 6 p.m. at Dancing Deer Ranch, 2975 Vineyard Drive in Templeton, followed by the movie at 7 p.m. A donation of $5 to $10 is suggested.

Sandra Dimond of North County Farmers Markets will hold a Q&A session following the screening.

Miss “Moms”? You can catch two more screenings on Friday, Feb. 25, at the San Luis Obispo Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo.

Kim Pasciuto will speak at the 10 a.m. screening.

The panel for the 7 p.m. screening features Kathleen deChadenedes, director of SLOW Food of San Luis Obispo, Eric Michaelsson of Clark Valley Organic Farm in Los Osos, and Nature’s Touch owner Melanie Blankenship, among others.

A donation of $5 is suggested for both screenings.

Visit www.hopedance.org or call 544-9663 for details.

-- Sarah Linn

Movies that teach

This month, it’s time to learn a little.
Through HopeDance Magazine’s ongoing film series, moviegoers will follow locally grown food from the fields to the dinner table, learn about water rights, and explore the Mayan calendar.
The series kicks off Thursday with a screening of “Tableland,” a documentary about local growers, chefs, oyster farmers and bakers who treasure their Central Coast resources.
The event starts at 6 p.m. with dinner from Naked Food Live Cuisine, a raw food delivery service in San Luis Obispo, followed by the film at 7 p.m.
Afterward, there’s a talk by employees of HoneyMoon Café in Pismo Beach.
Tickets are $8 for dinner, or $25 for two people or $15 for one person for dinner and the movie.

December also features the following:

“Escape From Suburbia,” Dec. 10
Environmentally and socially savvy folks seek alternatives to the rampant materialism and waste plaguing today’s world.
The film is followed by a discussion with Cal Poly physics professors Peter Schwartz and Dave Hafemeister, plus Adam Hill, running for the county Board of Supervisors.
A $10 donation is suggested.

“A Drop of Life” and “Water: A Clear Solution,” Dec. 20
The first short film looks at how India and indigenous peoples deal with water, compared to the modern West. The second tackles water scarcity issues.
The event will feature a speaker from SLO Green Build discussing water conservation and sustainability practices.
Organizers suggest a $5 donation.

“In Between 2 Worlds,” Dec. 27
Ever wonder about the differences between the ancient Mayan calendar and the Gregorian calendar we use today?
Filmmaker José Jaramillo examines how measuring time can affect our psyche and our direction in the world. The Mayan scholar will speak at the screening.
A $10 donation is suggested.

All films will be screened at 7 p.m. at the San Luis Obispo City-County Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo.
For more information, visit www.hopedance.org.

-- Sarah L.

Holiday movies: Hit or flop?

Moviegoers, the holidays are upon us.

Today's box office bonanza marks the beginning of the oh-so-lucrative holiday movie season, full of explosive blockbusters, goofy comedies and heart-warming family films.

Here's a sneak peak of the movies opening today in Central Coast theaters, based on previews and trailers:

"August Rush" (Pictured above)
August Rush loves music. In fact, he's a bit of a musical genius, able to master any instrument the way some kids learn multiplication.
More than writing his own symphony, however, the boy longs to find his parents.
Freddie Highmore is darling as ever as the title character. Plus, Keri Russell and Jonathan Rhys Meyers fit well as musicians and lovers.
The plot itself? Saccharine. Forget "August Rush;" this movie is a sugar rush.

"Enchanted"
We're torn about this fractured fairy tale.
On one hand, playing a Disney princess trapped in the real world could make adorable Amy Adams a star.
On the other, Disney seems to be laying on the family-friendly elements with a trowel: a perfect prince (James Marsden), chirping birdies and chipmunks, and a lonely real-life hunk (Dr. McDreamy himself, Patrick Dempsey).
With any luck, however, it'll be "happily ever after" for holiday moviegoers.

"Hitman"
When archaeologists sift through the dung heap of history, here's hoping they never find a copy of "Hitman."
"Hitman," starring "Deadwood's" Timothy Olyphant as a bald assassin on a deadly mission, is the latest hit video game to be turned into an inane movie.
There are explosions, scantily clad women and carefully choreographed
gun battles. Too bad this movie is missing the most crucial element: a reasonably credible plot.

