As folks grumble back to work and try to wake up from dreams of their long weekend, I (not having to really grumble back to any office) instead am grumbling about the fact that Hancock made 107.3 million dollars during it’s opening stretch, despite unanimously bad reviews. Not that reviews should necessarily guide all of our viewing choices, but really, are people so apathetic towards their movie choices that they’ll see anything Will Smith makes for July 4th weekend?

Alas, enough grumbling, it’s not a good way to start the week. Instead I’ll try to be a bit more positive and present 5 alternative films folks could have seen this weekend (and should see next), that in my mind (and most critics) would have made for a better choice in terms of quality, enjoyment and the holiday being celebrated.

1) Wall-E - OK, so yes, most folks saw Wall-E last weekend. But it is really good enough that you can see it two weekends in a row. The simple story could warm even the coldest heart and on a weekend where we are supposed to celebrate our country it doesn’t hurt to think about the planet.

2) Bigger Stronger Faster - Instead of seeing a film that claims to be bigger stronger and faster (ie - Hancock), why not think about why you want to see a film that is bigger, stronger and faster. This documentary explores America’s fascination with the three adjectives specifically through an examination of athletes on steroids.

3) The Edge of Heaven - A story of lives intersecting and cultural identity, Faith Akin’s The Edge of Heaven is not only an engaging and well told story, it also explores what it means to be from somewhere - not a bad thing to be thinking about for the fourth of July, or any day for that matter.

4) Mongol - Maybe you really just want something big with lots of action. Well try out Mongol then. It’s the story of the life and legend of Genghis Khan and it’s an epic tale that you can really get lost in. Plus my dad really liked it!

5) Roman de Gare - If you want something thrilling and fun try out this French film from Claude Lelouch. A twisted tale of who’s who and who did what that revolves around beautiful yachts, people and novels, this film doesn’t treat you like an idiot but still keeps you on the edge of your seat in excitement.

So give one of these films a try and be sure to check out the alternative movie theaters in your city, like the cinematheques and art house theaters.
takepart here for a chain that presents independent and foreign fare and takepart here to look for a cinematheque in your area.

Here are some trailers for the films above: