Summer 2011 gave movie goers an array of choices from dramas, to thrillers, horrors and comedies. Summer is a significant time for the film industry, with everyone on vacation it
is the perfect time to lure teens and young adults to theaters.
In 2010, summer movies earned a combined total of $4 billion, according to Box Office reports. Because of the big names that hit theaters these last few months, it was evident that this year’s summer would be no different. The North American theatrical gross was the biggest in history for the period between the first weekend of May through Labor Day. Reports by Hollywood.com estimate the 2011 total gross at $4.38 billion, about a $30 million increase from last year’s draw.
Here’s a quick recap of some of the major grossing summer ‘11 films.
Transformers: Dark of the Moon: $348.5 Million
Transformers was a great summer blockbuster experience. It has its strengths and weakness yet an overall interesting storyline. The sensational cast and incredible graphics and special effects deliver an unparalleled big screen spectacle, and is arguably the best film in the series.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2: $366.0 Million
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part II was one of the summer’s most anticipated films. This blockbuster hit had it all: fast-pace action, thrills, drama, love, plot twist and more! In contrast to part I, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part II is an non-stop epic battle that still finds time for the character development and deeply moving moments the series became known for. It is the grandest of all of the Harry Potter films, and an excellent means of a conclusion.
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Strange Tides: $239.7 Million
Cinema’s most popular pirate has returned. Jack Sparrow takes the stage in this long-running and outstandingly lucrative film. A number of reviews have claimed the Pirates of the Caribbean movies have been the most extraordinary series released since the first film came out in 2003. Each Pirates of the Caribbean leaves audience wanting more, and this film went above and beyond expectations.
Fast Five: $209.8 Million
There are all types of moments in Fast Five. It’s a brawny, exciting and slightly comedic-action flim. There is no compariosn to a movies like Fast Five as confident and charismatic as its lead
characters. The cast is classic and are relatable to the audience. Even with an extremely long running time the movie is executed very well.
The Hangover: Part II: $254.2 Million
Everyone raved about the first movie. But now … well, the hangover has begun once again. So much that you may experience a bit of deja vu. Throughout the film one can link ties to the original. Each reminder, each repetition, each clever line is exactly like living through a flashback.
Bridesmaids: $167.7 Million
Bridesmaids, was an unexpected summer comedy about women in love. The cast is hilarious, which includes the soon-to-be wife played by a wonderful, warm Maya Rudolph. The plot is
fantastic and the script is clever and witty. Viewers compare Bridesmaids to movies like The Hangover and Superbad, it is clear to see why. This film is non-stop laughter.
Captain America: The First Avenger: $164.7 Million
In the midst of all superhero themed films this summer, it would seem viewers were beginning to experience too much of the same thing. Thankfully, Marvel’s Captain America: The First Avenger arrived just in time to remind us what
we love about the genre. Filled with action, a great storyline, and wonderful cast, Captain America is truly a summer hit.
Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes: $133.6 Million
Rise of the Planet of the Apes, was an amusingly cheerful film about the end of humanity. This is precisely the kind of summer blockbuster that everyone was waiting for. Employing stunning special effects this film comes to life in a new way. The prequel to the original 1968 Planet of the Apes tells a fascinating story and is a must see!
The summer of 2011 was filled with blockbusters, must sees and all time hits. Let’s hope the fall doesn’t disappoint since loyal viewers are looking forward to more action, suspense, thrills, horror, romance and comedy through the big screen!
