Cinemas - More new releases - 13/2/09

Feb 13 2009 by Michael Green, Flintshire Chronicle

FRIDAY THE 13TH (18)

NOT surprisingly, there don’t seem to have been any preview screenings of this remake of the 1980s slasher classic.

But it is hardly likely to contain many surprises – a bunch of unknowns gather at Camp Crystal Lake, make out and then make dead as they are polished off one by one by psychotic hockey-mask-wearing Jason.

Likely to make more money on the day of its release – Friday the 13th! – than for the whole of the rest of its predictable life.

STAR RATING: *

HOTEL FOR DOGS (U)

TWO foster children end up looking after scores of dogs in an abandoned hotel in this innocent family fantasy.

It’s another cute but safe hit for Julia’s niece, Emma Roberts, who seems to occupy this turf exclusively now that Hilary Duff has matured.

Inevitably, she is continually upstaged by the talented pooches on display who are so clever, you wonder why they need anyone to look after them.

STAR RATING: **

NOTORIOUS (15)

DRAMATISED account of the rise to stardom of rap artist The Notorious BIG, who was discovered by Sean Puffy Combs but ended up shot dead in mysterious circumstances.

This is no hatchet job – quite the contrary. Jamal Woolard emphasises all the positive qualities of a charismatic individual.

STAR RATING: ***

THE PINK PANTHER 2 (PG)

IT’S no surprise Steve Martin returned to play Inspector Clouseau – despite the appalling reviews he received first time round. It has been obvious for years his main career motivation has been financial.

But it is a bit of a shock to see him supported by the likes of Emily Mortimer, Jean Reno, Andy Garcia, Alfred Molina and John Cleese. They really should know better!

STAR RATING: *