Looks like Nemo has spawned. Multiplexes—and toy stores, and Happy Meals—are preparing for the autumn onslaught of Michael Moore marionettes, a Martin Scorsese puffer fish, and more Pixar playmates. Sara Cardace handicaps the product.
Shark Tale
October 1
Star Power Will Smith, Robert De Niro, Renée Zellweger, Angelina Jolie, Martin Scorsese, Jack Black
Plot A fast-talking fish named Oscar finds himself in hot water after telling tall tales to his aquatic friends.
Why You Should See It You’ll catch Scorsese’s first—and likely last—starring role as a puffer fish, complete with bushy eyebrows.
Beware … Finding Nemo nostalgia.
The Incredibles
November 5
Star Power Craig T. Nelson, Samuel L. Jackson, Holly Hunter
Plot A retired superhero and his cohorts are forced to don their suits one last time when their peace and anonymity are threatened.
Why You Should See It From A Bug’s Life to Finding Nemo, Pixar has yet to deliver a clunker.
Beware … Flabby superheroes.
Team America: World Police
October 15
Star Power South Park’s Trey Parker and Matt Stone; designs by David Rockwell
Plot A team of action heroes travels the world hunting for terrorists and other nefarious types.
Why You Should See It South Park satire takes on the U.S. government. Expect off-color jokes galore.
Beware … Marionette sex.
The Polar Express
November 10
Star Power Tom Hanks, Robert Zemeckis
Plot A young boy voyages to the North Pole to find out once and for all if Santa exists.
Why You Should See It Hanks’s voice-over turn in Toy Story earned director John Lasseter a Special Achievement Oscar.
Beware … Earnest proclamations about the “spirit” of Christmas.
The Spongebob Squarepants Movie
November 19
Star Power Alec Baldwin, Scarlett Johansson
Plot SpongeBob and friends set out on a treacherous voyage to Shell City in an effort to save Mr. Krabs’s reputation.
Why You Should See It You’ll gain valuable insight into the mind of your 4-year-old.
Beware … Off-key toddler sing-alongs.