July is behind us and the scorching heat of August has begun. Some movie insiders consider this month to be a “dump month,” meaning that studios release films they feel won’t be big commercial or critical hits. Here’s hoping the following movies prove them wrong.
Leap (PG)
Aug. 30 sees the premiere of Leap, directed by Eric Summer and starring the voices of Elle Fanning, Dane DeHaan, Carly Rae Jespen and Maddie Ziegler (of Dance Moms fame). The animated movie follows an orphan girl trying to satisfy her dream of becoming a ballerina. Children will love this movie and all of its music.
The Dark Tower (NR)
On Aug. 4, The Dark Tower opens. Directed and co-written by Nikolaj Arcel, the film is based on the Stephen King novel series of the same name. Idris Elba portrays Roland Deschain/The Gunslinger whose main objective is to protect the mythical Dark Tower, which supports all the realities of the world. Mathew McConaughey plays the villain Walter o’Dim/The Man in Black, who competes to gain control of the Tower.
Tom Taylor plays 11-year-old boy Jake Chambers, who upon discovering clues of the existence of another dimension, gets taken away to help Roland on his quest. There are already talks of sequels and a television series to follow this exciting adventure.
The Hitman’s Bodyguard (R)
On Aug. 18, The Hitman’s Bodyguard hits theaters. Directed by Patrick Hughes, the film stars Gary Oldman, Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson. Reynolds plays a special agent who usually body guards the good guys. Tasked to guard his foe, played by Jackson, the two must escape danger in order for Jackson’s character to testify, thus bringing down one of the most powerful dictators in the world. Hilarious antics ensue.
The Glass Castle (PG-13)
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, Aug. 11 debuts The Glass Castle, starring Brie Larson, Naomi Watts and Woody Harrelson. The movie is based on the 2005 memoir written by Jeannette Walls of the same name. It is a coming of age movie following a young girl’s struggles to survive her dysfunctional family, which includes an alcoholic father and an eccentric mother. Larson puts on another powerful performance as Walls.
All Saints (PG)
Steve Gomer directs All Saints, which debuts in theaters on Aug. 25. John Corbett, Cara Buono, Barry Corbin and David Keith star in the faith-based movie that is based on the true story of Michael Spurlock (John Corbett), a salesman turned pastor who is sent to close a small church down. He and a group of refugees work together to save the church and themselves. A definite feel good movie for the end of summer.
So beat the heat and head to an air conditioned theater to see one of these or the many other movies out there for your enjoyment. See you at the movies!