"The Mist"
A group of citizens take shelter in a supermarket when a mysterious, deadly mist that invades their small town. As tension mounts, terrifying things emerge from the storm.
Nobody does scary better than Stephen King.
Still, we're a bit surprised to see this movie in the hands of Frank Darabont, director of "The Shawshank Redemption" and "The Green Mile."
He usually handles King¹s softer side.

"This Christmas"
Other than Santa spoof "Fred Claus," there doesn't seem to be a lot of holiday spirit at the movies this year. "This Christmas," about a family's long-awaited reunion, is one exception.
Despite a predictable plot -- feuding siblings, family secrets, etc. -- "This Christmas" boasts a solid cast, including Regina King, Delroy Lindo and Sharon Leal ("Boston Public," "Dreamgirls").
Still, the biggest reason to see this movie might be yummy R&B up-and-comer Chris Brown.

Check out The Tribune tomorrow for a closer look at this winter's releases.

-- Sarah L.

Movies that make you think

Another month, another slew of socially progressive movies from HopeDance Magazine.
This September, HopeDance FiLMs focuses on subjects like crop circles, hallucinogens and Mexican factory workers. Central Coast cinephiles can expect movies with a conscience and a message.
The monthly film series starts Friday with “Hacking Democracy,” a documentary about vote-tampering and the flawed vote-counting machines used in the American electoral process.
The film will be shown at sunset in the parking lot of Utopia Bakery, 2900 Broad St. in San Luis Obispo. Bring a chair and warm clothes and blankets.
Donations are encouraged.

The following is a brief rundown of this month’s HopeDance FiLMs:

Sept. 10
“Zeitgeist: Beyond 9/11”
A humorous look at God, money and the truth behind the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. 7 p.m. San Luis Obispo City-County Library, 995 Palm St., San Luis Obispo. $5 suggested donation.

Sept. 14
“The 11th Hour”
Leonardo DiCaprio narrates this documentary about the state of the global environment, and practical solutions for restoring our planet’s ecosystems. This HopeDance fundraiser includes a raffle. 7 p.m. Palm Theatre, 817 Palm St., SLO. $10.

Sept. 17
“Star Dreams”
A look at the art and mystery of crop circles. 7 p.m. SLO Library. $10.

Sept. 21
“Peace One Day”
Peace activist Jeremy Gilley works with the United Nations, world and religious leaders and ordinary citizens to declare a global Day of Peace. Sunset. Utopia Bakery. Donation suggested.

Sept. 22
“Maquilapolis”
Works struggle for survival in the massive sweatshops just across the Mexican border known as maquiladoras, often owned by the world’s largest corporations. 7 p.m. Steynberg Gallery, 1531 Monterey St., SLO. Free.

Sept. 28
“Entheogen: Awakening the Divine Within”
Documentary director Rod Mann will be on hand to speak about hallucinogens and the modern world. 7 p.m. SLO Library. $10.

For more information, visit HopeDance's Web site.

-- Sarah L.

Two inspirational tales

This month, HopeDance Magazine celebrates two social reformers with a strong will to succeed with the movies "Believe in Me" and "An Unreasonable Man."

"Believe in Me" follows a young coach whose hopes are dashed when he’s assigned to head the local girls’ basketball team in Oklahoma in the early 1960s.

With the help of his wife, the coach overcomes his doubts, battles prejudice against girls playing competitive sports and leads the ragtag team to the state championship.

The movie, which stars Jeffrey Donovan, Samantha Mathis and Bruce Dern, is based on the true story of Jim Keith, now a member of the Oklahoma High School Coaches Hall of Fame, and his Lady Cyclones.

"Believe in Me" will be screened Wednesday at 7 p.m. at the San Luis Obispo City-County Library, in San Luis Obispo. A donation of $10 is suggested.

********

"An Unreasonable Man," to be screened on Wednesday, Aug. 29, highlights one of the most controversial figures of the past half-century Ralph Nader.

As the leader of the consumer advocacy movement, Nader went from a respected attorney responsible for historic health and safety laws to a maligned presidential candidate in 2000.

The film will be shown at 7 p.m. at the SLO Library. Donations of $5 are encouraged.

For more information on both films, check out HopeDance's Web site.

-- Sarah L.

Live from Comic-Con: What to watch

There’s something about San Diego that makes it a pop-culture mecca.
I spent this past weekend at Comic-Con International, the annual celebration of comic books, movies, television shows, video games and animation.
As usual, Hollywood put on a show of force – trotting out stars, screening trailers and “leaking” tons of teasers.
Steven Spielberg greeted Comic-Con fans in a live video feed from the set of the fourth “Indiana Jones” movie, flanked by stars Harrison Ford (looking dustier than the last time he donned the fedora and whip) and Shia LeBeouf.
“300” director Zack Snyder announced casting for the highly anticipated film adaptation of Alan Moore’s “Watchmen.”
And Zachary Quinto, best known as serial killer Sylar on NBC’s “Heroes,” made his first appearance as Spock in the upcoming “Star Trek” film. Leonard Nimoy praised the choice as “logical.”
Here’s a handful of upcoming films that caught my eye in San Diego.

“Hot Rod”

Andy Samberg of “Saturday Night Live” tucks his curly mop under a motorcycle helmet to play the title Hot Rod, a Evel Knievel wannabe preparing for the ultimate jump.
Rod plans to jump 15 buses to raise money for a heart operation for his abusive dad (Ian McShane, “Deadwood”). Problem is, he’s just not very good.
Samberg promoted the comedy at Comic-Con with his pals from the Lonely Island comedy troupe, director Akiva Schaffer and co-star Jorma Taccone.
They even showed a clip: A frustrated Samberg goes to his “quiet place” – a woodland clearing – and launches into acrobatic rock n’ roll free-styling reminiscent of “Footloose.” Then, of course, he spends about five minutes tumbling painfully down a hill.
I pity the poor stuntman.
From the looks of it, “Hot Rod” isn’t as funny as it could be, and talents like McShane seem a little wasted. I’d rather watch a two-hour video by The Lonely Island.
For a better sense at what Samberg and Co. can do, check out www.thelonelyisland.com.

Release date: Friday


“Shoot ‘Em Up”

“Shoot ‘Em Up” screens like a furiously funny love letter to John Woo, bristling with slick action sequences, smart one-liners and a gritty palette fit for the darkest of crime dramas.
The movie opens on Clive Owen, brooding as usual, as he helps a pregnant woman deliver in the midst of a firefight. He spends the rest of the film with an infant under his arm, defending the kid against scenery-gobbling gangster Paul Giamatti and an army of thugs.
Either he’s the toughest nanny this side of “Kindergarten Cop,” or this mysterious stranger has an agenda.
Add the meltingly hot Monica Belluci to the mix, and you have yourself one hell of a movie.
Director/writer Michael Davis was kind enough to screen three long clips at Comic-Con, showing Owen mowing down bad guys while sliding on his back on an oil slick, vaulting off a table and shimmying down a factory conveyor belt. That, and a memorable use of a whole carrot.
All in all, this movie’s got dynamite up its sleeve.

Release date: Sept. 7


“The King of Kong”
In a year of high-flying fantasy and big-budget action, one of the movies’ most fascinating stories might be one that takes place at an arcade.
The documentary “The King of Kong” plunges viewers into the weird world of competitive video games, where players compete for top scores in Space Invaders and TRON.
Back in 1982, Billy Mitchell made history by scoring 874,300 on Nintendo’s Donkey Kong.
Fast-forward to 2003, when a challenger appears on the scene – Steve Wiebe, a middle-school science teacher from Redmond, Wash.
When Wiebe logs a record-breaking million-point game, Mitchell and electronic goalkeeper Twin Galaxies challenge the score – and a battle of wills begins.
In the end, “The King of Kong” is a study in contrasts between Mitchell, a charismatic hot sauce mogul who’s used to getting what he wants, and Wiebe, a kind-hearted family guy whose life has been a string of near-successes.
As the filmmakers explained, the documentary is headed for a fictional adaptation. Learn more at the "King of Kong" Web site and www.twingalaxies.com.

