NextMovie » Rock of Ages

Hot People Looking Hot: Julianne Hough Photos

NextMovie Staff — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 23:00:20 +0000

Sifting through page after page of photos of "Safe Haven" star Julianne Hough was a tough job, but someone had to do it.

The sometimes-"Dancing With the Stars" pro and sometimes-country music singer is undeniably gorgeous. And, thanks to this week's Hot People Looking Hot gallery, we can honestly tell you that the girl doesn't take a bad picture. She always seems to have the perfect dress and the perfect smile. Her hair, skin, toenails, whatever are flawless.

In other words, we'd hate her if we didn't love her so much.

We think you'll enjoy this gallery almost as much as we enjoyed making it, so start flippin'.

Mashup: 2012's Worst Movies Movies Review Themselves

NextMovie Staff — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 16:21:01 +0000

Taste is subjective, right? One man's trainwreck is another man's cult classic... most of the time. But some movies are so bad, we've often suspected even the actors involved know they're making a piece of garbage.

This mashup of bad-movie characters proves our suspicions were right: In this educational video from Film.com, the brutal truth of 2012's worst movies comes straight from the horses' mouths.

The 5 Best Animal Performances of 2012

Amanda Bell — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:00:49 +0000

20th Century Fox

Awards season is now underway, which means for the next few months Hollywood will carry out its competitive annual tradition of putting roses on the noses, so to speak, of the year's decidedly best actors and actresses of the human variety. Looking back at some of the finest flicks from 2012, though, we noticed some pretty significant contributions coming in courtesy of the rest of the animal kingdom.

So, to throw our furry film friends a proverbial golden bone, here are our top five picks for tail-waggingest animal performances of the year.

5. Bella as Snoopy in 'Moonrise Kingdom'

Focus Features

The ensemble rallied up for Wes Anderson's jaunty "Moonrise Kingdom" made for one insanely impressive and electric group, but the talent on two legs certainly didn't overshadow Bella the fox terrier. The wily pooch, whose real-life survival story wins all the smiles as well, made excellent use of her screen time and had one especially impactful (albeit a touch unfortunate) moment on the field which drew some well-deserved gasps from the crowd.

4. Oscar as Scotty in 'Ruby Sparks'

Fox Searchlight

For a newcomer to the biz, Oscar the pint-sized border terrier sure did a nice job as the eccentric Scotty in "Ruby Sparks." The semi-neurotic dog looked great in glasses and was the requisite amount of irritating — like his on-screen owner — when he was supposed to be. Most importantly he served his purpose as a nimble little chick magnet — at least with regard to one pseudo-fictional lady.

Also Check Out: The 15 Biggest Movie News Stories of 2012

3. Mickey as Hey Man in 'Rock of Ages'

Warner Bros.

Not surprisingly, having a baboon run around on the set of "Rock of Ages" made for some interesting behind-the-scenes moments. Per director Adam Shankman, there was that one time when tricky Mickey got loose and started freaking out the crowd of extras just because. Not to mention poor Paul Giamatti infamously got some unwelcome face time with the primate's posterior region a time or two. Still, for a character which wasn't even in the original script — rather, a comic brainchild of Tom Cruise — Hey Man became pretty clutch in showcasing Stacee Jaxx's wild nature.

2. Bonny as Bonny in 'Seven Psychopaths'

CBS Films

Talk about a scene stealer. Bonny the too-stinkin'-cute two-year-old shih tzu totally convinced as the kinda lady whose kidnapping would set a gangster chase scene into motion in "Seven Psychopaths," and not only was she a total pro on the set, but she also made a big fan (and bodyguard) of one of her co-stars. Christopher Walken admitted he couldn't help but become putty in her pretty little paws every time she laid googly eyes on him and made sure to keep an eye out for the girl in-between takes. Funny thing is, the tiny first-time actress was pound-bound before hitting the big screen, but thanks to the wonders of Craigslist she was scooped up by an owner with an eye for her heart-swelling potential. By the by, it's just a case of kismet that her real-life name is the same as her character's.

1. Richard Parker in 'Life of Pi'

Whether Richard Parker was a real tiger or an elegant mirror figment of Pi's imagination is still ripe for film nerd debate, but the fact that the beautiful Bengal owned its audience is not. Four real-life tigers were used for CGI reference and actual portrayal of some scenes, but nothing was more real than the tale of teamwork and triumph weaved in large part by this gorgeous creature in Ang Lee's "Life of Pi."

Get more Best of 2012 here.

New on DVD and Blu-ray: 'Prometheus' and More

Robert DeSalvo — Mon, 08 Oct 2012 19:00:41 +0000

Fox

This week: Years after directing the sci-fi masterpieces "Alien" and "Blade Runner," Ridley Scott returns to science fiction with the harrowing and ambitious "Alien" prequel "Prometheus" with Noomi Rapace, Charlize Theron, Guy Pearce and Michael Fassbender.

Also new this week is the movie-musical "Rock of Ages," the Edgar Allan Poe-themed mystery thriller "The Raven," and the Blu-ray debuts of "E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial," "Little Shop of Horrors" and "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?"

'Prometheus'

20th Century Fox

Box Office: $126 million
Rotten Tomatoes: 73% Fresh
Storyline: Ridley Scott returns to the sci-fi realm with this ambitious quasi-prequel to "Alien" about a group of explorers that set out to a distant planet to learn more about and possibly confront the creators of mankind, a super race known as the Engineers. Prometheus crew members include scientist Elizabeth Shaw (Noomi Rapace), Weyland Corporation monitor Elizabeth Shaw (Charlize Theron), Weyland founder Peter Weyland (Guy Pearce) and the fastidious android David (Michael Fassbender).
Extras! Available on DVD, Blu-ray and Blu-ray 3D, "Prometheus" is a mind-teasing movie that begs you to explore its seven hours of illuminating bonus features such as deleted and alternate scenes, plus access to "The Peter Weyland Files" and a commentary track by Scott.
We Say: This stunning, thinking-man's sci-fi spectacle is an awe to behold, so seek out the biggest HDTV screen (preferably a 3-D one) you can and buckle up as the Prometheus journeys to the edge of the universe to ask important existential questions about mankind. They aren't all answered in the film, but the movie's shared DNA with "Alien" and the slithery creatures the crew encounters will please longtime fans of Scott's first sci-fi masterpiece.

'Rock of Ages'

Warner Bros.

Box Office: $39 million
Rotten Tomatoes: 41% Rotten
Storyline: This energetic musical — an adaptation of the Broadway production — follows two aspiring singers (Julianne Hough and Diego Boneta) as they navigate the hard-rock scene on the Sunset Strip in 1987 that is coming under fire from a religious group headed by Catherine Zeta-Jones. Tom Cruise stars as Stacee Jaxx, a rock god set to perform at the Bourbon Room despite the protests. Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand and Mary J. Blige costar in memorable numbers.
Extras! Both the DVD and Blu-ray contain seven "Defining a Decade" featurettes, a "Legends of the Sunset Strip" featurette, and immediate access to select songs.
We Say: This movie — featuring the arena-rock anthems of Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Guns N' Roses, Journey, Poison, Whitesnake and more — knows it is cheese, so viewers with fond memories of this era will be more receptive to the humor, like when Cruise's pompous rocker sings "I Want to Know What Love Is" to a Rolling Stone reporter's behind. Zeta-Jones, Baldwin and Russell also seem to be in on the joke, but leading lady Hough comes across as too earnest and seems to have dropped in from another decade entirely.

'The Raven'

Rogue Pictures

Box Office: $16 million
Rotten Tomatoes: 22% Rotten
Storyline: This dark thriller follows the final days in the life of macabre writer Edgar Allan Poe (John Cusack) as Baltimore police investigate a series of murders that seem to be patterned after Poe's stories. Alice Eve costars as Poe's fiancée who becomes a target of the copycat killer, and Luke Evans plays the police chief who enlists Poe's help in solving the mystery.
Extras! The most interesting bonus feature — a Blu-ray exclusive — is "The Madness, Misery and Mystery of Edgar Allan Poe," which examines the continuing fascination with the legendary author.
We Say: This seems to be the year of historical figures being roped into preposterous plots (see "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter"), but there are a few chills to be found in this gothic tale if you get beyond the familiar setup. For Poe fans looking for a historical biopic of their favorite writer here, quoth the reviewer, "Nevermore!"

'E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial' Blu-ray

Universal

Box Office: $435 million
Rotten Tomatoes: 98% Fresh
Storyline: Steven Spielberg's 1982 blockbuster about a young boy named Elliot (Henry Thomas) who takes in an alien visitor after it's left behind by its spaceship still warms hearts as we root for Elliot to help E.T. "phone home." Dee Wallace plays Elliot's mom and a young Drew Barrymore appears as Elliot's sister.
Extras! The best supplements include the 50-minute "The Evolution and Creation of 'E.T.'" featurette with Spielberg talking about the story's origins, and the recent "'E.T.' Reunion" in which Spielberg and Kathleen Kennedy reunite with the main cast and reminisce about how it changed all of their lives.
We Say: It's important to note that this Blu-ray debut is a remastered version of the original theatrical movie — not the 2002 rerelease with controversial digital alterations. Spielberg regrets those changes (did you read that, George Lucas?), so what we have here is the original classic that we remember looking and sounding appropriately out of this world.

'What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?' Blu-ray

Warner Bros.

Box Office: $9 million (worldwide)
Rotten Tomatoes: 89% Fresh
Storyline: Jane Hudson (Bette Davis) is a former child star who lives in a decaying Hollywood mansion with her sister Blanche (Joan Crawford), a movie star forced into retirement after a crippling accident left her in a wheelchair. When a TV movie marathon of Blanche's movies results in more fan mail being sent to the Hudson sisters' home, a jealous Jane torments her sister and tries to resurrect her childhood act while slowly losing her grasp on reality.
Extras! This Blu-ray debut packaged in a handsome Digibook with photos is packed with many vintage featurettes, including a 1967 BBC profile on Crawford and a 1994 TNT feature about Davis.
We Say: Davis and Crawford had a long rivalry offscreen before teaming up for this 1960 campy horror show that reinvigorated their careers and earned Davis her last Oscar nomination. It's fascinating — and, frankly, scary — to watch Davis unravel on-screen as the older actress dons little-girl clothes and mentally regresses to a childlike state. If you are one of those people that wonders why older black-and-white titles need a Blu-ray upgrade, check out the inky blacks and deep shadows in the Hudson house and the look of pure madness in Bette Davis' eyes.

