Hot Movie Releases

The Runaways

Dakota Fanning and Kristen Stewart as 70s rocker girls? Hell yeah, sign me up. I’m sure this one has more melodrama than it needs, and a tab bit of overacting from Stewart, but I still want to see her rock out as Joan Jett in this one, which is based on Neon Angel, the memoirs written by Cherie Currie, who is played by Fanning in the film. Yup, she’s all grown up, and looking good. Do yourself a favor and check this one out.

Cop Out

Kevin Smith directs the first movie he didn’t write with this piece of work, and the results are about what you expect. Two mismatched cops who must work together to get back a stolen baseball card. Bruce Willis and Tracey Morgan star as the dysfunctional duo, and although it has its moments, Cop Out is nothing like Smith’s earlier films except that it falls back on the toilet humor that he’s known for, which almost makes it seem like he’s trying too hard. Oh wait, he is.

The Losers

Action, betrayal, revenge – The Losers has everything you want in a comic-turned-film movie. When a Special Forces unit is sent to the Bolivia jungle, they get double-crossed and are presumed dead. They use that to their advantage, and go undercover to clear their names, and even the score. Jason Patric, Chris Evans, Zoe Saldana, and Jeffrey Dean-Morgan star. I haven’t seen it, and don’t really care to, so you let me know.

TV on DVD

Jersey Shore UNCENSORED Season One

How can you not love a show that has someone named Snooki in it? Apparently a lot of people can’t, but I’m not one of them. While I have no interest whatsoever in Jersey Shore, I realize its appeal, about eight over-the-top young adults and their personal lives, and what attracts people to it. I’m not going to sit here and bash it, because frankly – I don’t have the time. I have a bunion that needs removing, and I’m already five minutes late.

Hot Movie Releases

The Bounty Hunter

As much as this movie fails to interest me, I do have to say that arresting your ex-girlfriend does seem like fun. Regardless, Jennifer Aniston and Gerard Butler do their best impression of Mr. & Mrs. Smith in this, avoiding the bad guys while uncovering a deeper conspiracy, all the while hating one another until the end when…well, I don’t want to spoil it for you, but I think you know where I’m going with this.

Chloe

The only reason I have any interest in seeing this at all is because of Julianne Moore and Amanda Seyfried, two of the hottest women in Hollywood. I doubt Liam Neeson will be his ass-kicking self in this, which is a bit of a downer, but still, seeing him seduced by Seyfried so Moore can find out if he’s being unfaithful should be fun. Hell, I wish someone would try and find out if I’m being unfaithful. I kid, I kid. Seriously though, this new one from Atom Egoyan looks, well…lackluster. That’s all I got to say about that.

TV on DVD

Psych: The Complete Fourth Season

Finally we get to the good stuff. It may be a dysfunctional buddy cop show, but Psych has got the goods when it comes to entertaining viewers through quirkiness. As they face off against a slew of potential suspects that include werewolves, ghosts, a shark, and those they trust, Spencer and Guster remain in good form. I never thought this show would last, but here it is. What can I say? Every once in a while I’m wrong.

Despicable Me

What looks to be a cute family film might actually turn out to be okay. I mean, you can’t go wrong with Steve Carell, Jason Segel, and Russel Brand, can you? Even if they are just voicing the characters of this movie about a man who falls in love with three young girls, and wields an army of underground minions, in order to steal the moon – it looks pretty darn funny from the trailer. I’m sure their wacky humor will be toned down a bit since it’s an animated film, but you adults out there should look out for obscure references that your kids will have no idea about. That’s what makes these movies fun for the whole family.

Predators

No Arnold, no Jesse Ventura, but lots of alien action I’m sure, as the latest chapter in the Predator saga gets released this weekend. I’m not going to lie, I’m excited about this one. I know it will be mindless action, and based on the previews, I can pretty much tell you how it’s going to end. As a series that I’ve loved since I was a kid though, this one is a must-see for me. It kind of resembles the ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin flick, The Condemned, doesn’t it? Just, you know…on an alien planet. I have no idea how they ever got Adrien Brody on board to do this one, but regardless, it should be fun.