Release date: Aug. 17


“Balls of Fury”

I see “Balls of Fury” as this year’s “Dodgeball,” another goofy, likeable movie about an obscure sport that’s taken way, way too seriously.
The comedy may lack a certain amount of smarts and heart, but it’s crammed with gross-out gags, comedic cameos and jokes about – you guessed it – balls.
Newcomer Dan Fogler plays Randy Daytona, a once-promising ping pong prodigy who now makes a meager living performing for senior citizens at a Peppertree resort.
Daytona’s luck turns when he’s approached by the FBI. They need the paddler to help them take down Feng, a warlord who holds “Street Fighter”-style ping pong tournaments at his jungle compound.
Christopher Walken is suitably weird as the flamboyant warlord, deadpanning lines and sporting a wardrobe made for Liberace.
Co-writer Thomas Lennon (“Reno 911”) is the requisite East German pro. (What is it about this guy and tiny, skintight shorts?) Maggie Q, however, fails to wow as Daytona’s ass-kicking love interest.
Most of the movie’s laughs go to the shameless, hilarious James Hong, who plays Daytona’s blind ping pong teacher. (You’ll recognize him from “Blade Runner” and “Big Trouble in Little China.”)
He gives this sometimes spotty comedy some balls.

Release date: Aug. 31


-- Sarah L.

Movies that illuminate

Sick of summer blockbusters?
Local moviegoers can trade big-budget special effects for inspirational films about the bigger picture, thanks to HopeDance Magazine’s ongoing series.
This month, HopeDance FiLMs will screen “Living Luminaries,” “Sophie Scholl” and “Encounter Point” at the San Luis Obispo City County Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo.
All screenings are at 7 p.m.
The first film, “Living Luminaries: The Serious Business of Happiness,” plays tonight.
Featuring interviews with Eckhart Tolle, Marianne Williamson and others, the documentary addresses questions about God, purpose and happiness from a religious and spiritual perspective. A $10 donation is suggested.
“Sophie Scholl: The Final Days,” which will be screened July 24 at 7 p.m., chronicles the final six days of Germany’s most famous World War II activist. The film follows Sophie Scholl, a member of anti-Nazi resistance group The White Rose, from her arrest to her interrogation by the Gestapo, her trial and sentence.
The 2005 film won several international awards and an Oscar nomination for best foreign-language film.
“Sophie Scholl” will be screened July 24 at 7 p.m., with a suggested donation of $5 to $10.
On July 30, local filmgoers can explore the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from the front lines with “Encounter Point.”
Among the subjects of the documentary are a former Israeli settler, a Palestinian ex-prisoner, a grieving Israeli mother and a wounded Palestinian brother. Together, they launch a grassroots movement for nonviolence and piece.
HopeDance encourages a $10 donation.

For more information, visit www.hopedance.org/.

Bloody "Farm House" filming up north

Brian from “Wings,” a “Star Trek” Romulan commander and the psychic girl from “Heroes” on one Central Coast movie set? Who’da thunk it.
The cast of the psychological thriller “Farm House” is currently filming in the countryside west of Bradley, production spokesman Terrance Gillum said.
According to Gillum, “Farm House” follows a young married couple, Chad and Scarlet, as they head west to escape their tragic past.
When a horrific car crash leaves the duo stranded in the desolate Midwest, they come into the care of Samael and Arlene. But the country folks turn on their new guests.
According to Gillum, the Alliance Group Entertainment film takes some of its inspiration from Dante’s “Inferno.”
Steven Weber (“Wings,” “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip”) and the lovely Kelly Hu (“X-Men: United,” “The Scorpion King”) lead the “Farmhouse” cast as the creepy country couple.
William Lee Scott (“Pearl Harbor”) and Jamie Brown (“The Notebook”) are the young lovers.
The rest of the cast ranges from Jack Donner, best known as Romulan Subcommander Tal in the original “Star Trek” series, to Adair Tishler, who plays the little girl Molly on NBC’s hit “Heroes.”
Filmmaker George Bessudo also directed “Lake Dead,” set to be released in theaters July 13. In the horror film, three sisters confront the demented family occupying their dead grandfather’s backwoods home, according to genre fansite Bloody-Digusting.com.
“Farm House” also stars Sam Sarpong of MTV’s “Yo Momma,” Drew Sidora of “Step Up” and relative newcomer Nick Heyman.
The film crew plans to stay in the Paso Robles area until July 4, Gillum said. Rumor has it the cast is staying at the Paso Robles Inn.
-- Sarah L.