Also New This Week:

"Dial M for Murder" Blu-ray 3D
"Little Shop of Horrors: The Director's Cut"
"Strangers on a Train" Blu-ray
"Red Dawn" Blu-ray
"Werewolf: The Beast Among Us"
"Dead Ringer" Blu-ray
"The Barrens"

Watch This Week's Episode of Brigitte's Home Movies!

Summer Movies Poll: Biggest Disappointment

NextMovie Staff — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 12:00:09 +0000

Warner Bros. / Warner Bros. / Universal

NEXT: What was the worst movie of the summer? >>

PREVIOUS: What movie was the biggest surprise of the summer? <<

Julianne Hough Admits That 'Rock of Ages' Cast Bonded in the Buff

Laura Rosenfeld — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 16:10:58 +0000

How did the hot all-star cast of "Rock of Ages" get to know each other off screen? By skinny-dipping, of course. The movie's stars Julianne Hough and Diego Boneta relay the cast's nude bonding sesh in Miami Beach with MTV's "10 on Top."

"We basically went to dinner, and one thing led to the next," Hough says. "We played Chicken in the ocean ... a little bit naked."

And if that's not tantalizing enough for you, the stars spill on what it was like working with a baboon on set, their best crowd surfing experiences and the rock star Hough wants to sign her chest.

Watch more exclusive NextMovie video interviews with Malin Akerman and Mary J. Blige below, and be sure to check out "10 on Top" on MTV every Saturday at 11:30 a.m. E.T.

Get a 'Rock of Ages'-Inspired Rocker Style

Christina Liao — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:55:16 +0000

View Gallery »

Music isn't the only thing that rocks in "Rock of Ages." After all, '80s fashion is totally making a comeback.

Now, before you roll your eyes and get really nervous, take a beat. Regardless of the silliness, there's no denying Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Mary J. Blige and the rest of the gang look incredible. And you don't have to go big like they did when the Bourbon Room was in its heyday.

Check out this week's Get the Goods and see what we mean. The accessories are awesomely now and we know you'll look totally sweet rockin' these looks.

'Madagascar 3' Rocks 'Rock of Ages' At The Box Office

Scott Harris — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 17:51:35 +0000

DreamWorks

What was supposed to be a big weekend for new movies turned out to be a big weekend for old movies, as holdovers "Madagascar 3" and "Prometheus" took the top two spots at the box office following disappointing debuts for "Rock of Ages" and "That's My Boy."

According to Film.com, "Madagascar 3" held on to the number one position for the second week running thanks to a strong $35.5 million take, while second place "Prometheus" brought in an additional $20.1 million. "Rock of Ages" finished in third with $15.1 million, while "That's My Boy" wound up way back in fifth with just $13 million.

For a full run down of the weekend box office, including figures for returning hits "Snow White and the Huntsman" and "Men in Black 3," head to Film.com.

The 9 Metal-est Movies Ever

Bryan Reesman — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 14:00:12 +0000

Paramount

With "Rock of Ages" thundering through theaters on Friday, the retro spotlight will once again shine on the crazy '80s, the decade of decadence when rock stars were true rock stars and unapologetic about being so.

In anticipation of the nostalgia this will inspire, we're looking at nine hard-rock and heavy-metal films that have made noise in the mainstream. Horns up!

9. 'Detroit Rock City' (1999)

New Line

While a majority of teen flicks tend to focus on love, partying and sex, 'Detroit Rock City' has a singular directive -- getting four teenage KISS fanatics to a concert after one of their mothers burns their tickets and banishes her son to Catholic school. Naturally that's not going to stop them, and once reunited, the four garage bandmates (including Edward Furlong) go on a wild road trip that involves drugs, fights, a botched mugging and robbery, a strip club contest and other ridiculous situations. Despite flopping at the box office, 'Detroit Rock City' has developed a cult following over the years.

8. 'Detroit Metal City' (2008)

Panasia Films

Timid college grad Soichi Negishi loves playing sappy bubblegum pop. But he earns his livelihood anonymously behind the sinister visage of the evil Dr. Krauser in the misogynist Satanic metal band DMC (Detroit Metal City), which espouses rape and murder. His pop passion excites his journalist crush, but she abhors the twisted music that has made him famous. This clever Japanese comedy balances the sticky-sweet with the brutally loud as Soichi lives a dual life, not made easy by his gleefully violent band manager. Which side will win out? The resolution is surprising and cleverly riffs on how many rock stars are unlike their alter egos.

7. 'The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years' (1988)

New Line

Penelope Spheeris dove headlong into the hard rockin' Sunset Strip scene of late '80s L.A. She sensationalizes the hedonism -- Paul Stanley lounges in bed with numerous groupies, W.A.S.P.'s Chris Holmes floats drunkenly in his pool -- but things were insanely funny, hedonistic and stupid back then. The focus on hair bands discounts the more intelligent metal being made (although Lemmy, Alice Cooper and Dave Mustaine represent), but there are some ugly truths to be found here about the scene's nihilism and misogyny.

6. 'Rock Star' (2001)

Warner Bros.

Loosely inspired by the real-life story of tribute singer-turned-Judas Priest frontman Tim "Ripper" Owens, this tale of a cover band singer (Mark Wahlberg) who gets to sing for his heroes Steel Dragon gets some real-life details right -- you're now part of the club but will never run it -- while indulging in cliche excess. Real-life musicians Jeff Pilson, Jason Bonham and Zakk Wylde lend credibility, while the original songs are pretty catchy. This '80s period piece is a guilty pleasure, even though it's a stupid film cynically declaring that all rock stars are disposable. That may be true now, but it wasn't back then.

5. 'Conan the Barbarian' (1982)

Universal

This isn't a music movie, but few veteran metalheads haven't enjoyed watching Arnold Schwarzenegger seek violent retribution against the evil cult leader who murdered his parents and smashed his childhood innocence. And let's face it -- this sword 'n' sorcery epic has undoubtedly influenced numerous Viking metal bands, while Schwarzenegger's movies have served as fodder for Austrian Death Machine, the heavy side project of As I Lay Dying frontman Tim Lambesis. "Conan" is truly metal, an angry revenge pic with a sword-wielding barbarian unapologetically slashing and screwing his way to his goal.

4. The 'Bill & Ted' Movies (1989 and 1991)

Orion Pictures

Whether collecting famous historical figures for a high school history project through time travel ("Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure") or seeking to escape hell and stop their evil robot doubles from withholding their music from the masses ('Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey'), the Wyld Stallyns bandmates always manage to be oblivious to the utter craziness around them. They just have fun learning to play as well as Eddie Van Halen, seeing real iron maidens and defeating Death at Twister and Battleship. And excellent news: a third 'Bill & Ted' installment is being planned. Party on, dudes!

3. 'Anvil! The Story of Anvil' (2008)

Abramorama

There have been many great metal documentaries released over the last few years -- Metallica's "Some Kind of Monster," Iron Maiden's "Flight 666" and "Metal: A Headbanger's Journey" among them -- but Anvil's story really represents metal's eternal underdog status. Canadian brothers-in-arms Steve "Lips" Kudlow and Robb Reiner had toiled in obscurity for nearly three decades when their old roadie-turned-screenwriter Sacha Gervasi followed them on a faltering European tour. Revealing an intense friendship that has survived more lows than highs, the film transformed Anvil into folk heroes, securing their legend. Soon after, the band opened for AC/DC.

2. 'Wayne's World' (1992)

Paramount

Perhaps the only cool "SNL" film (with a sequel), this comedy cleverly features two suburban Illinois dudes (Mike Myers and Dana Carvey) with a public access cable show dreaming of greater TV and music glory (party on!). But potentially bigger success and Wayne's blossoming romance (schwing!) with Crucial Taunt frontwoman Cassandra (Tia Carrere) starts crimping the style of their bromance. Their shenanigans are often hilarious -- the guys and their friends rocking out to Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" in their car is classic -- and the cameo by Alice Cooper, who offers them a quick, scholarly history lesson on their community, is priceless (they're not worthy!).

1. 'This Is Spinal Tap' (1984)

Embassy Pictures

When it first came out, numerous bands thought this mockumentary was about them. Ozzy Osbourne thought it was a real documentary. The film has also created so many legendary moments -- turning amps to 11, penning a piano ballad called "Lick My Love Pump," opening for a puppet show -- that no other movie will ever come closer to accurately satirizing the craziness of the music business and metal. Core members David St. Hubbins (aka Michael McKean), Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest) and Derek Smalls (Harry Shearer) took the joke further by playing a secret club tour in 1984 and full-on amphitheater tours in 1992, 2001 and 2009.

GALLERY: Great Moments in '80s Hair

Ben Freiburger — Wed, 13 Jun 2012 16:00:42 +0000

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Before the 1990s, there was a stretch of time -- roughly 10 years or so -- we refer to as "the '80s." It was, like, this totally rad era in which a geriatric Rodney Dangerfield could be a party animal, coke was a problem and New Coke was an even gnarlier problem. And the only rule for your hair was that it had to appear hilarious to anyone not living in the '80s.

With the jukebox broadway musical "Rock of Ages" coming to theaters, we say it's time to grab a pogo ball and hop our way through the historical hallway of hairstyles, searching for what made '80s yearbooks into the comedy treasure chests they've become.

Pour Some Sugar on These 6 'Rock Of Ages' Clips

Max Evry — Tue, 12 Jun 2012 20:00:07 +0000

Warner Bros.

Adam Shankman's new film based on the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages" just might make you think you could get on the stage, belt out some tunes and melt some faces, but a word of caution: These are professionals.

This story of glam-metal glory follows two L.A. dreamers, Bourbon Club waitress Sherrie Christian (Julianne Hough) and busboy Drew Boley (Diego Boneta), as they sing and strut their way to the top ... '80s style. The crooning all-star cast includes Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Paul Giamatti and Tom Cruise, unleashing his inner Axl Rose as the mercurial rock beast Stacee Jaxx.

1. Ahh, man. We were just one bad decision away from this movie becoming "Coyote Ugly."

2. If only Paul Giamatti could transplant some of his mustache hair onto that bald noggin.

3. Claims of Tom Cruise going totally off the reservation have been greatly exaggerated.

4. Catherine Zeta-Jones' hip thrusts are most definitely a deadly weapon.

5. Wait, we're confused ... what do you want to do again? Oh, "rock," got it.

6. The only thing less believable than Diego Boneta breaking into song is that people actually used to buy records. In stores.

