bring on the good shit

it feels like now that the summer blockbusters have died down (star trek was awesome, didn’t see transformers for obvious reasons) it’s finally time for some really cool, innovative movies.  here’s what i’m excited about for the second half of the summer (grand rapids release dates noted).

- july 31st -

funny people – you’ve no doubt seen the trailers for this.  it’s judd apatow, who has yet to disappoint, at least from the director’s chair.  check out the “raaaaaaaandy” documentaries over on funny or die. you can also check out clips from jason schwartzman’s character’s fake show “yo teach!”  pretty decent viral campaign.

the hurt locker – called the first entertaining iraq war movie, the hurt locker is about the bomb-squad team.  it’s also directed by kathryn bigelow, of point break fame.

- august 7th -

500 days of summer – i’ve talked about this before. cool director, cool cast, cool idea.  joseph gordon-levitt is one of the best young actors working today.  plus there’s apparently a dance number to “you make my dreams” by hall & oates.  win.

- august 14th -

district 9 – this is easily my most anticipated movie of the summer.  i think it’s the fact that original science fiction is so rare that when it looks to be really good i get really excited.  i think of everything i’ve listed, this is the only one i have to see day one.  aric, you in?

- august 21st -

inglorious basterds – this one i’m cautiously optimistic about.  deathproof was a mess, especially next to the far superior planet terror.  but i’m willing to give tarentino a second chance, based on the cast and his previous work.  besides, who doesn’t like killing nazi’s?

- september 4th -

gamer – and let’s finish off the summer with some stupid fun.  i just really like neveldine and taylor’s balls-to-wall style and it’ll be interesting to see them take on something a little lest ridiculous.  or maybe it’ll be the running man mixed with crank.  either way, sign me up.

anything i’m missing?

-srd