Thanks to UltraStar Cinemas and their introduction of UltraStar Play It Again Cinemas in Chula Vista, 2012 may be the beginning of affordable prices all over San Diego County. As San Diego’s largest theater chain, UltraStar Cinemas understands that budgets are tight and if history has proven one thing it’s that when times are tough, people turn to film to escape from reality. Thanks to the creative minds behind UltraStar Cinemas, movie theaters have been made affordable for families again, making it easier to enjoy the latest big film without breaking the bank.

At the majority of movie theaters adult tickets will cost $12.00, while senior tickets cost $11.00 and children tickets are $9.00. Combined with buying a soda and snack, going to the movie theater can cost one person over $20.00. The first of its kind, Play It Again Cinemas have reduced the regular price by more than half, charging $3.50 for seniors and children, $3.50 for adults until 4 p.m. and $4.00 for adults after 4 p.m.

At the innovative concession stands customers will also find an all-you-care-to-eat popcorn and drink deal that costs a mere $5.00. The offer allows guests to have unlimited access to popcorn and soda for an entire day, making it the perfect deal for those long movie days with friends and family. The self-serve concession stand will also feature $1.00 hot dogs, Polar Shock frozen beverages, and a wide array of candy.

Affordable prices isn’t the only perk Play It Again Cinemas has going for it; the theater will also be extending the release times of popular films, giving you more chances to see the films you want to see. Furthermore, the theater will be running popular iconic films that deserve another shot at the big screen. You won’t be finding the newest films playing at Play It Again Cinemas during their opening weeks, but you will find them playing once a couple weeks have passed.

Waiting to see a popular movie can be tough but with the drastic price reductions, waiting is more than worth it.

“Essentially, UltraStar Play It Again Cinemas will allow our guests to experience the films they love at affordable prices,” says Julie Bravo, Vice President of Advertising and Marketing at UltraStar Cinemas. “Audiences that missed the latest Hollywood blockbusters now have a second chance to see them the way they were meant to be seen – in a clean and comfortable big screen environment. The theatrical experience simply can’t be duplicated. Another key element of this program is that movies are made affordable for families with our $3.50 and $4.00 pricing.”

Having opened in October of 2011, Play It Again Cinemas is in full effect and has been gaining a lot of positive feedback. If this project is a success it may allow UltraStar to open more locations, spreading the affordable film experience to movie lovers all over San Diego County.

Located at 555 Broadway in Chula Vista, make sure to visit Play It Again Cinemas for your next film experience!

About UltraStar Cinemas:
UltraStar Cinemas is Southern California’s largest privately owned movie theater group. UltraStar Cinemas is headquartered in San Diego County and operates 129 screens at 12 sites throughout Southern California and Arizona. Recognized for pioneering the digital age of cinema, UltraStar was the first theater group in the world to be fully equipped with Pure Digital Cinema® powered by DLP Cinema® technology in all of its locations. In 2009, the company also became the first to offer D-BOX motion seats, which use motion effects specifically programmed for each film to create an immersive experience for movie goers. For more information, visit www.ultrastarmovies.com.

Such was my first Blue Man Group experience last Wednesday.  I have of course heard the name before, yet friends always seemed to have a hard time explaining exactly what the show was, except that it was one of those things I had to see for myself.  After having seen it for myself, I have come to the conclusion that their (lack of) explanation was true –words do not do it justice, which is perhaps why none of the Blue Men ever speak while in character.

“The [blue] man expresses aspects of everyday life that most people can relate with,” says Kalen Allmandinger, who has been performing for the Blue Man Group for over 10 years (See full interview).

The show is funny, smart, awkward, endearing and simply put –way cool.  First formed in 1987 by three friends from Manhattan, the show currently plays regularly in New York, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando, Berlin, Tokyo and on tour.  Their North American Tour, brought to you by Nederlander Presentation and Broadway San Diego, stops in San Diego from Sept. 20 -25 at the San Diego Civic Theatre.  (For Tickets please visit: www.ticketmaster.com )

“Our goal with this production, as with all of our productions, is to help audience members reconnect with their own sense of discovery, with their own sense of what is possible in their lives,” said one of the original BMG founders Philip Stanton.

Indeed, viewers are left with a sense of discovery. At the end of what can only be described as a variety show, silent comedy sketch, multimedia light show and bizarre rock concert rolled into an hour and forty-five minutes of pure entertainment, the audience filed out of the theater with smiles and tissue paper trailing behind, still chattering about their favorite parts of the show.

For more information, please visit www.blueman.com or BroadwaySD.com

Photos courtesy of Ken Howard and Paul Kolnik via networksontour.com.

The Blue Man Group experience is hard to describe to anyone who has never seen the show.  It features multi-media performances that feature three bald and blue characters who take the audience on a journey that is funny, intelligent and visually stunning.  In lieu of spoken word, the group is accompanied by a live four-piece band, and also a newly-added LED curtain and high-resolution screen that enhances the audience’s visual experience.

Kalen Allmandinger, who has been performing for the Blue Man Group for over 10 years, describes it as a variety show that weaves in modern technology and music with iconic characters and imagery.  “The [blue] man expresses aspects of every day life that most people can relate with,” he said.

Through his ten-year tenure with Blue Man Group, Allmandinger has traveled all around the world, including locations like London and Tokyo.  However, this is the first theatrical production to tour North America, so the producers and performances added new visual effects and comedic bits to keep things fresh.

“You would think that it can get old, but you just have to keep it fresh even after doing it thousands of times,” Allmandinger said.  “You must reinvent ways to trick yourself into the mindset of doing it for the first time every time. As a performer, you must challenge yourself to keep it real and have honest reactions.”

Currently, Blue Man Group theatrical shows can be seen in New York, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando, Berlin, Stockholm, Viena and Tokyo.  No two performances are the same, however.  The San Diego shows will feature classic Blue Man moments as well as brand new content.

“Our goal with this production, as with all of our productions, is to help audience members reconnect with their own sense of discovery, with their own sense of what is possible in their lives,” said Blue Man Group co-founder Philip Stanton in a press release.

Blue Man Group will stop at San Diego’s Civic Theatre (3^rd and B Street, Downtown SD) Sept. 20 -25, as part of Broadway/San Diego’s 35^th Anniversary season.

Showtimes:

• Tuesday and Wednesday at 7PM
• Thursday at 7:30PM
• Friday at 8PM
• Saturday at 2PM & 8PM
• Sunday at 1PM & 6PM

Tickets are now on sale and can be bought at www.ticketmaster.com.

For more information, please visit www.blueman.com or BroadwaySD.com

Photos courtesy of Ken Howard via networksontour.com.

