Inkworld
I have underestimated Kevin James. I should have known better.
1/23
Wide
WHAT’S THE PITCH?
Kind of like Bedtime Stories, but more action-y.
WILL IT SUCK?
Early buzz is good. Impressive given that Iain Softley has directed mostly meh fare (K-PAX, The Skeleton Key) and writer David Lindsay-Abaire co-penned the miserable Robots. This gives me hope, however, since he’s also penning Spidey 4.
HOW WELL WILL IT DO?
With the mediocre performance of Hotel for Dogs, there’s not much in it’s way. $45mil.
UNDERWORLD: RISE OF THE LYCANS
WHAT’S THE PITCH?
Underworld: Backstory
WILL IT SUCK?
Even though Len Wiseman, who helmed the first two, has moved on to Die Hard-level fare, he still had a hand in the story and Undervet Danny McBride (not that one) had a hand in the screenplay, so we should see some consistency, for better or worse. One thing I can say is that they’re finally focusing on what, for my money, are the series best assets: Bill Nighy and Michael Sheen.
HOW WELL WILL IT DO?
The introduction of Rhona Mitra is only going to make up so much for a lack of Kate Beckinsale. $44mil.
Limited
WHAT’S THE PITCH?
Hitmen Mickey Rourke and Joseph Gordon-Levitt vs. cute couple Diane Lane and Thomas Jane.
WILL IT SUCK?
Given the film’s crappy production and distribution history, early buzz is remarkably good. Considered director John Madden’s (Shakespeare in Love, Proof) best by IMDB users.
HOW WELL WILL IT DO?
Will try to capitalize on Mickey Rourke’s Wrestler fame. $4mil.
WHAT’S THE PITCH?
Debauchery gone wrong on a yacht turns everybody all kill-y. Those of you with access to Wikipedia or an advanced knowledge of sex slang can guess what precisely goes wrong.
WILL IT SUCK?
Early buzz is mixed.
HOW WELL WILL IT DO?
With all the mainstream horror going on, it seems unlikely indie horror will get much notice. $1mil.
Next Week: The return of Squinty McGee.