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SUMMERTIME — May is the doorstep for the summer-movie mania we’ve all come to love and hate.
May offers some gems; here are four films to see with your family during the month.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2, May 2
Peter Parker is kicking off the month of May and the summer-movie season on May 2 with “The Amazing Spider-Man 2.”
The follow-up to the 2012 hit stars Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone in what will likely be a fun, entertaining and well-paced flick.
“The Amazing Spider-Man 2” is rated PG-13 and will likely have some light language, violence and some scary moments, so maybe it's not for the really little ones, but it will be a fun night out for the family.
Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return, May 9
May 9 marks a return to the land of Oz.
“Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return” is an animated pseudo-sequel to the classic “Wizard of Oz” and features a large voice cast, which includes Lea Michele, Jim Belushi, Kelsey Grammer, Dan Aykroyd, Martin Short and Patrick Stewart.
The animation doesn’t look as sharp as, say, “Frozen” or “Despicable Me,” but fans of Oz should have fun and the kids will likely get into the adventure.
“Legends of Oz: Dorothy’s Return” is rated PG.
Million Dollar Arm, May 16
Disney has a way of telling heartfelt sports stories, and it looks like the studio has done it again.
“Million Dollar Arm” stars Jon Hamm and tells the true story of a sports agent who tries to recruit Asian cricket players to play major league baseball.
The tone of the movie tends to follow many of Disney’s other “true” sports stories, such as “Remember the Titans” and “The Rookie,” with fun characters and an inspiring story.
If “Million Dollar Arm” is anything like “The Rookie,” “Remember the Titans,” “Miracle” or “Cool Runnings,” it should be well worth your time. Not to mention it should help teach your kids some valuable lessons.
“Million Dollar Arm” is rated PG.
Maleficent, May 30
Disney decided to revisit an old story in a whole new way with “Maleficent.”
The movie tells the story of the villain of “Sleeping Beauty” and reveals what hardened her heart and why she cursed the baby Aurora.
The movie has garnered a lot of hype and should at the very least prove interesting. Kids should enjoy seeing some of their favorite characters in live action and the trailer promises action and adventure. What kid doesn’t love that?
Don’t worry, parents, the movie seems to offer an intriguing storyline and some good actors in Sharlto Copley and Angelina Jolie to keep you interested.
“Maleficent” is rated PG.