The concept of a “sequel” tends to bring about skeptical looks and rolling eyes. Every now and then, a good continuation of a hit movie can actually compare to the original, but these are rare occurrences. “Indiana Jones,” “Star Wars,” “Lethal Weapon” and “The Godfather” are arguably some of the few movies to produce good sequels. Their reputations, however, are darkened by countless others, such as “Grease,” “Jaws,” “Rocky” and “Scream.” Well, we have a whole new batch out of the oven for you, and the rating scale shows how excited you should get. Try ’em out:
‘Dr. Dolittle 2’
Release date June 22
Eddie Murphy has made it as the liaison between the animal kingdom and the human world. But he faces a new conflict: The animals are on strike. (Hmm. Did this happen in Eugene?) Murphy has to struggle through a showdown between the animals and the people, and keep them from shooting — or eating — each other.
‘Scary Movie II’
Release date July 4
Rumors surrounding this kooky sequel are that it will be different from the original. Well, different in that it mocks different movies, but the same in its ridiculously exaggerated parodies of horror films. Including many of the original cast members (a few of whom were killed in the first film), “Scarier Movie” is looking to ex-or-CISE the demons. Various “satanic horror movies” will make appearances this time, such as “The Exorcist,” “Bless the Child” and “Stigmata.” After demeaning harmless serial killers in the first movie, the Wayans brothers are now aiming their laughter at supernatural evil forces. It should prove to be a nice, mindless comedy.
‘Jurassic Park III’
Release date July 18
Yet another way to film dinosaurs running amok and eating people. But this one will have a completely new and interesting plot: This time a greedy corporation brings a Tyrannosaurus Rex to California to open a theme park. (The private island just didn’t have enough people to eat.) It doesn’t take too much imagination to figure out what might happen, but who knows? Maybe the dinosaur will turn out to be a gentle-hearted creature that saves a baby from a burning building or something.
‘Rush Hour 2’
Release date August 3
It looks like the corny action of Jackie Chan and the hilarious comedy of Chris Tucker will team up again to give us some expert martial arts moves and more of Tucker’s high-pitched squeals.
‘American Pie 2’
Release date August 10
The original cast of the old gang is back, and the scene is the summer after their first year of college. They’re back to share stories of crazy sexual endeavors and to start some new ones, no doubt. If this summer was anything like their senior year, there will be quite a few new experiences in the never-ending quest for sex. But since they all lost their virginity in the first movie, what will their next quest be? More sex? Bisexual experiences? Banana cream pie? (Yikes.)
