After the usual January film doldrums, things seem to be looking up for movie fans with February’s upcoming diverse lineup, one that includes comedies, horror flicks, thrillers, a religious drama, fantasies of both the sci-fi action and magical kingdom variety, a movie with historical significance, and at least FOUR films dealing with romance. Also, some of our favorite actors -- including Jim Carrey, Nicolas Cage, Diane Keaton, Eddie Murphy, Ioan Gruffudd, Chris Cooper, Samuel L. Jackson, Louise Fletcher, Billy Bob Thornton, Drew Barrymore, Henry Thomas, Hugh Grant and Sam Elliott -- will show off their talents on the big screen again this February (2007), as indicated in the release schedule below.

February 2:

The Messengers. Horror movie about a family facing ghostly apparitions in a haunted house. Hmm. Haven’t we seen something like this before? Dylan McDermott and Penelope Miller co-star.

Because I Said So. Romantic comedy concerning a meddling mother (Diane Keaton) who tries to set up her daughter (Mandy Moore) with the right man and ends up having a romantic adventure of her own.

February 9:

The Last Sin Eater. An unusual drama about a young Appalachian girl (Liana Liberato) who searches for redemption back in the 1850s. Louise Fletcher plays a supportive neighbor in this story of secrets and sins,  and Henry Thomas of ET fame -- all grown up now --is cast as a caring minister facing unexpected danger. 

Hannibal Rising. What events combined to turn young Hannibal Lecter into a cannibal? This prequel attempts to answer that burning question. Unfortunately, I don’t think Anthony Hopkins is in this one.

Norbit. Family comedy featuring Eddie Murphy as both an overpowering woman and the shy man she’s engaged to. Wonder why Murphy loves playing multiple roles so much?

February 14:

Music and Lyrics. Romance blooms between Hugh Grant’s washed-up singer and Drew Barrymore’s younger character, who signs on to help him write lyrics in order to make a comeback. HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

February 16:

Ghost Rider. Nicolas Cage makes a deal with the devil to save Eva Mendes in this sci-fi fantasy, and the wonderful gravelly-voiced Sam Elliott appears in a supporting role. Despite the weird trailers, this one might work.

Bridge to Terabithia. Two young friends discover a magical kingdom in the forest and become king and queen of that incredible land. Amazing special effects are showcased in  the film’s previews.

Breach. Spy thriller about an FBI agent (Chris Cooper) who might be the country’s greatest security risk. Ryan Phillippe has to find out. Whew!  I wouldn’t want that job.

Daddy’s Little Girls. Another romantic movie – well, it is February, after all. This film stars Gabriel Union as a successful lawyer who falls for a blue collar single father of three, played by Idris Elba. 

February 23:

The Number 23. Psychological thriller starring Jim Carrey as a man obsessed with the number 23. Why? I’ll be first in line to find out.

 Reno 911! Miami. Terrorists in Miami Beach better watch out for the Reno Sheriff’s Department gang. Those quirky Nevada cops, who are in Miami for a convention, might force them to die laughing.

Black Snake Moan. Samuel L. Jackson gets sexy with Christina Ricci in this controversial romance between a religious bluesman and a wild young woman. No, it’s not a remake of God’s Little Acre – but it looks almost as intriguing.

The Astronaut Farmer.  Drama about a farmer who starts building a rocket and involving his family in the space program. Naturally, the government isn’t happy about these plans. Billy Bob Thornton plays the title role. 

Amazing Grace. History should come alive in this movie starring the very photogenic  Ioan Gruffudd as William Wilberforce, a man who works to end slavery throughout the British Empire in the 18th Century.   

Important Reminder:  ALL RELEASE DATES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE 

Happy viewing!