Hot Movie Releases

The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo

Personally, I think tattoos on women are sexy, but that’s for another website. We’re here to talk about this film, which is based on the book Men Who Hate Women by the late Stieg Larsson. The title may have changed, and some of the story may have been altered, but that’s the way it goes with Hollywood. Still it does a good job of capturing the characters, and leading you into one way of thinking, only to have something completely unexpected happen. A great adaptation of the Swedish journalists work, and the first in a trilogy. Hopefully we’ll see the other two books made into films as well. Wait, they were already made, but in Sweden. But don’t worry, Hollywood has the remake planned for those who don’t like English subtitles.

A Single Man

When you think of Colin Firth, you normally don’t think serious, dramatic roles. You think of Bridget Jones’ Diary or Pride & Prejudice. Well, A Single Man will surprise you if you’re looking for Firth to play his usual, quirky self. In this film, he stretches his acting chops (which got him nominated for an Academy Award) by playing a gay man in the sixties, who loses his lover and is left feeling alone. A simple story, but A Single Man is so much more than that. With the great Julianne Moore included in the cast, this film is filed with so many complex emotions that it can’t help but make an impact on you.

TV on DVD

Project Runway: Season 7

Fashion, models, clothes, cat fighting, and crying. Sounds like a family reunion, doesn’t it? No, instead it’s Project Runway, which should really be called Project Change-the-Channel, since that’s what it makes me want to do every time it’s on. Regardless, I know there are some of you out there who enjoy this kind of thing, so I won’t bash it too hard. The latest season is now on DVD just for you, as for me, I may use it as a door stop, but only after it hits the bargain bin.

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

Being hailed as not only one of the best movies of the summer, but the best one in the series so far, Eclipse is debuting first this week on Wednesday. Watch as Bella struggles with her decision to marry Edward, or lose herself to Jacob, all while preparing to graduate high school, and dealing with a new enemy that has come to town. Granted, the Twilight movies may not be the best piece of celluloid you’ll ever see, but there’s no denying the impact they have had on popular culture. Personally, I liked New Moon the best, but what do I know? I’m a 32-year old male, not exactly their demographic now am I? You may commence making fun of me…now.

The Last Airbender

Screw you, James Cameron, for ruining this film before it even came out by making them remove ‘Avatar‘ from the title. Okay, maybe it wasn’t James Cameron who made the decision, but there’s no denying his film influenced it. Regardless, M. Night Shyamalan returns to direct what at first I thought looked like crap, but am now really anxious to see. It’s hard to imagine Shyamalan directing something like this, but the effects look amazing, the cast looks surprisingly good for relatively unknowns, and, well…I just want to see it kick Twilight’s ass. Although I think that might be pushing it. I’ll be in line for this one though, and expect you to be there too. Note to self: see the 2D version.

Hot Movie Releases

Hot Tub Time Machine

The premise is outlandish, but the laughs are bountiful in this rude and crude comedy starring John Cusack, Craig Robinson, and Rob Corddry. Seriously, a hot tub that takes you back in time to the Eighties where you risk changing the future if you screw up? How can you not want to see that? While Cusack gives another strong, comedic performance, the film really belong to Robinson and Corddry, who have been on the fringe of a breakout role for some time. Could this be the one? Watch and decide for yourself. One things for sure, the title may be stupid, but the movie is absolutely hilarious.

The Crazies

Yet another horror remake in a long line of them that have been hitting the box office in recent years. Based on the 1973 flick by George Romero, The Crazies may not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it holds its own amongst the crap that has been coming out of Platinum Dunes as of late. Starring Timothy Olyphant (one of the most underrated actors around), it centers on a small town that goes, well…crazy, after a virus is placed in the water supply. Lots of blood, gore, and scares to keep you huddled under the blanket with your significant other for a 90-minutes or so; but don’t be surprised if you find yourself wishing you had 90-minutes of your life back once it’s over.

Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief

It isn’t Harry Potter, but Percy Jackson is going to surprise and delight you in the way it takes an everyday misfit, and plops him down into a world of Greek mythology. After learning that he’s the son of Poseidon, Percy Jackson (Logan Lerman), must learn to control his extraordinary powers while clearing his name for stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt. Based on the popular book series, this one is sure to please the youngsters, and make you wish you had of paid a little more attention in school.

TV on DVD

Warehouse 13: Season One

After saving the life of the president, two Secret Service agents are transferred to Warehouse 13, a place that holds every fantastical item ever acquired by the U.S. government. From there it’s off to investigating claims of the paranormal and surreal, as they try to stack Warehouse 13 with more objects. Lots of gadgets, thrills, and one liners, Warehouse 13 is a pretty decent show, but it’s no X-Files.