GALLERY: Nothin' But a Good Time at 'Rock of Ages' Premiere

Bryan Enk — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 04:46:33 +0000

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Hollywood: Where rock stars can become movie stars ... and vice-versa.

Tom Cruise, Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Malin Akerman, Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand and other hit-makers rocked the red carpet in Hollywood at the "Rock of Ages" premiere. There's no evidence of anyone breaking into song or an impromptu guitar solo, but that doesn't mean that neither scenario didn't actually happen.

Jump into our mosh pit of pics from the premiere and prepare to rock your face off to "Rock of Ages" when it hits theaters on June 15.

This 'Rock of Ages' Giveaway Totally Rocks

NextMovie Staff — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 20:00:23 +0000

Warner Bros.

It's a big day for film fans because we've got a brand new giveaway that is going to be music to your ears.

You guessed it: To help kick off the "Rock of Ages" party in style, we're going to give three lucky fans some very special prize packs that will turn them from ordinary folks into full-fledged rock gods.

Tom Cruise is going to be sooooo jealous.

Cruise, of course, stars in "Rock of Ages" as hair-metal superstar Stacee Jaxx, a rock legend who helps drive an '80s music scene that also includes such luminaries as Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti and Catherine Zeta-Jones, as well as newcomers Julianne Hough and Diego Boneta.

But even Stacee Jaxx can't claim to have a load of swag quite as sweet as the huge prize packs we're handing out, which include everything from an official "Rock of Ages" leather iPad case to a "Rock of Ages" belt buckle and an assortment of stylish wristbands.

So sign up and get ready to rock. Because "Rock of Ages" might not open in theaters until June 15, but your odyssey as a music superstar begins right now.

1 Grand Prize Winner Will Receive:

• Hat with "Rock of Ages" Metal Tag in "Property of Stacee Jaxx" Hat Box
• Leather iPad Case with "Rock of Ages" in Studs
• "Rock of Ages" Belt Buckle
• Set of 12 Jelly Bracelets
• "Rock of Ages" Tattoo Sheet
• Star Glasses

1 First Prize Winner Will Receive:

• Soundtrack CD
• 4-Pack "Be Our Guest" cards from Johnny Rockets (Each "Be Our Guest" card is good for a single hamburger or any sandwich, American Fries and a drink.)
• Sally Hansen's "Rock of Ages" Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips Collection (includes 8 limited edition prints: Red-y to Rock, Rock N' Roar, Zip It!, Star Quality, Amp it Up, Good Gene's, Fingerlace Gloves, Sticks and Stones)
• Ladies' "I Love Stacee Jaxx" Black Tank Top with Red Metal Studs
• Men's Skull with "Rock of Ages" Banner Black T-Shirt
• Assorted Leather Metal Stud Bracelets
• Black Bandana
• 14 oz. Black Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Bling Studs
• Guitar Pick Card
• Assorted Sweatbands

1 Second Prize Winner Will Receive:

• Ladies' "I Love Stacee Jaxx" Black Tank Top with Red Metal Studs
• Men’s Skull with "Rock of Ages" Banner Black T-Shirt
• Assorted Leather Metal Stud Bracelets
• Black Bandana
• 14 oz. Black Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Bling Studs
• Star Glasses
• Guitar Pick Card
• Assorted Sweatbands
• Set of 12 Jelly Bracelets
• "Rock of Ages" Tattoo Sheet

To enter, just shoot us an email at NextMovie@MTV.com and include your name, address, birthdate and be sure to copy and paste the following statement:

"By sending this email, I accept and agree to: (1) the Official Rules of the 'Rock of Ages' Giveaway and (2) MTV Networks’, a division of Viacom International Inc., Nextmovie.com Terms of Use and Privacy Policy."

The contest runs from now until 4 p.m. ET on Monday, June 18, 2012. Entrants must be at least 13 years old and reside in the U.S. Click here for complete rules and further details.

As an added bonus, all entrants will be signed up for the fun and useful UpNext newsletter. As an UpNext subscriber, you'll receive daily updates on the hottest releases, events and merch from the world of movies.

Be sure to check out the official "Rock of Ages" movie site and Facebook page for all the movie details and look for "Rock of Ages" in theaters and IMAX on June 15. Also, follow @wbpictures on Twitter to keep up with the latest on your favorite movies, past, present and future.

The home of The Original Hamburger, Johnny Rockets is the place for great food, full-on friendliness and smile-generating fun. Go to www.JohnnyRockets.com to find a location near you.

Get ready to rock with the "Rock of Ages" Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips collection from Sally Hansen.

"Rock of Ages" Soundtrack now available!

15 Breakout Stars to Watch This Summer

Chase Whale — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

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There are a lot of things to avoid this summer: blistering sun, bug spray, sweating, sunburns, broken air conditioning, puka shell necklaces. Thankfully, heaven can be found indoors, in a movie theater, with functional air conditioning, popcorn and 90+ minutes of pure cinematic bliss.

This summer Hollywood is giving us a lot of "popcorn flicks" to look forward to: a "Spider-Man" reboot, "Men in Black III," a second "G.I. Joe" movie and "Battleship," to name a few. Among all of these big movies are 15 up-and-coming stars who will be heating up the summer. Some of these are people you've seen on TV, and some you've heard on the radio. All of them are quickly on the rise to silver-screen stardom.

The 20 Sexiest Women of Summer 2012

Daniel Hubschman — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:00:56 +0000

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What would a blockbuster be without a damsel in distress to save, or a femme fatale to fight? A whole lot less fabulous, that's what.

Throughout the world, the summer movies season is synonymous with chiseled male champions braving larger-than-life adventures. But judging by the crop of broad comedies and action extravaganzas being offered up in the coming months, it looks like the ladies may give their A-list counterparts of the opposite sex a run for their money.

Have a look at 20 starlets who are going to steal the cinematic spotlight.

Summer Movies Poll: Best Non-Action Movie

NextMovie Staff — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:00:51 +0000

Warner Bros. (2) / Lionsgate

PREVIOUS: What will be summer's best sequel? >>

This poll will close on May 2 at 12 p.m. ET

More on Summer Movies 2012

The Top 30 Must-See Summer Movies of 2012

Max Evry — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:12 +0000

Columbia Pictures / Warner Bros.

'Tis the season for massive explosions and people running from them.

Summer movies are coming, and iconic superheroes will dominate as "Dark Knight Rises," "Avengers," and "The Amazing Spider-Man" duke it out for box office supremacy, while the sci-fi derby includes fresh takes on the "Alien" saga ("Prometheus") and Philip K. Dick ("Total Recall"), plus a return visit to MIB headquarters.

Of course, it's not all grenades and gunshots. Just see a shirtless Tom Cruise in "Rock of Ages" and everythingless Channing Tatum in "Magic Mike" representing for the ladies this summer.

We count down the biggest and best blockbusters for beating the summer heat.

30. 'Battleship'

Universal

Release Date: May 18
Starring: Taylor Kitsch, Liam Neeson, Rihanna
The Scoop: "John Carter" sank, but this feature version of the perennial Hasbro board game may be just the ticket to keep Taylor Kitsch's career afloat. The decision to go sci-fi with invading aliens as the heavies is clearly the filmmakers' attempt to capitalize on the success of "Transformers," but with costars Liam Neeson and singer Rihanna in tow, this could be one unsinkable "Battleship." | Watch the trailer

29. 'Bel Ami'

Magnolia Pictures

Release Date: June 8
Starring: Robert Pattinson, Uma Thurman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Christina Ricci
The Scoop: R.Pattz is a beautiful friend indeed to the many lovely ladies in this 19th-century romp. The "Twilight" superstar plays Georges Duroy, a French libertine using his cunning and sexuality to broker his way from one powerful woman's bed to another. Based on the novel by Guy de Maupassant, this one's sure to get the more literary-minded audience's home fires burning. | Watch the trailer

28. 'Sparkle'

TriStar

Release Date: Aug 17
Starring: Whitney Houston, Jordin Sparks, Derek Luke, Cee Lo Green
The Scoop: Whitney Houston's swan song is a remake of the 1970s cult classic, which she adored as a child. The late singer was set for a big-time comeback, including a soundtrack produced by R. Kelly, before her tragic death in February. Houston and "American Idol" winner Jordin Sparks are "Giving Him Something He Can Feel," and audiences will be floored. | Watch the trailer

27. 'The Expendables 2'

Lionsgate

Release Date: Aug 17
Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Jason Statham, Jet Li, Dolph Lundgren, Chuck Norris, Terry Crews, Randy Couture, Jean-Claude Van Damme, Bruce Willis, Arnold Schwarzenegger
The Scoop: A second helping of brawny, gun-totin' geezers was inevitable after the mighty $275 million haul their pyrotechnics brought in two years ago. Stallone has ceded the director's chair to Simon West ("Tomb Raider," "Con Air") but returns as writer and star, playing mercenary Barney Ross, who leads his team into a trap in which one of them gets whacked. They recruit new members Billy the Kid (Liam Hemsworth) and Maggie (Yu Nan) to get some of that sweet, tasty revenge we like so much. | Watch the trailer

26. 'What to Expect When You’re Expecting'

Liongate

Release Date: May 18
Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Cameron Diaz, Elizabeth Banks, Anna Kendrick, Brooklyn Decker
The Scoop: The go-to chick flick of the summer is based on the classic baby manual and follows five couples as they navigate the ups, downs and hormones of pregnancy. Oh, and don't worry, guys, because Dennis Quaid, Chris Rock, Thomas Lennon, Rob Huebel and Matthew Morrison will be on hand for some much-needed bro time. | Watch the trailer

25. 'G.I. Joe: Retaliation'

Paramount

Release Date: June 29
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Channing Tatum, Bruce Willis, Adrianne Palicki
The Scoop: Because one just wasn't enough. The Joes are back, but this time those Cobra scumbags have hatched a scheme to get their kung fu grip on the White House and eliminate America's last line of defense. Tatum returns as Duke, but it's Johnson as Roadblock and Willis as the original "Joe" who are running the show this time around. Did we mention ninjas swordfighting off a cliff face? POW! | Watch the trailer

24. 'People Like Us'

DreamWorks

Release Date: June 29
Starring: Chris Pine, Elizabeth Banks, Michelle Pfeiffer, Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass, Jon Favreau
The Scoop: You might know the name Alex Kurtzman as one of the kings of franchise screenwriting with "Transformers," "Mission: Impossible" and "Star Trek" under his belt. Instead of making a splashy debut as a director, he wrote this grounded drama (along with partner Roberto Orci) about a man named Sam (Pine) who has to deliver $150,000 to a 30-year-old alcoholic sister he's never met. He encounters her troubled 12-year-old son and probably learns something about himself, too.

