Marvel’s ‘The Avengers’ – A Movie Event

Posted by Geoff Nelowet / Monday, April 30th, 2012

MVLFFLLC / Marvel

Remember all the hoopla surrounding “The Hunger Games?” Well, think about that all over again and more with Marvel’s “The Avengers.” The film has already brought in $178.4 million overseas in ticket sales, and for context, “The Hunger Games,” after over a month of international sales, has accumulated $228.5 million. Domestically, “The Hunger Games” has brought in $372.4 million and over $600 million total. It will be interesting to see where “The Avengers” ends up. The key difference between the films is that “The Hunger Games” budget was at a mere $78 million and “The Avengers’” was $220 million.

That said, these major blockbuster flicks have become much more than just movies — they’re major events. Below is a list of all the local midnight showings and other Marvel-themed events for the enthusiasts. 

Local Midnight Premieres

Marathons & Events

Avengers Marathon - AMC Potomac Mills 18

2700 Potomac Mills Circle, Woodbridge, VA – (703) 490-5151

‎11:30am‎

Avengers Marathon - AMC Tysons Corner 16

7850 Tysons Corner Center, McLean, VA – (888) 262-4386

‎11:30am‎

Marvel Marathon - Rave Motion Pictures Fairfax Corner 14

11900 Palace Way, Fairfax, VA – (703) 378-6550

‎12:00pm‎

Marvel Marathon - Regal Kingstowne 16

5910 Kingstowne Towne Center, Alexandria, VA – (703) 822-4956

‎2:15pm‎

Spring Break Guide: Movie Madness

Posted by Matt Basheda / Tuesday, April 3rd, 2012

Spring break giving you too much time on your hands?  Has spending your days outdoors left you tapped out and bored at night?

Catch up on some movies.

The theaters currently offer a wealth of fun flicks.  Surely you’ve seen the previews–”The Hunger Games,” “21 Jump Street” and “Mirror Mirror.”  But there are more movies on the way, even just this week, none bigger than “Titanic’s” 3D re-release on April 6.

The ultimate fantasy romance for many a 1990s teenager can now be your go-to date movie.  There’s no reason to believe this won’t be at least half as monstrously successful as the first iteration, so join in the frenzy once again–this time with an actual date, rather than a middle school crush.

Springtime always gives me a hankering for “Star Wars,” probably because each of the movies came out in the spring.  You really can’t go wrong with these most classic of sci-fi movies, especially since they are truly films for every member of the family.

The “Rush Hour” trilogy provides comic mastery.  If you want to laugh from your gut, you can’t beat Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan as an outrageous detective duo.

Of course, the kids need their own alone-time, too.  If you need a couple hours to keep the kids in one spot, try “The Spongebob Squarepants Movie.” This watery tale fits spring break’s theme, and provides enough of a summery preview to ease the return to school.

On the theatrical side of things, “The Lorax” is still going strong in theaters.  Rainy days cancel parks and other fresh-air shenanigans, but a day at the movies is a perfect distraction.

Oh, and did you hear the joyous news?  A “Dumb and Dumber” sequel, directed by the Farrelly brothers and starring Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels, is on its way!

–Matt Basheda

Spring Break Guide: On The Cheap

Posted by Lorin Drinkard / Wednesday, March 28th, 2012

Save some money and have a ball. / Photo credit: Shutterstock/ Yan Lev

We know times can be tough (could gas be any more expensive right now?) but with the break from school and classes, it’s about time to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. (If you are hitting the road, check out our post for a few travel tips). Here are a few inexpensive ways to enjoy all that lovely free time:

Free:

 - Hit up a local farmer’s market. Browse through all the yummy local produce, smell the pretty blooms and maybe even pet an animal or two. We love Cox Farms Market in Centreville with its great selection of jams, great playground area for the little ones and spring container gardens. The market opens for the season on April 5th. 

