We’re taking a Hot Tub Time Machine back to the mid-80s this weekend as two films based on properties that were popular back in 1984 arrive in theaters and battle one another for the top spot at the box office. Will one of them exit the weekend as the new box office champion, or will Shrek somehow find his way back up top? Let’s take a look …
What’s The Scoop: Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan star in this remake of the 1984 film about a kid who moves to a new town, meets a girl, gets bullied by the local toughs and then learns life lessons (as well as how to throw a punch) from an older (and wiser) martial arts master.
Why It Might Win The Weekend: Surprisingly, the film has been receiving very high marks from critics, most of whom are calling this the most entertaining (and heartfelt) film the summer’s offered up so far.
What’s The Scoop: Based on the popular 80’s TV show about a group of mercenaries who were framed for a crime they didn’t commit, this new, updated version tacks on triple the action and explosions … and Bradley Cooper, whose character takes things up a few notches by shooting a gun on a tank that’s freefalling from 36,000 feet. Now that’s an action scene!
Why It Might Win The Weekend: The nostalgic factor will come out in full force for those who grew up with the TV show, not to mention it’s summer and action movies usually reign supreme.
My Prediction: So long Shrek, I feel this weekend belongs to The Karate Kid, which, once buzz starts to really grow, I predict to become one of this summer’s biggest success stories.
