Summer 2006 Movies

Summer is right around the corner. Sun worshipers like myself (hey, I’m a Leo) are counting the days until the waves are just right, and the beach sand is still cool enough not to burn our feet in the afternoon sun. If you have other plans in mind (that don’t involve SPF 15,) here are two must-see movies that are sure to grab your attention.

“You, Me and Dupree” (Universal Studios ~ Not Yet Rated.) This comedy stars Owen Wilson as Randy Dupree, a self-proclaimed bachelor who suddenly finds himself out of a job, and living in a bar. Enter Carl Peterson (Matt Dillon) to rescue his oldest and dearest friend from himself, as he brings Dupree home to sleep on the couch ~ what are friends for, right? Carl’s new bride, Molly (Kate Hudson) seems to bear the brunt of Dupree’s immature antics. While Carl adjusts to newlywed life, he must cope with his overwhelming work schedule while maintaining his duties as a husband. He seems to regret his decision to have a permanent couch-guest. To make matters worse, Dupree uses his abundant spare time to become a companion for Molly. He manages to win over everyone, including Molly’s dad (Michael Douglas) with his charm and carefree wisdom. Everyone, that isâÂ?¦ except for Carl. Before long, three is not just a crowd, but also a full-scale, hilarious disaster! Directors Joe and Anthony Russo (“Arrested Development”), and Screenwriter Michael LeSieur present a wildly humorous tale that will have everyone rooting for Dupree and anticipating Carl’s mental demise. “You, Me and Dupree” also stars Seth Rogen (“The 40-Year Old Virgin”), and Amanda Detmer (“What About Brian.”) The release date is July 14, 2006.

“The Night Listener” (Miramax Films ~ Not Yet Rated.) Robin Williams stars as Gabriel Noone, a popular, public radio storyteller in this psychological thriller. With his relationship crumbling around him, Gabriel begins an intense dialog with a young, troubled boy named Pete (Rory Culkin) and Donna (Toni Collette,) the social worker who rescued him from a life of abuse. But when Gabriel suspects that Pete and Donna sound remarkably similar, he embarks on an investigation to discover the truth. Based on Armistead Maupin’s most haunting page-turner, Director/Screenwriter Patrick Stettner captures the “cat and mouse” game between Gabriel and his juvenile fan as this mystery unfolds. “The Night Listener” also stars Sandra Oh (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Joe Morton (“Stealth”), Bobby Cannavale (“Romance and Cigarettes”), and John Cullum (“Law & Order: SVU.”) The release date is August 4, 2006.

Summer is the perfect time to review the next potential blockbuster. No waiting until Saturday to have your date, no homework, no curfews on school nightsâÂ?¦ let’s go see a movie! Popcorn: check. Goobers: check. Bucket-o-soda: check. Movie theaters are ready. Are you?