Opening night of the 2011 Shakespeare Festival at the Lowell Davies Festival Theatre paid tribute in its own distinctive way to Father’s Day.  The Old Globe’s production of “The Tempest,” which runs June 19 – Sept. 22, is an array of fantastical imagery and compelling storytelling.  Generally acknowledged as Shakespeare’s final work, what lingers long after the show’s over happens not to be Shakespeare’s most famous words of ‘ado,’ but much more unexpectedly are the melodies and song that are interspersed with care throughout this magical production.

We each carry a handful of internal mementos that are unleashed later in fond recollection whenever we’ve experienced something great.  Perhaps for many on opening night, it was a winged-Ariel carrying a shaft of turquoise feathers over his shoulders, a string of spirits tap-dancing with their hands, the welding anger of a man whose very desire for vengeance knows no bounds, and a father’s immense love for his daughter that overflows and tests his heart at the same time.

Prospero is a man filled with wrath over the injustice fate has dealt him.  Laden throughout the play is an intense aura of Prospero’s vengeful spirit depicted through the sea’s untamed force, which is in turn personified through the clashing of cymbals and the thunderous beating of drums.  As the play unfolds, bit by bit we get to see how much Prospero hates his brother, Antonio, who stole his dukedom and his place in a world he so lovingly inhibited.  His hate is like venom – almost overwhelmingly so and enough to make theatergoers swoon from its almighty power.  But behind the whole premise of Prospero’s intense emotions belies a simple answer: his love for his daughter, Miranda.

And so it is through this willful justification that Prospero forges on with his plan to belittle and make miserly the existence of his opponents at all costs, even at the risk of losing the favor of his only child.  To his side to help aid Prospero in achieving these grand schemes is the spritely spirit, Ariel.  The amorous spirit desires nothing more than to possess his hard-earned freedom, and the matter is so pressing that he will do anything to gain his liberties.

But perhaps it is not to be the wish of the actual patrons of this fictional spirit to have him alter Prospero’s grievous and what appears to be towards the first half of the play, invincible anger into a flighty recollection.  What happens to transgress next seems to have happened on the mere whim of the playwright.

The moment Prospero recognizes that Ariel, a spirited being, is in fact far more human than he is; what unhinges at that moment is Prospero’s personal agenda.  Yet it can be said that the light-heartedness of the play is foreshadowed in the songs that accompany Shakespeare’s poetic verses, artfully masking this incongruity in the plot.

Adrian Noble has done a spectacular job of directing this artfully-wrought production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.”  Equally commendable is the attention-grabbing, Miles Anderson as Prospero.  His commandeering presence illustrates his character’s desires for vindication.  And Anderson manages to demonstrate all this and much more – on Father’s Day Anderson is able to portray a loving parent with undeniable conviction.  Equally engaging is Ben Diskant as Ariel.  With the arduous task of convincing theatergoers of his character’s humanity alongside the magical aspect of play, Diskant is able to execute this, as well as suspend time and belief for audience members.  The monster, Caliban, played by Jonno Roberts is also very convincing as a smelly and monstrous being.  At times the members from the audience are thrown back in their seats by the grotesqueness of Roberts’ character.

Overall, Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” which is being staged at The Old Globe’s Lowell Davies Festival Theatre is an all around must-see.  Tickets for the Shakespeare Festival, which runs May 29 – Sept. 25, are available by subscription and prices range from $72 to $243.  Single tickets are also available starting at $29.  Subscription packages and single tickets may be purchases online at www.TheOldGlobe.org, by phone at 619-23-GLOBE or by visiting the box office.

“Battle: Los Angeles” (PG-13) – What if all those years of supposed cases of UFO sightings, Area 51, and alien abductions were actually real? Now suddenly, what was supposed myths have become reality. In “Battle,” Earth is under attack by malicious unknown forces and the last stand for mankind to defend itself from extinction is in Los Angeles. A Marine sergeant (Aaron Eckhart) and his platoon gear up against the alien invasion for what may be their last battle. But for which side?

“Mars Needs Moms” (PG) – Moms can be so annoying and nagging sometimes like telling you to do your laundry, don’t be up past midnight, be home before curfew, etc. Nag. Nag. Nag. But what if your mom was abducted and taken away from you? Wouldn’t you miss her? Milo, a nine-year-old boy (Seth Dusky/Voice, Seth Green/Body Animation), realizes he still loves and needs his mom (Joan Cusack) when she is kidnapped from their home. Martians have stolen her in hopes of using her for her “motherly nature” to rear their own young. Milo is swept up on a quest to save her with the help of fellow Earthman and tech-loving Gribble (Dan Fogler), and a Martian girl named Ki (Elizabeth Harnois). Will he save her?

“Paul” (R) – After years of reading science fiction comic books two English friends named Graeme (Simon Pegg) and Clive (Nick Frost) travel to America to attend the annual Comic-Con convention and visit the infamous Area 51 in Nevada. Suddenly their lives are changed when they come across the one thing they have spent their lives pursuing, an alien. Paul (Seth Rogen) is a fugitive alien on the run from the government (Jason Bateman and Sigourney Weaver) after spending 60 years in government imprisonment. The reluctant friends take him in their RV and the trio go on an adventure that usually only happens in comic books. What would you do with an Alien in your RV?

“Limitless” (PG-13)  – Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper) is standing on a dangerous edge of his life when he is dumped by his girlfriend and discovers that he may be fired at any moment. But then he comes across a drug that a friend starts him off with called MDT that shoots up his mental capacities and abilities. He goes from the bottom of the food chain in the financial world to the top.  Eddie quickly attracts the attention of business tycoon Carl Van Loon (Robert De Niro) who hopes to use Eddie’s enhanced talents to make his fortune. But Eddie comes across dangerous side affects of the drug that he never realized and with his supply running low, time is running out. Will he survive?

“The Lincoln Lawyer” (R) – Los Angeles lawyer Mickey Haller (Matthew McConaughey) works as a defense attorney for a variety of criminals as he carries out most of his business from his Lincoln town car. He comes across a high-profile client, playboy Louis Roulet (Ryan Phillippe), who hires Mickey to defend him against a rape and murder charge. However, what at first seemed like a simple case with a huge career payoff soon becomes sinister and deadly as events and evidence starts appearing. People are not quiet what they seem and Mickey questions his sense of conscience. What would you choose, your conscious or your career?

“Red Riding Hood” (PG-13) – Don’t you just love the classic fairytale of the Little Red Riding Hood walking to her grandmothers house and talking to a strange wolf? This film brings a whole new twist to the image of the wolf and the young lady. The main female protagonist Valerie (Amanda Seyfried) is forced into a difficult situation in deciding between two men to marry. On the one side there is the wealthy Henry (Max Irons) who her parents want her to marry to pay off their debts owed to Henry’s father. Then the other side is the handsome woodcutter Peter (Shilo Fernadez) who she is in love and plans to run away with. But their escape plans are halted by the gruesome death of her sister from a werewolf. The notorious monster hunter Father Solomon (Gary Oldman) is recruited by the villagers to kill the beast. He warns them that the beast is among them by day and a vicious wolf by night. Valerie becomes fearful of her suspicions of who the Wolf might be. What if the person you loved was a monster?

