Buzz Multiplex: Whatever Happens, Go
by Vera H-C ChanMay 9, 2008 10:00:00 AM
Talk about formula movies—now the Buzz Multiplex is seeing formula releases: This weekend pairs another high-octane blockbuster with wedding yuks. With "Iron Man" continuing to dominate with a sevenfold lead in online searches, though, the rest is just kid's stuff.
1. "Speed Racer." (PG). The big-screen revival of the anime cult favorite has audiences stoked—if they're under 17. Searchers have been checking out the trailers, car (aka the mach 5), cast, and reviews. Speaking of the last, the critics have been tepid about the two-hour-plus cinematic ride for its "bad dialogue," "predictable story," and "spinning its wheels." Emile Hirsch plays the round-faced wheelman, although maybe the Wachowski brothers should've switched things up and had Christina Ricci (girlfriend Trixie) in the driver's seat, considering her Search appeal is five times that of Emile's. Also making an online splash is John Goodman as Pops Racer.
2. " Whatever Happens in Vegas" (PG-13). Wedding season is upon us, so following in the rose-strewn wake of "Made of Honor" are Cameron Diaz and Ashton Kutcher as a couple united through an alcohol-fueled mishap. The advertising-slogan-turned-film hasn't been feeling much ardor from critics or audiences, although Diaz commands more searches than all actors opening in a movie this week combined. The Diaz-Kutcher coupling might explain the higher-than-usual male interest (2 out of 5 searches) ... that or spring makes guys sloppy sentimental. If this doesn't satisfy the Vegas fix, Entertainment Weekly recommends alternative picks for Sin City Cinema. Viva, baby.