- Get cultured at a local museum or art studio. We are lucky to have over 50 free museums and historical sites in NoVA.  The Artisphere always has a ton of shows and exhibits that won’t cost you a penny. View Luis Sierra’s take on The Wizard of Oz with a prism twist, the Congressional Art Competition selections and more. McLean Project for the Arts is currently showing a youth art show and the Torpedo Factory has tons of great fiber and glass exhibits throughout the month. Or head to The Udvar-Hazy Center* in Chantilly for an up close look at air and space crafts. *While admission is free, parking is $15 so plan to visit after 4 pm. 

$5 or less:

 - Catch a flick at the Drafthouse. With a wide variety of films on screen (The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, The Sitter and more), Arlington’s old school cinema showcase has $1 movie nights. Bypass The Hunger Games and that means date night could be $2, plus change left over for some Reeses Pieces or Milk Duds. Movies on Mondays are $1, Tuesday nights are $2. Head there Wednesday through Sunday night? Tickets bump up to $5.50. 

- Make like the 80s and hit a roller skating rink. Reminisce over middle school birthday parties and holding hands during slow songs at Skate-N-Fun Zone. Tuesday nights at the Manassas are just $5 a person, including skate rentals, play zone and four tokens. They also have laser tag on Wednesday nights for $4, plus $1.99. Although it’s technically above the $5 max, it’s still a heck of a good deal. 

$10 or less:

 - Hunt for marshmallows. Really get into the spring of things (pun intended) by heading to Great County Farms for their 9th annual search for the fluffy white goodness. The marshmallows are usually ready for picking on or around April 1st. To make it even better, Great County Farms also has daily Easter egg hunts for the kiddos. With four separate hunts (separated by age groups), there’s no egg shortage here. Advanced tickets are recommended and can be bought online here. 

- Jump and then jump some more. If you like trampolines, you’ll love rebounding. What’s rebounding? Glad you asked – it’s basically a room full of connected trampolines that allows you to freely run, jump and flip for 60 minutes at a time. Rebounderz in Sterling has the market cornered on this fantastic idea. With under $10 deals running from Monday through Thursday nights, you may just have to go more than once. 

$20 or less:

- Get your roller coaster fix. For a limited time, Six Flags will be offering up deeply discounted tickets ($20 per person) for the park’s opening day this season. With more than 100 rides to choose from, this deal’s too good to pass up. Tickets are available online here (select “buy tickets now” under daily tickets and choose opening day) and at the Main Gate on March 31st. 

- Grab a few drinks at a tiki bar and bask in the sunshine. So you can’t head to Bora Bora? No problemo. NoVA has plenty of hot spots with cool drinks that will have you forgetting you’re still landlocked. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack anyone? For a full list, check out over here. 

For more spring break goodness, check out our Ultimate Spring Break Guide, Gut Check’s recommended eats, SWAG’s spring style deals and steals, plus stop by our blog daily.

– Lorin Drinkard

G Equals Go

Posted by Lynn Norusis / Thursday, March 8th, 2012

Readers are overwhelmingly giving two thumbs up to G-Rated movies and cartoons for first dates. This will allow your inner child to be exposed while being footloose and fancy-free. Make sure to stock up on candy at the concession stand (i.e. Sour Patch Kids, M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, and Milk Duds). And hang on to your ticket stubs if the date is a success.

“Animated movies and comedies are the best first date movies. They’re fun, cute, and give both of you an excuse to act a little more childish and relaxed than you are normally. And with Disney releasing older films such as “Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast” in 3D, it can be even more enjoyable because of the nostalgic aspect. Even if you see something a little more emotional like “Up” or “Toy Story 3″ it’s still a great pick because they are beautiful movies, and you’ll definitely be left with stuff to talk about. Ignore whether it’s rated G or PG, and how old you are because seeing an animated movie may just be the perfect touch to a perfect date.” –Cris

“Cartoons are great movies to watch with your significant other! You laugh, you bond, and if you are watching Bambi, you cry together. Cartoons are fun, but they also have the seriousness and passion of a romance film. Go watch any cartoon made by Disney, Pixar, or DreamWorks, and you will see that cartoons contain the best of both worlds! I would spend time catching up on Disney cartoons made in the 90′s, such as “Mulan,” “Lion King,” “Cinderella,” and “Pocahontas.” You will not be disappointed.” –John