With such a strong cast of actors these movies are definitely worth going to and see. Hurry before tickets are sold out!

(Photo from army.arch via flickr)

“Unknown” follows the story of a man (Liam Neeson) who awakes from a coma while on a business trip in Europe to discover that his identity has been stolen and another man has stepped into his life. Even his own wife (January Jones) doesn’t recognize him. Neeson strives to prove his real identity with the help of a young woman. This movie is a classic thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

“Never Say Never,” released last Friday, follows Justin Bieber’s path to stardom and provides exclusive footage of some of his performances from his 2010 tour. The film is in 3D, which helps make this movie-watching experience more interactive. Other than Bieber, some of the cast includes: MIley Cyrus, Sean Kingston, Ludacris and Usher. The movie is generally geared toward teens, considering that they are the main audience who listen to Bieber’s music.

In “Just Go With It,” a plastic surgeon (Adam Sandler) asks his assistant (Jennifer Aniston) to pose as his soon-to-be ex wife in order to conceal the lies to previously told his current (much younger) girlfriend. These lies start to build up, and eventually his assistant’s kids become involved. Eventually everyone comes together for a trip to Hawaii, and Sandler’s plan ultimately backfires. This movie is a must-see for those who like romantic comedies.

“The Roommate” is a new thriller featuring Leighton Meester and Minka Kelly. The film follows the life of an emotionally unbalanced freshman in college who becomes increasingly obsessed with her new roommate. The suspense builds up, and nobody can predict what the crazy, psychotic roommate will do next.

There is a new movie out there for everyone, whether it’s a comedy, drama, thriller, or suspense, and it is definitely worth it to check out some of these new releases this weekend.

Photo from Neeta Lind via Flickr

THE WIZARD OF OZ is coming to San Diego and will be playing at the Civic Theatre Feb 15-20.

This production is based on the Royal Shakespeare Company’s celebration of the 1939 MGM movie, and even features special effects! The whole family will enjoy this timeless production.

See Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow be transported “Over the Rainbow” to adventures in Munchkin Land, the Haunted Forest and the Emerald City. The show features classic songs, as composed by Harold Arlen, “Over the Rainbow,” “Ding Dong the Witch is Dead” and “If  I Only Had A Brain.”

In addition to cast members, twelve children from San Diego’s J* Company will be performing the roles of “munchkins.” The local children will help bring this beloved classic to the stage of their hometown as part of their continuing performing arts education.

Director Nigel West, choreographer Leigh Constantine and set and costume designer Tim McQuillen-Wright utilize the glamour and elegance of art deco Hollywood as the visually stunning technicolor backdrop for THE WIZARD OF OZ.

For more information on the tour, visit:  www.wizardofozontour.com

WHEN: February 15 – 20, 2011

WHERE: San Diego Civic Theatre, 3^rd and B Street, downtown San Diego

PERFORMANCES: Tuesday and Wednesday at 7PM, Thursday and Friday at 7:30PM, Saturday at 2PM & 7:30PM; ASL interpreted performance at 2PM, and Sunday at 1PM & 6PM; Open-Captioned performance at 1PM.

TICKETS: Ticket Prices Vary, visit TicketMaster.com; Tickets On Sale Now at www.broadwaysd.com/thewizardofoz.php

Civic Theatre Ticket Office, (619) 570-1100; Monday – Friday, 10AM – 6PM

James Cameron, director of top-grossing ($2.8 billion) movie Avatar has announced that there will be two sequels set in the universe of the exotic moon Pandora. Both films will be shot in 3D, like the first, and will feature storylines starring Sam Worthington as Jake Sully and Zoe Saldana as Neytiri.

The original movie took about a decade to come to fruition, most of the delay resulting because technology in the 90’s was not yet sophisticated enough for what Cameron had in mind for Avatar. Afterwards, it took around four years of production time for Avatar to perfect the usage of its motion-capture and computer-generated imagery technology. The sequels, however, will take much less time now that the production team is more familiar with the CGI technology, and the templates for the CG characters and settings have already been created.

“We were doing a lot of pioneering work on Avatar. It wouldn’t have taken as long if we already knew exactly how to do it,” explains Cameron, “My next goal is to refine the technique, make it easier so it doesn’t take as long.”

Twentieth Century Fox is full of praises for James Cameron’s work, particularly for the way Avatar, as a spokesman for the company puts it, “raised the consciousness of people worldwide to some of the greatest issues facing our planet.” They are fully backing Cameron’s work on the sequels: “We had no higher priority, and can feel no greater joy, than enabling Jim [Cameron] to continue and expand his vision of the world of Avatar.”

Cameron plans to start writing the scripts early next year, and to begin filming at the end of 2011. If the films reach their target release dates, the sequels will air in 2014 and 2015. Cameron has yet to announce whether he will be shooting the sequels back-to-back, or whether he will take on another film in between production.

Gigi, played by Laura Bueno, was being trained to become a mistress like her eccentric aunt, Inez (Leigh Scarritt). Gaston (Benjamin Robinson), was born into wealth and had spent his time living a life of pleasure. With Gigi unhappy at the thought of becoming a trophy-wife and Gaston bored of his life, yet constantly hounded by media, the two begin to take solace in each other’s relaxed company. Free from the pressures and intrusiveness of society, love blossoms until Gaston tries to make Gigi another one of his mistresses. Will true love prevail?

Leon Natker, serving in his 22nd year as Director of Lyric, was excited to bring “Gigi” back to the people of San Diego. “Putting on shows is a passion for us. We are able to bring a script to life and pass on the work!” says Natker. Knowing that competition in the entertainment business is coming on strong from television, computers and cell-phones, Natker maintains that live theatre will continue to fill an important niche in peoples’ lives. “The audience comes for a 3-D experience; they come to have their mind expanded, to think, and to grow. Theatre is an experience that is totally unique.”

The San Diego audience was delighted to be a part of the company’s final day of “Gigi.” Their responsiveness to the dialog and wit was refreshingly unique. San Diegans were there simply to enjoy the show. Wives did not have to nudge their husbands awake and there were no social gatherings in the lobby during the performance. Relaxing after the final performance of Gigi, Natker said, “The most exciting thing to the cast and me is to know we gave the audience an experience. When actors are interacting and connecting with them and the orchestra is filling them with emotion, you can feel the audience react and come alive.” Indeed, San Diego will be looking forward to being in the audience for Lyric’s next show at the Birch, one of the top comic operas, “Barber of Seville.”

The highly anticipated film from director Davis Guggenheim, the Academy Award winning director of An Inconvenient Truth, brings you this must see film. Waiting for “Superman” is an exploration into the current state of public education in the U.S. and how it is affecting children. Fueled by his conscience and electrified by the possibilities for change, Guggenheeim sets off a probing journey into the lives of five unforgettable kids whose dreams, hopes and untapped potential reveal all that it is at stake at this critical moment.

How to enter:

1. “Fan” Perry’s Previews on Facebook: Click here now!

2. Email Perry’s Manager with your name to confirm you’ve Fanned him
Email: bioforesight@gmail.com
Subject line: Superman

3. Be one of the 1st 25 to send your confirmation email and WIN!

If you’re a winner, you’ll be notified via email with instructions for picking up tickets.

Tickets are good for 2 free tickets to screen Waiting for “Superman” on October 5 at 7pm. The screening will be at the Landmark Hillcrest, located at 3965 5th Ave., San Diego.

PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY! Seats are NOT guaranteed, are limited to theatre capacity and are first-come, first-served. This theatre is not responsible for seating over capacity. No one will be admitted without a ticket and no one will be admitted after the screening begins.

The American

Jack is an assassin that has had enough of the hard life—tired of constantly moving and being on the run, the American spy retreats to the Italian countryside after a particularly nasty job in Sweden. In Italy, Jack escapes into the quaint confines of a quiet medieval town, where he takes an assignment to build a weapon for Mathilde, a secretive contact of his. As time passes, Jack becomes involved in an affair with the beautiful Clara—but as their relationship progresses, their fling turns into love, a love that is seemingly innocent and free of danger. But Jack may be in more danger than he thinks if he lets complacency get the best of him. With beautiful film work and an uncharacteristically restrained performance from George Clooney, The American isn’t your typical spy movie—but it’s still worth a watch.

Takers

Takers is the tale of a group of notorious criminals who make a living by seamlessly pulling off bank robberies—and they haven’t been caught yet. But when the crew attempts to pull of a final bank heist that involves more money than they have ever attempted to deal with before, their reputations—and their freedom—are put at stake by a hard-hitting detective who won’t rest until he has them all behind bars. Featuring a cast of all-stars such as Matt Dillon, Chris Brown, Paul Walker, Hayden Christensen, Idris Elba, and T.I., Takers is a fast-paced action movie with enough grit and action to keep you on the edge of your seat. But be warned—don’t expect anything too groundbreaking—this film delivers pure entertainment, and not much else.

Going the Distance

Erin and Garrett meet in a bar over breakfast the morning after Garrett has just had a nasty breakup with his girlfriend. Bonding over beer and banter, the two hit it off immediately, sparking a six week long summer romance that takes them through every nook and cranny of the Big Apple. But when it’s time for Erin to leave for San Francisco and Garrett to stay behind for his job in NYC, neither of the two want the relationship to end. So with Erin on the West Coast and Garrett on the East, the two stay together—and stay in touch—through texts, calls, and e-mails, much to the chagrin of Garrett’s friends and Erin’s protective older sister. But despite the naysayers, the unlikely couple may just have found the real thing—now, can they make it last? With humor that somehow manages to be both witty and raunchy, a lighthearted belief in the power of true love, and the sweet chemistry between Drew Barrymore and Justin Long, Going the Distance is a romantic comedy that is sure to leave you smiling.

Photos from David Shankbone and nicogenin via flickr

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La Jolla Playhouse

2910 La Jolla Village Drive
La Jolla, CA 92037
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Limelight: The Story of Charlie Chaplin

September 7 – October 17

From the gritty streets and smoky music halls of London to movie screens across the world, Limelight goes behind the camera to show how Charlie Chaplin found soaring success and later fell from grace. Limelight provides a moving and delightful close-up on the man who changed motion pictures forever.

Notes From Underground

September 17 – October 17

Having resigned his position as a civil servant to live in isolation, the underground man holes up in a squalid traffic office cluttered with discarded equipment and wet snow. Obsessively reliving old wounds and spurning any chance at affection, the man begins a descent into madness that is at times heartbreakingly funny, at times disquieting, but always unforgettable.

The Solana Beach Theater

987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Ste. D
Solana Beach, CA 92075
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September 4 – September 26

Head for “Becky’s New Car,” a comedy of midlife crisis and catharsis. Written by award-winning Steven Dietz, this frothy, poignant and fresh new comedy is a perfect side trip from the daily woes of modern life. Forty-something Becky Foster has a decent job at an auto dealership, a solid husband, and a freeloading psychmajor son living in her basement. Her life is pleasant enough, but through a twist of fate Becky gets to test drive an exciting new life.

Lamb’s Players Theatre

1142 Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118
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September 2 – September 19

The oft-revived “Smoke on the Mountain” moves to the company’s Coronado home theater. The hilarious gospel celebration is about The Great Depression coming to an end. The Sanders Family Singers are back on the road again and of course the bus just broke down, the twins are fighting again, Uncle Stanley’s fresh out of prison, and sister June still can’t really sing. After this night, Mount Pleasant Baptist Church will never be the same.

Moonlight Stage Productions

1250 Vale Terrace Drive
Vista, CA 92084
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September 8- September 25

The Vista company stages “Miss Saigon,” the Vietnam-set love story that became famous on Broadway (where it opened in 1991) and on tour for the helicopter that lands on stage. The story is based on Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly.”

Welk Resorts Theatre

8860 Lawrence Welk Dr.
Escondido, CA 92026
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September 9 – October 17

This revival of the Old Globe-spawned musical “The Full Monty” is based on the movie about struggling laborers who start up a strip act.

Onstage Playhouse

291 3rd Avenue
Chula Vista, CA 91910
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September 10 – October 9

The Chula Vista company stages “The Country Club” by Douglas Carter Beane, the book writer for the Broadway musical “Xanadu” as well as the playwright behind a number of frequently produced non-musical plays.

Scripps Ranch Theatre

10755-F Scripps Poway Pkwy  #187
San Diego, CA  92131
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September 11 – October 9

The company opens its season with “Social Security,” a family comedy that debuted on Broadway in the mid-’80s. The season starts with a hilarious adult comedy by Andrew Bergman about the shattering of yuppie bliss, the timelessness of romance and an aged Jewish mother who turns her children’s lives upside down in the nicest way. Preview Night is Friday, September 10 and Opening Night is Saturday, September 11.

Old Globe Theatre

Balboa Park
El Prado, between the San Diego Museum of Art and the Museum of Man
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September 14 – November 7.

“Brighton Beach Memoirs” and “Broadway Bound” launch the theater’s winter season. Scott Schwartz who directed “Lost in Yonkers” for the Globe earlier this year (and was production supervisor on the recent Globe show “Golda’s Balcony”), directs the two works from Simon’s “Eugene trilogy,” centered on Brooklyn boy Eugene Morris Jerome.

September 25 – October 31

“Welcome to Arroyo’s” goes up on the Globe’s White Theatre second stage. Playwright Kristoffer Diaz was a Pulitzer finalist this year for “The Elaborate Entrance of Chad Deity”; Jaime Castañeda directs his hip-hop-infused piece about a brother and sister and the legacy of a family bodega.

New Village Arts

2787 State St
Carlsbad, CA 92008
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September 23 to October 31.

“Into the Woods,” the first musical in NVA’s 10-season history. James Vasquez directs with an 18-member cast.

San Diego Repertory

79 Horton Plaza
San Diego, CA 92101-6144
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September 25 – September 17

South African playwright (and San Diego-area resident) Athol Fugard’s “The Road to Mecca” is centered on a reclusive widow creating art in a remote village. Miss Helen is a reclusive widow who has created her own “Mecca” by meticulously decorating her home and front yard with a cacophony of candles, mermaids, wisemen, peacocks and pyramids. The neighbors can’t stop wondering “why?” Into Helen’s quiet life enters a young teacher with a secret agenda and a local clergyman with a plan to get Helen to sign away her home and her freedom. The trio clashes in a battle for Helen’s soul and her future.

Piranha 3D

Directed by Alexandre Aja, Piranha 3D tells the tale of a group of strangers celebrating their Spring Break at Lake Victoria, a small, quiet town that turns into a hub of debauchery for 50,000 teenagers each year. When an unexpected underwater tremor cuts the festivities short and sets free droves of prehistoric, man-eating fish, it is up to these 9 individuals to band together to stay alive. Starring Elisabeth Shue, Jerry OConnell, Ving Rhames, Adam Scott, Richard Dreyfuss, Christopher Lloyd, Kelly Brook, Jessica Szohr (Gossip Girl), and Steven R. McQueen (The Vampire Diaries), Piranha 3D delivers just what every horror film enthusiast wants—plenty of gore and tons of thrills. Don’t expect great special effects though (if you’ve seen the trailer you know why…)

Vampires Suck

The tagline for this film essentially says it all: “From the guys who couldn’t sit through another vampire movie!” Writers Jason Friedberg and Aaron Seltzer direct this obvious spoof of contemporary teen romance movies—namely, the Twilight films. Becca, a young, angst-ridden teenage girl, is torn between her love of two different boys, one a werewolf and one a vampire. On top of this, she must deal with her overbearing father, and be there for her friends as they all deal with their individual teenage dramas. The film comes to a head when everyone’s problems collide at the high school prom. With ridiculous hyperbole and just plain goofy humor, Vampires Suck is sure to please anyone who is, well, tired of vampire movies. But beware—the comedy isn’t exactly high caliber.

The Switch

Starring Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman, this offbeat comedy depicts the ridiculous story of Kassie (Jennifer Aniston), a young, fun-loving single woman who decides that it is finally time to have her own baby. So, with the help of a turkey baster, a generous sperm donor (Patrick Wilson), and a little do-it-your-self spirit, Kassie gets pregnant. Little does she know, however, that her quirky best friend Wally (Jason Bateman) switched the donor sperm with his own—making him the baby’s real father. When Wally comes to visit 7 years after the baby’s birth, Kassie begins to think it’s strange how well her son’s quirks resemble her old best friends’…Hilarity ensues.

Nanny McPhee Returns

If you’re looking for something to take the kids to see this weekend, look no further than Nanny McPhee Returns, the heartwarming sequel to 2005′s Nanny McPhee. The film tells the story of a small family, composed of Mrs. Isabel Green (Maggie Gyllenhaal), her two daughters, and her son, living in a scenic valley while Mr. Green is in the military overseas. Everything is running beautifully for the happy family until, one day, two spoiled cousins arrive for a visit and turn the family’s peaceful life into a chaotic mess. Cue Nanny McPhee (Emma Thompson), who arrives on the Green’s doorstep one day offering her services as a caretaker for the children. Through the use of magic, the benevolent babysitter teaches the children important life lessons and earns their trust. With a plethora of  heartwarming scenes and an educational plotline, this movie is a good bet for the kids this weekend.

Each of these films offers a little something different, so whether you feel like a romantic comedy or a scary movie that will leave you with the shivers, the box office has you covered this weekend. Happy viewing!

Photos from chesi-fotos cc and popculturegeek.com via flickr and nehrams2020 via wikimedia commons

This year’s film festival is being sponsored by the Leichtag Family Foundation, and presented by the San Diego Center for Jewish Culture at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, Jacobs Family Campus.

Guest Speakers

In addition to the film, there will be a featured speaker following the screening–, Astronaut Garrett Reisman, the first Jewish crew member on the International Space Station. He will be discussing events that led to the filming of “An Article of Hope.”

The film’s director, Dan Cohen will also participate in a discussion session. The evening will conclude with a Q&A session with Reisman, the film’s director, Daniel Cohen, and its producer, Christopher Cowen.

More on the Subject

On Feb. 1, 2003, the space shuttle Columbia broke up above Texas. Its seven astronauts from around the world, including Col. Ilan Ramon, the first Israeli astronaut, all perished.

Also destroyed was an artifact that had survived the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp during the Holocaust – the small Torah scroll that Colonel Ramon carried into space.  “An Article of Hope” explores the journey of the Torah from pre-World War II Europe, to Israel, and then into space.

Reisman, a native of New Jersey, earned his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from the California Institute of Technology in 1997 and was selected by NASA as a Mission Specialist in 1998. He was a back-up crew member for Expedition 15 and joined Expedition 16 aboard the International Space Station for a short time before becoming a member of Expedition 17.

Reisman sent a greeting from space to the people of Israel during the celebration of Israel 60th Independence Day in May 2008. He returned to Earth in June 2008 on board STS-124 on the space shuttle Discovery. Reisman was also a member of the STS-132 mission that traveled to the International Space Station aboard the space shuttle Atlantis from May 14 to 26.

Tickets are $11.25 for Jewish Center members and $13.25 for non-members.

For tickets or information, call (858) 362-1348 or visit www.lfjcc.org/sdjff.

Photo courtesy of NightRPStar via flickr

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World

This quirky and visually compelling film, based on an Oni Press comic book by Bryan Lee O’Malley, features Michael Cera as the young Scott Pilgrim, a 23-year old rocker who pretty much has it made—he’s got the cute high school girlfriend, the band (Sex Bob-ombs) no job, and plenty of time to waste. That is, until a certain Miss Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) knocks the breath out of Scott’s lungs and the normalcy out of his abnormal life.

