How Do You Know

Director: James L. Brooks

Rating: PG-13

The Bouw-Man.

James L. Brooks has been part of the Hollywood scene for years, but it may surprise you that “How Do You Know?” represents just the sixth film he’s directed.  Maybe it’s because some of his previous films (“Terms of Endearment,” “Broadcast News” and “As Good As It Gets”) were so memorable and garnered a slew of awards, but it just seems he has done more.  Based on what I see from the trailer of “How Do You Know?” I’m guessing we’re probably not looking at any trophies for this Brooks entry.  However, with Reese Witherspoon, Paul Rudd, Owen Wilson and Jack Nicholson highlighting the prominent cast, on paper one should expect good things from “How Do You Know?”

 

There are certain ingredients that are part of “How Do I Know?” that make me very interested in seeing the film.  First, as mentioned above, the track record of Director James L. Brooks.  His previous five works (spread out over 22 years, 1983-2004) were all special in their own way, so you know when he does decide to direct he takes it very seriously.  Second, the baseball/softball angle interests me as well.  Owen Wilson’s character plays for the Washington Nationals, and Reese Witherspoon’s character is a female softball player.  If Brooks stays true to baseball purists, and I’m assuming he will, it should add an additional element for the sports fans that come out to see “How Do I Know?”  Whatever you may have thought of “Spanglish” (the last film directed by Brooks), it was undeniably true to people whose interests lie in the culinary arts. 

Prediction.

There a lot of competition out there currently, with more to come in just five days on December 22.  I’m fearful “How Do I Know” may have trouble finding mass audiences this upcoming weekend.  2004’s “Spanglish” generated just under $9 million during opening weekend, and that was with Adam Sandler starring.  “How Do I Know?” seems to be more of a comedy, so I’m thinking it should better than that.  Let’s say $14.5 million for the return of Reese Witherspoon.

Opening Weekend Gross: $14.5 Million

Noodles.

Prediction.

This movie has a number a good things going for it. Love Paul Rudd. Love Jack Nicholson. I think Reese Witherspoon is adorable, and most of the time I like Owen Wilson (within limits). Under normal circumstances I think this type of movie with its solid cast and direction would do pretty well opening weekend. I think the only thing that could detract is that since its coming out right in front of the holiday it won't see its big numbers until next week when everyone is on vacation. But not to be the harbinger of doom I'll put my prediction at around $17 Million.

Opening Weekend: Gross: $17 Million

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Marmaduke

 Production Budget: ?

Director: Tom Dey

Run Time: 1 Hr. 27 Mins.

Rating: PG

The Bouw-Man.

Do they really have to make a live action film on everyone of my favorite childhood cartoons?  It killed me when they went that route with “Underdog,” and now we’re faced with another canine humiliation.  I guess if you have name recognition, it’s due to get exploited some day.  This time Owen Wilson trades in his master claim to lend his voice as the title character.  It’s a shame he didn’t realize that “Marley and Me” set such a high standard for movies involving animals that this appears headed for disaster.  If you were able to make it through the trailer, you know what to expect from this CGI picture.  You’re in line for same old adventure story with colorful animal sidekicks with cute and original voices.  It’s obvious they are really promoting that ghastly dog dancing scene, so hopefully that’s enough proof to let this one pass.  After all, didn’t “Furry Vengeance” teach you anything about poor choices.

Prediction.

With “Shrek 2” performing strong for two consecutive weeks, I don’t feel “Marmaduke” will pull enough of an audience in to justify its existence.  However, I’ll revert back to the “child draw rule” of adding 50 percent to my original guess.  Look for $12 million from “Marmaduke” over the weekend.

Opening Weekend Gross: $12 Million

Noodles.

Really? Marmaduke? Really? This is a film that HAD to be made because the world was crying out for a real live version of Marmaduke? Of the big fictional dog characters they could have chosen, this is probably the most boring idea for a dog picture since Beethoven's Big Break. Was Clifford the Big Red Dog tied up in licensing issues?

And when the announcer says enthusiastically..."Owen Wilson is Marmaduke" a voice in my head replied, "Who the Hell cares?" The lack of star power in the non-dog roles adds to my belief that this movie is a huge snooze fest. There was not one joke in that trailer that didn't fall flat and make my eyes roll. No. No. No. Bad Producers!

Prediction.

My kids aren't even slightly excited to see this flick, and they love dogs. I think this is going to compete with MacGruder for worst opening of the year.

Opening Weekend: Gross: $3.8 Million

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