Grown Ups

I don’t know about you, but what looks to be one of the funniest movies I’ve seen in a while is hitting the big screen this weekend in the way of Grown Ups, and I’m going to be first in line to check it out. Seriously, look at the cast. Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider, David Spade, Selma Hayek, and Maria Bello. How can you go wrong with a lineup like that? The trailers look hilarious, featuring the five friends who grew up as teammates on the same basketball team only to reunite years later to mourn the passing of their coach, and in interviews I’ve seen for the film, everyone looks like they had a really good time making it. With chemistry like that, Grown Ups is sure to be worth more than just a few laughs. You’ll probably squirt some Pepsi out of your nose, which is a sign of a truly funny movie.

Knight and Day

Knight and Day is described as a “sexy action-comedy,” which tells me right there that it’s probably going to blow. Why do you think the studio is releasing it on a Wednesday? Reuniting Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz, who starred together in the film Vanilla Sky, this one has all the makings of a Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego on steroids, as the two prance around the globe to uncover world changing secrets while dodging assassins. Been there, done that. Is it just me, or is Tom Cruise losing his appeal? Oh wait, he lost it when he divorced Nicole Kidman, hooked up with Katie Holmes, and jumped on Oprah’s couch. Can you say, “Whack job?” Regardless, I’m sure Knight and Day will find an audience, but I won’t be in it.

Hot Movie Releases

Green Zone

Matt Damon is back kicking some ass in the movie that’s not a Jason Bourne movie, but could be is you just changed the title. Hell, it’s even directed by the same guy who did The Bourne Supremacy and Ultimatum, so you do the math. Damon stars as rogue U.S. Army officer who has to get the bad guys. Old plot, new explosions, but all-in-all, another run of the mill action flick.

Remember Me

He may not be a vampire in this one, but that doesn’t change the fact that Robert Pattinson looks pretty much the same as he does in the Twilight flicks. There’s no blood, just a troubled youth with a chip on his shoulder who meets a girl who understands him, and yadda-yadda-yadda, they fall in love and have a good time. Typical romance set against the backdrop of 9/11. Maybe this time, Pattinson will take a hit.

She’s Out of My League

The title of this flick pretty much reveals the entire plot of the movie, as Jay Baruchel stars as a geeky, awkward dude who tries to land the woman of his dreams. Unless he’s got loads of money like Bill Gates, the chances of this ever happening in real life are slim to none, so suspend your disbelief when you hit play.

TV on DVD

Entourage: The Complete Sixth Season

I love this show, I love the cast, and I love that it’s still on the air. Seriously, what’s not to love about getting an inside look at a bunch of Hollywood players, even if it may be a little unbelievable? If you’ve never seen an episode of Entourage, you’re going to want to go back and see what you’ve been missing before jumping in to season six. Now if that’s not reason enough to have your friends over for a drunken TV marathon, I don’t know what is.

Toy Story 3

Finally, it’s here. After an 11-year wait, Toy Story 3 is upon us. I don’t know about you, but I’m damn excited to see this. The Toy Story movies are some of the most beloved of all the Disney/Pixar creations, and for good reason. What’s not to love about Buzz Lightyear, or Woody? This time around, the gang gets dropped into a day care center after their owner, Andy, departs for college. The plot may be simple enough, but with a host of new characters, Toy Story 3 is not going to disappoint you.

Jonah Hex

A science fiction/action movie based on a comic book starring Josh Brolin, John Malkovich, and Megan Fox? Hell yeah! Sign me up! The trailers look great, and although we’re sure to be treated to the one-dimensional acting talents of Fox, Jonah Hex is going to be one of those movies that you walk in to, shut your brain off, and just enjoy the ride. Explosions, special effects, and Malkovich as the villain, this one is going to be a crowd pleaser for sure. Not to mention Josh Brolin, who is no slouch in the acting department. Yup, this weekend, revenge gets ugly.

Hot Movie Releases

The Book of Eli

Usually I don’t mind Denzel Washington. I mean, the guy can act when he wants to, right? Put him in a post-apocalyptic movie that is filled with religious undertones though, and you have the makings of a film that can only be viewed through the lens of destruction if you want to enjoy it. Which I guess is just what The Book of Eli accomplishes. It’s not a great movie by any means, but Gary Oldman as the villain is hard not enjoy. Hell, any movie with Gary Oldman is hard not to enjoy. All-in-all, The Book of Eli is worth a rental, unless your wife just can’t get enough Denzel, then you’ll have to buy it. Sorry.