The path to Scott’s roller-blading, package-delivering love isn’t going to be easy however—Ramona’s seven evil exes don’t exactly relish the thought of her with another man. In order to win the girl, Scott is forced to embark on a quest and do battle with each of Ramona’s past boyfriends. But can this slacker turned knight-in-shining-armor get the girl? Or will he ruin his perfect life in the process? With brilliant graphics, witty repartee, and old-school gamer references, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is a sure crowd-pleaser and a must-see this weekend.

The Expendables

An action-packed throwback to the old school adventure movie, The Expendables tells the tale of a band of mercenaries, led by the skilled Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone) who head to South America on a mission to assassinate a ruthless dictator for the mysterious Mr. Church. But once the team of gun-toting, dynamite-strapped bad-asses reaches their location, they find themselves trapped in a web of deceit and lies, and must overcome their differences and the obstacles thrown in their way if they want to get out alive. Full of high-octane thrills and of course, tons of explosions, The Expendables will appeal to the fan of the old-school die-hard action movie.

Photos from Paul Lowry and splashing via flickr

After a painful and emotionally scarring divorce, Liz sets off to find her destiny, stepping outside of her comfort zone and embarking on a journey around the world—a journey that begins as an escape and gradually transforms into a quest to find herself and true fulfillment. In Italy, her first stop, Liz learns the art of loving herself, her body, and of course, good food. As she works her way through virtually every ristorante, trattoria, cantina, and cucina in Italy, Liz unwittingly learns to stand on her own two feet—and discovers new friends, a new life, and an old inner strength that she didn’t know she had. The trip continues through India, where Liz learns the power of prayer and spirituality in a Hindu ashram, and Bali, where she suddenly and unexpectedly stumbles upon the meaning of true love.

In an uplifting tale of devastation, loss, self-discovery, and inner peace, “Eat, Pray, Love” is the ultimate feel-good tear-jerker with a slight dash of comedy thrown in for good measure. Starring rom-com queen Julia Roberts and an all-star cast including the likes of James Franco and Javier Bardem, “Eat, Pray, Love” is sure to please and inspire. The film comes to theaters everywhere this Friday, August 13^th.

Photo from bandita via flickr

The “In the Heights”  musical is about a small, but dynamic community in New York’s Washington Heights. The neighborhood is always alive with the sun shining down, people running through the streets finding some shade, and a hot breeze blowing through the brick buildings.

Washington Heights is full of culture and tradition that is seen across the state of New York. They cherish their culture and where they have all come from. And the inspiring stories that surround the Washington Heights streets are bigger than life itself.

The story follows the lives of characters, chronicling their hopes, dreams, and aspirations. The love the community shares for one another can not be missed, and it makes this musical stand apart from all others that have hit the Broadway stages. The Washington Heights community embraces what they are given, and will go above and beyond for each other.

“In the Heights” expresses more than just a one-dimension story, but rather a range of stories that any audience member can relate to; a love story, a self-discovery, and a community becoming one. You will have no problem finding your own personal connection in this charismatic and exciting musical.

The cast brings these stories alive with their powerful voices and thrilling choreography. You will not be let-down! Hearing soft melodies intertwine with the rapping and smooth voice of Joseph Morales, you will surely want to stay put in your seat.

The Entertainer spoke with one of the cast members about her role in this heart-warming musical. Natalie Toro has been on stage since she could remember, “I performed at the Apollo Theatre when I was little with a 5-piece band.” Now she is on the stage playing the role of Camille, a mother and wife in the Washington Heights community.

Toro explained her feelings towards such a one-of-a-kind musical. “The audience can really connect with the musical because of its amount of love and community feeling.”

This Tony Award winning musical has been touring the country since its debut in 2008 and made a stop in San Diego for a limited time at Civic Theater. The critically acclaimed musical is touring across the country now. You won’t want to miss the astounding voices, the incredible choreography, and the captivating story of Washington Heights!

For dates and show times of upcoming shows at the Civic Theater and the Balboa Theater, check out: http://www.sandiegotheatres.org/eventstickets/

For more information on the musical, check out the “In the Heights” website: http://www.intheheightsthemusical.com/

To learn more about Natalie Toro, go to http://www.natalietoro.com/

Despicable Me

This animated flick, which borrows its inspiration from cartoon greats such as Looney Tunes, Disney, and Pixar, is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for a fun, family friendly flick that packs a sentimental punch and also has a darkly humorous little bite to it, Despicable Me definitely delivers.

Pierre Coffin and Chris Renaud direct this tale starring Gru (voiced by Steve Carell), a sinister little man who delights in all things wicked. Armed with all manner of guns and rays, plotting away in the secret hideout hidden under his rickety suburban home, Gru devises the ultimate heist: to steal the moon. What he doesn’t count on, however, are the three little orphaned girls he encounters: Margo, Edith, and Agnes. These three darlings turn out to be the biggest challenge Gru has ever faced when they decide his future for him—to be their new Dad. With beautiful animation and a hilarious cast featuring the voices of Steve Carell, Jason Segel, Russell Brand and Kristen Wiig, Despicable Me is sure to please.

Inception

Better take that bathroom break before you get inside the theater—you’re not going to want to miss a second of this plot. Directed by the legendary Christopher Nolan and starring the talented Leonardo DiCaprio as Dom Cobb, Inception introduces a world of corporate espionage and intrigue in which technology can be harnessed to enter the mind. Cobb’s business is extraction, or the art of stealing valuable secrets from the subconscious when the mind is in its most vulnerable dream state—a distinction which not only makes him the world’s most skilled thief, but also the most demanded.

While his ability has granted him a coveted status in the world of subterfuge, it has also cost him his life and everything he ever loved. Now he’s offered a chance to get his life back—pull off one last job. But instead of extraction, Cobb and his crew must accomplish the impossible and plant an idea in a dreamer’s mind—inception. If they succeed, they will all be free of their burdensome life forever. But if they fail, the consequences will be dire—and the dangerous enemy that appears to destroy their efforts wants just that.

With visually stunning effects, brilliant acting, and layers upon layers of intricately woven plotwork, Inception is a must-see for movie-lovers everywhere. It comes to theaters this Friday, July 16th!

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice

Made by the creators of the “National Treasure” franchise, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is a bit of lighthearted summer fun for those who are feeling a more breezy moviegoing experience. Balthazar Blake (Nicolas Cage) is a modern-day Manhattan sorceror, struggling to protect the city from his arch-nemesis, Maxim Horvath (Max Molina). Needing a little help in his endeavors, Blake recruits Dave Stutler (Jay Baruchel), a seemingly average Joe who actually has a great potential for magic hidden inside of him. Blake plays Stutler’s mentor, giving him a problem-riddled short version of a sorceror’s training, and together the two combat the forces of evil. With entertaining effects and a simple storyline, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is sure to please the kids—adults may want to scan the other movies playing in theaters this weekend.