Month of movies starts with "God Grew Tired of Us"

Tired of the typical summer blockbusters?
Check out a fresh crop of HopeDance FiLMs, starting tonight with “God Grew Tired of Us.”
“God Grew Tired of Us” follows four young African men as they journey from war- and poverty-torn Sudan to a new life in America.
The documentary plays tonight at the San Luis Obispo City-County Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo. Tickets are $5.
On Friday and Saturday, HopeDance Magazine hosts the LOCALization FiLM Festival, featuring films about what it means to be truly local. They’ll be screened at the San Luis Obispo library.
The schedule is as follows:

FRIDAY, 7 p.m.
“A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash”
Attend the world premiere of this documentary about how our civilization’s addiction to oil could lead to a grim future. Made in Switzerland.

SATURDAY
2:30 p.m.
“Independent America: The Two-Lane Search for Mom & Pop”
Director Hanson Hosein goes on the road to discover the struggle between mom-and-pop stores and big-box chains.
Adam Hill, who is running for the county Board of Supervisors, will speak.

4 p.m.
“Slow Food Revolution”
Learn about the worldwide movement to embrace fruit, vegetables, wine and other foods made the old-fashioned way. Slow Food was launched in Italy in response to Europe’s fast-food industry.
Local experts and the owner of Naked Food Live Cuisine will be on hand to answer questions and dish out a light dinner. Call today for a reservation: 550-2487.

6:30 p.m.
“Ourtown”
In this documentary, two mothers fight plans to bring Wal-Mart to their small Maine town. Tom Comar, of Atascadero’s Oppose Wal-Mart group, will speak.

8 p.m.
“Gordo”
This short film follows a Mexican immigrant who leaves his family’s popular taco stand for California.

8:30 p.m.
“Indies Under Fire”
This documentary examines the devastating impact of large bookstore chains on independent book sellers throughout the country. Jim Hill of Novel Experience Books will answer questions.

Tickets are $10 per film or $40 for the entire six-movie series. For more information, call 544-9663 or visit HopeDance’s Web site.

-- Sarah L.

Summer films to see (or not)

There are more movies this summer than there is space in the paper to write about them. We didn't have room to cover all the films we wanted to in this week's Ticket, so here are the rest of the movies we want to see this summer — and a few we think will probably be better left unwatched.

Pat Pemberton’s picks

FOR IT

“Knocked Up”
If I hear that Judd Apatow is involved with a movie, I’m going to see it. His cult favorite TV shows, “Freaks & Geeks” and “Undeclared,” were smart, funny and superbly cast. (Too bad no one saw them.) And “40-Year-Old Virgin” made my face hurt because I was laughing and smiling so much.
Apatow has been quoted to say that he wanted to make Seth Rogan a leading man, and this is his vehicle for that. (Rogan, like much of the “Knocked Up” cast, is an Apatow regular.) The premise is simple: A one-night stand between an incompatible couple results in a pregnancy that forces them to come together. But with Apatow’s writing and a proven cast (including Paul Rudd, and geek extraordinaire Martin Starr), this is bound to be better than your typical guy-meets-baby movie.
Apatow has the gift of great dialogue. And Rogan’s slacker expressions and carefree delivery articulate the lines to perfection. This is going to be a big hit.
RELEASE DATE: June 1

“Surf’s Up”
Okay, so the penguin thing has gotten out of hand. And, yeah, I still feel a little burned by “Happy Feet.” But this animated CGI flick has two things going for it: It’s about surfing and it stars Jeff “The Dude” Bridges.
Granted, I’m taking a leap of faith here. It could be a letdown. In fact, it could be downright dumb. But the previews were pretty entertaining. And, let’s be honest: It’s probably better than most meathead surf movies you see these days.
The movie is a spoof on surf documentaries like “Riding Giants” with a Greg Noll- like penguin named Big Z setting the stage for a young Rockhopper penguin/shredder named Cody. The mockumentary follows Cody and an old-timer named the Geek (Bridges) to the Big Z Memorial Surf Off.
RELEASE DATE: June 8

“Ratatouille”
The newest Pixar movie was written and directed by Brad Bird, a “Simpsons” alum who wrote “The Incredibles.” This one doesn’t have the ensemble, A-list cast that most Pixar movies have, but it does include Pixar regulars John “Cliff” Ratzenberger and Brad Garrett. The movie follows a rat who dreams of becoming a chef and a boy who wants to help him realize his dream.
Pixar has scored huge successes with the “Toy Story” movies, “Finding Nemo,” “Monsters, Inc.” and others. But its latest, “Cars,” was my least favorite. Then again, I’m not wild about car racing. So I’m eager to see them bounce back.
RELEASE DATE: June 29