When In Rome

Man, I don’t know about you, but I’m a little tired of these movies that use romance and the supernatural as a plot device. I’m no expert on romance films, mind you, but I do know enough about them to say that any movie like that can’t be good. When In Rome is no exception. A girl that plucks coins from a fountain in Rome, only to have the men who threw them in there fall in love with her? Come on, you can do better than that, can’t you Hollywood? Oh, right, I forgot who I was speaking to. Josh Duhamel should stick with fighting off robots, because as a romantic lead, he’s the pits, and Kristen Bell? She should stick with television. Good television. Heroes doesn’t count.

TV on DVD

Family Guy Volume 8

I don’t care who you are, if you don’t like Family Guy, there’s something wrong with you. There’s at least something in each episode that appeals to anyone with a sense of humor, so if you’re not laughing, you probably don’t know funny very well. Thankfully, I do know funny, and Family Guy is funny. Volume 8 is no exception, as it features some of the best episodes, including ‘Not All Dogs Go To Heaven’ and ‘Jerome Is The New Black.‘ Giggity giggity!

The A-Team

I’ll admit that when I first heard they were going to be bringing one of my favorite childhood programs to the big screen, I was excited. Now, not so much. While it looks like the essence of The A-Team is still there in that they help the innocent, the plot has been updated to make them Iraq vets, still being hunted by the government of course, but with oil tycoons and laser technology now a part of the plot in order to update it. Some of the original stars of the television program make some cameos, but there’s no Mr. T. Ah well, it should make for good viewing, if for nothing more than to see things go BOOM! It should be noted that Liam Neeson as Hannibal probably wasn’t a good idea in the way of casting. While I have no qualms with Neeson, he just looks too fake with that gray hair. Like a Ken doll or something. Seriously, I pity the fool who think this one is going to come out on top.

The Karate Kid

This is another film I have been chomping at the bit to see ever since it was announced. The Karate Kid is one of my all-time favorite movies, and while I was apprehensive at first by the thought of a remake, upon seeing the trailers and hearing the early buzz around it, I can now say that I will be in line with the rest of you to check it out. Jackie Chan looks great as the new Mr. Miyagi (Mr. Han in this one), and while Jaden Smith is no Ralph Macchio, he still looks like he can kick some ass. I predict The Karate Kid to be the big winner at the box office this weekend, and if it’s not, I’ll eat a tree. BANZAI!

Hot Movie Releases

Shutter Island

If you loved Mystic River and Gone, Baby, Gone (and really, how could you not?), you’ll flip over Shutter Island, which sees another Dennis Lehane novel come to the big screen. Not only that, but it brings back the team of Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio, who I loved in The Departed. While Shutter Island is much darker, and more sinister than all the films mentioned, it will definitely keep you guessing right up until the very end, which is what a good film should do.

From Paris with Love

After the train wreck that was The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3, John Travolta is back as his usual wise-cracking, trigger happy self, in this moderately entertaining action flick which also stars Johnathan Rhys-Meyers. In all honestly though, Travolta needs another comeback after his first comeback in Pulp Fiction. The guy has the acting chops, so why can’t he get the right scripts? Until he figures it out, I guess we’re left with movie like From Paris with Love. Oh well, you can’t have everything.

TV on DVD

Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Seventh Season

What’s not to love about Curb Your Enthusiasm? This show is hilarious. Not only is it back for more laughs this time around, it features Larry David trying to reunite the entire cast of Seinfeld. Oh man, talk about your funny. If you haven’t been watching this one from the beginning, you are most definitely missing out.

Nip/Tuck: The Sixth and Final Season

While I never really saw the appeal of Nip/Tuck, I know there are many of you out there who did. Now’s your chance to relive all the moments of the final season as it makes its way onto DVD. Plastic surgery, liposuction, organ harvesting. Wait, organ harvesting? Damn, maybe I should give this show another try. Who knew?

Get Him to the Greek

From the folks that brought you Forgetting Sarah Marshall, The 40-Year Old Virgin, Knocked Up, and Funny People, comes this little comedy gem that looks too outrageous not to be funny. It’s the story of a record company intern who has three days to drag a uncooperative rock legend to a comeback concert in Hollywood. Sound funny? It probably is.