23. 'Katy Perry: Part of Me'

Getty Images

Release Date: July 5
Starring: Katy Perry
The Scoop: This concert documentary chronicles the life of the world's biggest female pop star, from her humble beginnings as a gospel singer to when she kissed a girl and liked it. If you really want to have fun, try hopping back and forth between the theater showing this film and another one showing ex-hubby Russell Brand's "Rock of Ages." | Watch the trailer

22. 'Seeking a Friend for the End of the World'

Focus Features

Release Date: June 22
Starring: Steve Carell, Keira Knightley, Adam Brody, Derek Luke, Connie Britton
The Scoop: Here's a perfect 2012 comedy for the Mayan-minded. With an impending asteroid about to smush the Earth into a pancake, a man teams up with a neighbor to road-trip across an apocalyptic U.S. and reunite with his childhood sweetheart. We'd never have thought to cast Carell opposite Knightley, but that unlikely chemistry might just prove magical, especially given the unconventional nature of the script. | Watch the trailer

21. 'ParaNorman'

Focus Features

Release Date: Aug 17
Starring: (voices) Casey Affleck, Jeff Garlin, John Goodman, Anna Kendrick, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
The Scoop: From the 3-D stop-motion geniuses at Laika -- the very patient animators who brought us "Coraline" -- comes this slab of spooky fun revolving around an outcast kid named Norman Babcock (Kodi Smit-McPhee), who communicates with the dead to protect his sleepy New England town from a horde of ghosts, witches and zombies. The trailers are awesome, with some incredible puppet animation and a hilarious "Monster House" vibe to the story.

Also Check Out: Summer Movie Polls

20. 'Men in Black 3'

Columbia Pictures

Release Date: May 21
Starring: Will Smith, Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin, Emma Thompson, Alice Eve
The Scoop: Call it cautious optimism, but despite some clunky-looking effects and tales of production woes (delays, unfinished scripts), we're still amped to see Will and Tommy back in black. With Josh Brolin doing a so-dead-on-it's-scary Tommy Lee Jones impersonation as a '60s-era Agent K, this will indeed be like walking into a time machine. | Watch the trailer

19. 'To Rome With Love'

Sony Pictures Classics

Release Date: June 22
Starring: Woody Allen, Alec Baldwin, Roberto Benigni, Penélope Cruz, Judy Davis, Jesse Eisenberg, Greta Gerwig, Ellen Page
The Scoop: Woody Allen made box office magic with last summer's "Midnight in Paris," so let's see if he can strike gold twice in a row. The Woodman continues his globetrotting (London, Barcelona, France) with this trip to the boot of Europe as famous Italians (Benigni) mix with American tourists (Baldwin, Eisenberg, Page) in four interconnected comedic vignettes. Throw in an Academy Award-winning Spaniard (Cruz) and Allen himself, and you've got yourself a heaping plate of laughs al dente.

18. 'Magic Mike'

Warner Bros.

Release Date: June 29
Starring: Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Matthew McConaughey, Joe Manganiello, Matt Bomer
The Scoop: Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody ("Juno") remarked on an episode of "WTF with Marc Maron" that when she released her stripping memoir, it resulted in criticism and controversy, and she wondered if this film -- based on Channing Tatum's teen experiences takin' it all off in Tampa, Florida -- would bring the "21 Jump Street" star equal scorn. Only one way to find out, as Steven Soderbergh directs a beefcake wonderland eager to please. Tatum is, to put this tastefully, the Jedi stripping master, while Pettyfer is his Padawan disciple, and the ladies should look forward to some red-hot "lightsabers." | Watch the trailer

17. 'Moonrise Kingdom'

Focus Features

Release Date: May 25
Starring: Bruce Willis, Bill Murray, Edward Norton, Frances McDormand, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman
The Scoop: With Ed Norton as a cigarette-smoking Boy Scout troop leader, Bruce Willis as a sheriff with translucent glasses and Bill Murray as a disenchanted father, this couldn't be anything but a standard-issue Wes Anderson affair. The director of "The Royal Tenenbaums" always has something delightfully eccentric up his corduroy sleeves, and his tale of two young kids in a runaway romance will not disappoint. | Watch the trailer

16. 'Rock of Ages'

Warner Bros.

Release Date: June 15
Starring: Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Malin Akerman, Mary J. Blige, Alec Baldwin, Tom Cruise
The Scoop: Tom Cruise likes his old-time rock 'n' roll Bon Jovi-style as he belts out "Wanted Dead Or Alive." Word on the street is Cruise brings down the house, but for backup you've got pros Russell Brand and Mary J. Blige waiting in the wings to make sure this Broadway musical takes it to the next level. Adam Shankman ("Hairspray") directs. | Watch the trailer

Keep Reading: Top 30 Must-See Summer Movies of 2012 (15 - 1) >>

50 Movies We Can't Wait to See in 2012 - Page 2

Scott Harris — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 19:00:23 +0000

'Rock of Ages'

Getty Images

Release Date: June 1
Starring: Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Tom Cruise
The Scoop: One of the most popular and acclaimed Broadway musicals in recent memory, "Rock of Ages" tells the story of a couple of small-town dreamers who get caught up in the big-city spotlight -- and it tells that story using the transformative power of '80s rock. That's enough for us, but if you're somehow not sold, the film version of "Rock of Ages" also features a Who's Who of Hollywood stars, including Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, Russell Brand, Paul Giamatti, Bryan Cranston and Catherine Zeta-Jones. Rock on!

'Snow White and the Huntsman'

Universal

Release Date: June 1
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron
The Scoop: What if the classic fairy tale "Snow White" was actually a dark and moody fantasy epic? That's the premise behind "Snow White and the Hunstman," which features "Twilight" superstar Kristen Stewart as the titular heroine and Chris Hemsworth ("Thor") as the huntsman sent to kill her. Oh, and the evil queen? Well, thanks to Charlize Theron, who knows a thing or two about murdering rival chicks (see: her Oscar winning performance in "Monster"), we're pretty much going to be avoiding apples for the rest of our life. One of the most anticipated films of the year.

'Prometheus'

20th Century Fox

Release Date: June 8
Starring: Noomi Rapace, Charlize Theron, Patrick Wilson
The Scoop: If it seems like decades since director Ridley Scott last filmed a sci-fi flick, that's because it has been. But since his previous two efforts in the genre happen to be the undisputed classics "Alien" and "Blade Runner," well, chances are the wait was worth it -- especially since "Prometheus," which stars the original "Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" Noomi Rapace, looks to be a prequel to the original "Alien." So will lightning strike a third time? "Prometheus" is set to prove that when you play with fire, you're going to get awesome.

'Jack the Giant Killer'

Getty Images

Release Date: June 15
Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Stanley Tucci, Ewan McGregor
The Scoop: If you think vampires, zombies and robots have all pretty much been exhausted at this point, don't worry, because the next big thing is coming -- literally. Yes, it's giants! "Jack the Giant Killer" stars Nicholas Hoult ("X-Men: First Class") as a regular dude who leads an expedition into the land of giants in order to rescue a princess in a modern mashup of "Twilight" and Jack and the Beanstalk." Stanley Tucci, who is required to be in everything (and be awesome in everything) costars, as does Ewan McGregor and noted non-giant Warwick Davis. No spoilers here, but our money is on Jack.

'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter'

20th Century Fox

Release Date: June 22
Starring: Benjamin Walker, Rufus Sewell, Dominic Cooper
The Scoop: If you study history closely, you can learn all sorts of fascinating details. For instance, did you know that our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, was actually a noted vampire hunter? Okay, it's not true, but imagining Honest Abe throwing down with Nosferatu is awesome enough that we're more than willing to overlook any (minor) historical inaccuracies. Benjamin Walker ("Flags of Our Fathers") plays Lincoln, who, after his mother is murdered by a vampire, decides to eradicate the creatures -- creatures which also happen to be behind the institution of slavery. Suddenly that whole Civil War thing makes a whole lot more sense.

'Brave'

Disney/Pixar

Release Date: June 22
Starring: Kelly Macdonald, Billy Connolly, Emma Thompson
The Scoop: Pixar has made a living -- and some undeniably great films -- by turning fish, insects, cars and robots into wonderfully animated main characters, but aside from "The Incredibles," actual humans have been few and far between. That's set to change in a big way when "Brave" hits theaters. Stepping squarely into Disney Princess territory, "Brave" tells the story of a plucky medieval Scottish lass who rebels against the traditional female role forced on her. Unfortunately, her desire for independence may unleash a hideous evil on the world, which means one thing: quest time! We'd pretty much follow Pixar into hell itself, so if they're "brave" enough to make this movie, we're "Brave" enough to watch it.

'G.I. Joe: Retaliation'

Paramount

Release Date: June 29
Starring: Channing Tatum, Dwayne Johnson, Ray Park
The Scoop: The first "G.I. Joe" wasn't exactly an overwhelming success, but thanks to J.J. Abrams dragging his feet on "Star Trek 2," Paramount suddenly had a giant, blockbuster-sized hole in their 2012 schedule. And who better to call in an emergency than America's most trusted special agents, the folks at "G.I. Joe"? Things look a little bit different this time around -- Channing Tatum returns as lead Joe, but half the cast has been jettisoned in favor of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson -- and expectations are much higher, as "Step Up" and "Justin Bieber: Never Say Never" director John M. Chu steps up behind the camera. The forces of evil have no shot.

'Magic Mike'

Getty Images

Release Date: June 29
Starring: Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer, Olivia Munn
The Scoop: Speaking of Channing Tatum, the beefy star is doing double duty on June 29, as "Magic Mike" and "G.I. Joe: Retaliation" go head-to-head at the box office. But they probably don't have quite the same target demographic anyway; "Magic Mike" is the story of a veteran male stripper (that's Tatum -- try not to hyperventilate, ladies) who takes a newbie ("I Am Number Four"s' Alex Pettyfer) under his wing. This one is directed by Steven Soderbergh, who was hoping Tatum could draw on the experiences he gained working a stripper himself as a young man.

