By David Seaman
Here is a sampling of anticipated films being released during break. These films range from computer-animated adventures to dramas. Some may entertain you, some may make you think; hopefully most will do both.
'The Croods' March 22 The first film from DreamWorks Animation to be distributed by 20th Century Fox, "The Croods" is a computer-animated adventure comedy featuring the voice talents of Nicolas Cage and Emma Stone. The plot revolves around a prehistoric family forced to flee their home after it is destroyed by a disaster. As the protective caveman father tries to lead his family to safety, the clan comes across Guy, a teenager with crazy inventions-like fire. As Dad's outdated ideas clash with Guy's boldness, the whole gang must reach a strange new land that is safe from an impending catastrophe. Early reviews of the film have been positive, and after a string of successful films such as "Rise of the Guardians," DreamWorks has come to rival Pixar in the computer-animated department. This could be the first great animated film of 2013.
'The Sapphires' March 22 "The Sapphires" is inspired by the true story of four indigenous Australian women who form an all-girl group to sing to troops during the Vietnam War. After being discovered by an inexperienced talent scout, the girls learn about love, friendship and war as they entertain overseas. The film was screened out of competition at the Cannes Film Festival last May and was released in Australia last August. Earning positive reviews so far, it has been dubbed by some as the Australian version of "Dreamgirls." "The Sapphires" has already won 11 awards at Australia's version of the Oscars, and the film's brand new cast and story has stirred viewers' souls.
'Olympus Has Fallen' March 22 Gerard Butler plays Mike Banning, a disgraced former presidential guard-turned secret service agent. After North Korean terrorists capture the White House and take the President hostage, the national security team has to rely on Banning's inside knowledge to save America. Although it has a ridiculous premise, the film boasts top-acting talent with the likes of Aaron Eckhart and Morgan Freeman. This also is not the first film this year with a White House takeover. June's "White House Down" has Channing Tatum rescuing President Jamie Foxx. With its controversial premise and plot, "Olympus Has Fallen" is sure to draw comments.
'G.I. Joe: Retaliation' March 28 Delaying a movie based on a toy line can cause big problems. Originally scheduled for a release next June, this "G.I. Joe" sequel was put on hold to add 3-D and to boost interest overseas. Unfortunately, the film was heavily advertised for the previous release date and had "warehouses" full of toys on the line, according to deadline.com. Other reasons for the delay were to re-shoot scenes that would strengthen the relationship between the lead characters played by Channing Tatum and Dwayne Johnson, apparently the most popular aspect of test screenings. Johnson has been a popular choice with audience members, and the addition of Bruce Willis and the returning Tatum should hopefully revitalize the franchise after a lackluster first film.
'The Place Beyond the Pines' March 29 A film sure to cause buzz when awards season comes around, "The Place Beyond the Pines" tells the parallel stories of a motorcycle stunt performer and rookie cop, respectively played by Oscar bait Ryan Gosling and Bradley Cooper. When stunt man Luke learns he has a son, he tries to provide for his family by becoming a car mechanic. This leads to Luke's involvement in a string of robberies. Cop Avery (Cooper), also a father, must confront Luke while dealing with a corrupt police department. Eventually the sins of the fathers will pass to both men's sons. Blessed with acclaimed upcoming director Derek Cianfrance, whose "Blue Valentine" was a critical favorite, "The Place Beyond the Pines" promises to be a thoughtful and intelligent crime drama.
