Encore, encore, encore ...We say it every year: There are too many sequels, prequels and spinoffs on the docket. This year, however, it's out of control, with a record 27 Part 2s, 3s, 4s or -- in the case of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" -- Part 7.5. There are five No. 5s (including "X-Men: First Class") and five No. 4s (led by "Pirates of the Caribbean: Jack's Back," er, "On Stranger Tides"). Now we appreciate all the more those movies that aren't based on other movies, TV shows, books, comic books, video games, board games, theme park rides, etc.
The final reelThe title for the "Spider-Man" reboot is, wait for it, "The Amazing Spider-Man." ... Marion Cotillard joins Kate Winslet, Rachel Weisz and Naomi Watts on the list of possibles for Bruce Wayne's love interest in "The Dark Knight Rises." ... Michelle Pfeiffer is in talks to play Johnny Depp's mother in Tim Burton's "Dark Shadows." Helena Bonham Carter, no shock, also will have a role, as a psychiatrist. ... Daniel Radcliffe's post-Potter career will begin with "The Amateur Photographer," set in 1970s New England. ... Director Guy Ritchie has been offered "Xerxes," the followup to "300." ... Yes, four out of the five movies mentioned in this paragraph are remakes, sequels, prequels or spinoffs. The madness continues.
CYNTHIA DICKISON