'The Amazing Spider-Man'

Columbia Pictures

Release Date: July 3
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans
The Scoop: Considering Sam Raimi's "Spider-Man" trilogy is one of the most successful franchises in film history -- and considering it just ended five short, short years ago -- the folks behind this reboot have some pretty big expectations to fill. Luckily, they've got a not-so-secret weapon: Emma Stone, who plays Gwen Stacy opposite spideriffic love interest Peter Parker ("The Social Network" star Andrew Garfield). We're not sure how amazing this "Spider-Man" is going to be, but we're very sure just how amazing Stone is -- and our Awesome-Sense is tingling like crazy.

'Ted'

Getty Images

Release Date: July 13
Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Seth MacFarlane
The Scoop: Seth MacFarlane can pretty much do anything he wants to do inside his Fox animation empire, but it turns out that what the creator of "Family Guy," The Cleveland Show" and "American Dad" really wants to do is direct. Hence "Ted," MacFarlane's directorial debut, which stars Mark Wahlberg as a mostly normal guy with one fairly major quirk: His best friend is his fully sentient childhood teddy bear (voiced by MacFarlane, naturally). That becomes an issue when Wahlberg meets the woman of his dreams (Mila Kunis, aka the woman of everyone's dreams). Sorry, Fox, but it looks like MacFarlane may have just found himself another career.

'The Dark Knight Rises'

Warner Bros.

Release Date: July 20
Starring: Christian Bale, Anne Hathaway, Tom Hardy, Gary Oldman, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
The Scoop: When "The Dark Knight" came out in 2008, it became the second highest-grossing film of all time. And the expectations are even higher this time around thanks to a little movie director Christopher Nolan did in his spare time: "Inception." With the "Dark Knight" trilogy and the Christian Bale era both set to come to an end -- and with "Inception" stars Tom Hardy and Joseph Gordon-Levitt cranking up the fan dial -- "The Dark Knight Rises" is poised to become the film event of the summer. We're not sure how you can go higher than the perfection of "The Dark Knight," but if anyone can find a way to rise even further, it's Nolan. We can't wait.

'Neighborhood Watch'

20th Century Fox

Release Date: July 27
Starring: Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn, Jonah Hill
The Scoop: Ben Stiller, Vince Vaughn and Jonah Hill bring the star power and name recognition to this comedy, about a group of bros who form a neighborhood watch to get out of the house and accidentally end up having to save the world. But it's the man behind the camera that has real comedy fans buzzing: Akiva Schaffer. Schaffer, you see, is one third of the "Saturday Night Live" comedy splinter group Lonely Island, and you don't need to be on a boat to know that means major league laughs. His first film, "Hot Rod," wasn't exactly a smash, but with that under his belt, Schaffer is poised to knock "Neighborhood Watch" out of the park. Guess that island won't be lonely for much longer.

'The Bourne Legacy'

Getty Images

Release Date: August 3
Starring: Jeremy Renner, Rachel Weisz, Edward Norton
The Scoop: Matt Damon may be gone, but his film legacy lives on in the form of "The Bourne Legacy," which examines the world of the "Bourne" series without technically being a straight sequel or prequel. Instead, Jeremy Renner heads a mostly new cast as the spy community and the other castoffs from Project Treadstone wrestle with the aftermath of "The Bourne Ultimatum." Film fans looking for some continuity between films can rest easy, as Joan Allen returns in the role of upper level agent Pamela Landy -- and Tony Gilroy, who wrote the first three films, writes and directs -- but this time around it's Renner, not Damon, who will make the movie sink or swim or kill a guy with its bare hands. Or all three at the same time. Hey, it is a "Bourne" film after all.

'Total Recall'

Columbia Tristar

Release Date: August 3
Starring: Colin Farrell, Kate Beckinsale, Bryan Cranston, Jessica Biel, Bill Nighy
The Scoop: Philip K. Dick is dead, alas, but his legacy lives on in the unending stream of sci-fi films adapted from his novels and short stories. And just when you thought there were no more to adapt, Hollywood has started remaking the legendary sci-fi author's earlier films, such as this redo of the 199o hit "Total Recall." While the original was a classic tongue-in-cheek Arnold Schwarzenegger action romp, though, the remake -- which stars Colin Farrell in the Arnold role -- aims to be a much more serious and gritty take on the tale of a man who messes around with his own memory and ends up fighting mutants on Mars as a result.

'Warm Bodies'

Getty Images

Release Date: August 10
Starring: Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, John Malkovich
The Scoop: The summer of Nicholas Hoult continues on August 10 as the star of "Jack the Giant Killer' takes on a menace of a decidedly ... deader variety in "Warm Bodies." Hoult plays a zombie who ends up beginning a relationship with a living girl. What she doesn't know? Well, the fact that he ate her last boyfriend. That will tend to put a damper on things, assuming the whole "zombie" part didn't do that already. So can Hoult do for zombies what R.Pattz did for vampires? If anyone can make the walking dead seem sexy, it's him.

'The Expendables 2'

Lionsgate

Release Date: August 17
Starring: Sylvester Stallone, Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Jason Statham, Jet Li, et al.
The Scoop: If you've ever wanted to raid the local rest home, today is the day, because chances are it will be emptied out as everyone heads to the theater to see their peers in action in "The Expendables 2." Okay, we kid. We're actually stoked to see Sly Stallone and his ragtag crew of action film veterans get back on the big screen, especially since Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger are expected to have much bigger roles this time around. Despite the title, this pop culture grouping is quickly becoming irreplaceable.

'ParaNorman'

Focus Features

Release Date: August 17
Starring: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Christopher Mintz-Plasse
The Scoop: "ParaNorman" writer-director Chris Butler may not be a familiar name, but fans of animation are certainly familiar with his work as the storyboard artist on films like "Coraline" and "Corpse Bride." Now he's taking that off-kilter aesthetic to new heights, as "ParaNorman" -- which features voicework from the likes of John Goodman, Caesy Affleck and Anna Kendrick -- tells the tale of a kid who uses his ability to speak with the dead to save his town from an ancient curse. Zombie movies: They aren't just for adults any more.

'Argo'

Getty Images

Release Date: September 14
Starring: Ben Affleck, Bryan Cranston, John Goodman
The Scoop: Director Ben Affleck -- yes, director is his primary credit these days, thanks to "The Town" and "Gone Baby Gone" -- also stars in this amazing true story about the 1979 Iran hostage crisis. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Kyle Chandler and more, "Argo" relates how a group of hostages managed to escape by pretending to be the crew of a fake movie invented by the CIA. "Good Night and Good Luck" writer Grant Heslov cowrote the screenplay with Affleck, so yeah, this one pretty much has awesome all over it. Is it too early for 2013 Oscar buzz yet?

'Savages'

Getty Images

Release Date: September 28
Starring: Aaron Johnson, Taylor Kitsch, Blake Lively
The Scoop: Based on Don Winslow's bestselling thriller of the same name, "Savages" tells the story of two potheads (Aaron Johnson and Taylor Kitsch) who are blackmailed by Mexican drug lords after their shared girlfriend (Blake Lively) is kidnapped. Naturally, they embark on a mission to save her. And since "Savages" is directed by Oliver Stone, you can pretty much bet the house that all hell is going to break loose -- which may explain why notorious hell-breakers Uma Thurman, John Travolta and Benicio Del Toro are in the cast. It's always interesting when Stone goes to work.

'Frankenweenie'

Disney

Release Date: October 5
Starring: Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara, Martin Short
The Scoop: Way, way back in the day -- we're talking the early '80s -- an unknown artist by the name of Tim Burton developed a short film by the name of "Frankenweenie" for his bosses at Disney. And they hated it. Fast-forward over two decades and Burton, who in the interim has become an icon of cinema, finally gets his chance to realize his vision of a feature-length "Frankeweenie" film. Take one part Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and two parts "The Nightmare Before Christmas," and you'll have the formula for perhaps the most offbeat animated film of the young century. Looks like Burton gets the last laugh this time -- and best of all, we all get to laugh with him.

'The Gangster Squad'

Getty Images

Release Date: October 19
Starring: Sean Penn, Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Josh Brolin
The Scoop: When you see the name of director Ruben Fleischer in the credits, you know it's a certain type of black comedy; after all, this is the guy who brought the world "Zombieland" and "30 Minutes or Less." But not so fast, folks, because "The Gangster Squad" has the kind of cast that serious dreams are made of, with Sean Penn, Ryan Gosling, Josh Brolin, Nick Nolte and a half dozen other big names powering the story of the cops who cleaned up L.A. in the 1940s. Now that's a gang we'd like to be part of.

'My Mother's Curse'

Getty Images

Release Date: November 2
Starring: Seth Rogen, Barbra Streisand, Adam Scott
The Scoop: Buddy comedies are a dime a dozen, and road movies are just about as cheap. You know what costs a little bit more, though? A buddy road comedy starring Seth Rogen and Barbra Streisand. That's right: Rogen and Streisand -- THE Barbra Streisand, mind you -- play a mother and her inventor son who embark on a road trip in a quest to get backing for his latest crazy idea. An idea crazier than Seth Rogen and Barbra Streisand costarring in a buddy road trip? Good luck getting funding for that, pal!

'Skyfall'

Sony

Release Date: November 9
Starring: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Javier Bardem
The Scoop: For a while there it looked as though we might never get another James Bond movie, or at least not one while Daniel Craig was still young enough to shake his martini. Luckily all the legal woes that had the franchise stuck in limbo have been cleared up, meaning "Skyfall," Craig's third mission for her Majesty's Secret Service, is a go. And this time around there's a new wrinkle -- or several of them -- as the story focuses on the secret past of Dame Judi Dench's unflappable M. Can Bond save the day again? Unless you're Chicken Little, we're guessing this is one "Skyfall" you can rest easy about.

'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2'

Summit

Release Date: November 16
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner
The Scoop: Yes, you read that date right: Even though filming on "Breaking Dawn - Part 2" has long since been completed, New Line has decided to sock away some savings for a rainy day by waiting an entire year to release the final installment of "The Twilight Saga." That's basically a form of cruel and unusual punishment for the franchise's billions of fans, but we're guessing that any resentment over the long wait will be erased with one final look into Robert Pattinson's smoldering eyes. And hey, look at the bright side: The delay means you have another whole year to revel in "Twilight" mania. Oh, yeah.

