Now that classes are in full swing, the search is on for the best way to procrastinate. While going to the movies is usually a viable option, this week's premieres make your organic chemistry problem set look appealing. From some less-than-funny comedies to a Mariah Carey feature (yes, Mariah Carey), your options are limited - if they can be called options at all.
The most promising of this week's premieres is The Affair of the Necklace, directed by Charles Shyer (Father of the Bride). Hillary Swank stars in this romantic drama based on the true story of Jeanne De La Motte Valois, a countess whose name and honor are taken from her by the Royal Family in pre-Revolutionary France. To avenge her family and restore her place in society, she devises a plan to steal a priceless diamond necklace. Of course, the road to riches - as any moviegoer would expect - is paved with mystery, perils, and passion. While The Affair of the Necklace may sound a little too predictable, the film boasts a stellar cast of actors capable of pulling off just about anything. In addition to Swank, the movie stars Simon Baker (Red Planet), Jonathan Pryce (Stigmata) and Christopher Walken, who last starred in America's Sweethearts.
It starts to go downhill after that. For a little comic relief, Haiku Tunnel isn't a terrible bet. This comedy focuses on the inability of a neurotic office temp to mail 17 "very important" letters for his new boss. Written by John Bellucci and Jacob Kornbluth (who also co-directed with his brother Josh Kornbluth), the film sounds a little too much like cult favorite Office Space.
And don't count on the cast to make up for what the screenplay lacks - with the exception of Fargo's Warren Keith, you probably won't recognize any of the names or faces in this movie. If you're feeling adventurous, Haiku Tunnel may be worth a shot... but don't say we didn't warn you.
You're better off taking your chances on Waking Up in Reno. For starters, the cast includes a few recognizable names - Patrick Swayze, Charlize Theron, Billy Bob Thorton, and Natasha Richardson (yes, it's an eclectic mix of actors and actresses, but at least you've heard of them before).
In addition to the big-name cast, Reno boasts a plot that is undoubtedly more creative than that of Haiku Tunnel. The movie focuses on two married couples and their dream of vacationing in Reno, Nevada during the Monster Truck Show. A series of marital mishaps ensues on the road to Reno as soon as the set out in their brand-new SUV.
At the opposite end of the spectrum is Possession, a romance about a pair literary detectives who, upon the discovery of a love affair between two Victorian poets, fall under a passionate spell. It's not too surprising that romance-lover Gwyneth Paltrow stars in this film. At least director Neil LaBute can be considered versatile, having last directed the comedy Nurse Betty (2000).
While Possession may be a far cry from original, it's probably a safe bet as far as movies go this weekend, especially for a "study date" that doesn't call for any studying. You can't go wrong with romance, right?
Last but certainly not least is Glitter. If you haven't heard yet, this film's biggest star is Mariah Carey. Her music videos don't exactly portray her as a natural at acting, but then again, this movie so resembles her real life that it may not be such a stretch.
Written by Cheryl L. West, Glitter tells the tale of a struggling young singer whose big break comes when she begins dating a DJ, Julian Dice (Max Beesley), who leads her to fame and fortune. If you've actually considered seeing this romance/musical/drama, remember that you'll have to stomach two straight hours of Mariah - including quite a few scenes featuring her stomach. Good luck.
