This week at the movies brings something new ("Something New") and something remade ("When a Stranger Calls"). What do the critics say?
Romantic comedy may be the trickiest genre to pull off, because chemistry between the leads is needed to offset what’s often a standard storyline. And the scribes say "Something New" is pretty hit-or-miss. The plot involves a successful African American woman who is fulfilled professionally but not in her personal life, so she goes on a blind date with a guy who, unbeknownst to her, is white. Some critics say the film delivers on its title, offering a thoughtful, interesting take on interracial relationships, with solid performances by Sanaa Lathan and Simon Baker. But others say the film doesn’t transcend its rom-com conventions. The film currently stands at 59 percent on the Tomatometer.
Everyone knows to call 911 in the case of an emergency. Everyone also knows that the studios think they’ve got a stinker on their hands when they don’t screen a movie for critics. "When a Stranger Calls" was not screened for critics. Ring the alarm!
Recent Sanaa Lathan Movies:
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22% — Alien vs. Predator (2004)
65% — Out of Time (2003)
64% — Brown Sugar (2002)
81% — Love and Basketball (2000)
43% — Catfish in Black Bean Sauce (2000)
