This week's new movie releases - April 10, 2009

This week, we're looking at three wide releases: Jody Hill's comedy "Observe and Report" with Seth Rogen and Anna Faris, Peter Chelsom's "Hannah Montana: The Movie" with Miley Cyrus, and James Wong's "Dragonball Evolution" with Justin Chatwin:

OBSERVE AND REPORT

Synopsis: At the Forest Ridge Mall, head of security Ronnie Barnhardt patrols his jurisdiction with an iron fist, combating skateboarders, shoplifters and the occasional unruly customer while dreaming of the day when he can swap his flashlight for a badge and a gun. His delusions of grandeur are put to the test when the mall is struck by a flasher. Driven to protect and serve the mall and its patrons, Ronnie seizes the opportunity to showcase his underappreciated law enforcement talents on a grand scale, hoping his solution of this crime will earn a coveted spot at the police academy and the heart of his elusive dream girl Brandi, the hot make-up counter clerk who won't give him the time of day.

First thoughts: I admit I haven't seen Hill's "The Foot Fist Way," but I've been quite excited about seeing this one every since I first saw the hilarious trailer. Seth Rogen looks like the perfect man for the role of the crazy mall cop who tries everything in his power to protect Anna Faris, and I can only hope the film will amuse me as much as last year's "Pineapple Express."

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HANNAH MONTANA: THE MOVIE

Synopsis: As Hannah Montana's popularity begins to take over her life, Miley Stewart, on the urging form her father, takes a trip to her hometown of Crowley Corners, Tennessee to get some perspective on what matters in life the most.

First thoughts: Well, what can I say? I am clearly not part of the film's target audience, but I will check it out nonetheless. Part of the reason is to see what all the hype is about. On the other hand, I am also interested in seeing how director Peter Chelsom handles this material. I highly enjoyed his "Serendipity" and "Shall We Dance."

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DRAGONBALL EVOLUTION

Synopsis: "Dragonball Evolution" is based on the popular Japanese Manga created by Akira Toriyama, whose work spawned best selling graphic novels, video games and a phenomenally successful television series. The live action adventure centers on the heroic Goku, a powerful warrior who discovers his inner strength and protects the Earth from an evil rogue bent on dominating the Universe and controlling the mystical objects from which the film takes its name.

First thoughts: I've said it many times before, and I've been getting tons of offensive comments for it, but I simply don't care: "Dragonball Evolution" looks crappy, and it's definitely one of those flicks I couldn't care less about. Sure, I'll give it a chance, but what I've seen from the film so far looks incredibly ridiculous. But we'll see...