Splice

Okay, I’m all for movies that explore human DNA and the repercussions that go along with crazy, mad scientist experiments, but I don’t know about this one. Splice looks like a cross between Species and Jurassic Park, only without the dinosaurs. I don’t really care much for Adrien Brody, and while I do enjoy the acting talents of Canadian Sarah Polley, it’s a safe bet that I won’t be rushing to the theaters this weekend to check out Splice, which I’m sure will be heavy on effects and weak on plot.

Marmaduke

Okay, I know what you’re thinking. Marmaduke? Really? While I have some of the same reservations you do about this one, I’ve still been looking forward to seeing one of my favorite childhood comic strips come to the big screen for quite some time. With Owen Wilson, Emma Stone, George Lopez, Jeremy Piven, and Kiefer Sutherland, Marmaduke probably won’t be the greatest cinematic experience of all time, but it’s sure to deliver on the laughs, and it’s something you can take the kids to see, so what’s wrong with that?

Killers

Oh Ashton Kutcher, won’t you ever stop making movies? No? Damn. Well, at least you have a hot sidekick in this one by way of Katherine Heigl. That’s something, at least. Killers may seem like a Mr. & Mrs. Smith rip-off, but it’s not. That still doesn’t make it right, though. Alas, I’m sure the girls will flock to see this one, and drag their boyfriends along with them. Sorry guys. Look, just tell her you have to go to the bathroom and sneak in to see Get Him to the Greek instead. Sound good? Yeah, I got your back.

The six-episode first season which is set to premiere in October on AMC follows a group of survivors as they travel to find a safe and secure home after the zombie apocalypse. Production on the series began today in Atlanta, which is written, produced, and directed by three-time Academy Award nominee Frank Darabont, who is responsible for the likes of Stephen King’s The Shawshank Redemption and The Green Mile. With him attached, I can’t imagine The Walking Dead being any kind of a failure.

Based on the images AMC has released in their sneak peek, I’m salivating even more over my computer as I scroll through them. It has to be some of the best, most realistic zombie make-up I have ever seen. The wounds, the blood, they eyes; everything is just perfect. It tends to be hit or miss when it comes to zombies on screen, but after seeing these, I can only predict that AMC has a major hit on their hands with The Walking Dead. Come October 2010, I know where I’ll be each and every week, and that’s sitting right in front of my television glued to AMC with the lights out, because really, that’s the only way to experience the zombie apocalypse.

Hot Movie Releases

Alice in Wonderland

Johnny Depp and Tim Burton get together like long-lost lovers to do yet another film together. This time around it’s a retelling of the classic Alice in Wonderland tale. In the theaters it was in 3D, but don’t expect that on the small screen. It really doesn’t make a difference, if you must know, because 15 minutes in I was fast asleep with those over-sized Ray Bans on, snoring away. What I saw of the film was mediocre at best, and nothing new from the guys that brought you Sleepy Hollow, Edward Scissorhands, Sweeney Todd, and a bunch of other surreal films that you have to be on acid to really appreciate.

The Wolfman

I had high hopes for this one when I first heard about it. I was psyched not only because I love the classic Universal monsters, but also because my friend, Jonathan Maberry, was turning the screenplay into a novel (he since went on to become a NYT bestseller because of it). Benicio del Toro does a great job as Lawrence Talbot, and Anthony Hopkins is superb as always, but the film overall is a bit lacking, and seems to drag on toward the end when it should have called it quits about 20 minutes sooner. All-in-all, a good watch, but definitely a rental.

TV on DVD

Burn Notice: Season 3

What can you say about Bruce Campbell? He’s great in everything he does, and Burn Notice is no exception. Also starring Jeffrey Donovan and Gabrielle Anwar, the show that takes an ex-spy and plops him into everyday life  in order to help others is back for a third season. Man, I have some catching up to do.

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

Jake Gyllenhaal as an action star? Yeah, I’m not buying it either. It may be brought to you by the same team that did Pirates of the Caribbean, but lately any movie that I’ve seen that is based on a video game just doesn’t cut it for me. Expect lots and lots of high concept action in this one, but that’s about it. The storyline looks typical, and with Gyllenhaal starring, I’m sure whatever romance there is will be forced, as he will be busy flaunting his long locks and flexing his new found muscles way too much.