Photos from ammy.lou, chaubaby, and popculturegeek.com via flickr

• The Twilight Saga: Eclipse: Don’t miss out on the third film of the Twilight Saga. Despite the fairly negative reviews, Eclipse still claims the #1 spot in the box office, meaning that “Twi-hards”,“Team Jacob” and “Team Edward” are remaining faithful to the series with the hope that the film is not as bad as the reviewers claim.
• The Last Airbender: Based on the Nickelodean hit series “Avatar,” The Last Airbender is the first of a projected trilogy. The film succeeded in assuming the #2 spot in the box office, just after Eclipse, and enchants the audience with an abundance of dazzling visual effects. This film is for those who loved and could not get enough of the animated series.
• Toy Story 3: If you grew up watching Toy Story and Toy Story 2, then Toy Story 3 is a must. This film explores a topic that many refuse to consider: what happens to your childhood memories and artifacts when you can no longer live in your childhood? What happens when you must leave it all behind? This movie provides a touching remembrance of the loving relationship between Andy and his toys—a final chapter that Toy Story lovers would hate to miss!
  
  

  Photo from coolinsights via Flickr

• Grown Ups: “Boys will be boys… some longer than others.” Five friends reunite after 30 years for a Fourth of July weekend, all having moved on with their lives. The five, now adults, along with their families, gather at a lake house only to discover that nothing has really changed. This movie is hilarious and a great “friends forever” film that you and your pals can all enjoy.
  
• Knight and Day: The always stunning Tom Cruise and the forever beautiful Cameron Diaz join forces in this comedy about a normal woman and a seemingly normal man, who in reality is a secret agent. Their two lives become tangled as they embark on an entertaining, action-packed mission to stay alive.
• Karate Kid Jackie Chan is the new “Mr. Miyagi” (named Mr. Han in this version) and Jaden Smith is the new “Karate Kid” in this remake of the 1984 film, The Karate Kid. Chan and Smith succeed in giving a stellar performance, and provide the audience with an inspirational and touching story about passion and perseverance. Produced by Will and Jada Pickett Smith, this is a film for children and adults alike.

All of the hype that was created around the film did get people to line-up at the theaters, but left

Photo from Anime.com.br via Flickr

everyone wanting to walk-out half way through the movie. The film’s box office success this past holiday weekend shows that the dedicated fans of the animated series were hoping for something spectaclar. The film raked in $40 milllion and fell in the number 2 spot, right behind the summer hit, “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse.”

But the numbers don’t reflect the disappointment that the viewers expressed after watching a film filled with more narration and dialogue, than meaningful cinematography.

“The Last Airbender” is based upon the Nickelodeon animated series, “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” The show aired on television for three seasons and is going to be made into a triology. The elements of magic and martials arts were put into real-life action when Nickelodeon teamed up with Paramount Pictures to create the triology in 2007. M. Night Shyamalan jumped on board when he became interested in the animated series, and wanted to be a part of the film’s creation.

Without spoiling the whole entire triology, the story is based in a magical world that is divided into four nations: water, fire, earth, and air. These nations begin to conflict and only one can bring peace to the feud-Aang. He is the last Avatar that has the ability to manipulate all four elements and will be hopefully be able to restore the peace between the dueling nations. So, what can we expect from Aang? Or more importantly, what can we expect from M. Night Shyamalan and the next two installments? I guess we will have to wait and see.

Photo from Anime.com.br via Flickr

The original film was set in a suburban house right here in San Diego. Katie and Micah, the couple that are the only two actors that appear in the film, had settled in their new home and began their lives together. Little did Micah know, Katie had a haunting past from childhood that involved this very “demonic” presence that the film is based upon.

The film was shot primarily in the house and at night when the most activity occurred. Throughout the film, you see dark shadows moving in the background and foot steps running along the floor. You hear quiet whispers from outside the bedroom door and Katie screaming. The simplicity of the film makes a viewer feel as though they are in the house with the Katie and Micah.

The look and feel of Paranormal Activity 2 will hold the same as the first film. The official trailer for Paranormal Activity 2 has hit the web and gives us a little sneak peak of what is to come; a baby sleeping, a frightened dog hearing noises, and an “empty” kitchen. Just don’t be surprised if you are jumping out of your seat while watching it.

Check out the official trailer of Paranormal Activity 2: http://www.paranormalmovie.com/

Photo from tsmall via Flickr

Tickets are now being sold for “Eclipse” as it is set to hit theaters nationwide on June 30. It will be playing in normal theaters as well as IMAX.

The pandemonium over the movie has been evident ever since the first trailers of “Eclipse” were released months ago. Fans and non-fans alike are looking forward to how the love story of Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) and Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson) plays out.

The love story has captured the attention of people from all different walks of life; teenage girls, college students, and even moms. Needless to say nothing can express the craze that has defined the Twilight Sage since its debut in 2008. And with the new release of the third installment of the saga coming to the screen there seems to be “twilight-fever.”

In the previous movie “New Moon” we saw the love triangle between Bella, Edward and Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner) begin to cause a dangerous stir in the plot. The love of vampire Edward was instantly natural and overwhelmingly strong for Bella, but she has grown much closer with werewolf and friend, Jacob. The movie concluded with the decision that Edward would change Bella into a vampire, but only after they are married.

The new movie is filled with action packed scenes between the new rise of blood thirsty vampires that have begun killing innocent people in Seattle, Wash. Edward and his family join forces with the werewolf’s in order to stop the murders. But the love triangle continues when Jacob finds out about Bella and Edward’s engagement. Bella then discovers she has deeper feelings for Jacob.

“Eclipse” is being released only seven months after the previous movie, “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” which grossed over $709 million in the box office last November.

The series is that of four books by Stephenie Meyer, “Eclipse” being the third.“Eclipse” was at the top of the charts of bestselling books in 2008, shortly after it was released in August 2007. There have been more than 4.5 million copies sold of the third book alone.

San Diego has joined in on the chaos and is participating in something very special. In-light of the release of the film and the fans that have turned this book series into a phenomenon, it has been released by Summit Entertainment will be hosting a special event in twelve cities across the nation.

San Diego has been announced as one of the twelve cities partaking in “Twilight Night” on June 26th! The event will be held at Park at the Park in Downtown San Diego off of 10th and K Street, and will start at 6:00 p.m.

