Each week, Past the Popcorn offers a thorough look at the latest round of films opening on big screens.

One of the funnest films of the summer, says Greg Wright, is a gentle political satire… starring Kevin Costner, of all things. Swing Vote, going into release today is “a skewering of lax parenting, national politics of all stripes, political correctness, blue-collar stereotypes, and network news,” says Wright. “If you’re at all apathetic about voting, or if you’re at all fed up with the state of politics in America—and you don’t mind a little hayseed stuck between your teeth or up your shorts—get out and see Swing Vote. I’m very glad I did.”

Jeff Walls also liked American Teen quite a bit, calling it a worthwhile peek into a high school “not dreamed up by John Hughes.” He adds: “Still, I can’t help but think how much the subjects’ actions were exaggerated due to the fact that they knew they were being filmed.”

Not so successful, says Greg Wright, is the latest Mummy sequel: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor… “by the far the slackest and least entertaining film of the Mummy series. I really enjoyed the two directed by Stephen Sommers, but I did not find any enjoyment in this one at all… and honestly, I’m not at all sure who will.”

Also reviewed this week: Chris & Don: A Love Story.

By: Andy. This entry was posted on Friday, August 1st, 2008 at 4:12 pm and is filed under Film, Film roundup. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.