'Gravity'

Getty Images

Release Date: October 19
Starring: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney
The Scoop: Director Alfonso Cuarón has made some pretty sweet movies -- think "Children of Men," "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" and "Y Tu Mamá También" -- so you'd think he wouldn't have much trouble finding stars to appear in his upcoming sci-fi drama about an astronaut who is trapped in space after an accident. But one star after another came and went through "Gravity's" long development process. Luckily, though, Cuarón's own personal gravity finally captured two bona fide A-listers: George Clooney and Sandra Bullock, who's in the lead role. With that kind of star power, chances are you'll have a hard time staying out of this film's orbit.

'The Silver Linings Playbook'

Getty Images

Release Date: November 21
Starring: Bradley Cooper, Julia Stiles, Robert De Niro, Jennifer Lawrence
The Scoop: Bradley Cooper does the rom-com thing in this adaptation of a novel by Matthew Quick. He and his abs star as Pat Peoples, an ex-teacher who is committed to a mental institution for four years. When he finally emerges, he decides to try and get back together with his former wife, with "The Hunger Games" star Jennifer Lawrence acting as a go-between. And you thought your ex was crazy! David O. Russell ("The Fighter") handles directing duties.

'Les Miserables'

Getty Images

Release Date: December 7
Starring: Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter
The Scoop: This high-powered adaptation of Victor Hugo's novel of the French Revolution has a lot to live up to, considering the "Les Miserables" musical is one of the most popular and successful shows in history. Director Tom Hooper knows a thing or two about period pieces, though -- you might know his last film, "The King's Speech," or his Emmy-winning miniseries "John Adams" -- and with a cast that includes Hugh Jackman and Russell Crowe, he certainly has the talent to pull it off.

'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey'

New Line

Release Date: December 14
Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage
The Scoop: The most unexpected part of "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" is the fact that we're getting to see the film at all. Hard to believe, but by the time this thing comes out, it will have been nine long years since Peter Jackson finished off "The Lord of the Rings" by winning 11 Oscars and earning enough money to buy a whole herd of miniature giraffes. Legal matters, though, sent "The Hobbit" into limbo for the last decade, which will make it all the sweeter when Martin Freeman finally gets to don his hairy prosthetic feet and embark on J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary quest as Bilbo, the hobbit who had the courage to leave home to find a dragon. About effing time.

'Life of Pi'

Mariner Books

Release Date: December 21
Starring: Tobey Maguire, Irrfan Khan, Tabu, Suraj Sharma
The Scoop: First off, before you panic, there's not really any math in "Life of Pi." Pi happens to be the name of an Indian kid who survives a shipwreck only to find himself stranded on an island with a menagerie of weird animals. Based on the novel of the same name by Yann Martel, "Life of Pi" is directed by Ang Lee, who previously won an Oscar for helming "Brokeback Mountain." "Life of Pi" was originally scheduled to debut on December 14, but wisely moved to avoid being steamrolled by "The Hobbit," so adjust your calendar accordingly.

'This Is Forty'

Getty Images

Release Date: December 21
Starring: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Jason Segel, Melissa McCarthy
The Scoop: Paul Rudd and his best bro Judd Apatow are back together for another comedy from the Apatow factory, this time with a bit of a twist: Rudd and costar Leslie Mann are reprising their roles from the 2007 film "Knocked Up," with Jason Segel in support this time instead of vice versa. So what can you expect from "This Is Forty"? Well, given the cast and the pedigree, expect more of the patented Apatow humor -- and don't be surprised if a couple of years from now there's another spin-off featuring one of this film's supporting players.

'World War Z'

Getty Images

Release Date: December 21
Starring: Brad Pitt, Matthew Fox, James Badge Dale
The Scoop: There are zombie movies, and then there are zombie movies starring Brad Pitt. Which are you going to go with? Well, if you answered Brad Pitt, then you're in luck, because "World War Z" stars Pitt as a member of the human resistance fighting back in a war against the zombie horde. He's joined in his efforts by Matthew Fox ("Lost") and the always awesome James Badge Dale ("Shame"). And it's not just the talent in front of the camera that deserves a nod; directed by acclaimed filmmaker Marc Forster ("Monster's Ball," "Finding Neverland"), this adaptation of the popular Max Brooks novel was produced by Pitt from a screenplay cowritten by "Babylon 5" creator J. Michael Straczynski. Zombies, you don't stand a chance.

'Django Unchained'

Getty Images

Release Date: December 25
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz, Kurt Russell, Samuel L. Jackson
The Scoop: Quentin Tarantino might have killed Hitler in his last movie, but that was pretty much just a warm-up for his most audacious film yet, "Django Unchained," which stars Jamie Foxx as a runaway slave who returns to the plantation to wreak vengeance on those who mistreated him. An all-star lineup of superstars (Leonardo DiCaprio, anyone?) and Tarantino favorites (Christoph Waltz, Samuel L. Jackson) round out this revenge fantasia. A Tarantino movie about slavery? That comes out on Christmas day? We're not sure the Internet will be able to handle it.

'The Great Gatsby'

Getty Images

Release Date: December 25
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton
The Scoop: The novel that has been described as the quintessential American story is being adapted for the big screen by a fairly unlikely figure: the unabashed ambassador of all things Australian, Baz Luhrmann. Frankly, though, it's hard to imagine the F. Scott Fitzgerald classic being in better hands, especially with Leonardo DiCaprio and Carey Mulligan on board in the lead roles. Of course, audience attention may be a bit split -- DiCaprio's collaboration with Quentin Tarantino, "Django Unchained," comes out the same day -- but that's fine, as a Luhrmann-Tarantino double feature is a real Christmas gift.

'Lincoln'

Getty Images

Release Date: December
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Tommy Lee Jones
The Scoop: There are films with serious pedigrees, and then there's "Lincoln," which exists on a whole different level: The story of America's most beloved and revered figure is being directed by Steven Spielberg, with acting legend Daniel-Day Lewis in the lead role. He's also supported in this adaptation of the Doris Kearns Goodwin book "Team of Rivals" by the stellar Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Tommy Lee Jones among many, many others, leaving us with just one question: Is Spielberg also going to adopt a third name for this production? Either way, "Lincoln" is the perfect way to cap off what is shaping up to be a great year of cinema.

'Rock of Ages' Trailer Has Rock & Bad Hair & Roll

Scott Harris — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 19:56:28 +0000

Adam Shankman/Twitter

One upon a time, Tom Cruise was just another up-and-coming Hollywood hopeful. Then, with one memorable rock 'n 'roll number in his underwear in "Risky Business," he turned himself into a worldwide movie icon. That seems like a long time ago now, but thanks to the brand new trailer for "Rock of Ages," it looks like lightning is about to strike twice.

Because Tom Cruise: Rock God is back.

Of course, "Rock of Ages" has a lot of other things going for it as well. For instance, it's a big screen, big budget adaptation of the wildly popular Broadway musical that takes the hottest hair band hits of the '80s and turns them into dramatic (and comedic) gold.

Plus, it's directed by Adam Shankman, who proved with "Hairspray" that he knows a thing or two about adapting musicals.

And then there's the fact that it stars a who's who of Hollywood heavyweights, including Alec Baldwin, Catherine Zeta Jones, Paul Giamatti, Russell Brand, Malin Akerman and Julianne Hough, not to mention legit music sensation Mary J. Blige.

But it's Cruise's turn as rock star Stacee Jaxx that has people buzzing, thanks in part to a new clip from Apple Trailers that builds throughout to the big reveal of Cruise in his topless, leotard-wearing glory. So will "Rock of Ages" give Cruise the kind of career boost "Risky Business' did?

Never bet against the redemptive power of rock:

Are 'Rock of Ages' Fans Ready for 'MacGruber: The Musical?'

Scott Harris — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 18:33:35 +0000

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Ever since the big budget movie adaptation was announced, fans of the hit Broadway rock musical "Rock of Ages" have been arguing and debating over who should play key roles such as aging star Stacee Jaxx, up and comer Drew Boley and waitress-turned-reluctant-stripper Sherrie Christian.

Turns out they should have been wondering what non-existent role Will Forte would be playing.

True story: according to The Hollywood Reporter, "Saturday Night Live" favorite Forte has been added to the cast of "Rock of Ages" where he will play a brand new character not in the stage version. But are fans ready for "MacGruber: The Musical?"

Okay, no need to heave a heart attack, we're just joking about the "MacGruber" thing. Actually, while few details of the role have been released, The Hollywood Reporter tells us that Forte will be playing "Mitch Miley, the head anchor of a network news show."

Just where Miley fits into things is a bit unclear. After all, the storyline -- about two star-crossed lovers trying to make it big in the 80's L.A. rock scene -- is pretty well already full up with characters, especially since the likes of Catherine Zeta-Jones, Tom Cruise, Paul Giamatti, Russell Brand and Alec Baldwin have already signed on to play key parts.

One way or another, though, we'll find out soon enough just what Forte is doing on "Rock of Ages;" the film, which is being adapted by "Hairspray's" Adam Shankman, is due to begin filming soon for a June 1, 2012 release.

Suri to Cruise into 'Rock of Ages?' Well, Maybe

Elizabeth Durand — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 20:26:31 +0000

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Tom Cruise: movie star… Scientologist… stage mom dad. Wait, what?

Word on the street is that while Tom has been hard at work transforming into the rock-'n'-roll god Stacee Jaxx for his upcoming film "Rock of Ages," the powers that be have locked down one final cast member for the lineup.

You guessed it: The latest A-lister to (reportedly) join the party is Tom's 5-year-old daughter Suri Cruise.

According to Broadway World, details of Suri's role have not been released, but if these rumors are true (we admit we're a little skeptical), the tot would make her acting debut alongside the likes of Malin Akerman, Russell Brand, Julianne Hough, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Alec Baldwin, Paul Giamatti, Mary J. Blige and, of course, her dad.

Of course, director Adam Shankman has already pretty much dispelled the rumor.

"It's not true, though I adore Suri. Don't believe everything you read," he writes on Twitter, adding, "Liza [Minelli] was awfully cute with Judy [Garland] in 'Meet Me in St. Louis!'"

Bummer.

"Rock of Ages" has started principal photography in Florida and is currently slated for a June 1, 2012, release.

Tom Cruise Is a Rock Star in First 'Rock of Ages' Pic

Bryan Enk — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 23:49:30 +0000

Adam Shankman/Twitter

Stacee Jaxx is gonna rock your FACE!

Any reservations we may have had about Tom Cruise playing an aging rock star in the big-screen adaptation of the Broadway musical, "Rock of Ages," are pretty much gone thanks to this photo, which was posted by director Adam Shankman via Twitter.