Sex and the City 2

The girls from the hit television show are back on the big screen to flaunt their promiscuous ways in this, the second film in whatever series they’re trying to put together here. This time the women actually get out of New York City to go gallivanting around the world in order to find some sex, like the desperate 30-somethings they are. Are they still in their 30′s? Hell, they could be in their 40′s now for all I care. Marriage, love, and yes, sex, all make up the storyline for this one, just don’t expect any nudity, okay?

Survival of the Dead

George A. Romero returns to the directors chair for this, the next film in his epic zombie series that has spanned more than 40 years. Like its predecessors, this one features loads of the undead attacking survivors who are desperately trying to stay alive. This one is different in the sense that it has more of a western feel to it, with two family’s trying to maintain order only to battle one another, while trying to fend off the zombies at the same time. Expect lots of blood and guts, but little plot though, as Romero seems to be rehashing the same old formula over and over. Hey, it’s a zombie movie. What do you expect?

TV on DVD

True Blood: Season Two

After the success that was the first season, True Blood returns in all its vampire melodrama and gore. I love this show, and can’t see why anyone wouldn’t be watching it. HBO really hit the nail on the head with this one, combining just the right amount of romance, blood, and action to keep everyone interested. It may be based on a series of books, but the originality of True Blood is what appeals to so many folks out there. Vampires in a society where people know about vampires, and a girl that can read people’s minds who is not a vampire? Yeah, that’s what I’m talking about. True Blood season two is not to be missed, and if you haven’t seen the first season yet, what the hell are you waiting for?

Hot Movie Releases

The Road

Based on the book by Pulitzer Prize winner Cormac McCarthy, this one stars Viggo “Lord of the Ring” Moretensen in a post-apocalyptic world where he and his son roam the country trying to avoid the cannibals that now inhabit the land. I’ve heard people say that because the story is so simple it doesn’t translate well to film, but I say screw that. Mortensen’s performance is brilliant (as always), and director John Hillcoat does a great job of capturing the world that McCarthy created in the novel.

Dear John

I could care less about movies based on Nicolas Sparks novels, and Dear John is no exception. While it may appeal to the lady in your life, there’s nothing that makes this movie extraordinary. Boy meets girl, boy goes away and girl is sad, boy returns and girl is happy. Who cares? People have been trying to capture the only good Sparks novel that translated well to screen in The Notebook ever since that came out, but they’re forgetting one thing; they need Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams for that. Amanda Seyfried and Channing Tatum are pale in comparison. Dear John? I say dear God, when is this going to end.

This week, Hollywood is kind of slow, bringing out just two major releases. Regardless, I’m sure some of you out there will find that one, if not both, of these films will suit your palette. There’s something for the whole family, and something for your funny bone, so let’s get right to it and preview what films are coming to town this weekend.

Shrek Forever After

The fourth, and what appears to be the final installment, in the popular Shrek franchise is not only sure to please, but it’s also going to be in 3D. How cool is that? This time around, after signing a deal with Rumpelstiltskin, Shrek finds himself in an alternate dimension, where he and Fiona never met, and where ogres are hunted. It’s up to our favorite green buddy to undo all that he has done to save his friends, restore his world, and reclaim his one true love.

MacGruber

Based on the popular Saturday Night Live character of the same name, MacGruber follows the tale of a soldier of fortune who has devoted his life to peace after his wife was killed. When his old nemesis returns and gets control of a nuclear weapon though, MacGruber is thrust back into action in order to save the world. This action/comedy stars Will Forte, Val Kilmer, and Ryan Phillippe. It may not be for everybody, but there’s no doubt that MacGruber will be good for a few laughs nonetheless.

That’s it for this week, gang. We’ll see you next Friday for your Weekend Movie Preview brought to you by Real TV Addict.

Hot Movie Releases

Invictus

Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman star in this superb flick about a possible civil war and a rugby championship. It sounds like those two things aren’t supposed to go together, but trust me, they do. Clint Eastwood directs the heartwarming flick based on the novel by John Carlin, and doesn’t disappoint in the performances he manages to get out of his actors, which just goes to show that he only keeps getting better with age.

Valentine’s Day

It may be the month of May, but that’s not stopping this movie packed with an ensemble cast from making you laugh. Fights, kisses, flowers, romance, Ashton Kutcher, and a whole bunch of other superstars make up for this delightful romantic comedy that combines a whole bunch of stories that crisscross one another, and is sure to please the lady in your life.