FORGET IT

“Live Free or Die Hard”
Gee, how many terrorist plots can one detective thwart? Better yet, how many cars can they smash in one movie? If the trailers are any indication, there will be lots of twisted metal, a parade of explosions and even a downed helicopter or two.
I actually liked the first two “Die Hard” movies, which became synonymous with the action movie genre. But, as with many serials, the third one marked the downfall. And, I suspect, the fourth will continue the dreadful trend.
Need evidence? The film was written by Mark Bomback, whose limited credits include “Godsend” (3 percent approval rating on Rottentomatoes.com) and “The Night Caller” (Never heard of it? Join the club.) It was directed by Len Wiseman, who gave us “Underworld” (a.k.a., “Lame”) and “Underworld: Evolution” (a.k.a., “Lame: Still”).
You’d think such a huge, money-making franchise would attract talented writers and directors. Bruce Willis should’ve let this one die after the original sequel in 1990.
RELEASE DATE: June 27

Sarah Linn’s picks

FOR IT

“28 Weeks Later”
Blood? Gore? Scary-fast zombies? Count me in.
“28 Weeks Later” promises just as many jump-out-of-your-seat moments as Danny Boyle’s original scare-fest.
More artful than 2004’s “Dawn of the Dead” remake and spookier than most modern horror movies, “28 Days Later” set the bar for a new generation of cinematic creep-outs.
From the looks of it, “28 Weeks Later” should pick up exactly where it left off. Expect lots of running, screaming and flying body parts.
Here’s the plot: Six months after a devasting “rage” virus decimated Great Britain, a handful of survivors return to London with the help of the U.S. military. One is an unbeknownst carrier, and soon England is once again overrun.
Supernaturally talented Scottish actor Robert Carlyle stands out in this cast of mostly unknowns. Chances are he’ll turn in a star performance as a desperate dad before expiring in a gruesome plot twist.
“28 Days Later” director Danny Boyle has handed over the reins to Spanish-born Juan Carlos Fresnadillo, who’s only done a few foreign-language thrillers. Then again, he won an Oscar nod for the 1997 short “Esposados.”
RELEASE DATE: Friday

“Evan Almighty”
This comedy has everything: cuddly animals, Biblical jokes (nothing says “family friendly” like gags about Noah’s Ark) and comedian-of-the-hour Steve Carrell at his most fumbling and befuddled.
Director Tom Shadyac returns with this sequel to “Bruce Almighty,” featuring Jim Carrey as a newscaster who’s given divine powers. Carrell played Bruce’s hated rival.
In “Evan Almighty,” Evan Baxter has given up life as a TV personality for public service as a U.S. congressman. He’s just settling in when God (Morgan Freeman, of course) tells him to build an ark in preparation for a new flood.
It’s unclear how this movie morphed from a script called “The Passion of the Ark,” but “Evan Almighty” could prove yet another great vehicle for Carrell. He’s tactless in “The Office,” clueless in “Anchorman” and sweet in “The 40-Year-Old Virgin.” In short, just about brilliant.
Plus, Santa Maria special effects firm Café FX contributed some of the movie’s creature features. I’ve glimpsed some of the work-in-progress but — sorry, kids — my lips are sealed.
RELEASE DATE: June 22

FORGET IT

“Delta Farce”
When blue-collar comedian Larry the Cable Guy came to the California Mid-State Fair, his staff denied The Tribune’s request for an interview because he was busy filming a movie.
“Delta Farce,” an overblown mess of firearms and flatulence, is that movie.
Three inept National Guardsman bound for Iraq accidentally land in Mexico and wind up defending the villagers from bandits a la “The Magnificent Seven” and “Three Amigos.”
Here’s the problem: Larry the Cable Guy — nom de reality Daniel Whitney — ain’t no Yul Brynner. Heck, he ain’t no Chevy Chase!
I won’t go so far as to say it makes “Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector” look like “Hamlet,” because, in all fairness, I haven’t seen that particular cinematic treasure. Suffice it to say that “Delta Farce” will bore even the easily amused, offend anyone with ties to the military and the Mexican people, and grate nerves every time the phrase “Git ‘er done” crosses Larry’s rosebud lips.
Still curious? Just remember, you’ll never get back those 90 minutes.
RELEASE DATE: Friday

