Every summer new movies come out that blow us away. They redefine the way we think about certain genres or open our eyes to new views on life. On the other hand, some movies come out that are so terrible that they make playing Russian roulette with a fully loaded gun tempting. These are seven that stood out to a few writers of the Arts and Culture section here at TNJN.

Up

Thomas Elijah Herington

Pixar’s newest film “Up” undoubtedly claims the title of best summer film. When Carl Fredrickson, a crotchety senior citizen, embarks upon a trip to his childhood dream destination he has no idea of the adventure that lies ahead. Throughout the adventure he and his travel partner, 9-year-old Russell, find themselves encountering harsh flying conditions, a friendly Dodo bird, talking dogs and a loony explorer. However, the childish scenarios and family friendly script do not detract from the powerful underlying message: renewal and restoration can come from where you least expect.

The Time Traveler's Wife

Caitlin Rogers

This was no doubt a great summer to be at the movie theater, with movies like "The Hangover" and "District 9" becoming instant hits. However, my favorite movie, "The Time Traveler’s Wife", was different from most of the summer’s blockbusters. Based on the book by Audrey Niffenegger, it combines elements that span all genres, including romance, comedy, action, and fantasy. For everyone who thinks this movie is just another “chick flick,” I would encourage you to go see it for yourself. The acting is wonderful and the storyline, while confusing at times, keeps you entertained. You might just be surprised at how much you like it!

(500) Days of Summer

Betsey Poore

Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt star in “(500) Days of Summer”, a refreshing and offbeat romantic comedy that leaves the audience wondering what will happen until the very end. As the narrator quickly points out, "(500) Days of Summer" is not a typical love story, but a typical story about love. The movie revolves around Tom Hansen and his relationship with his co-worker, Summer Finn. Their relationship is revealed through the unique arrangement of Tom’s memories. Tom’s relationship not only with Summer but also with his best friends and teenage sister is what makes “(500) Days of Summer” such a captivating story.

My Sister's Keeper

Karleah Gilliam

Have you ever chosen a movie based on the phrase "You’ll laugh, you’ll cry" and then wondered why in the world they said this because there were no chuckles or tears? "My Sister’s Keeper" will not fail you like those other unfortunate films. I guarantee that you will be unable to leave the theater without releasing a titter or shedding a few (thousand) tears. "My Sister’s Keeper," originally a novel by New York Time’s Best-selling author, Jodi Picoult, has become one of the most heart-breaking films of the summer, and perhaps, of all time. Abigail Breslin stars as Anna Fitzgerald, a typical teen with a not so typical life. Anna has a huge decision to make, a decision far too big for any pre-teen girl to manage. Conceived to be her sister’s keeper, Anna must chose between her own life and the life of her dying sister Kate, a decision that may tear the family to shreds. "My Sister’s Keeper" will have you until the very last second, and maybe then some, so grab a box of tissues and make your way to see this film today.

The Hangover

Chet Fulton

One of the best movi es of the summer was "The Hangover". The comedy is so jam-packed in this film that it keeps you laughing all the way through. Bradley Cooper and Ed Helms keep the comedy coming along with newcomer Zach Galifianakis who acts as the village idiot of the trio. Galifianakis's character has so many amusing lines in this movie and always has a way of forcing at least a giggle. Although the plot gets a little sidetracked from time to time, "The Hangover" is a hilarious, raunchy movie that plenty of young adults are sure to enjoy.

Orphan

Erica Hartsfield

After sitting in a dark theater for two hours and watching "Orphan", I found a whole new meaning to the tagline, “There’s Something Wrong with Esther.” In the beginning, the common, non-psychotic mind is thinking that Esther, a girl who is adopted by two parents wanting to bring another new member into the family, is just a normal kid. Wrong! Esther has a shocking secret—and you won’t be able to guess what lies beneath her surface. I won’t spoil the ending—you’ll just have to go see "Orphan" for yourself!

Bruno 

William Daugherty

"Bruno", Sacha Baron Cohen’s third film, is best described in one word – outrageous. From the beginning credits "Bruno" is a flurry of side-splitting political incorrectness and gay references, as Cohen preys on homophobic individuals from all walks of life. This graphic and dark comedy finds the main character, Bruno, taking his fashion talk show to America to become “the biggest Austrian superstar since Hitler.” This hilarious film follows Bruno on his quest to make it big on American TV. If you do not have a problem with gay humor, you will love this film, but if so, well, you should really just see it anyway.

Those are just a few of the many amazing movies that came out over the summer. Did we miss one? Let us know and comment.