Extraordinary Measures

Harrison Ford and Brendan Fraser star in this flick based on the true story of a rogue scientist who goes on a quest to find a cure that will help save the lives of a fathers two children. You may not think a flick with Brendan Fraser can be any good, but this one is the exception to that rule. He proves that he can play an adult, and play it well. Definitely not to be missed.

TV on DVD

Damages: Seasons One and Two

The Golden Globe winning series finally makes its way to DVD. Starring Glenn Close in this courtroom drama which isn’t so much about the gavel as it is about the characters. More of a throwback to classic film noir than Law & Order, Damages is compelling, well written, and a series that will not disappoint.

Hot Movie Releases

Legion

What would you do if you found out your unborn child might be the savior of the world? You’d enlist the help of Paul Bettany and Dennis Quaid, of course. Packed with action, gore, and CGI, Legion is the perfect movie to put on, and check your brain at the door. The war between the angels and demons is just starting, and by the time it’s over, they’ll be nothing left but the credits.

Daybreakers

There’s a shortage of blood in the world, human blood, and the vampires aren’t happy about it. It’s up to Ethan Hawke and Willem Dafoe to find a replacement before the undead that run the world go nuts and take out what is left of the population. Filled with metaphors, darkness, gore, and suspense, Daybreakers is another one of those films where you can check your senses and zone out for a couple of hours. Good, but not great, although certainly watchable.

Edge of Darkness

Mel Gibson stars as a Boston cop whose daughter has just returned home from an internship, and proceeds to get blown away. It’s up to Gibson to uncover the truth behind her death in this film which I like to think of as Erin Brockovich on steroids. It’s good to see Mel back in front of the camera after a decade-long absence, and Edge of Darkness does not disappoint in the suspense and thrill rides by any means. Not his best, but Gibson does a great job portraying a father’s anguish over the loss of a loved one, making this film seem more real than it should be.

TV on DVD

Hell’s Kitchen: Season Two

Gordon Ramsay is back in this popular reality TV show where he tries to find the next great American chef, all the while goading and insulting the contestants until they break down and cry. The seventh and eighth seasons have already been given the green light by FOX, so now’s the perfect time to start getting caught up on Hell’s Kitchen.

Hot Movie Releases

Leap Year

Amy Adams stars in this comedy as Anna, a woman who desperately wants her boyfriend (Adam Scott) to propose to her. When he heads to Dublin for a conference, Anna follows him across the Atlantic, when she learns of the Irish tradition that a woman can pop the question to her man every February 29th. While there, she’s escorted around by Declan (Matthew Goode), and the two start to fall for one another. Hilarity ensues in this romantic comedy that’s perfect for date night.

Nine

Daniel Day-Lewis, Penelope Cruz, Nicole Kidman, Judi Dench, Fergie, and Sophia Loren all burst into song on this star-studded DVD about Guido (Lewis), a filmmaker who is going through a personal and professional crisis as he embarks on his ninth film. It’s no Mamma Mia or Grease, but the performances are top notch, which makes Nine a must see for all fans of the genre.

Tooth Fairy

From body slams to body checks, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson stars in this family DVD about a minor league hockey player (Johnson) and his single mom (Ashley Judd) girlfriend. When The Rock lays the smackdown and tells his girlfriend’s daughter that there’s no such thing as the Tooth Fairy, he’s sentenced by Fairyland authorities to serve in the roll for two weeks, complete with pink tutu. You can’t go wrong with this family fodder, which is sure to please your little ones.

TV on DVD

Outer Limits: The Complete Second Season

The second season of the 1990s remake of the classic science fiction show comes to DVD this week, with cameos by the likes of Heather Graham, Matt Frewer, Neil Patrick Harris, and Brent Spiner. Catch up on all the episodes you may have missed when it first aired, but be sure to leave a light or two on, because you never know what may be lurking in the shadows.

TV on DVD

Ghost Hunters: Season Five, Part Two

One of televisions most popular shows returns with Jason, Grant, and the rest of the TAPS team crossing the country to investigate strange cases of the paranormal. Featured in this box set is the Mark Twain House, the ghost of Buffalo Bill, spirits of the Rocky Mountains, and the season finale at the Hindenburg crash site.

The Hills: Season Five, Part Two

If you’re into fashion, drama, and lots of backstabbing, then The Hills is for you. Heidi and Spencer’s wedding may have brought everyone together, but the pair quickly realize that life isn’t as perfect as they thought it would be. Audrina has a new man in her life and seems to have moved on from Justin, but that doesn’t mean she’s ready to see him with another girl, especially not Lauren’s old rival Kristin. With so many twists, turns, and characters, it may be hard to keep up, but if you’ve been watching from the beginning, you’ll definitely want to add this latest installment of The Hills to your collection.

