New Movies and Box Office Predictions: The Bourne Ultimatum, Bratz, Hot Rod, Underdog

The dog days of summer are nearly upon us. The majority of the big ticket movies have come and gone, but there still is some star power to be found. This week's likely top film is a another three-quel of summer, and one that I have high hopes for. It's competition includes a live action adaptation of a cartoon, a goofball comedy, and a movie based on a line of dolls. Still, there are always movies to see, and I encourage each and every one of you to get out and patronize your local cineplex.

The Bourne Ultimatum. (2007, 111 minutes, PG-13, thriller, trailer) I can't wait to see this. The first Bourne film was an exciting change of pace from the big CG effects laden action films by giving a film that was explosive, exciting, and relied on primarily practical effects. Oh yeah, it was a good story as well. The second one upped the ante, and now the final film of the trilogy is upon us, and it looks even better. Matt Damon is fantastic as Jason Bourne, not to mention the rest of the cast, which includes Joan Allen, Julia Stiles, and David Strathairn. This film finds Bourne reunited with the knowledge of who he is and his return home. The commercials are filled with the promise of high action and big thrills. Looking forward to it!

Hot Rod. (2007, 88 minutes, PG-13, comedy, trailer) Saturday Night Live's Andy Samberg makes his big screen debut as a wannabe stuntman with the desire, no, need to live up to his father's expectations. He goes forward with his stunts, despite the disastrous results. There are a couple of moments that look funny, and then there is the presence of Isla Fisher, but I cannot say that this looks good, at all.

Underdog. (2007, 84 minutes, PG, superhero comedy, trailer) "Never fear, Underdog is here!" Not sure how necessary this movie was, but just having Jason Lee cast as the voice of the heroic dog smacks of genius. Still, I cannot say that I am terribly impressed with the trailer, though I am sure the kids will love it. I am curious, and will likely make my way out to see it. Other cast members include Peter Dinklage as the bad guy, and Patrick Warburton providing another voice performance.

Bratz. (2007, 90 minutes, PG, comedy, trailer) Well, let me just say that I will not be seeing this. I know that I say that I will see anything, but even I have to draw the line somewhere. Unless, of course, someone decides to offer a free pass. Anyway, the story centers on a foursome seeking to break into the social circle of high school and facing some difficulties.

Also opening this week, but not near me:

• El Cantante
• Becoming Jane
• Cash
• The Ten

Box Office Predictions
There is no doubt in my mind that Matt Damon will lead Jason Bourne to the top of the box office this week, the question is just how high it will go. Last week I grossly misunderestimated The Simpsons Movie, so I hope to not have a repeat performance. The Bourne Supremacy opened with $52 million, and I have a suspicion that this will perform in the same neighborhood, maybe a touch higher. Underdog and Hot Rod are a little tougher to call. Underdog should draw in the family crowd that already saw The Simpsons, while the apparently stupid looking comedy of Hot Rod will probably due lesser, SNL's Andy Samberg is not exactly a household name and will likely prove to not be a big draw. Although, I have read a coupld of good reviews for it. The rest is all up in the air, so we shall see come Monday.

Here is how I think the top ten field will play out:

Rank	Title	Box Office
1	The Bourne Ultimatum	$55 million
2	The Simpsons Movie	$32 million
3	Underdog	$18 million
4	I Know Pronounce You Chuck and Larry	$11 million
5	Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix	$10 million
6	Hairspray	$9 million
7	Hot Rod	$8 million
8	No Reservations	$6.5 million
9	Transformers	$6 million
10	Ratatouille	$4 million

What are you seeing this weekend?