By Chris Kavan - 12/02/11 at 10:21 AM CT
I'm sensing a strong feeling of deja vu is coming to the box office this weekend. Why, you ask? Because all the new releases coming out aren't exactly what I refer to as "crowd-pleasers". Also, as all these films are going to be released on a limited basis, most people probably won't even have the option to see them, but anyway:
1) Up front is Shame, which is not going to find a wide audience despite a positive critical reception for one reason: the NC-17 stigma will cause many theaters to not even consider carrying the film, because it their image. I find the standard incredibly stupid, but it has been that way in the past and I don't see things changing for this film.
2) If you're a fan of Japanese cinema, you may be excited about Outrage, with Beat Takeshi in the lead role, however, I have a feeling the vast majority of American audiences have no idea who that even is, so I also have a hard time seeing this do much business. There is an audience for this film, but I'm guessing it's a very limited one at best.
3) Finally, Sleeping Beauty gives Emily Browning her second "provocative" role of the year - and by that, I mean she appears half-naked but still manages to bore the pants off everyone (see also: Sucker Punch). Too bad - I think she has talent - hopefully she can appear fully clothed next time and deliver a knock-out performance.
Hollywood appears to be taking the week off before really revving up its engines both for the December blockbusters and Oscar hopefuls to show their worth.
