This and that in film news: Steve Zahn joins 'Wimpy Kid;' Carla Gugino goes 'Sucker Punch'

Here are some interesting film bits you shouldn't miss on August 4, 2009:

• Steve Zahn is set to star in Thor Freudenthal's adaptation of "Diary of a Wimpy Kid," based on Jeff Kinney's novels. The film follows a pre-adolescent wise guy who gets into quite a bit of trouble at school and at home. Zachary Gordon will play the lead. (Variety)

• Carla Gugino from "Watchmen" and "Race to Witch Mountain" is set to star in Zack Snyder's "Sucker Punch," about a girl locked inside a mental institution. Emily Browning, Vanessa Hudgens, Jamie Chung, Jena Malone, and Abbie Cornish are already on board. (The Hollywood Reporter)

• Renny Harlin ("Cliffhanger") has come on board to direct an untitled film focusing on the recent conflict between Russia and Georgia. The plot will follow a journalist and his cameraman who get caught in the crossfire in Georgia. Production will kick off this September. (Variety)

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Movie Review: “12 Rounds”

Seen on: March 27, 2009

The players: Director: Renny Harlin, Writer: Daniel Kunka, Cast: John Cena, Steve Harris, Aidan Gillen, Brian J. White, Gonzalo Menendez

Facts of interest: Harlin also directed "Die Hard 2," "Cliffhanger" and "Mindhunters."

The plot: Cena plays a cop who must obey a ruthless killer and participate in a deadly game if he ever wants to see his kidnapped wife again.

Our quick thoughts: In Renny Harlin’s latest action flick “12 Rounds,” WWE superstar John Cena plays a heroic New Orleans detective who’s forced to successfully complete 12 perilous challenges in order to save his kidnapped girlfriend.

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