“Rush Hour 3”
I know what you’re thinking: Didn’t this come out, like, three years ago?
Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan are back in action in the unwanted, unexpected sequel to “Rush Hour 2.”
Bug-eyed Tucker’s playing his typical fast-talking ladies man. Chan is gentle, genial and, unfortunately, starting to show his age.
And it’s set in … Paris?!
“Rush Hour 3” pits our heroes against the Chinese-run criminal underground in a script apparently penned by fifth graders. There’s inane dialogue, crotch gags and a host of weird casting choices like Max Von Sydow as the chief of France’s police.
Who can guess why Roman Polanski took a cameo as a sadistic airport security officer? (You almost expect him to sneer, “You know what happens to nosy fellows? … They lose their noses.”)
It’s been six long years since “Rush Hour 2,” and nearly a decade since the original “Rush Hour.” So why are they polishing off this worthless trilogy now?
Director Brett Ratner must have some time to kill between “X-Men” movies.
RELEASE DATE: Aug. 10

Jay Thompson’s picks

FOR IT

“Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer”
After defeating Dr. Doom in the 2005 film, the team has resumed their (normal/fantastic) lives when a new villain threatens to destroy the planet in this latest Marvel installment. Villains make an action movie swing, and I’m anxious to see just what damage the Silver Surfer commits on the planet. The silver dude, Norrin Radd , a young astronomer from the planet Zenn-La, has what might best be described as a complex back story — sometimes the bad man, at times the good. But, my, how he shines (and he surfs through the air, tunnels, even buses). And he’s armed with quite the formidable array of powers: superhuman strength, energy manipulation, mind control, molecular transmutation, ability to travel at trans-light speeds, cosmic awareness and control over the fundamental forces. I passed on the original, but this hood ornament of a bad guy has already piqued my interest. Directed by Tim Story (“Fantastic Four”).
RELEASE DATE: June 15

Justin Hoeger’s picks

FOR IT

“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”
Yes, “Dead Man’s Chest” was overlong and overstuffed, but by Davy Jones’ octopus beard I enjoyed it. And, as I mentioned in a previous movie feature, I can’t quit a movie (or a movie series) without knowing how it all turns out. Plus, the Kraken is really cool.
So, yes, I’ll be there to see “At World’s End,” partly for completism, and partly because I find it hard to believe that a movie starring Johnny Depp, Keira Knightley, Bill Nighy, Geoffrey Rush, Chow Yun Fat and Stellan Skarsgård isn’t going to be worth seeing, even if it is a bloated, overlong threequel. Orlando Bloom’s getting a bit boring, though.
RELEASE DATE: May 25

“The Bourne Ultimatum”
The last “Bourne” movie suffered a serious case of jerky-cam cinematography, but I still loved it. And that’s largely because of Matt Damon’s strong turn as amnesiac murder machine Jason Bourne. He’s just about the deadliest special operative onscreen these days. I mean, this is a guy who brings a magazine to a knife fight. And wins. It doesn’t get any more badass than that. James who?
RELEASE DATE: Aug. 3

“Stardust”
Neil Gaiman is a, well, fantastic author of fantasy stories, deftly mixing bits and pieces of world mythology with interesting characters, clever story lines and a liberal dash of quirky humor. “Stardust” is one of his shorter works, but it seems just right for a movie — the story is simple and visual, but there are lots of adventures on the way for a man who leaves his small village to find a fallen star. With a novel this lean, hopefully the filmmakers won’t excise or change large portions of the tale as so often happens.
The book’s story is stronger than that of his collaborative project “Mirrormask” so I have hope the narrative will hold together better than it did in that film, which was visually amazing but fell sort of flat otherwise. My only concerns lie with the casting — Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer and Claire Danes are all in prominent parts, and all are fine actors, but I’m not sure the film can withstand the baggage they bring, especially De Niro.
RELEASE DATE: Aug. 10

FORGET IT

“Hostel: Part II”
I was intrigued by the original “Hostel,” but after seeing a few gory stills of the flick I decided I didn’t really want to see a dude get his fingers chainsawed off or a Japanese girl have her face blowtorched. The movie just seemed too mean-spirited and pointless to be enjoyable. I’m no stranger to, nor am I squeamish about, movie violence. But movie violence in such a bleak, pointless way is, for me, about as far from the reason I go see movies as it can get. I like escapism, and there’s not much fun in escaping to a place as bad as one can imagine.
RELEASE DATE: June 8