“I’m not really into movies when going on a date with your significant other. Although, it’s fun to watch something you both enjoy. You should find something more thrilling. Cartoon movies can be fun as well. Couples nowadays seem to watch more serious action movies or romances. If I were you, go rent something from Netflix. At the same time you guys can keep each other company. You won’t regret doing this, I promise.” –Aira

“Certain G-rated films are alright to watch on a first date. One of these that I have experienced firsthand is “The Secret World of Arrietty.” As far as PG and up, I would currently recommend romantic comedy movies or thrillers such as Men in Black 3 and The Hunger Games. The only recent movie I can think of that you should avoid is Thor. On a more general note, try to avoid horror or serious romance movies.” –Ken

“I recommend watching “No Strings Attached” (hint, hint). It had a good ending though.” –Al

“Most of the Academy Award Nominated movies are some of the best films made but the subject matter might be too serious and the plot can sometimes be too deep for a first date.” –Christy

“Superbad is an inappropriate movie that had some funny scenes. However, it is definitely not a date movie because it just becomes awkward.” –Mel

“Any Nicholas Sparks movie should be avoided. They’re too romantic for a first date, which will end up making it awkward. They’re too chick-flicky and cheesy.” –Kelly

E-mail me your relationship stories and questions at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com or comment below.

–Katie

Rotten Tomatoes

Posted by Lynn Norusis / Monday, March 5th, 2012

A few years ago, I went on a first date with a guy who took me to see the movie, “No Country for Old Men.” It was riddled with violence and destruction involving big guns. Since first dates should be light-hearted and fun, it was not the best movie pick with its serious tone. Luckily, it wasn’t a total loss; I thoroughly enjoyed the treats he bought me at the concession stand. Although some of us are opting for more hands-on first dates, dinner and a movie is still common. Therefore, do your research before the date. For movie reviews, visit www.rottentomatoes.com.

I polled several students at George Mason University last week for their recommendations of 10 movies to see and 10 movies to avoid. The general consensus when it comes to genres is to avoid romance movies since they focus heavily on commitment. On the other hand, thrillers are safe and fun without the commitment factor. Action movies take up too much of your attention, so hold off on these movies until you’re in a relationship. And Comedies are a great way to connect with one another.

Two Thumbs Up: The Hangover, 50 First Dates, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, The Blind Side, Almost Famous, The Wedding Singer, Hitch, Knight and Day, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Date Night

Two Thumbs Down: The Vow, The Twilight Saga, The Human Centipede, Titanic, A Walk to Remember, The Notebook, The Passion of the Christ, Pulp Fiction, 500 Days of Summer, The Dark Knight

P.S. Student respondents agree that you should avoid anything less than a PG rating, including Wall-E and Toy Story 3. What are your best and worst first date movies? E-mail me at littleredbook@northernvirginiamag.com or comment below.

-Katie 

5 New Ways to Food on Valentine’s Day

Posted by Sally Traynham / Tuesday, January 31st, 2012

The stress of Valentine’s Day may be looming on your shoulders as February kicks off tomorrow. This year, plan ahead and avoid the craziness of Valentine’s Day goers looking to drop loads of cash on fancy dinners.

Instead, stay in, simplify life and enjoy the evening with your loved one by doing something different than selecting items off the traditional prix-fixe menu.

Need Ideas? Here’s my list:

1 . Have a Movie Night with a Kicked-Up Snack.
Customize a movie list for the perfect evening with you and your beaux, but don’t forget the popcorn. Because you are not eating out this year, splurge by making some truffle butter. Buy some truffle salt and sprinkle it over perfectly popped and buttered popcorn. [William Sonoma - truffle salt]

2. Pack a Picnic.
Since Mother Nature can’t make up her mind, this year might be a perfect year for a picnic at sunset. However, even if you decide to take the party inside and enjoy the warm fire, open up that blanket and indulge in a spread that includes wine, food and sweet treats. [World Market - cozy blankets]

3. Taste New Beers and Wines.
If beer and wine is your thing, set up an at-home, customized tasting for the evening. Try a few glasses from new breweries or vineyards and pair them with chocolate or cheese. [The Hour Shop - modern glassware/barware]