The pic is kind of an odd "30 years later" companion piece to the iconic image of Cruise in his underwear, rocking out to Bob Seger's "Old Time Rock and Roll" in "Risky Business." Don'tcha think?

"Rock of Ages" chronicles the tumultuous romance between aspiring musician Drew (Diego Boneta) and aspiring actress Sherrie (Julianne Hough), two employees of a Hollywood music club called The Bourbon. When the Mayor (Bryan Cranston) threatens to close the club, the two devise a plan to raise money by having Stacee Jaxx (Cruise) and his metal band, Arsenal, perform their final show at the venue.

Things become a little complicated, though, when Sherrie has sex with Stacee in the men's room, but we won't get into that (yet).

"Rock of Ages" also stars Paul Giamatti, Alec Baldwin, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Russell Brand and Malin Akerman. The film will rock out in theaters starting June 1, 2012.

Alec Baldwin Bows Back Into 'Rock of Ages'

Elizabeth Durand — Fri, 13 May 2011 20:15:58 +0000

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UPDATE: Nevermind! Alec Baldwin is back in business with Adam Shankman and crew and will be appearing in "Rock of Ages" after all, The Hollywood Reporter claims.

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Is Alec Baldwin singing his swan song for "Rock of Ages" before the shooting even begins?

It sure sounds that way.

With the entire cast—which includes Tom Cruise, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Russell Brand, among others—heading to Miami for a May 23^rd table read of Adam Shankman's silver-screen adaptation of the hit Broadway musical, Baldwin asked to be replaced "if at all possible," despite his previous commitment to the flick.

The reason cited: a newly discovered medical condition.

The "30 Rock" star is currently set to play the owner of the Sunset Boulevard Bourbon Room, Dennis Dupree—a role that features a big musical number, making it difficult to recast, Deadline reveals.

Further complicating issues is the fact that Will Ferrell and Steve Carell both already passed as well, giving a certain (though somewhat unspoken) stigma to the part.

Though no formal decisions have made, studio execs are keeping a watchful eye on Baldwin to see if he also pulls out of his commitment to co-star in Woody Allen's next comedy that will shoot in Rome, which would mark the first reunion between the actor and director since the 1990 dramedy "Alice."

(Originally published on May 11, 2011, at 10:28 a.m. ET)

Malin Akerman Will Duet with Tom Cruise in 'Rock of Ages'

Bryan Enk — Thu, 05 May 2011 01:07:11 +0000

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We know Malin Akerman can fight the forces of evil. But can she carry a tune?

We'll soon find out, as the "Watchmen" beauty has joined the cast of "Rock of Ages," the upcoming adaptation of the Broadway musical, according to Deadline.

Akerman will play Constance, the journalist who gets involved with the subject of her would-be expose, a rock star by the name of Stacee Jaxx (Tom Cruise). The two perform a duet of Foreigner's "I Want to Know What Love Is" before ending up in the sack.

Now that's a show-stopper!

Director Adam Shankman has been trying to cast the role of Constance for some time now, having lost Anne Hathaway to "The Dark Knight Rises" and Amy Adams to "Man of Steel." Akerman is poised to break out and become a major star at any second, and this may be the role that puts her on the A-list.

The powerhouse cast of "Rock of Ages" includes Bryan Cranston, Catherine Zeta-Jones Alec Baldwin, Paul Giamatti, Russell Brand, Mary J. Blige, Diego Boneta and Julianne Hough.

Malin Akerman is currently shooting "Medallion" with Nicolas Cage and will be seen in this fall's "Wanderlust" with Jennifer Aniston and Paul Rudd.

Alec Baldwin No Longer Rockin' in 'Rock of Ages'

Max Evry — Mon, 02 May 2011 21:02:42 +0000

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UPDATE: Oh, bummer! Alec Baldwin has backed out of his role in Adam Shankman's adaptation of the Broadway hit, "Rock of Ages," THR reports.

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Director/ choreographer Adam Shankman has been throwing caution to the wind and Tweeting updates on his new film like a madman, virtually becoming his own one-man publicity house. It helps that his new project is THE event movie musical of next year, Broadway's "Rock of Ages," which is shaping up to have one of the most gnarly casts ever before they even sing note one.

Now they've nabbed a "30 Rock"er to lend "Ages" some gravitas, Mr. Alec Baldwin. Shankman confirmed the actor/Oscar host/potential future United States President's involvement by simply Tweeting, "So, based on info I got today, I'm gonna confirm Alec Baldwin as Dennis in Rock Of Ages. Hollah."

We gotta holla back on that since Alec B. is perfect for the role of Dennis Dupree, the aging owner of Sunset Strip club The Bourbon Room, whose poison is to have "Nothing But A Good Time." Also, if you're gonna have a Baldwin in your movie, why not have the best? Anything worth doing is worth doing right.

If you don't think the man who hunted the Red October and Glengarried the hell out of Glen Ross has the chops to sing, remember this ain't his first rodeo. Baldwin sang with gusto as Luther Billis in the broadcast version of "'South Pacific' in Concert from Carnegie Hall."

Shankman has since Tweeted, capitalization errors and all, "Can't wait to start #rockofagesmovie. Julianne Hough, alec Baldwin, Mary j Blige, Tom cruise confirmed. I love my cast. More to come."

#cantwait,adam

(Originally published on March 8, 2011, at 11:17 a.m. ET)

Bryan Cranston Will Be Mayor in The Middle For 'Rock Of Ages'

Max Evry — Mon, 02 May 2011 15:06:34 +0000

AMC

Once a perennial TV guest star and voice over performer, Bryan Cranston has taken a major leap into the big leagues after toplining two highly successful shows, "Malcom in the Middle" and the methamphetamine drama "Breaking Bad," for which he's won three Emmys.

Cranston is so happy about his newfound success that he's just gotta SING, hence he's going from meth rocks to "Rock of Ages," as revealed by director/choreographer Adam Shankman via Twitter:

"So honored! Bryan Cranston is joining the cast of #rockofagesmovie! LA has a mayor!"

As confirmed by THR, the actor will indeed play the Mayor of Los Angeles in the movie version of Broadway's rock n' roll musical, which will commence filming this month. He will join Diego Gonzalez Boneta, Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, Mary J. Blige, Paul Giamatti, Julianne Hough and the recently announced Catherine Zeta-Jones.

This is just icing on the cake of what's going to be an incredible run this year for Cranston, including roles in Steven Soderbergh's "Contagion," George Lucas' "Red Tails," Tom Hanks' "Larry Crowne," and as a heavy in two sci-fi epics, "John Carter of Mars" and "Total Recall."

Of course, we already know Cranston can wow the crowd with his amazing singing ability, as evidenced by his turn opposite Fred Armisen as The Bjelland Brothers on 'SNL,' singing their #200 hit on the Minnesota charts, "Sparkling Apple Juice."

Catherine Zeta-Jones Will Make Music In 'Rock of Ages'

Elisabeth Rappe — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 18:58:52 +0000

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The last time Catherine Zeta-Jones decided to do a little singing and dancing onscreen, she walked away with an Oscar. So, if you're directing a big budget musical, you might want to ask her to come along for the ride.

Adam Shankman did, and now Zeta-Jones has officially joined the star-studded cast of "Rock of Ages" to rock out wuth Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin, Julianne Hough, Diego Boneta, Mary J. Blige and Russell Brand.

According to The Wrap, Zeta-Jones will be playing the villainous mayor who wants to keep rock and roll out of Los Angeles.

If the film adaptation sticks closely to the stage musical, Zeta-Jones won't get to belt out any big 1980s ballads, but we wouldn't be surprised if they make an exception for their Oscar winner.

Zeta-Jones has been in headlines recently for her hospitalization and candor for her mental health issues. She's been having a tumultuous time due to the illness of her husband, actor Michael Douglas, and it's good to see her name associated with a big and fun movie role. She's been absent from the big screen since 2009, but is ready to come back and remind everyone who she is. She has several films lined up, all of them hitting theaters in 2012, but none of them are any bigger than "Rock of Ages" -- and that's just describing the hair!

"Rock of Ages" is in rehearsals now, and will begin shooting any day now. It hits theaters on June 1, 2012.

'Pretty Little Liars' Star Dances into the Lead in 'Rock of Ages'

Matt Patches — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:38:21 +0000

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It looks like "Rock of Ages" is just about ready to rock.

Director Adam Shankman's adaptation of the hit Broadway musical is already overflowing with talent -- Tom Cruise, Amy Adams, Russell Brand, Alec Baldwin, Julianne Hough, Paul Giamatti, Mary J. Blige, just to name a few -- but amazingly, they're all co-stars.

For the past few weeks, Shankman has been touring the country, looking for prospective musical actors to take on the coveted role of Drew Bowie. Now, according to Vulture, he's found his man: Diego González Boneta.

The 20-year-old Boneta might not be the most recognizable name here in the States, but the Mexican actor has popped up in guest roles in shows like "90210" and, most recently, "Pretty Little Liars." He's also carved out a decent career back in his home country, where he's appeared on several telenovelas and hit it big as a recording artist.

He's a bit like Justin Timberlake -- starting out on a musical kids show and evolving into a solo recording artist.

"Rock of Ages" tells the story of the Hollywood club The Bourbon Room and its busboy, Drew Bowie, who aspires to be a rock star. The Bourbon Room is suffering from financial hardships and in a desperate move hires rocker Stacee Jaxx and his recently-disassembled band to perform one more show at the club. The egomaniac star ruffles feathers in the perfect world of the club and Bowie finds himself fighting for what he's always wanted in life. It's pretty much your classic coming-of-age tale set to classic hair-band tracks.

"Rock of Ages" is currently prepping for its shoot that should land the movies in theaters on June 1, 2012. For Boneta, this is a big step up in his career and it will be interesting to see if he can contend with the A-List talent surrounding him. As long as he rocks out and throws up a few devil's horns along the way, we're guessing he'll be fine.

Amy Adams, Paul Giamatti To 'Rock (of Ages')?

Max Evry — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 21:31:11 +0000

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Paul Giamatti is a utility guy -- you can do pretty much anything with him. The sad sack character actor and occasional lead has been many things in his movie career: Army Sergeant, ape, boxing manager, hit man, Santa Claus, President of the United States and at least two or three sad writers.

Now we can add "singer" to that repertoire.