“License to Wed”
The poster is enough to turn me off to this one: Robin Williams dressed as a priest, lying on a bed between Mandy Moore and Jim from “The Office.” Ugh. Thanks for that image, Mr. Williams. Include me out.
RELEASE DATE: July 4

Bikes and Buddhism

HopeDance Magazine returns in May with progressive-minded documentaries about bikes, Buddhism and biodiversity.
The film series kicks off today with "Manufactured Landscapes," Canadian filmmaker Jennifer Baichwal’s stunning look at humankind’s impact on the world around it.
The film, which starts at 7 p.m., follows photographer Edward Burtynsky as he documents the effects of industry and manufacturing on landscapes throughout the world. Tickets are $5.
All films will be shown at the San Luis Obispo City-County Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo.

Catch the following films this month:

MAY 14
"Words of My Perfect Teacher," 7 p.m.
Three students on a quest for wisdom seek out one of the world's most eminent Buddhist teachers. Cameos by Steven Seagal and Bernardo Bertolucci. $10.

MAY 18
Amateur Bike Shorts, 7 p.m.
Love bikes? HopeDance kicks off its BiKE FiLM Festival with an evening of short films by locals. As per festival rules, each film has a strong pro-bike or anti-car message and runs 10 minutes or less. $5.

MAY 19
"Contested Streets" and "Pedal," 7 p.m.
HopeDance's celebration of National Bike Month continues with these two reels-on-wheels. "Contested Streets" chronicles the evolution of New York City's busy, bustling streets, while "Pedal" looks at that city’s bike messengers. $10, $5 for bicyclists and folks on foot.

MAY 21
“Soul Searching: The Journey of Thomas Merton,” 7 p.m.
Filmmaker Morgan Atkinson brings insight to the spiritual journey of the well-known Trappist monk, theologian, author and activist. He’s set to speak after the screening. $10.

MAY 22
"Planet Earth: The Future," 6:30 p.m.
This companion series to The Discovery Channel’s eye-opening “Planet Earth” highlights the issues surrounding the conservation of Earth’s natural splendor. Donation requested.

MAY 25
"America: From Freedom to Fascism," 4:30 p.m.
Aaron Russo connects the creation of the Federal Reserve system to the loss of civil liberties in America in this documentary, also screened last month. Donation requested.

-- Sarah L.

Hope and drama on film

Looking for movies that move you, change you and make you think?
Check out HopeDance Films, the local movie series sponsored by San Luis Obispo’s HopeDance Magazine, dedicated to environmental and social issues.
Each movie addresses a separate social issue and costs $7 or less.
The series continues tonight with at 7 p.m. with “Born Into Brothels,” the Oscar-winning documentary about the children of prostitutes in Calcutta’s notorious red light district. In the movie, filmmakers Zana Briski and Ross Kauffman teach the children to take photographs of their poverty-stricken surroundings, giving them hope of a better life.
“Born Into Brothels” is being screened in connection to Cal Poly’s Diversity Awareness Film Festival.
Like all films in the HopeDance series, the movie will be shown at the San Luis Obispo City-County Library, 995 Palm St. in San Luis Obispo. Tickets are $5.

HopeDance Films continues this month with the following films:

FRIDAY
“Black Gold,” 7 p.m.
Filmmakers Nick and Marc Francis follow an Ethiopian coffee grower as he struggles to find fair trade in an industry dominated by multinational corporations. $7.

SATURDAY
“America: From Freedom to Fascism,” 7 p.m.
Aaron Russo connects the creation of the Federal Reserve system to the loss of civil liberties in America. $5.

APRIL 20
“Planet Earth,” 7 p.m.
Celebrate Earth Day with parts one and two of the Discovery Channel series about our planet’s natural splendor and diversity, narrated by David Attenborough. Free.

APRIL 21
“Planet Earth,” 7 p.m.
The Earth Day celebration continues with parts three and four of “Planet Earth.” Free.

APRIL 27
“Dark Water Rising,” 7 p.m.
Filmmaker Mike Shiley, who wrote and directed the acclaimed documentary “Inside Iraq,” looks at volunteers’ efforts to rescue thousands of pets in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. $6

Learn more at HopeDance Magazine's Web site

- Sarah L.