The Sunday Drive: 6/19/11

* Hey everybody, this week's flicks stunk, so the Top 3 are the same as last week. So this is a reproduction of what I said then. The DVD Pick of the Week is different, though. Now go see something good at the movies! Preferably one these three flicks.

3. Midnight in Paris
It's possible that Woody Allen's latest could be the most beautiful film shot in Paris ever. It's not totally out of the realm of possibility. Starring Owen Wilson in Allen's funniest story in years, this is a film I'm more than comfortable recommending even to those who aren't typical fans of his work.
2. Super 8
Months of viral marketing and aggressive attempts at secrecy have led up to this: Super 8 is the type of big adventure movie we used to love growing up, and it's clear JJ Abrams is perfectly in tune with that same level of nostalgia.


1. X-men: First Class
The best superhero movie of the year is also the smartest, deepest, and the richest in X-men lore. Matthew Vaughn(Kick-Ass) has woven a beautiful tale of the origins of the X-men, how they were shaped and hardened by fear and hatred. A film so perfect it instantly catapults the entire franchise past Christopher Nolan's revered Bat films.

DVD Pick of the Week: Hall Pass
It had been four years since The Farrelly Brothers' last film, and even longer since they had one that was any good. Hall Pass signals the first step in what is hopefully their return to raunchy comedic prominence. Owen Wilson and the mysteriously popular Jason Sudeikis star as a pair of husbands let out on a one week "hall pass" by their two gorgeous wives. What it means is they're free to sleep with whoever they want with no repercussions. Hilarity ensues as the two guys discover they aren't the studs they picture themselves to be. Not the Farrellys' best, but worth more than a few laughs. Co-stars Christina Applegate, Jenna Fischer, and a hilarious turn by Richard Jenkins.