4. Dip Strawberries.
Nothing is more delicious and sexy than a chocolate dipped strawberry. Buy strawberries and dark and white chocolate at the store and set up a strawberry dipping bar. Eat them right away or let them set up and feed them to each other after dinner for an exceptionally sexy Valentine’s Day. [Frans Cake & Candy Supplies - tools for dipping strawberries]

5. Make S’mores.
Cozy up around a fireplace or an outdoor grill and roast marshmallows that will sandwich perfectly in between two graham crackers and some dark chocolate. [The Dairy Godmother - homemade marshmallows]

Photo: Shutterstock/bonchan

[tips for the food desk]

At-Home Movie Rental Match-up

Posted by Natalie Kaar / Friday, January 27th, 2012

When nothing beats hitting the couch and catching a flick, which rental option reigns supreme? We’ve broken down the basics for some of the scene’s most serious competitors. You be the judge.

Streaming

DVD/Blue-ray

sources: Amazon.com, Amazon.com spokesperson, Apple.com/appletv, Apple Media Relations, Blockbusterexpress.com, www.dailyfinance.com, Blockbuster.com, Blockbuster Press Relations, Netflix.com, Netflix Corporate Communications, Redbox.com, Redbox Media Center,

Christmas Countdown: Classic Movies and Christmas Songs

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Wednesday, December 21st, 2011

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011

Christmas movies are as anticipated as any aspect of the Christmas season.  The comedies in particular spread joy all year.  They provide wonderful quotes with which to enliven your conversations.  Memorizing lines from your favorite Christmas movies will make you funnier and your friends happier.

Take “Elf,” for example.  Snippets of dialogue can be adapted for everyday use.  Whether a reference to “the yellow ones don’t stop” to a simple “wow … that was weird,” try inserting a line into ordinary conversation and reap the comedy harvest.

Read the rest of this entry »

Movies for the Queue

Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Monday, December 5th, 2011

Kevin McCarthy

Nothing is better than cozying up with a great flick once the weather dips. We tapped Kevin McCarthy, film critic for 106.7 FM The Fan and FOX 5 TV, to give us his must-haves for the queue:

‘TRUE ROMANCE’
“This is hands down my favorite movie of all time. To this day, Quentin Tarantino has yet to top the dialogue in this film, even though he came close with ‘Inglourious Basterds.’”

‘THE SANDLOT’
“My favorite flick when I was growing up. To this day, I still walk around saying “FOR-EV-ERRRR” and asking people if they want a “S’More.” Heck, I even bought a pair of P.F. Flyers because of this movie.”

‘TERMINATOR 2: JUDGEMENT DAY’
“For a film that was made in 1991, James Cameron’s special effects still look as good, if not better, than some films today! I bribed my parents into letting me watch this film when I was 8-years old if I received a good report card.”

‘JAY AND SILENT BOB STRIKE BACK’
“If you’re a Kevin Smith fan, this is the ultimate movie. The View Askew Universe is so massive, and to watch all of these connecting characters from ‘Clerks’ to ‘Chasing Amy’ to ‘Mallrats’ is a testament to his brilliance as a writer.”

‘VERTIGO’
“One of the greatest films ever made and a must-see. This film will take care of any tension-filled films you may be looking for. Alfred Hitchcock created a masterful shot for this film that is used today in, what seems like, every movie!”

‘FROM DUSK ‘TIL DAWN’
“This film knocks out a bunch of genres. You have amazing action, vampires, comedy and just brilliantly written dialogue.”

‘PULP FICTION’
“A modern day masterpiece. The soundtrack alone should have won the film the Academy Award for best picture. The film holds a special place in my heart considering I walk around all day with a replica of the wallet Samuel L. Jackson has in the movie!”

Check out more of McCarthy’s reviews at www.nerdtears.com.

Getaway: Where Movies Are Made

Posted by Rebekah Lowe / Friday, November 11th, 2011

By Lexie Ramage

It’s often said that movies can take people away from the little dramas of their lives. Getaway this November, and celebrate all the amazing movies that are coming out, such as “Breaking Dawn Part 1,” “The Muppets” and “My Week With Marilyn.” Escape to the places where these movies were made. Live, shop and dine like a movie star in Forks or Los Angeles. And if you have some more vacation time saved up, check out London and Surrey, England, too.