“Twilight Night” will include an outdoor screening of “Twlight” and “New Moon” along with a special sneak peak of the “Twilight Saga: Eclipse.” This night will be filled with special cast member appearances and activities such as, a red carpet and a photobooth that are both provided by Moviefone. And for those that can not make this special engagement, Moviefone is streaming it live online at: www.moviefone.com/twilightnight.

The event is on a first-come basis, so start pitching those tents and camping out because you won’t want to miss this.

Other events taking place in San Diego before the movie’s big debut are:

• Nordstrom and Summit Entertainment invite fans to meet select cast members of “Eclipse” on Sun. June 27 at Nordstrom in the Fashion Valley Mall, San Diego.
• June 29 is the advanced screening of the movie. Tickets available at Nordstrom with purchase of $50 or more.
• Watch the previous movie before the new one : “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” double features at select AMC and Regal theaters in San Diego June 29.

The next installment, “The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn” is already being buzzed about. It is the fourth book, but is said to be split into two parts for the movie. “Breaking Dawn” is scheduled to be released in November 2011.

To find out more information visit: www.eclipsethemovie.com

Contributing Writer: Bianca Puopolo.

*Photo from Alfredituzz :B via Flickr

After last weekend’s release of Sex and the City 2, though, the decade-old franchise has fielded widespread criticism for something other than the costume changes. Not only has the sequel fielded criticism for its utter lack of timeliness (as it turns out, watching Carrie Bradshaw and co. strut down 5^th avenue in $500 Manolo Blahniks was a lot easier on the eyes back when Uncle Sam was actually running a surplus), but also for its blatantly stereotyped depiction of life in the Middle East.

For those who have yet to plunk down $9.75 for the two-and-a-half-hour glimpse at the high life: this follow-up to the original 2008 film adaptation finds the ladies on an all-expense-paid trip to Abu Dhabi. Yet writer-director-producer Michael Patrick King — evidently not content to accept Samantha’s insistence upon bearing cleavage as culture clash enough—takes the girls’ clichéd American inconsideration to new heights.

Tired pun after tired pun (Bed, Bath and Bedouin? Really, Carrie?) grates on for so long that it’s no wonder the United Arab Emirates Media Council made a public statement against the film’s portrayal of the region. Filming, for what it’s worth, didn’t even take place in Abu Dhabi, but thousands of miles away in the North African nation of Morocco — making any bid at cultural sensitivity all the cheaper.

While Sex and the City has certainly never purported to be any kind of purveyor of political correctness, there’s still a certain degree of social responsibility that any film of this degree of popularity ought to maintain—but King, evidently, doesn’t value that sort of responsibility over a “Lawrence of my Labia” joke. Insulting humor or not, though, it’s sad for this onetime diehard fan to see just how far the mighty have fallen. I guess Carrie and her partners in crime were never cut out for responsible, recession-era comedy.

Iron Man 2 premiered on Friday May 7 to the excitement and joy of Marvel Comics fans all around.

Six months after the first Iron Man movie, the world now knows that Tony Stark, played by Robert Downey Jr., is the mysterious Iron Man. With his Iron Man armor, Stark has negotiated peace with the major super powers of the world. He has also fulfilled his father’s dream by opening the “Stark Expo” and showcasing his latest inventions that will benefit the world. While the government and public is pressuring him to divulge his technology to the military, Stark refuses because he is afraid that the information will leak and get into the wrong hands. Along with Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) and James “Rhodey” Rhodes (Don Cheadle), Stark creates new alliances while confronting other powerful forces.

Check out the official trailer for Iron Man 2 below.

Also coming out in select theaters this weekend is the documentary Babies (also known as Bebes). This documentary takes you into the lives of four babies from Mongolia, Namibia, San Francisco, and Tokyo, and takes you through the journey of the earliest stages in life that you probably don’t remember living through yourself. From baby breaths to baby steps, this film will give you a glimpse of childhood and motherhood in an interesting way.

Along with Iron Man 2 and Babies, other feature films coming out this weekend include Casino Jack and the United States of Money, Happiness Runs, Mother and Child, and OSS 117: Lost in Rio. A Nightmare on Elm Street still holds the box office’s #1 spot since its release on April 30, 2010. This horror film tells the story of a group of teenagers who are all being stalked by the killer Freddy Krueger. They can run while they’re awake, but it’s during their sleep that they are worried about.

Pulling in $92,000,000+, How to Train Your Dragon is the #2 movie in the box office. This action/comedy animation is fun for movie watchers of all ages. As you watch the scrawny teenage viking Hiccup prove himself as a fighter to the people of Berk, while befriending an injured dragon he names Toothless, you’re almost guaranteed to leave the theaters wanting a pet dragon of your own.

For local San Diego theaters and showtimes, click here.

*Photo from kevitivity via Flickr.

The Tony Award nominations were announced Tuesday and “Memphis,” a rock and roll musical that premiered at the La Jolla Playhouse in 2008 and later moved to Broadway, was nominated for eight Tony Awards.

The musical was among the top nominees with only three other plays, “Fela!” ,”La Cage Aux Folles” and “Fences”, earning more nominations. “Memphis is nominated for Best Musical and Christopher Ashley, the Playhouse’s artistic chief, is nominated for Best Director.

Top honors for “Memphis” also include nominations for Best Performance by a  Lead Actor for Chad Kimball whose fellow nominees include “Frasier” star Kelsey Grammer and “Will and Grace” star Sean Hayes. Montego Glover is nominated for Best Performance by a Lead Actress along with Catherine Zeta-Jones, both Kimball and Glover stared in the La Jolla production of “Memphis”.

Other nominations for “Memphis” include Best Book for a Musical, Best Original Score, Best Costumes and Best Orchestrations. “Memphis” was developed at the La Jolla Playhouse and moved to Broadway last October. The musical features music and lyrics by David Bryan from Bon Jovi and has been compared to “Dreamgirls” and “Hairspray.”

The 2010 Tony Awards are getting a little extra attention this year thanks to the amount of movie stars dominating many of the award categories. Jude Law, Liev Schreiber, Christopher Walken and Denzel Washington are all nominated for the Best Actor in a play Tony. Scarlett Johansson is nominated for Best Featured Actress for her role in the play “A View From the Bridge.” Green Day’s “American Idiot” is nominated for Best Musical and received nominations in two other categories. “Fela!” was produced by Jay-Z and Will Smith and is tied for the most nominations with “La Cage Aux Folles”, with 11 nominations.

The Tony Awards will air live on CBS on Sunday, June 13th from Radio City Music Hall, a host has yet to be announced. The awards show was hosted by Neil Patrick Harris last year and featured a now infamous performance by Bret Michaels where he was hit in the head by a moving piece of scenery.

Be sure to tune in this year to see if local nominees for “Memphis” take home any awards.

*Picture from Tomas Fano via Flickr