Hot Movie Releases

It’s Complicated

This one stars Academy Award winner Meryl Streep playing a divorced Bakery owner. When her ex-husband, played by Alec Baldwin, comes back into the picture, sparks begin to fly again between the two, even though he left her for another woman ten years earlier. Filled with romance, comedy and Steve Martin too, this one is sure to be the perfect flick for date night.

The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus

Heath Ledger’s last performance highlights this film, which also stars Christopher Plummer as a doctor who is cursed with a dark secret. He is able to guide the imagination of others, but at what cost? Lots of great visuals, superb acting and a story that will take you on one heck of a ride, The Imagination of Doctor Parnassus is not to be missed.

Five Minutes of Heaven

What would a week in DVD be without a good kick-butt film? Liam Neeson takes care of that in this flick, where he plays an ex-con who is released from prison only to be hunted down by the man whose brother he killed 30 years earlier. Action, drama, violence, this one has it all, and will definitely satisfy the manliest of men.

For that, we have to go back all the way to 1947. Yeah, you heard me right. 1947. The longest running show in the history of American television has been on the air for more than 60 years. What an accomplishment. It began on NBC on November 6, 1947, and has stayed with that network throughout its entire run. That’s no great feat, let me tell you. There have been more than 4,800 episodes, with 11 hosts filling the chair as moderator over the years. It features one-on-one interviews, roundtable discussions, debates, has been distributed as an audio and video podcast, and is syndicated on radio, as well.

Man, that’s a lot of content.

The first guest ever to appear on the show was James A. Farley, the former Postmaster General of the United States and former DNC Chair. There have also been sports figures to appear on the show, and in fact, every single President of the Untied States has appeared on this show since its inception, although not necessarily during their presidency.

Have you guessed it yet? Let’s end the suspense.

The longest running show in the history of American television is NBC’s Meet The Press, currently hosted by David Gregory. This November will mark the shows 63rd anniversary. Congrats, Meet the Press, on a job well done.

Out of all the shows I watch, I think Grey’s Anatomy has the most unique idea for coming up with the titles for it’s episodes. So how do they do it?

Premiering on March 27, 2005, Grey’s Anatomy was originally a mid-season replacement for Boston Legal. The first episode drew in 16.5 million viewers, which isn’t bad, but it wasn’t until ABC made a bold decision that the show really took off. They took a chance, and gave Grey’s Anatomy the coveted post-Super Bowl time slot on February 5, 2006, and that brought in 38.1 million viewers, securing its status as a nation wide hit.

With over 100 episodes, one would think that the creators would begin running out of names for their episodes. For that to happen though, I guess musicians would have to stop making music. That’s because every single episode of Grey’s Anatomy is named after a song, with either the exact title being used, or with a clever play on words.

Everyone from the Beatles (A Hard Days Night), and Carl Douglas (Kung Fu Fighting), to Cyndi Lauper (Time After Time), and Sheryl Crow (My Favorite Mistake), has had a show named after their music. Other artists include Taylor Swift, Kayne West, The Rolling Stones, Three Days Grace and Coldplay.

Personally, I think that’s a genius way of coming up with episode titles, and it’s just another unique thing about a truly unique show. Well done, Grey’s Anatomy. Well done.

Something that distracted me at first though, was in fact, Hugh Laurie. I had seen him somewhere before on television. It wasn’t from his Blackadder days, no. It was somewhere on American television. In a cameo role. Then it hit me!

So what hit sitcom did Hugh Laurie appear on for a few moments?

Running from September 22, 1994 to May 6, 2004, it is now part of our pop culture, if not just for its theme song. It was originally developed under the name Insomnia Cafe, was nominated for 63 Emmy awards, and even spawned a short lived spin-off.

Yup, you guessed it. Friends.

Hugh Laurie played ‘The Gentleman on the Plane,’ in the episode titled ‘The One With Ross’s Wedding: Part 2.’ As Rachel is telling her story, Hugh Laurie flips out on her, telling Rachel what a horrible person she is for going to ruin Ross’s wedding. It’s a pretty priceless moment so if you haven’t seen it, be sure to check out the video below.

There, now that we got that out of the way, I can go back to enjoying more House.