Forks, Wash.

Many Twi-hards recognize the town of Forks from the pages of Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” series. It may be far, but it’s definitely worth the drive (or flight). This small town has embraced the fame with open arms (or fangs). “Breaking Dawn Part 1” premieres on Nov. 18, so be the ultimate Twilight fan and check the town where the story was based. Despite its small size, there’s still a lot to do. Twilight Tours will show popular Twilight sites and throw in some information about Forks itself, too. Take pictures with Bella’s truck outside of the Forks Chamber of Commerce, stay at the Cullen House, eat “Twilight”-themed food, get all of your “Twilight” souvenirs and reenact your favorite “Twilight” scene at real-life places from the book. If you’re on Team Jacob then visit First Beach in La Push for some more photo ops (and hopefully some werewolf sightings). Even if you’re not a “Twilight” fan, Forks will show visitors small-town hospitality in a beautiful setting. Forks is also a scenic place for hiking, but beware of the rain (and the occasional vampire/werewolf war).

Places to stay:
The Miller Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast looks suspiciously like the Cullen house that Meyer wrote about in her series. Rates range from $115-230 per night.

“No Vampires Beyond This Point” says a sign at the Three Rivers Resort–obviously they’re for Team Jacob. Tent sites are $14 and up. Single cabins start at $89. Double cabins start at $99.

Jacob Black’s House Vacation Rental has the perfect name for anyone on Team Jacob and it’s modeled after the movie version of Jacob’s house. $198-250 per night.

Los Angeles, Calif.

You can now relive the nostalgic days of familiar characters like Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, Gonzo and countless others by visiting the newest home of the Muppets. The newest installment of the Muppet movies, “The Muppets” will be released on Nov. 23. Fans can visit plenty of settings from the LA-based movie like Hollywood Boulevard, Disney’s El Capitan Theatre and The Jim Henson Company lot. Similar to the old Muppet movies, the new movie will include a few surprise celebrity cameos and, of course, lots of songs. “The Muppets” will include some new characters such as Walter (the world’s biggest Muppet fan), Walter’s friend Gary (Jason Segal) and Gary’s girlfriend Mary (Amy Adams). In this movie, Walter, Gary and Mary must help Kermit reunite the Muppets to save the old Muppet Theater from being torn down by a businessman looking for oil. Disney’s El Capitan Theatre also has a Muppets-themed menu and pre/post shows when you see the movie there.

Places to stay:
The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is located on Hollywood Boulevard and Disney’s El Capitan Theatre is only a couple minutes away. Rates start around $189 per night.

This Comfort Inn  is very close to The Jim Henson Company lot and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Rooms start at $90.

The Rodeway Inn Hollywood is about halfway from the El Capitan Theater and The Jim Henson Company lot. Rooms start at $58 and up.

London and Surrey, England

Who wouldn’t like to be Marilyn Monroe for a day? “My Week with Marilyn” shows a somewhat different side to the Hollywood goddess. She’s falling apart during her filming of “The Prince and the Showgirl” when Colin Clark, an assistant on the set, spends a drama-filled week with her in the English countryside. See the movie on Nov. 23 and spend whatever your vacation time allows in London to celebrate. Follow in Marilyn’s footsteps and take in a show at the Lyric Theatre, do some serious shopping on the streets of London and relax by cycling in Windsor Great Park. Drive to the county of Surry, where Marilyn stayed while filming “The Prince and the Showgirl.” Or even book an introductory flight lesson at the White Waltham Airfield, which was transformed into London Heathrow Airport for “My Week with Marilyn.”

Places to stay:
If you’re a theater lover, stay at the Thistle Piccadilly, which is only a couple minutes away from the Lyric Theatre. Rooms are $167 and up.

If you’re a shopaholic, stay at The Courthouse DoubleTree by Hilton since it’s in the midst of the best shopping London has to offer. Rooms start at $319.

If you’re in the mood for relaxation, stay at the Savill Court Hotel & Spa near Windsor Great Park. Rooms start at $127.