HOLLYWOOD—Last week we discussed horror films heading to the multiplex in the next few weeks. This week we turn our attention to the films that make us feel happy inside—comedies. It has been said many times before that laughter is great for the heart and soul, and I truly believe it. From September to December we can expect some familiar faces on the screen looking to make us smile or laugh until our belly hurts. First up we have “Going the Distance,” starring Drew Barrymore and Justin Long, and it is about the trials and tribulations of trying to maintain a relationship when your significant other is on the other side of the globe. The film also stars Christina Applegate and arrives in theaters on September 3. What may work for the film is that it has an R-rating unlike the usual PG-13 for most comedies, opening the door for more antics without being censored.
On September 17, audiences will revel at a concept that many of us have endured in life when “Easy A” hits the multiplexes. The film stars Emma Stone as Olive Penderghast who perpetuates a rumor about herself to gain social status at school. The plot of the film appears so fresh I can’t see why this film won’t appeal to audiences. The storyline revolves around a girl (Stone) who is pegged as a tramp for sleeping around, even though she isn’t doing it at all. We all tell lies, but it takes a lot to keep that lie going. With a great cast that includes Amanda Bynes, Lisa Kudrow, Cam Gigandet, Penn Badgley and Patricia Clarkson expect the film to resonate with audiences. This film is a must-see on my list.
For anyone who is looking for people to do extremely stupid things for a laugh, you’ll want to check out “Jackass 3D” on October 15. That’s right people I said 3D. I’ll admit I saw the first film, and I couldn’t believe what I was watching. Whenever someone eats horse manure for $100 and for the purpose of grossing out audiences, they’re willing to do just about anything. The trailer invites audiences into brief glimpses of what they can expect: a portable bathroom being launched into the air, a tree being cut down and a huge hand giving a high five, literally. My gut tells me to skip this film, but I may see it for the pure enjoyment of seeing people do extremely dangerous and stupid things.
On November 5, audiences will be delighted to see scene stealer Zach Galifianakis from the “The Hangover” in the new comedy “Due Date,” alongside Robert Downey Jr. and Jamie Foxx. Downey plays Peter, a soon to be father who finds himself on a road trip with Ethan Tremblay (Galifianakis) and is desperately trying to make it to his wife’s bedside before the birth of their child. Wild antics occur along the way that are sure to leave audiences wanting more. Oscar-winner Diane Keaton returns to the screen with Harrison Ford in “Morning Glory” on November 12. Ford plays a news anchor that joins a struggling morning show and is forced to work with Keaton.
Of course I’ve saved the best for last. Audiences will be reunited with their favorite family on December 22, when “Little Fockers,” the sequel to the 2004 “Meet the Fockers,” lands in theaters. The film reunites Robert DeNiro, Ben Stiller, Barbara Streisand and Owen Wilson as America’s favorite dysfunctional family for the twins 5th birthday. There is a hilarious scene in the trailer where Greg (Ben Stiller) has an altercation with his father-in-law Jack (Robert DeNiro) in the bathroom, and Greg’s son walks in on them. Awkward, side-splitting and terrifying is how I can best describe what the child sees. Jessica Alba also joins the cast.
The last two films grossed huge numbers at the box-office so expect the third to do well with the film hitting theaters around the Christmas holiday. There’s sure to be something for everyone to chuckle at this fall whether it’s slapstick, sarcasm or just plain old goofy, comedy comes in many different forms and as long as we laugh, who cares?
