QUICK FIX In Theaters is a weekly column dedicated to letting you know what’s new in theaters every weekend. If you’re a fan of buttering up a bucket of popcorn, topping off a large soda, and settling in to a theater seat for some escapism see what’s playing near you. “Buy the ticket, take the ride,” as a wise man once said.
This weekend’s note-worthy new releases are Despicable Me, The Lone Ranger, and The Way, Way Back (limited). Read a synopsis and watch a trailer for each film after the jump.
The Lone Ranger
Release: July 2nd, 2013 Rating: PG-13 Director: Gore Verbinski
Stars: Armie Hammer, Johnny Depp, William Fichtner, Tom Wilkinson, James Badge Dale, Helena Bonham Carter, Barry Pepper
A miscast Tonto and long, generic adventure ala every other western/buddy comedy seems to be the consensus on The Lone Ranger. That said, never judge a movie before seeing it, and if you’re in the mood for some whacky Johnny Depp and some thumb-twirling railroad villainy than this one might tide you over until something better trots along.
Here’s the official film synopsis:
“The Lone Ranger” is a thrilling adventure infused with action and humor, in which the famed masked hero is brought to life through new eyes. Native American spirit warrior Tonto (Johnny Depp) recounts the untold tales that transformed John Reid (Armie Hammer), a man of the law, into a legend of justice—taking the audience on a runaway train of epic surprises and humorous friction as the two unlikely heroes must learn to work together and fight against greed and corruption.
And here’s a trailer for The Lone Ranger:
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Despicable Me 2
Release: July 2nd, 2013 Rating: PG Director: Pierre Coffin, Chris Renaud
Stars: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Russell Brand, Ken Jeong, Steve Coogan, Miranda Cosgrove
The minions are back in this sequel to the popular Despicable Me movie. Promising the same slapstick antics of the previous film, and bringing in some new voice talent, Despicable Me 2 looks to be an enjoyable follow-up film.
Here’s the official synopsis:
Now that the ever-entrepreneurial Gru has left behind a life of super crime to raise Margo, Edith, and Agnes, Gru, Dr. Nefario and the Minions have some free time on their hands.
But just as he starts to adjust to his role as a suburban family man, an ultra-secret organization dedicated to fighting evil around the globe comes knocking. Now, it’s up to Gru and his new partner, Lucy Wilde (Kristen Wiig), to discover who is responsible for a spectacular crime and bring him to justice. After all, it takes the world’s greatest ex-villain to catch the one vying to take his place…
And here’s a trailer for Despicable Me 2:
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The Way, Way Back (limited release)
Release: July 5th, 2013 Rating: PG-13 Director: Nat Faxon, Jim Rash
Stars: Sam Rockwell, Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Allison Janney, Maya Rudolph, Rob Corddry, Amanda Peet, AnnaSophia Robb
In what appears to be a Little Miss Sunshine-esque coming of age comedy, The Way, Way Back rangles up some alluring talent to kick it summer style by the pool and fill in a few heartfelt comedy cracks the summer may have been missing.
Here’s the official film synopsis:
THE WAY, WAY BACK is the funny and poignant coming of age story of 14-year-old Duncan’s (Liam James) summer vacation with his mother, Pam (Toni Collette), her overbearing boyfriend, Trent (Steve Carell), and his daughter, Steph (Zoe Levin).
Having a rough time fitting in, the introverted Duncan finds an unexpected friend in gregarious Owen (Sam Rockwell), manager of the Water Wizz water park. Through his funny, clandestine friendship with Owen, Duncan slowly opens up to and begins to finally find his place in the world – all during a summer he will never forget.
And here’s a trailer for The Way, Way Back:
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