Oh yes, Giamatti can sing, he's actually done it before in a smooth karaoke jam with Andre Braugher for 2000's "Duets." Now, as if he wasn't already legendary enough, he's hitting the big leagues playing opposite Tom Cruise in Adam Shankman's "Rock of Ages."

THR reports that Giamatti is in talks to play a slick L.A. music exec named Paul Gill (at least they won't have to change his monogrammed cufflinks) in the movie of the Broadway musical. Also being courted for a role is three-time Academy Award-nominee Amy Adams ("The Fighter") who is up for playing reporter Constance Sack, who wants to interview Cruise's rocker Stacee Jax, according to Deadline.

Anne Hathaway was previously rumored for Constance, but Adams is more than a match as she showed off her pipes in both "Enchanted" and this Christmas's "The Muppets." She will play opposite Cruise during the film's showstopping centerpiece when he sings Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive."

This is not Adams' first foray into hair metal, as she previously imitated Tawny Kitaen from the video to Whitesnake's "Here I Go Again" on a barroom table for Will Ferrell in "Talladega Nights."

Oh, Sherrie! Julianne Hough Lands Lead in 'Rock of Ages'

Scott Harris — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:07:35 +0000

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We know one thing about Julianne Hough: the two-time winner of "Dancing With the Stars," who also has a number one country album to her name, is pretty darn good at this singing and dancing stuff.

We also know one thing about Adam Shankman: the director of "Hairspray" and "Step Up" can create a musical like nobody else in Hollywood.

Which means now we know one thing about the upcoming film version of "Rock of Ages": it's going to be even more awesome than we thought.

Get ready to dance for joy, because according to The Wrap, the reality dance competition crossover you've all been waiting for is about to happen, as "So You Think You Can Dance" judge Shankman has confirmed that Hough will be playing the lead female role in "Rock of Ages."

Hough has been on a meteoric career rise, having parlayed her dancing skills into a career that over the last four years has also included an Emmy for choreography and roles in"Burlesque" and the upcoming remake of "Footloose." But there's no doubt that landing the role of Sherrie, the small-town acting hopeful who falls in and out of love with wannabe rocker Drew in the '80s-themed "Rock of Ages," is her biggest break to date.

A break that Shankman, for one, feels Hough has more than earned.

"We both speak the language of dance. We really see eye-to-eye on everything," Shankman told The Wrap, adding, "She is like the most open, sweet ray of sunshine in the world and I can't say enough good about her. And she was jaw-droppingly good in her auditions. It was a no-brainer."

Hough joins Tom Cruise and Mary J. Blige among the confirmed cast, with Russell Brand and Alec Baldwin still rumored to be up for roles in the film. Just who will play Drew is still a mystery, but with Hough on board, we know one thing: the boy had better be able to dance.

"Rock of Ages" is scheduled to hit theaters some time next year.

'Rock of Ages' Clefts for... Whom? Find Out Now!

Scott Harris — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 15:25:41 +0000

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We've got to hand it to "Rock of Ages" director Adam Shankman, because the guy sure knows how to run a viral media campaign.

After all, ever since word broke back in January that Russell Brand and Alec Baldwin were up for roles in the film adaptation of the popular stage musical about rockers looking for love in the '80s, Shankman has been playing Twitter like a fine violin, dropping breadcrumbs of information like a deranged Hansel and Gretel.

Now, though, he's outdone himself with a torrent of news including the fact that Tom Cruise has officially signed on -- and that the worldwide search for young lovebirds Drew and Sherrie is officially underway.

You hear that, Justin Bieber?

First, the goodies from Shankman himself, who verified on the Oscar red carpet Sunday night that Cruise has officially signed on to "Rock of Ages," where he'll play the part of decadent star Stacee Jaxx. According to Shankman's twitter feed, though, Cruise isn't the only star lined up; not only are Brand and Baldwin still among the "rumors to be followed," it seems that Mary J. Blige may be onboard for the role of strip club owner Justice.

Of course, coy tease that he is, Shankman wouldn't actually confirm Blige's involvement, saying that it was "not confirmed," even though Showbiz411 reported it was a done deal more than two weeks ago. Considering how spot-on these reports have been so far, then, fans could be forgiven for assuming that official "rumors" like Brand and Baldwin actually constitute done deals.

Shankman did confirm one thing in his recent rant, and it's sure to get his "So You Think You Can Dance" fans in an excited tizzy. Emmy winner Mia Michaels is on board to choreograph the movie musical.

Some roles are still up for grabs, though, with Shankman announcing that the "World search for Sherrie and Drew begins" -- as does, presumably, the rampant internet speculation over who should fill the roles of the two hopeful lovebirds whose doomed romance forms the core of the "Rock of Ages" story.

And we're more than happy to pitch in with our own picks, of course.

While we think Bieber would make a nice contrast with Brand, the YouTube sensation is probably still a little too young for the role of Drew -- a role which would be instead be perfect for "Twilight's" Robert Pattinson, who could bring the look and energy while also receiving a much-needed career lightening-up.

And as for Sherrie? Well, rumors are already swirling that Taylor Swift is up for the part, but if she isn't available, how about (wait for it)... Lady Gaga? She's still young enough and she certainly knows how to put on an entertaining musical performance.

Whatever the case, we'll know soon enough, as Shankman has promised to continue spilling the beans one tiny bean at a time over the next few weeks. We'll say this much: if the "Rock of Ages" movie is nearly as dramatic as the twitter feed, this is going to be the greatest movie of all time.

Anne Hathaway May Duet with Tom Cruise in 'Rock of Ages'

Matt Patches — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 22:28:31 +0000

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After knocking everyone dead with her vocal prowess at the opening of the Oscars last year, it was only a matter of time before Anne Hathaway was recruited for a full-fledged musical. That time is now... er, after she hosts her own Oscars.

According to Deadline, Hathaway is the next A-Lister being sought after for Adam Shankman's big screen adaptation of the Broadway jukebox musical "Rock of Ages." If all goes according to plan, Hathaway would play a journalist investigating the life of an aged rock star, to be played by Tom Cruise. Yes, one day you may see Hathaway and Cruise belting "I Want to Know What Love Is" like there's no tomorrow.

Hathaway would be joining a wavering cast that includes Cruise, Russell Brand and Alec Baldwin. The only iffy part is scheduling conflicts with the upcoming "The Dark Knight Rises," where she'll be playing Selena Kyle opposite Christian Bale.

Either way, the news means Hollywood is officially foaming at the mouth in an effort to book Anne Hathaway for any and all projects. She's officially gone from "rising" to full on "star."

Tom Cruises into 'Rock of Ages'

Elizabeth Durand — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 15:48:58 +0000

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The '80s were a good decade for Tom. From "Risky Business," to "Top Gun," to "Rain Man," it seemed this golden boy could do no wrong.

Perhaps that's why this Hollywood heavyweight is so eager to return to the decade of big hair, tight pants and, above all, glam rock.

The buzz around town is that Cruise is in the final talks to join the movie adaptation of the Broadway musical, "Rock of Ages," which follows a group of rock-star-hopefuls (and one who's already made it big) on the Sunset Strip.

Cruise, not surprisingly, will play Stacee Jaxx—the charming-but-arrogant singer who's comfortably seated at the top of his career, Collider reports.

Adam Shankman said that he and Cruise "had talked about doing a musical," which gave the director the idea to approach Cruise about "Rock of Ages."

According to Shankman, "It's all looking really good," which makes it sound like he's struck the perfect note with Cruise.

Now the only question that remains is whether Cruise will be able to do the same. (Yes, the part of rocker Stacee Jaxx does require him to sing.)

It's been a long time since Cruise rocked out in his skivvies, but we bet he can still pull it off, especially if he has Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand (also up for parts in the film) to help him.

'Rock of Ages' Ready to Get Branded (Russell Brand-ed, That Is)

Scott Harris — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 15:47:09 +0000

Universal

Russell Brand is no stranger to playing rock stars; his big breakout role was as addled superstar Aldous Snow in "Forgetting Sarah Marshall," which proved so popular that he ended up landing his own spinoff film, "Get Him to the Greek." So the guy has some experience rocking out.

But is he ready for a sing-off with Tom Cruise?

That's the unlikely question we may soon get an answer to, because according to Deadline, Brand is in talks for a key part in the upcoming big screen adaptation of the Broadway musical "Rock of Ages" -- and Cruise could be matching him note for note.

Here's the poop: "Rock of Ages," which was nominated for four Tony Awards, is a rollicking retrospective of '80s power pop and hair metal that tells the story of a group of wannabe and has been musicians and the ways their lives intertwine at a Sunset Strip night club in 1987.

But while Brand would seem to be a shoo-in for the role of decadent and morally indefensible rock diva Stacee Jaxx, it appears that Cruise is actually the frontrunner for that part -- meaning that we may get to see Tom Terrific show off his pipes on the Bon Jovi power ballad "Wanted Dead or Alive." Which, let's face it, sounds even crazier than that whole couch thing.

Brand, meanwhile, is said to be in line to play the narrator, Lonny, who runs the club on behalf of his boss Dennis -- who may actually be played by Alec Baldwin. Lonny and Dennis share a couple key duets, including the Europe anthem "The Final Countdown" and the REO Speedwagon classic "Can't Fight This Feeling."

So is the world ready to see Brand, Baldwin and Cruise flex their hair band powers on the big screen? We're not sure, but we do know one thing: the people casting this are either totally insane or complete geniuses. Either way, we're looking forward to seeing the final result.

"Rock of Ages" is slated to hit theaters sometime in 2012.

Tom Cruise, Taylor Swift Tuning Up for 'Rock of Ages' Movie?

Mark Marino — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 16:20:51 +0000

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A movie featuring Tom Cruise in a mullet and Taylor Swift in acid-washed jeans? We're so there!

The Playlist reports that both stars are being wooed to headline a big-screen adaptation of Broadway's "Rock of Ages."

The '80s era musical tells the story of a small-town Kansas girl who moves to Hollywood to make it big, and falls in love with a rocker while tending bar at a club. In the middle of all of this, they sport Spandex, big hair, and belt out tunes by Whitesnake, Poison, Journey and other once-hot hair bands.

Swift, who last appeared on screen in "Valentine's Day," is attached to the role of said small-town girl, while Cruise has reportedly been offered the role of the film's bartender, who narrates the plot for those having difficulty following the song-filled storyline. The "Mission: Impossible 4" star is said to have been eager to do a musical for quite some time.

We're already holding up our lighters backlit cellphones at the thought of him singing "I Want to Know What Love Is."