The Most Anticipated Summer Films

I may specialize in the horror genre, but not many scares will be delivered this summer. So, I have decided to provide for you a short list of my seven most anticipated summer films. For the purpose of this list, I am looking at all films being released between the beginning of May and the third week of August. With that out of the way, here we go.

7.) The Incredible Hulk - June 13, 2008

I skipped the Eric Bana Hulk (2003) during its theatrical run after hearing so many abysmal things and, for one reason or the other, I never picked it up on DVD either. Now, the Incredible Hulk will be returning to the big screen in a completely new film, which has the potential to start a solid franchise. I have enjoyed all of the marketing thus far and the casting...well, it's worth a full admission price by itself. Put Edward Norton and Liv Tyler in a movie with a big green monster in purple shorts that causes all kinds of destruction and I am there with bells on.

6.) The Happening - June 13, 2008

Whatever happened to M. Night Shymalan, the man who crafted such masterful horror experiences as Signs and The Sixth Sense? Well, he killed his career with such disappointments as Lady in the Water and The Village. Now, he is trying to revive his career with The Happening, which looks like a return to form for the ailing director. With a top-notch cast that includes Mark Wahlberg and Zooey Deschanel and a trailer that is rather chill-inducing, Shymalan could make or break his recovery with this film. Either way, I want to see it happen...and my money is still on The Happening becoming a big hit.

5.) The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian - May 16, 2008

I really loved The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe and so I am excited to see what Prince Caspian has to offer. If nothing else, it should sport some epic battle scenes, great visual effects, and beautiful scenery. These films are filled with hidden meanings and symbolic undertones and yet they never seem bogged down by them. With all of the heavy political moments and thick dialog, The Lion, The Witch, And The Wardrobe was still a very fun film to watch. I expect the same thing here...except on a much grander scale.

4.) The Strangers - May 30, 2008

Liv Tyler could star as a hood ornament in a sequel to The Dukes of Hazzard and I would still show up, giddy with excitement. There is just something so magnetic and wonderful about her. Put her in what could possibly be the scariest horror film of the year and I am camping out of the movie theater. From everything I have seen and heard, The Strangers is going to be one of the few films of the year that really delivers genuine scares and terror. Even the trailer (check it out, if you haven't already) sends chills up my spine.

3.) Sex and the City - May 30, 2008

I know exactly what you are thinking...Sex and the City? What can I say? The show is one of my favorites, filled with sharp humor and witty dialog. It's a great show, even if most men won't admit it! So, I am very excited for this film, which looks like it captures the feel of the show wonderfully well. This is a distinct change in pace from the hustle and bustle of the summer season and, quite honestly, I find it very refreshing. With all of the explosions and over-the-top violence, a slower-paced and colorful comedy will be just the ticket. For all of these reasons, Sex and the City is one of my most anticipated films of the summer season.

2.) The Dark Knight - July 18, 2008

Who isn't anticipating this movie? This is the sequel to one of the most amazing comic book adaptations ever, Batman Begins. This film shows the return of much of the same cast, with only Katie Holmes opting not to come back (but Maggie Gyllenhaal replaced her so producers traded up) and it also adds Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent and Heath Ledger as The Joker. With an extensive viral marketing campaign that includes everything from mysterious websites to strange emails sent to popular bloggers, The Dark Knight has achieved massive acclaim and interest. Mark my words, this film will be remembered for years.

1.) Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull - May 22, 2008

What else could possibly top this list? The Indiana Jones series became a staple of cinema lovers' hearts years ago and to see a new installment (complete with Cate Blanchett in a villainous role) is very exciting. It has the return of Harrison Ford as the whip-snapping adventurer and that alone is absolutely fascinating. This film has a huge legacy to live up to and, though the margin for disappointment is large, I have faith in Ford and Steven Spielberg to make yet another amazing movie. If only Sean Connery would have returned, this would have had me running madly to the movie theaters. As it is, I'm just walking quickly.